Machiavelli, many very conservative people think it is better for girls to dress like girls, and wear dresses or skirts. But also her mother seems to think it's better for Fran to dress proper. School uniform during homework, etc. Which I can understand, because when children dress up, they are out of their comfort zone and more likely to keep an orderly composure.
It's too bad your mother picks your clothes though Fran. I've known some people who do, and people who don't. My mother didn't pick what we wore from the wardrobe even though me and my sisters were raised to wear dresses. And actually I still wear dresses by personal choice. But anyway, it's just the way it is. Nobody is going to have the perfect mom, or the perfect dad. Everybody does things differently.
And I know. The whole cute thing. XD When it comes right down to it you are dressing for other people. To present yourself in a way that leaves a positive impression when people see you. If you look at it that way maybe it won't be so frustrating when people like your looks and call you cute.
If it's about them putting you down and making you feel little, just know that by not being bothered by this you are actually acting older. : )