I think you should express to them what you just shared with us! As parents, I'm sure they want you to follow in their footsteps, and breaking away from tradition is probably extremely difficult for them because more than likely, it's all they know. If you want to break free of all of that, then you need to take a light approach and try your best to keep them from feeling as if they need to be defensive.
Just let them know that the rules you have to live by are making you feel insecure about youreself, and how that affects your life. Also, mention the fact that even though they were raised a certain way, it doesn't necessarily mean they need to raise you by following identical guidelines. Living in America as a teenage girl can be a tough break, and at your age, your social life probably means a lot to you.
Like you said, if you weren't the only person around that practiced your religion, then you would feel more comfortable, but the things is, you said that you are. So if you were to sit your parents down and explain how uncomfortable you were with the restrictions, you may be able to work out a compromise. Find images of outfits that you would enjoy wearing that aren't too flashy or revealing and share those with them.
More importantly, be kind and keep in mind that they love you and only want what is best for you. Good luck!
I would say listen your parents. No one is saying wear a Niqab. But try to dress modestly.
There are plenty of nice modest muslim clothes. Also read some Quran and try to understand your religion. Nothing wrong with being modest.
Also as a parent I am not sure if I would put my child in a situation like you are. I understand the peer pressure. But you have to understand tank tops and shorts are not something you wanna go out with.
Hope you figure this out the right way. And may ALLAH guide you and help you in your decision. Ameen!
Good Luck :).
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.