In an era championing independence and empowerment, a growing group of women is stepping back into the past. Known as tradwives (short for “traditional wives”), these women are embracing homemaking and submission to their husbands as a lifestyle. Their philosophy is catching attention, drawing both admiration and criticism.
What Defines a Tradwife?
The tradwife movement has its roots in nostalgia for mid-20th-century values. Many tradwives focus on homemaking, forgoing careers to dedicate their lives to cooking, cleaning, and supporting their families. For figures like Estee Williams, a 25-year-old from Virginia with a significant TikTok following, this role includes creating gourmet meals and keeping her appearance flawless. She proudly claims, “I dress up, do my makeup, and style my hair the way my husband likes—even if I’m just staying at home.”
A Lifestyle Flourishing Online
Social media has been a catalyst for the tradwife resurgence. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with carefully curated images of women in modest dresses, showcasing vintage aesthetics and idyllic homemaking scenes. Some embrace a polished, pin-up look reminiscent of the 1950s, while others adopt the modest fashion style of early 20th-century housewives.
Hanna Gas, a French blogger, blends homemaking with etiquette coaching. Her wardrobe consists entirely of dresses and skirts, and she avoids pants altogether. For her, homemaking extends beyond chores to include teaching elegance and hosting classes on topics like “Finding Your Prince Charming” and “Seduction Without Initiative.”
The Day-to-Day Life of a Tradwife
Tradwives often portray their lives as peaceful and fulfilling, centered around family and domestic responsibilities. Estee Williams, for example, spends hours in the kitchen daily, crafting dishes like Russian vareniki, Persian pilaf, and homemade bread. Others embrace the cottagecore aesthetic, favoring activities like gardening, reading, and crafting to evoke simpler times.
Critics, however, argue that this romanticized vision ignores the complexities of modern life and reinforces traditional gender roles that can be limiting for women.
“Feminine, Not Feminist”
A core principle for many tradwives is cultivating femininity over feminism. The tagline “#FeminineNotFeminist” frequently accompanies their posts. They believe that modern feminism has overburdened women by expecting them to excel in both their careers and family life, leaving little room for personal fulfillment. Tradwives argue that returning to traditional roles provides clarity and purpose.
This perspective is central to British blogger Alena Kate Pettit, who runs “The Darling Academy,” a platform celebrating homemaking, vintage recipes, and family values. Pettit, like many others, critiques modern media for glorifying career-driven women while sidelining homemakers.
The Appeal and Controversy
For some, tradwifery offers a sense of security and simplicity in an increasingly chaotic world. Estee Williams, for instance, shares her desire for a lifestyle where “you could leave your front door unlocked,” highlighting a longing for a bygone era. However, critics argue that this movement can align with more concerning ideologies, including nationalism and rigid gender norms.
While many tradwives advocate from a place of personal choice, others like Ayla Stewart (@Wifewithapurpose) have stirred controversy with divisive messages. Stewart’s promotion of the “White Baby Challenge” in 2017 drew widespread backlash, underscoring the fine line between nostalgia and exclusionary rhetoric.
What Drives the Movement?
Many tradwives describe their lifestyle as a conscious choice rather than an inherited tradition. Estee Williams, for example, didn’t grow up in a traditional household but found inspiration in Christian teachings about the roles of women. For her and others, homemaking provides a sense of purpose and partnership. “It’s about understanding our complementary roles and making the marriage stronger,” Williams explains.
However, some experts view this trend as a response to modern anxieties. As societal pressures increase, tradwives may see homemaking as a refuge from expectations to constantly achieve. Still, the movement remains polarizing, sparking debate about the balance between choice and societal influence.
The Tradwife Dilemma
Love them or loathe them, tradwives are redefining the conversation around gender roles in the 21st century. Whether viewed as empowering or regressive, their movement raises important questions about personal choice, societal expectations, and the evolving definition of fulfillment for women.
