6 feminist lessons from 'Legally Blonde' on its 15th anniversary

15 years ago today the world was forever changed when a perky pink-clad law student bend and snapped her way into our hearts. That's right, it's the 15th anniversary of Legally Blonde.

Feel old yet?

Luckily there is no age limit for loving Reese Witherspoon's turn as Elle Woods, who came to realize she didn't need a man to be happy and successful.

Though the film is lacking in some ways (the cast is whiter than mayonnaise on white bread, and the gay pool boy stuff is a bit problematic), it's full of beautiful lessons for burgeoning feminists everywhere. Below are six feminist lessons we can learn, all while rocking out to that epic soundtrack (or you can listen to the amazing musical adaptation. Trust us, it's gold).

1. Don't judge a book by its cover, or a girl by her designer shoes

The film hinges on the idea that Elle, a stereotypical rich California girl, is constantly underestimated by others. She even underestimates herself a few times. But her sheer confidence in getting into Harvard is an inspiration. Just because she's fashion obsessed and loves her soap operas doesn't mean she can't get a 179 on her LSATs.

2. There's no one type of woman, or a right type of woman

Every woman in Legally Blonde is different and important in their own way. There are more stereotypically feminine women like Elle and her sorority sisters, but there are also entrepreneurs (Brooke Windham), lawyers and professors (Professor Stromwell), working class women (Paulette), upper class women (Chutney and her mother), queer radical feminists (Enid), and Elle's rival-turned-friend Vivian as her polar opposite. Yes, this movie passes the Bechdel test, but more importantly it showcases many different women with different pasts, attitudes, and professions. While not everyone is a fully-fleshed out character -- the movie's not that long -- many are, which would not have happened in a lesser film.

3. Sisterhood is key

With so many different women onscreen, and a female romantic rivalry present the moment Elle gets to Harvard, it's refreshing to see so many supportive female relationships depicted in the movie. Despite being a stereotype in so many ways, Elle isn't catty or mean spirited. She attempts to bond with every woman she meets, assuming a universal sisterhood like the one that was so beautifully seen from her sorority -- which continues once we meet Brooke. This sisterhood brings together women who otherwise may never have become friends. Elle and Paulette become very close, with both ladies getting advice and support from the other. Elle's professor Stromwell may be a hardline teacher, but when times are tough she also comes through with encouragement. Even Vivian, Elle's rival, chooses her burgeoning friendship over her jerky boyfriend.

Sisters before misters, guys.

4. Never give up, never surrender

Even if you're laughed out of classrooms and parties, misunderstood by your classmates, and alone in a new city, you can still win in the end. Sure, Elle has more resources than the average person as a rich white woman, but in the context of her Harvard Law experience she is a hardworking self-made woman. She refuses to let other people's opinions and misogyny stop her.

5. Love is important, but self-love is the most important

Yes, Elle originally went to Harvard to try and win back her college boyfriend Warner, and most of her early decisions there were to make herself seem desirable to him. But it didn't take too long for the indomitable Ms. Woods to realize that she was a damn good law student who didn't need a man.

While incredibly confident in her California life, once Elle found her footing in the intimidating world of the East Coast academic elite, she was able to see a fulfilling future that didn't rely on being Warner's eye candy. Yes, she found love with another man (puppy dog Emmett), but in an equal relationship and only after finding fulfillment within. Proving to viewers that finding a loving partner is wonderful, but not at the expense of your individuality and not as a way to "complete" yourself. Elle is complete already.

6. The Bend and Snap is still a fun, silly dance

It may be problematic as a seduction trump-card, but admit it: you and your friends have definitely Bend and Snapped your way through a sleepover or two.

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