What is a feminist mama to do?

(Earlier today at the store...note the look of longing)

This afternoon:
Molly: "I'm pretending to be a Barbie Princess."
Mommy: "Why?"
Molly: "Just to bug you."

What is a feminist mama to do? I've surrounded my daughter with 'alternative' toys--imaginative, wood, Waldorf-y, gender neutral...but there seems to be a force outside us both that draws her to these Barbies and all things Princess. Thinking myself savvy I conceded to the princesses as long as they were strong and capable princesses (i.e. Paper Bag Princess, Princess Fiona, Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots? books, etc). We talk all the time about the merits of being capable and smart. She understands that I don't like (or approve of) Barbie and she concedes to that...mostly, if not for the occassional request to 'visit' the Barbie aisle.

I knew the Barbie obsession was likely inevitable. And I appreciate that I am hardly the first mom to confront this battle with her daughter. But on the other hand, I really thought that I was creating an alternative culture for her. And yet, the power of our own mainstream culture is seemingly unavoidable. As such, I guess my best 'defense' is to keep her talking about why she likes/wants the dolls? what do they do? what does she like to do?

I remember a friend once telling me that she explained to her daughter that Barbie is so unreal that she couldn't support her own head if she was an actual woman. I tried telling Molly that, I don't think she cares. Not as long as there are pretty dresses, pretty shoes, and sparkles.

Oh, what is a feminist mama to do?