Should I paint antique furniture?

I've had my bedroom set since I was born (I'm 27 now) and my parents bought it as antiques. My children now use the bedroom set in their rooms (2 twin beds, a dresser with mirror and a tall dresser). They are all in really good condition and they look awesome in my son's room because his room is vintage nautical themed, but my daughter's room is bright and cheery and they just don't fit. Would it be a mistake to paint her furniture? I've wanted to since I was little, but my parents would never allow it because they love antiques. Even now, they feel I would be making a mistake by painting it. Thoughts anyone? I know nothing about antiques...