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Confession: I May Or May Not Have Stolen These Trendy Style Items From My Parent’s Closets

I’m all about giving credit where credit is due, and in this case, I’m giving it to my mom. There have been so many trends reminiscent of the ’80s and ’90s resurfacing this year, that my mom’s closet has become a gold mine for the fashion of yesteryear.

With so many retro tees, jackets, and accessories readily available, I no longer have to search through thrift stores like a truffle pig looking for Tommy Hilfiger. If you have a parent willing to let you raid their closet, here’s what you should be looking for:

Vintage bags 

I nearly cried sweet tears of joy when I found out my mom had this classic leather Coach bag hidden away in the back of her closet. Vintage purse designs are making the rounds once again, so if your mom has an old Dooney & Bourke tucked away, now is the time to take it out on the town once again. 

Leather shoes

Kitten heels are starting to trend again, and I absolutely hate it. So did my mom, apparently, because she had the good sense to stick to the classics. These leather pumps can be dressed up with a jumpsuit or down with your favorite pair of jeans, and loafers look chic no matter what the occasion.

Ski jackets 

It seems like everyone who lived through the ’80s and ‘​90s had at least one ski jacket, no matter where you lived. My household was no exception because I came across this stunning red vintage Eddie Baur puffer jacket. Where I live, Spring doesn’t actually get warm until mid-May, so I’ll still get in a few more wears this season.

Nostalgic crewnecks and tees 

Vintage logo crewnecks and tees are all the rage at the moment, and chances are your parents have the best selection. Whether it’s your dad’s old Guns N’ Roses tee, your mom’s old Tommy Hilfiger shirt, or a crew neck from a memorable event, tie a knot in the front or do a French tuck for a new take on an old top.

Jewelry 

After transcending my mom’s closet and jumping into the box of jewelry my grandma left me, I’m now the proud owner of multiple pairs of gold hoop earrings and long chain necklaces. Jewelry is so easy to incorporate into your everyday style for a fun new twist.

Accessories 

Vintage accessories are total powerhouses of style because you can repurpose them for new trends. Silk scarves and sunglasses are a staple in any spring and summer wardrobe. Get your hands on a few of these if you can!

After writing this, I’m seriously questioning whether or not style is a genetic trait, because these finds were almost too good to be true. Next time someone compliments me on my vintage handbag, I can confidently reply that I got it from my mama. Parents, beware — no wardrobe is safe from the clutches of the fashion hungry masses.

Hannah is a Senior at the University of Utah studying Kinesiology and Sports Nutrition. When she isn’t in class or working at one of her jobs, you can find her hiking with her dogs, reading, or fervently adding more pictures to her Pinterest Style board with a chai latte in hand. Find her on Instagram @hannahjanelangley