I Got It From My Mama: Fashion Advice From Our Favorite Moms

For most women, our first fashion influencers, stylists, and critics were our mothers. If you grew up in the same home as your mom, you probably have fond memories of sneaking into her closet to rifle through her dresses, try on her shoes, and adorn yourself in her fanciest jewelry.

You might also have fond-ish memories of her giving you style advice, solicited or not. (If you’re someone who looks back on pictures of yourself as a teenager in too-trendy hairstyles and ill-fitting pants, you’ll probably understand why she gave you all those critiques.) Ultimately, lots of moms know what they’re talking about when it comes to looking good, which is why we asked the KCM staff to share the best fashion advice they’ve ever gotten from their mothers. Better still, we’ve also got suggestions for how to use these words of wisdom to spruce up your spring wardrobe.

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“My mom always keeps up on the latest trends and isn’t afraid to take chances. She also taught me that you should find simple basics like tank tops and shorts for low prices, but that you shouldn’t be afraid to splurge on the pieces that’ll last forever, like jean jackets, winter coats, and jewelry.”

Meredith Struewing, Social Media Producer

“My mom is my North Star when it comes to fashion advice — I’m in my thirties and still text her photos of my outfits to see what’s working and what isn’t. Of all the advice she’s handed down to me, one lesson stands out: Never underestimate the power of a show-stopping accessory.”

Alaina Mancini, Managing Editor, Branded Content

“Long before Hillary Clinton inspired us with her array of colorful pantsuits, there was my mom, Pam Bonn: I have a framed photograph of her wearing a double-breasted pantsuit with a string of pearls and a big smile. She taught me that whatever I decide to wear, wear it with confidence.”

Tess Bonn, Senior Writer

“My mom has always had a great eye when it comes to jewelry, which inspired me to break the rules by mixing materials like beading and metal. When I was little, I remember trying on my mom’s rings and necklaces, all in different hues and finishes. To this day, she still rocks layered necklaces of all colors; we even have a couple of matching pieces we wear everyday to feel close to each other, despite being hundreds of miles apart.”

Katie Pittman, Commerce Editor

“My mom always told me not to be afraid of color! I personally like to stick to neutrals and basics, but she reminds me to have fun with my outfits and spice them up with a pop of color — even if that’s just via a pair of shoes.”

Victoria Bellucci, Account Manager

“My mom taught me the importance of investing in quality pieces, rather than trendy items that’ll only last a few washes. She says, ‘Classics never go out of style.’ And as someone who regularly borrows her clothes and accessories, I have to agree!”

Sara Levine, Newsletter Editor

“My mom has always told me to invest in comfortable heels. There’s nothing worse than buying shoes that end up sitting in your closet because you’re dreading the pain they’re sure to cause. A well-fitting pair is a must.”

Alexia Vicario, Account Executive

“My mom still practices what she preaches: As a teacher, her style advice was and always has been ‘Dress for comfort — worn-in and soft is fashionable and functional.’ I take this to heart by mixing vintage favorites with new, quality staples.”

Sam Vastis, Senior Associate

“The fashion rule of my mother’s that I still follow is, ‘It’s always better to be overdressed than under.’ Yes, that’s resulted in me showing up to casual hangouts looking as if I’m going to a job interview, but I maintain that you’ll never be sorry for having an outfit that’s slightly too fancy. Worse comes to worst, you’ll look like you put some extra care into looking nice for whoever you’re meeting up with, which’ll make *them* feel a little more special.”

Molly Simms, Editorial Director

“My mom is the single most fashionable person I know, so I never make a purchasing decision without consulting her first. She knows how to pick and choose when to go classic or timeless, and when to opt for the new trend. And if I’m ever in a bind, she taught me that the time-tested ‘skirt and a cute top’ combo will never fail.”

Sam Donsky, Audience Development Manager

“My mother Susan is the QUEEN of color. She always wears bold patterns and bright prints, and she always looks like a million bucks. She’ll combine items I would never think to mix together, and somehow they just work. She’s taught me to be bold in every area of my life, including my wardrobe.”

Emily Pinto, Senior Producer and Creative Director

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