For most fashion people, the arrival of vacation season means figuring out how to pack 20 outfits into one measly suitcase. Although I'm no stranger to packing efficiently, I always leave some room in my suitcase when visiting my parents abroad in Europe. I have to note the shopping—both new and vintage—is impeccable, with easily some of the best fashion deals you can find.
Naturally, with nearly 24/7 access to stores in an up-and-coming fashion capital like Madrid, my mom's style has started to give me (someone who quite literally shops for a living) a run for her money.
This year's retailer for my chic European mom? Mango, thanks to its effortlessly easy, elevated basics and affordable trend-forward pieces. Although I didn't consider my mom "cool" back when I was discovering my style at 14, she's certainly one of my style icons now, and thankfully, her style is easy to replicate (and, of course, sneakily steal out of her closet when I see her over the summer).
While the Spanish-founded brand has a solid footing in the United States, its American influence is nothing compared to the shopping experience in Mango's flagship store in Barcelona. During a three-hour shopping trip, my mom and I decided to challenge ourselves and find some of the best pieces both she and I could pull off despite a 35-year age difference and a chaotic mash-up of personal style. The result? A zero-disappointment Mango haul for the ages.
Below are all the stylish and trendy Mango pieces that trumped our generational divide.
Perfect for lazy days by the sea.
Run, don't walk, to get this gorgeous pair of summery earrings.
Although the internet may be divided on the capri-pant trend, one thing is for sure: My mom and I love 'em.
This easy, breezy pair of white culottes is sure to never go out of style.
Just add your favorite strappy sandals!
No thoughts, just these adorable kitten thong sandals.
IYKYK.
One word: yesssssss.
Red hot for the summer has never looked better.
So pretty for a formal night out.
All chic European women I know love wide-leg jeans, including my mom!
It's a raffia bag summer, and this one has to be one of our favorites.
Summer has never looked better.
The tie sides on this pair are adorable.
Everyone needs a simple white summer dress in their wardrobe.
Trust me on this— white denim will be everywhere this summer.
These look so much like my Celine sunglasses at the fraction of a price, so you better believe I snatched them up when I saw them in person.
Cozy and cute, what more could you ask for?
My mom and I lugged around these bags to every single beach in Mallorca with zero complaints, so believe me when I say it's worth your hard-earned dollars.
There's no time like the present than to order a pair of striped pants for the summer.
My jaw is on the floor.
I already have this dress in black, but I'm eyeing the pretty khaki version.
Wait—this ruched tube top looks so expensive.
This one is Euro-summer approved.
BRB, entering my Meredith Blake era.
Cute!
The viral Mango shoes everyone wants (and my mom and I are now the proud owners of!)
Okay, this looks luxe.
Such an easy, effortless dress.
Halterneck styles are coming back in a major way this season.
Feast your eyes on this beauty.
I'll leave you with this pretty find.
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