As a teenager, I never would have said that I get style inspiration from my mom. At 15, I was more likely to cite The O.C.’s resident damsel in distress Marissa Cooper or the models outside of the Abercrombie store as my sources of inspiration. But as an adult, I find that when I fly home across the country, I’m constantly borrowing from my mom’s closet to fill in for whatever I’ve forgotten to pack. My mom’s look leans Ralph Lauren—she likes rich textures, earth tones, and structured silhouettes. But as a Bay Area resident, she’s also outdoorsy, faithfully taking her daily walk through the Berkeley hills like clockwork.
I see her sensibilities reflected in my own style, so it’s unsurprising that when it comes to pulling together an everyday outfit, we’re drawn to similar staples, even though we’re 37 years apart. While her go-to jeans are bootcut in a dark wash and mine are relaxed vintage Levi’s 501s, we’ll dress them up in exactly the same way, likely with a chunky sweater, a pair of loafers, and a tailored jacket. Clearly, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Below, shop five trends that the two of us both reach for when we’re planning to put on our favorite jeans.
Leather Loafers
Classic and comfortable.
These are my go-to loafers.
For an added lift.
A loafer that works for dressy occasions.
A light-toned loafer for warmer months.
A classic silhouette for pairing with casual jeans.
Chunky Sweaters
For work, I'd wear this sweater with dark denim.
A subtle pop of color.
This quarter-zip sweater is great for layering.
My mom gravitates toward neutrals like this oatmeal sweater.
The drop shoulders give this sweater a relaxed feel.
Alex Mill makes some of my favorite cozy sweaters.
Sporty Touches
These sneakers make it easy to go from work to stroll.
My mom loves this vest for cool days.
I'll throw on this jacket when I'm running errands.
This top is great for workouts but cute enough to wear on a date.
My mom's go-to sneakers.
On sunny days, I always wear a hat when I leave the house.
Silver Jewelry
These minimalist earrings look so elegant.
I'd layer this cuff over a long-sleeve dress.
My mom is partial to pendant necklaces like this one.
Stacked rings are part of my daily uniform.
Jenny Bird's huggies are my go-to everyday earrings.
This necklace can be worn alone or layered.
Tailored Coats
This coat looks so elegant with relaxed jeans.
My mom's go-to style is an A-line silhouette.
Comfortable yet statement-making.
Ralph Lauren's designs are among my mom's favorites.
This jacket instantly dresses up a tee and jeans.
A slouchy coat with a tailored look.
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