What to steal from your mother’s closet: Oversized sunnies, slip dresses, and more

Fashion has always had a habit of looking back to move forward. Whether reinterpreting classic aesthetics, redesigning iconic couture, or following the predictable cycle of trends, fashion always finds its future in the past.

While fast fashion may dominate at the moment, it is often the inherited pieces—a silk blouse, a pure cotton kurti, or a Kanchipuram saree—that become the most enduring parts of a wardrobe. Sometimes a piece from your mother's closet carries a value that no price tag can capture.

The slip dress

From the barely-there Calvin Klein slip dress worn by Cher in Clueless to Tina Malhotra's metallic silver mini dress in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, the '90s slip dress has been the epitome of simplicity that never goes out of style. Originally designed as lingerie, the cotton and silk slip dress has evolved into a statement piece. Perhaps you would find them in your mother's wardrobe as an old satin slip, a vintage nightgown, or a forgotten camisole, waiting to be restyled by a new generation.

Oversized sunnies

What once emerged in the 1960s as symbols of jet-set glamour and privacy is now considered the “effortlessly glam” accessory. Oversized sunglasses have been seen all over high fashion, particularly at Khaite, Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta, where bold eyewear added a sense of mystery. Popularised in India by icons such as Zeenat Aman, Amitabh Bachchan, and Parveen Babi, the big sunnies with classy designs and embellished logos trickled down to the masses.

Handcrafted textiles

Traditional textile prints—Kalamkari, Ikat, Ajrakh, batik, and more—are finding a new identity beyond ethnic wear. Once reserved for sarees and kurtas, these motifs are now being reimagined on Western silhouettes. As shoppers move away from mass-produced fashion, these bold prints offer originality and storytelling. The borrowed garment can be styled in countless ways, making every outfit unique and special.

Juttis

As ballet flats continue to evolve as a fashion staple, juttis offer a more distinctive and creative take on the trend. The 400-year-old craft features intricate zardozi and phulkari embroidery on rich textiles, creating footwear that brings a pop of colour and character to even the simplest outfit. Every pair carries its own story, making juttis as much a conversation starter as a wardrobe staple.

Scarves

The airy, sheer drape and length make the chiffon dupatta the perfect summer scarf. Drape it over your shoulders, tie it around your neck in a chic French knot, wear it as a headscarf, or style it around your waist as a statement accessory. Its colours and prints instantly elevate any outfit into a stylish look.

In this mass-production landscape, luxury isn't defined solely by price but by the history and emotions attached to a piece. Fashion constantly changes, but sentiment never goes out of style. The clothes tucked away in your mother's closet have gone through changes in silhouettes, aesthetics, and decades of fashion cycles—and somehow they still feel relevant.

Lead image: Getty Images

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