People are often told to save for their children’s future. But when most people think about saving for their kids, they usually think of money for their college, a home or a wedding. What if the legacy we leave behind isn’t just financial but something more personal, like stories woven into the fabric of our old clothing? Clothes carry memories. They represent different times in our lives. What may seem like a temporary item today, might become a cherished heirloom for your children in the future. So, what should you be saving for your kids? Let’s discuss.
Special Occasion Items
Items worn for special occasions like prom dresses, formal dresses, wedding accessories or outfits worn to big events are perfect items to save. Fashion trends change, but they always come back full circle.
Your winter formal dress from 2016 might feel out of style now, but it could be the perfect vintage dress for your daughter’s high school dance one day. Even if the styles don’t line up, these pieces still hold memories and can be passed down as treasured items.
Timeless Classics
Don’t let go of your timeless pieces. If you have a nice denim jacket or a leather jacket you love, hold onto it. Vintage clothing is always in style, and your future child will probably be looking for that perfect vintage piece, just like you do now.
Little black dresses should also be saved. They never go out of style and will be fashionable for decades. Keep these staple items because your future self will thank you, and so will your kids.
College Gear
This one’s a big one, especially if your child could end up at the same college you went to. So, hold onto your college hoodies. College sweatshirts are always in style and the vintage ones are even better.
These pieces hold so many memories, from late-night study sessions to football games and everything in between. Even if your child never wears it, it will be interesting for them to see items you wore in your life before they were part of it.
Greek Life Clothing
If you were part of Greek life, save a few pieces with your sorority’s letters on them. You never know—your child might end up joining the same chapter and would love wearing your old letters. Regardless of your child’s choices, this is just something that should be saved anyway. Greek life hoodies are a fun way to show you are part of something bigger than yourself.
Jewelry
Jewelry is another one that’s often passed down through generations. Always, always save your nice jewelry. High-quality pieces can last a lifetime and become family heirlooms. Expensive jewelry, especially items with sentimental value, can be passed down on big occasions like important birthdays or graduations.
Giving your child a family piece is a powerful present that connects them to the past, so make sure to keep anything of value. This value doesn’t just mean money, any piece with sentiment should be saved.
By saving some of these fashion items, you’re creating a box of memories from your past that your children will look at with fondness. These pieces will help them learn more about who you were before they came into the picture. Clothing is a form of history. It holds onto memories so make sure to think twice before throwing away your items.
Show us what outfits you will pass down by tagging @VALLEYMag on Instagram and X!