Honoring the elegance, strength, and traditions passed down through every stitch
We all have that one image in our mind: our abuela standing in the kitchen, or by the garden, or sitting on her worn couch with a shawl over her shoulders, a perfectly ironed dress, and maybe even a fresh red lip. She wasn’t trying to be fashionable. She just was.
In a world that praises trend cycles and fast fashion, there’s something powerful—almost revolutionary; about the consistent, grounded style of our grandmothers.
Her Closet Told Stories
For many Latinx grandmothers, clothes were more than utility—they were storytelling. That rebozo she wore to church? It was the same one her own mother gave her. The brooch on her collar? A wedding gift from 1964. Even her house dress had a specific meaning: comfort, dignity, and respect for the day ahead.
Every thread whispered of migration, motherhood, mourning, celebration, and survival
The Original Sustainable Queens
Before “sustainability” became a buzzword, our abuelas were already doing it. Reusing jars, mending clothes, buying less, and making more. Their fashion choices were rooted in necessity, yes; but also in resourcefulness, care, and values.
Today, we’re returning to those values; buying local, repairing, wearing heirlooms—and we owe it all to them.
Her Style Was Power—Even If It Was Subtle
That neat bun, that embroidered blouse, those Sunday shoes; our abuelas knew how to show up. Their style wasn’t about being noticed by others. It was about honoring themselves, their culture, their age, their memories. They dressed with intention.
Even now, trends like vintage florals, sturdy leather shoes, and minimal gold jewelry echo the quiet confidence of abuela fashion.
What We Inherit
We may wear sneakers instead of chanclas and crop tops instead of embroidered smocks, but their essence lives on. In the way we fold our scarves. In how we wear our jewelry with meaning. In the urge to keep just one of her blouses that still smells like her perfume.
Let’s Celebrate Her
If you still have an abuela in your life, ask her what her favorite outfit was and why. If she’s no longer here, wear something that reminds you of her. Tell her stories. And wear them with pride.
To all the abuelas who taught us to stitch, to stand tall, and to never go outside with wet hair; we see you.
