How much has your mother influenced your style?

My mom carrying me at a parade in NYC, around 1985
My mom carrying me at a parade in NYC, around 1985

Last night I stumbled on a really awesome new blog called "My Mom, The Style Icon." The creator began her site by posting up stylish pictures of her own mother in her 20s and 30s, and attributed her mother as the main source of her fashion inspiration. The blogger then went on to include other photos of chic ladies she found on the internet, complete with background stories of the women and the photos. She also accepts submissions, so if you had a stylish mom, send them to momstyleicons@gmail.com.

While my own personal style is heavily rooted in '80s trends, I don't think I ever realized until today how much my mother's wardrobe has influenced me. Sure, I was an '80s baby, but aside from Jem, the cartoon rock star, Denise Huxtable of "The Cosby Show," and Mallory, the aspiring fashion designer on "Family Ties," my mother was the lady in my life I most looked up to, and her clothing definitely played a big part of it. As a kindergartener, I even drew a picture of my mom in her "graffiti dress," a green, knee length cotton

My mom at about 20 years old
My mom at about 20 years old

body-con dress with black prints and squiggles on it. I tried on her taffeta strapless dresses, lace shifts, leotards, Rolling Stones t-shirts, and black pumps, desperate to grow and fit into them. When I finally did, I often kidnapped the items and never gave them back--sorry, Mom!

For some reason, photos of your mother from before you were born are even more intriguing. I always wonder, who was this woman? What did she pick out to wear to school every day? Was she like me? Though I may never be sure if my mother

Another cool mom courtesey of My Mom, The Style Icon
Another cool mom courtesey of My Mom, The Style Icon

exhibited early hints of Joanna, I can honestly say, many elements of my mom have rubbed off on me. Largely her awesome style. I need to remember to thank her for these things on other occasions besides Mother's Day.

Want to see more amazing stylish moms? Head over to momstyleicons.blogspot.com. This woman at the left was part of a female flight derby called the Powder Puff Derby. Talk about inspiring!

How much has your mother influenced your style? Did you covet any of her clothing or accessories as a child?