Olivia Culpo is already curating a personal keepsake collection for her five month old daughter, Colette, including her iconic pageant gowns, wedding dress, and the infant’s early wardrobe.
The 33 year old model and actress shared the details with People magazine, revealing her commitment to preserving mementos for her child’s future.
“I save everything,” Culpo said, explaining that she carefully stores items so they remain intact over time. “It feels like every week I’m pulling out the bins to store her clothes.”
Culpo, who won Miss USA and Miss Universe in 2012, is selecting pieces from her personal and professional life to pass down to Colette. Among the items are the pink and red velvety gowns she wore during her pageant victories.
The collection also includes her custom Dolce & Gabbana wedding dress from her June 2024 nuptials to San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey.
“The wedding gown was meant to reflect the seriousness of our commitment,” Culpo said. She added that she hopes her daughter will one day appreciate the fashion legacy but will carve her own path.
“I hope that she’s an athlete,” she said, referencing McCaffrey’s sports background and joking about not “ruining the McCaffrey gene pool.”
Child development experts note that preserving personal items for children can play a role in shaping identity and family connection.
“Keepsakes like clothing and personal memorabilia can create a tangible link between generations,” said Dr. Amanda Reyes, a child psychologist at the University of Southern California.
“They offer children a sense of continuity and family history while allowing parents to share meaningful experiences.”
Fashion historians also highlight the growing trend among public figures to archive garments and personal items for future generations.
“Many celebrities are increasingly mindful about the cultural and sentimental value of their wardrobe,” said Marcus Leighton, curator at the Fashion Heritage Institute in New York.
“These items serve not only as family heirlooms but also as artifacts of popular culture.” Archiving and preservation of personal clothing is not uncommon.
According to a 2023 survey by the American Apparel Preservation Society, nearly 60 percent of parents with young children reported storing special clothing items such as christening gowns, holiday outfits, or items from significant life events.
Among public figures, items such as pageant gowns, designer dresses, and sports memorabilia are increasingly kept as heirlooms. Culpo’s efforts are consistent with broader patterns in parenting and celebrity culture.
The survey also found that 45 percent of respondents cataloged their children’s clothing digitally, while 38 percent invested in specialized storage solutions to maintain condition over decades.
Fans and local observers have expressed admiration for Culpo’s dedication. “It’s inspiring to see a mother thoughtfully preserving memories for her child,” said Sarah Mitchell, a New York based fashion blogger.
“It’s not just about the glamour. It’s about creating a meaningful legacy.” Colette, meanwhile, has already reached several milestones, including rolling over and attending her first San Francisco 49ers game.
Culpo emphasized that while she is excited to share her love of fashion, she prioritizes her daughter’s experiences and interests. “We want her to have the freedom to pursue what she loves,” she said.
Experts suggest that keepsakes like those Culpo is saving could have lasting significance.
“Items such as a parent’s wedding dress or pageant gowns can be cherished into adulthood, providing emotional and historical context,” Dr. Reyes said.
“They may also encourage storytelling and reflection within families.” As for Colette, Culpo appears committed to balancing personal heritage with the child’s autonomy.
Observers note that passing down items without imposing expectations aligns with contemporary parenting trends that emphasize agency and exploration.
Olivia Culpo’s curated collection of clothing and memorabilia for her daughter Colette represents a blend of personal legacy, family connection, and cultural significance.
From iconic pageant gowns to a custom wedding dress and meticulously stored baby clothes, Culpo’s efforts underscore a broader trend of parents preserving meaningful items for future generations.
While Colette’s own path remains open, these keepsakes will provide tangible links to her mother’s life and achievements.
