An heirloom is an object given so much value that it is passed on from generation to generation with much care. The care given to it is almost akin to reverence. Probably because, heirloom pieces tend to get fragile in time.
Personally, I had the privilege of using one such fashion heirloom piece when I became the Reyna Elena in a Santacruzan held in our village. Before that, I have been joining this yearly May festival as different "supporting" characters. You see, the Reyna Elena is considered the main human character in this parade.
During that parade, I was able to wear my dream ball gown and accessorized it with a very precious family heirloom - a beautiful long veil which I used as a cape. I felt so regal and beautiful.
It felt good knowing I was wearing something worn by an ancestor and lovingly passed on to my generation. There are still a couple of heirloom pieces I'm looking forward to wearing. I know the proper time will come.
I'm hoping that I will have the opportunity to pass them on to the next generation. We hold on to heirloom pieces because it is one way of connecting the past to the present.