Old Money Style is a timeless fashion trend that exudes sophistication, elegance, and class. This classic aesthetic takes inspiration from wealthy families steeped in tradition, who prefer to invest in quality, enduring pieces that withstand the test of time.
In this article, we will delve into the essential elements of Old Money fashion, learn to identify key wardrobe pieces, and explore various outfit ideas.
So, get ready to be inspired by this timeless fashion movement and elevate your personal style to new heights with an Old Money twist.
What is Old Money Style?
The Old Money Style is a fashion aesthetic that revolves around classic, timeless, and elegant clothing, often associated with the attire of the wealthy, established families with generational wealth.
These families have historically chosen to dress in a way that reflects their refined taste and understated wealth without appearing ostentatious or pretentious. Simplicity, high-quality materials, and impeccable tailoring characterize this style.
The history of the Old Money Style can be traced back to aristocratic and upper-class families, who have long followed traditional fashion, etiquette, and social norms. Members of families like the Kennedys, Princess Diana, and Jackie Kennedy influenced this style with their discreet, polished appearances.
In recent years, Old Money Style has gained popularity on social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, where people recreate this aesthetic and strive to emulate its elegance and sophistication. Individuals can create a sense of timeless and refined luxury by adopting clothing items and combinations that represent this style.
Dressing in the Old Money Style means focusing on quality over quantity and opting for pieces that are both versatile and able to withstand the test of time. Some of the main staples of this look include well-fitted blazers, skirts, and trousers made from high-quality fabrics, such as wool, silk, and cashmere. Additionally, this fashion aesthetic values tasteful accessories and elegant shoes, often made from genuine leather and other durable materials.
Ultimately, the Old Money Style is about confidence and grace, achieved through refined fashion choices and an appreciation for well-crafted garments. This timeless aesthetic embodies elegance and restraint, providing an enduring example of classic and sophisticated fashion.
How to Dress like Old Money?
When adopting the Old Money aesthetic, it’s essential to select classic and timeless pieces that exude sophistication.
Let’s explore some key elements to achieve this refined look.
1. Choose Classic Colors
Stick to a neutral color palette, such as black, navy, and beige. These colors remain evergreen and seamlessly blend with various outfits.
2. Blazers and Button-Down Shirts
A blazer is an iconic piece that can elevate your outfit, whether paired with jeans or a chic midi skirt. Opt for a longer, oversized cut for a vintage vibe. For men, button-down shirts in muted colors like white or baby blue are essential.
3. Incorporate Tennis Styles
The tennis theme often appears in Old Money fashion. Style a white tennis skirt with a button-down shirt, a pearl necklace, and a white headband for a classy ensemble.
4. Elegant Accessories
Add a touch of elegance with accessories like a simple necklace or watch. Pearls and understated pieces showcase sophistication without being flashy.
5. Impeccable Grooming and Quality Pieces
The Old Money look relies on high-quality, synergistic garments and well-maintained personal grooming. Invest in well-crafted, subtle pieces that can withstand the test of time.
7 Old Money Capsule Wardrobe Essentials You Need
When embracing the Old Money aesthetic, key fashion pieces should be part of your wardrobe.
We’ve compiled a list of 7 old money essentials that are functional and exude class and elegance.
1. Wool Coats
A winter staple, wool coats perfectly blend chic and functional. Opt for classic colors like black, camel, and navy to stay true to the Old Money aesthetic. A well-fitted wool coat will keep you warm while making a fashion statement.
2. Blazers
An iconic piece in the Old Money style, blazers can easily elevate any outfit. Go for a longer, oversized cut to give your outfit a more vintage look. Blazers can be worn with jeans, trousers, or skirts, making them a versatile wardrobe staple.
3. Minimal White Sneakers
Simple, clean, minimal white sneakers are essential for achieving an Old Money look. These sneakers pair well with various outfits and provide a subtle nod to a classic, preppy aesthetic.
4. Classy Everyday Handbag
A timeless, high-quality handbag is a must for any Old Money wardrobe. Choose a structured bag made from luxurious materials, and stick to classic shades like black, brown, or beige to maintain that elegant appearance.
5. Cashmere Sweaters
Not only do cashmere sweaters offer comfort and warmth, but they also exude sophistication. Choose timeless cuts and solid colors, and invest in quality pieces that will last for years to come.
6. Polo Shirts
An essential in a preppy, Old Money wardrobe, polo shirts are classic and versatile. Opt for feminine cuts and striped or solid color designs to achieve the desired look.
7. High-quality and Feminine Dresses
Invest in beautifully tailored dresses made from natural fibers instead of polyester. The Old Money aesthetic focuses on femininity, so opt for flattering silhouettes and elegant patterns.
What Does Old Money Look Like?
Old Money style is characterized by a refined, classic, and sophisticated look. The key to achieving this aesthetic is to focus on timeless pieces and muted, earthy tones like black, navy, and beige. These colors never go out of style and can be worn with various outfits, making them an essential part of the Old Money wardrobe.
For women, the Old Money look often includes blazers, which can be worn with jeans or chic midi skirts and pullovers. Opt for a longer, oversized cut to give your outfit a more vintage feel. Additionally, accessories like a simple necklace, watch, belt, scarf, or hat can add a touch of elegance and sophistication1.
The Old Money aesthetic often features American preppy fashion combined with modern looser silhouettes for men. Key pieces might include tailored pants, oxfords or loafers, button-up shirts, and lightweight sweaters. Emulate this look by focusing on high-quality fabrics like wool and cashmere, as they give any outfit an air of refinement.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to remember that the Old Money style is not just about clothing; it’s an entire way of life grounded in good manners, graciousness, and understated elegance.
So, how can you exude this air of class without breaking the bank? The answer lies in cultivating a wardrobe of well-chosen, high-quality pieces rather than overstuffing your closet with trend-driven items.
How to Choose Quality Materials?
When adopting the Old Money Style, selecting high-quality materials is essential for a classic and timeless wardrobe. This contributes to the authentic look and promotes longevity in your clothing investments. So, how do you choose quality materials for your Old Money wardrobe?
First and foremost, opt for natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool, and silk. These materials offer better breathability, durability, and comfort than synthetic fabrics, ensuring your items last longer and maintain their classic appeal.
| Material | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Soft, breathable, and easy to maintain |
| Wool | Warm, moisture-wicking, and durable |
| Silk | Luxurious, smooth, and alluring |
Another tip for choosing quality materials is to pay attention to the garment’s construction. Look for solid stitching, even seams, and the absence of loose threads or fraying edges. In clothing like blazers, jackets, and suits, dry cleaning should be used sparingly to maintain fabric integrity.
In terms of color for your Old Money wardrobe, consider earthier and muted tones, such as black, beige, khaki, creamy white, dusty green, and sky blue. These colors give the natural and refined aesthetic associated with Old Money.
Lastly, prioritize quality over quantity. When building your Old Money wardrobe, it’s better to invest in fewer, high-quality pieces that stand the test of time rather than overstuffing your closet with cheaper, fast-fashion items. Don’t be afraid to invest in iconic pieces like blazers, tennis skirts, and riding boots; they will be the foundation of your timeless and elegant style.
Our Favorite Old Money Brands
To dress in the old-money style, there are several iconic old money brands and designers you might want to follow.
Some popular old-money designer brands include Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Brunello Cucinelli, and Hermès. These names are well-established in the fashion world and are known for their refined and sophisticated looks.
Let’s explore a few notable designers in more detail:
- Ralph Lauren: Known for their timeless preppy style, Ralph Lauren offers clothing items such as oxford shirts, polo shirts, and khaki pants – all staples of the old money wardrobe.
- Lacoste: This French brand is famous for its stylish polo shirts, which can be paired with khaki pants or a sophisticated skirt for an effortless old money look.
- Brunello Cucinelli: Paying homage to Italian craftsmanship, Brunello Cucinelli presents knitwear, tailored suits, and accessories that exude sophistication and a sense of luxury.
- Hermès: This high-end luxury brand is all about understated elegance, with accessories like their iconic silk scarves and leather goods perfectly complementing an old money outfit.
The following brands also exhibit old money characteristics: YSL, MaxMara, Chanel, Bec + Bridge, Dior, Cartier, Nanushka, Balmain, Loro Piana, Barbour, and Armani. These brands offer various clothing, footwear, and accessories to help you achieve the old money aesthetic.
These are the exact outfits the rich swear by and that will make you look so too.
52 Old Money Outfits That Will Make You Look Old Money
1. Button-Down Shirt + Pullover Over Shoulders
2. Tweed Jacket + Black Tights
3. Old Money Aesthetic Outfits: Tennis Skirt + Polo Shirt
4. Wool Coat + Knee-High Boots
5. Old Money Aesthetic Outfits: Cream Jeans + Basic Top
6. Tweed Jumpsuit + Pink Coat
7. Knitted Turtleneck Pullover + White Suit Pants
8. Jeans + Blouse
9. Black Blazer + Knee-High Boots
10. Tweed Dress + Black Tights
11. Blazer + Skirt
12. Knitted Top + Black Mini Skirt
13. Oversized Knitted Sweater
14. Oversized Sweater + Silk Dress
15. Black Shorts + White Knitted Sweater
16. Tennis Skirt + Sweater Vest
17. Tulle Dress
18. Oversized Button-Down Shirt
19. Knitted Suit
20. White Poplin Dress
21. Pastel Yellow Dress
22. Jogging Suit
23. Tennis Skirt + Button Down Shirt
24. Pink Plaid Tweed Blazer + White Dress
25. White Shorts + White Knee-High Boots
26. Tweed Dress Suit
27. Cropped Blazer + Black Shorts
29. Knitted Dress
30. Knitted Button-Down Sweater-Dress
31. Blouse + Leather Skirt
32. Silk Dress
33. Black Tennis Skirt + Button-Down Top
34. Plaid Dress
35. White Dress + Sweater Vest
36. Oversized Black Blazer + Knitted Sweater over Shoulders
37. Silk Dress
39. Oversized Black Blazer + Black Tennis Skirt
40. Black Mini Dress
41. Knitted Top + Black Skirt + Mary Jane Pumps
42. Knitted Top + Cream Jeans
43. Plaid Sweater + Black Shorts
44. Pastel Yellow Dress + White Gloves
45. Black Midi Dress
46. Black Dress + White Button-Down Shirt Underneath
47. Black Tennis Skirt + Knitted Pullover
49. White Tweed Suit
50. Faux Fur Cream Top + Straight Leg Creme Jeans
51. Cropped Oversized Blazer + Yellow Denim Skirt
52. Black Mini Dress + Hat
FAQ:
What is the old money style?
The old money style is a way of dressing that is inspired by the inherited wealth of past famous family dynasties, such as the Kennedys, the Gettys, and the Vanderbilts. It is characterized by preppy and monochromatic clothing, discreet designer labels, and a lack of logos.
How to dress for old money?
To dress for old money, opt for preppy and monochromatic clothing, such as tailored blazers, loafers, and polo shirts. Discreet designer labels are preferred over logos, and natural fabrics are favored. Women should wear skirts, dresses, and pumps, while men should wear suits or khakis.
What does it mean to dress like old money?
To dress like old money means to exude confidence, class, and sophistication while maintaining a subtle and understated style. It involves wearing high-quality, timeless pieces in muted colors, impeccable grooming and attention to detail. The goal is to convey a sense of inherited wealth and privilege without being ostentatious.
What is the personality of old money?
A sense of entitlement, confidence, and a belief in the importance of tradition and social status characterizes the personality of old money. Old-money individuals tend to be well-educated, cultured, and reserved, preferring discretion over extravagance. They value family heritage, social connections, and wealth preservation across generations.
What are old money vibes?
Old money vibes refer to the atmosphere of sophistication, elegance, and exclusivity associated with the lifestyle of the wealthy elite. It encompasses a sense of heritage, tradition, and refinement that is reflected in fashion, decor, and leisure activities. Old money vibes are often associated with country clubs, yachts, and exclusive social events.
What Colours are old money style?
Old money style is characterized by muted and subdued colors, such as navy, beige, white, and black. Pastel shades, such as light blue, pink, and yellow, are also common. Bright and flashy colors are avoided in favor of more understated and classic hues.
What is quiet luxury?
Quiet luxury is a style of luxury that focuses on understated elegance and quality craftsmanship rather than flashy logos and overt displays of wealth. Subtle, minimalist designs, high-quality materials, and attention to detail characterize it. Quiet luxury brands often avoid logos and monograms in favor of discreet branding.
How do you give old money vibes?
To give off old money vibes, opt for classic, timeless pieces in muted colors, such as tailored blazers, loafers, and polo shirts. Discreet designer labels are preferred over logos, and natural fabrics are favored. Attention to detail and grooming are important, as is a sense of confidence and exclusivity.
How does old money eat?
Old money tends to eat in an elegant and refined manner, with a focus on traditional, high-quality cuisine. Meals are often enjoyed in formal settings, such as dining rooms or country clubs, and are served with fine china, silverware, and crystal glasses. Table manners and etiquette are highly valued.
What is new money vs old money style?
New money style is often characterized by flashy and ostentatious clothing, focusing on designer labels and logos. On the other hand, old money style is more understated and classic, with a preference for timeless pieces in muted colors. Old money values tradition and heritage, while new money values novelty and trendiness.
How do you dress classy with little money?
To dress classy with little money, focus on buying classic and timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. Look for high-quality fabrics and well-tailored clothing at thrift stores or on sale. Accessorize with simple and elegant jewelry, and pay attention to grooming and hygiene.
What is an example of old money?
An example of old money is the Rockefeller family, who have been wealthy for generations and have a long history of philanthropy and political influence. Other examples include the Astor, Vanderbilt, and Kennedy families, who have maintained their wealth and social status over several generations.
When did old money style start?
The old money style has its roots in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when wealthy families such as the Vanderbilts, the Astors, and the Rockefellers emerged as prominent figures in American society. The style has evolved over time but remains rooted in a sense of tradition and heritage.
What is the old money dress code?
The old money dress code is characterized by timeless, classic pieces, such as blazers, tennis whites, cable knit cashmere sweaters, and midi skirts. This style is often associated with leisure activities like horse-riding, polo, and racquet sports and is more understated and less flashy than new money fashion.
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