Welcome to the world of Old Money style, where sophistication, elegance, and tradition reign supreme. Old Money refers to families that have been wealthy for generations, and their style reflects a refined and timeless aesthetic.
Unlike new money, which often flaunts wealth with flashy and trendy items, old money style is very subtle, low key, and understated. It’s all about quality over quantity, with a focus on heritage brands and classic pieces that will stand the test of time. From tailored suits and elegant pearls to antique furniture and fine art, old money style exudes a sense of refinement that can’t be bought with a mere checkbook.
If you’re looking to incorporate some timeless elegance into your wardrobe or home, read on to discover the secrets of how to get old money style right.
Old Money Aesthetic
The old money aesthetic refers to a style and way of life associated with people and families who have inherited wealth and have a long-standing history of financial affluence. It encompasses a set of cultural values, attitudes, and practices that emphasize understated elegance, refinement, and exclusivity.
The old money aesthetic is characterized by a preference for classic, timeless styles in clothing, decor, and architecture. It values quality over quantity and avoids ostentatious displays of wealth. The aesthetic is often associated with conservative, traditional values and a focus on the preservation of cultural heritage.
In terms of lifestyle, the old money aesthetic emphasizes a certain degree of formality and restraint in social interactions, as well as a commitment to intellectual pursuits and education. It may involve a preference for leisure activities such as reading, art, and travel rather than flashy displays of extravagance like luxury sports cars and flashy dresses.
Overall, the Old Money aesthetic is about cultivating a sense of refinement, sophistication, and cultural heritage, while eschewing overt displays of wealth and status.
How to Dress like Old Money
Dressing like Old Money typically involves a focus on classic, timeless clothing styles that favor quality and understated elegance over trendy, flashy outfits. Here are some tips for achieving the Old Money look:
Choose High Quality Fabrics
Invest in high-quality, well-made pieces. Old Money fashion emphasizes quality over quantity, so invest in well-made pieces that will last for years to come. Look for high-end fabrics like cashmere, silk, and wool.
Stick to Classic Styles
Avoid trendy or flashy clothing and instead opt for classic, timeless styles like tailored blazers, button-down shirts, and A-line skirts. Avoid overly revealing or provocative clothing.
Wear Neutral Colors Only
Old Money fashion tends to favor neutral colors like black, white, navy, and beige. These colors are timeless and can easily be mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Delicate Accessories
Accessorize with subtle, understated pieces. Choose simple, elegant jewelry like pearls, diamond studs, and gold bangles. Avoid loud or flashy accessories.
Choose Minimalist Handbags and Shoes
Invest in high-quality shoes and bags that are minimalist in design. Old Money fashion values quality over quantity, so invest in high-quality leather shoes and bags that will last for years. Stick to classic styles like loafers, pumps, and structured handbags.
Quality Over Quantity
Emphasize quality over quantity in all your purchases. Rather than buying lots of cheaper, lower-quality clothing pieces, invest in a few high-quality pieces that you can keep in your wardrobe for years.
Overall, the key to dressing like Old Money is to focus on timeless, classic styles that prioritize quality over trendiness.
Old Money Clothes
“Old money” women often prefer timeless, classic, and high-quality pieces over trendy items. Here’s a typical wardrobe based on their style:
Tailored Clothing: “Old money” often implies a preference for bespoke or custom-made items, including tailored suits, dresses, and skirts.
Classic Brands: Brands such as Chanel, Hermès, Ralph Lauren, and Burberry are often popular choices for their quality, longevity, and timeless designs.
Quality Fabrics: Silk, cashmere, wool, and fine cotton are often preferred. Old money style typically involves investing in pieces that will last, both in terms of style and durability.
Conservative Cuts: Clothes are often more on the conservative side, with less emphasis on overtly revealing or trendy cuts. A-line skirts, classic shift dresses, and button-up shirts are popular.
Neutral Colors: The palette tends towards neutrals like black, white, navy, beige, and gray, with occasional accents of color.
Coats: Trench coats, peacoats, or wool overcoats from brands like Burberry and Max Mara. Fur coats might also be part of their wardrobes, especially if they are family heirlooms.
Evening Wear: Classic gowns from designers like Oscar de la Renta, Dior, or Armani might be chosen for formal events.
The emphasis in “old money” style is usually more about quality, fit, and timeless elegance rather than keeping up with the latest fashion trends.
Old Money Accessories
Handbags: High-quality, timeless designs from bag brands like Chanel, Hermès, and Delvaux.
Jewelry: Fine jewelry is often preferred over costume jewelry. This might include pieces from Tiffany & Co., Cartier, or family heirlooms.
Old Money Shoes
Old money women typically gravitate towards high-quality, classic, and comfortable shoe designs from well-known and respected brands. Shoes are typically well-made and can range from classic pumps to quality boots and flats.
Here are some typical choices:
Flats: Chanel’s iconic ballet flats are a favorite, as are designs by Ferragamo and Tod’s. These are comfortable, high-quality, and can be paired with almost any outfit.
Pumps: Classic pumps in neutral shades are a wardrobe staple. Brands such as Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, and Jimmy Choo are often chosen for their timeless designs and excellent craftsmanship.
Loafers: Gucci and Tod’s loafers are often popular for a more casual, but still polished, look.
Boots: For colder weather or country estates, good quality riding boots or knee-high boots from brands like Ferragamo, Burberry, and Stuart Weitzman are often chosen.
Sandals: For warmer weather, sandals from Hermès, Chanel, or Givenchy may be chosen.
Evening Shoes: For formal events, classic high heels or elegant flats from designers like Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, or Roger Vivier might be worn.
While there may be some variance depending on personal style and the particular situation, the common thread is usually a focus on timeless styles, excellent craftsmanship, and high-quality materials. As with the rest of their wardrobe, the preference is generally for understated elegance and durability over more trendy, flashy designs.
Old Money Men
“Old money” men also gravitate towards timeless, high-quality wardrobe items, just like women.
Clothes should always be clean and well-kept. This includes making sure your shoes are polished and your clothes are wrinkle-free. The goal is not to show off wealth, but rather to present a refined, elegant image. Avoid flashy logos and overt displays of designer brands. For casual settings, opt for quality polos, chinos, cashmere sweaters, or well-fitted jeans. In cooler weather, a classic trench coat, a well-made blazer or a high-quality cashmere/wool coat can work
Classic watches from brands like Rolex, Omega or Patek Philippe, high-quality leather belts, ties made of silk or cashmere, and pocket squares are accessories that can add to the overall look.
Oxfords and Brogues are common “old money” style shoes worn by men. These are the classic choice for formal wear. Brands that are well-respected for their craftsmanship include John Lobb, Church’s, and Allen Edmonds. A versatile shoe that can be worn in both casual and semi-formal settings. Brands like Gucci, Tod’s, and Ferragamo are popular.
For casual and summer wear, the Sperry Top-Sider is a classic choice. For a slightly more rugged, but still refined look, men might wear high-quality leather boots from shoemakers like Alden, Crockett & Jones, or Edward Green.
When it comes to casual wear, old money men might opt for high-quality, understated sneakers from brands like Common Projects, or classic designs from brands like New Balance.
Another casual option often chosen for their comfort, Driving Moccasins by brands like Tod’s and Car Shoe are often seen on the feet of stylish men.
For formal wear at home, slippers from brands like Stubbs & Wootton or Belgian Shoes might be worn.
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