The “Old Money” aesthetic, often defined by understated elegance, sophistication, and timeless fashion choices, has made a strong resurgence in recent years. With roots deeply embedded in traditions of class, discretion, and heritage, old money fashion represents a refined approach to dressing that prioritizes quality over trends. If you’re aiming to curate a wardrobe that speaks to this sophisticated style, here’s a comprehensive guide to embracing the old money fashion ethos.
What is Old Money Fashion?
Old money fashion embodies the lifestyle and attire of aristocratic families and individuals who have long-held generational wealth. Unlike “new money” styles, which may flaunt extravagance, old money fashion is about subtlety and refinement. It’s characterized by timeless pieces that prioritize craftsmanship, durability, and classic style over flashy, contemporary trends.
Key Characteristics of Old Money Fashion:
- Timeless silhouettes: Simple yet structured designs that have stood the test of time.
- Neutral color palettes: Think navy, beige, ivory, black, and olive.
- High-quality fabrics: Cashmere, wool, silk, linen, and fine cotton.
- Minimal branding: Logos, if any, are discreet and not the focal point.
- Attention to detail: Monograms, tailored fits, and craftsmanship speak louder than loud designs.
Building the Foundation of an Old Money Wardrobe
1. Invest in Tailored Pieces
Fit is key when it comes to old money fashion. Proper tailoring can transform even the simplest clothing into a statement of sophistication. To build an old money wardrobe, focus on acquiring:
- Blazers: A well-tailored blazer is versatile, serving as a cornerstone of the old money look. Opt for neutral shades such as navy, black, or beige, and make sure it fits impeccably.
- Trousers: Well-fitted trousers in high-quality fabrics such as wool or linen are essential. Slim yet comfortable cuts are preferred, avoiding anything too tight or too loose.
- Skirts and dresses: For women, pencil skirts and A-line dresses that fall just below the knee are the epitome of refined elegance.
Tailoring these pieces to fit your body shape perfectly will elevate your look to a whole new level of sophistication.
2. Prioritize Quality Fabrics
Old money fashion values quality over quantity. When choosing fabrics, opt for natural fibers such as:
- Wool: A classic material for blazers, overcoats, and trousers. Wool is durable, breathable, and drapes well.
- Cashmere: Luxurious yet understated, cashmere sweaters and scarves are a signature old money staple.
- Cotton: Crisp cotton shirts and blouses exude a sense of clean elegance. Invest in high-quality cotton pieces that retain their shape over time.
- Silk: For a touch of luxury, silk scarves, blouses, and ties add a refined flair to any outfit.
3. Neutral and Muted Color Palettes
Old money style revolves around a timeless and muted color palette. Neutral tones such as beige, ivory, navy, olive, and black dominate this aesthetic, allowing the quality and cut of the garments to shine through. These classic colors are versatile, ensuring you can mix and match effortlessly to create a wide array of sophisticated outfits.
4. Understated Accessories
In old money fashion, less is more when it comes to accessories. The emphasis is on quality, not quantity:
- Jewelry: Stick to simple, elegant pieces such as a pair of diamond or pearl studs, a classic gold watch, or a delicate chain necklace. Avoid flashy or oversized statement jewelry.
- Scarves and Ties: Silk scarves and ties in muted patterns, like houndstooth or stripes, add a polished touch to both men’s and women’s outfits.
- Bags: Opt for structured, leather handbags or briefcases in neutral tones. Brands like Hermès and Mulberry offer timeless pieces, but the key is minimal branding and craftsmanship.
- Shoes: Loafers, brogues, or classic pumps in leather or suede are wardrobe staples. Avoid overly trendy or embellished footwear.
Key Pieces for an Old Money Wardrobe
1. The Trench Coat
A classic trench coat is a must-have for anyone looking to adopt the old money style. Whether in beige, camel, or navy, the trench coat is versatile enough to wear with formal or casual attire. The coat should be well-fitted, cinched at the waist with a belt, and fall just above the knee.
2. Oxford Shirt
The crisp Oxford shirt, in white or pale blue, is an old money wardrobe essential. It’s versatile, timeless, and can be worn with almost anything—from tailored trousers to skirts or under a sweater.
3. Cable Knit Sweaters
Cable-knit sweaters in neutral tones (such as cream or navy) are both practical and stylish. These can be layered over an Oxford shirt or worn with trousers for a preppy yet refined look.
4. Tailored Blazer
A single or double-breasted blazer in a high-quality fabric like wool or linen is essential. A well-fitted blazer elevates any outfit, making you look polished and professional.
5. Loafers
Leather or suede loafers are the go-to footwear for old money style. They are comfortable, stylish, and versatile enough to be worn with almost anything, from jeans to tailored trousers.
Fashion Icons That Embody Old Money Style
1. Jackie Kennedy
Jackie O is the epitome of old money elegance. From her tailored Chanel suits to her oversized sunglasses, her style was both sophisticated and understated, making her a lasting fashion icon.
2. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren’s personal style is synonymous with old money fashion. His love for polo shirts, tailored blazers, and classic American pieces represent the clean, understated aesthetic of this timeless style.
3. Kate Middleton
The Princess of Wales is a modern-day embodiment of old money fashion. Her wardrobe is filled with classic, tailored pieces, elegant dresses, and timeless accessories that never go out of style.
Incorporating Old Money Fashion into Everyday Life
You don’t need a trust fund to dress like old money. By focusing on high-quality basics, neutral color palettes, and refined accessories, you can adopt this timeless aesthetic on any budget. Here are a few tips for embracing old money fashion without breaking the bank:
- Thrift shopping: Vintage and second-hand shops often carry high-quality garments at a fraction of the price.
- Capsule wardrobe: Focus on building a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.
- Tailoring: Even affordable pieces can look expensive if they fit perfectly. Consider having your clothing tailored for the best fit.
Why Old Money Fashion is Here to Stay
Old money fashion stands apart from fast fashion because of its focus on sustainability, quality, and timeless appeal. Investing in fewer, better-quality items ensures longevity, which not only saves money in the long run but also helps reduce fashion waste. As consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact, the old money approach to fashion is likely to grow in popularity.
Conclusion
Crafting a wardrobe of refinement that embodies the old money aesthetic is about more than just what you wear—it’s about how you carry yourself. Timeless pieces, quality craftsmanship, and understated elegance define this style. By investing in tailored garments, neutral colors, and high-quality accessories, you can build a wardrobe that exudes sophistication and stands the test of time. Whether you’re channeling Jackie Kennedy or Ralph Lauren, old money fashion is a sartorial choice that will never go out of style.
