When you think of old money fashion style, what comes to mind? Perhaps images of aristocrats, perfectly tailored suits, and understated luxury? While the old money style may seem reserved or even mysterious to some, it’s actually a blend of timeless elegance, subtlety, and smart choices that never go out of style. If you’re looking to incorporate old money vibes into your wardrobe, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll walk you through what old money fashion style is, how to achieve it, and how it differs from modern trends.
What is Old Money Fashion Style?
Old money fashion style is all about timeless, sophisticated clothing and accessories that showcase wealth without screaming it. Unlike the flashy, logo-heavy looks of modern designer trends, old money style relies on high-quality materials, classic cuts, and a more muted color palette. Think of it as luxury that whispers rather than shouts.
The key to mastering this style lies in choosing items that look expensive, without being overtly flashy. It’s about quality over quantity, and attention to detail that suggests wealth and status without being obvious about it.
Key Elements of Old Money Fashion Style
To get the old money look, it’s important to focus on a few essential elements that define this fashion style. Here are some of the core characteristics:
1. High-Quality Fabrics
- Materials: Old money fashion is all about investing in quality fabrics like cashmere, silk, linen, wool, and tweed. These materials not only feel luxurious, but they also last for years, keeping you looking polished without needing to replace items every season.
- Fit: Clothes are typically well-tailored but never too tight or too loose. Old money style avoids anything that looks too trendy or uncomfortable.
2. Neutral and Muted Color Palette
- Colors: The old money style favors muted tones like navy, gray, beige, forest green, and soft pastels. These colors are elegant and timeless, never too loud or overly trendy.
- Patterns: Subtle patterns like houndstooth, plaid, and stripes are common, but never in bold or exaggerated forms. Think of prints that have a refined, sophisticated edge.
3. Timeless Silhouettes
- Suits and Blazers: Well-fitted blazers, tailored trousers, and classic suits are a staple of the old money wardrobe. These pieces give off an air of sophistication and maturity without being overly stuffy.
- Dresses and Skirts: Women’s clothing tends to be elegant yet understated. Simple, high-quality dresses in classic cuts like A-line or sheath are typical. The emphasis is on tasteful, rather than trendy, designs.
- Footwear: Leather loafers, brogues, or classic pumps are common footwear choices. No overly trendy sneakers or flashy shoes here—just high-quality, long-lasting options.
4. Minimalist Accessories
- Jewelry: Old money fashion often incorporates understated, classic jewelry pieces—pearl earrings, simple gold or silver bracelets, and watches with clean, elegant faces.
- Bags: High-quality leather bags from heritage brands (think vintage Chanel, Hermes, or Louis Vuitton, but without the loud logos) are ideal for completing the look.
5. Grooming and Presentation
- Hair: Old money style doesn’t follow the latest trends. Instead, it’s about maintaining a neat, well-groomed appearance. Haircuts are classic—think well-maintained bobs for women and neatly styled, shorter cuts for men.
- Makeup: Makeup is natural and subtle, aiming to enhance one’s features rather than make a statement. It’s all about looking effortlessly put-together.
How to Create the Old Money Look
Building an old money wardrobe doesn’t require buying a ton of new clothes. Instead, focus on curating high-quality items that stand the test of time. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Invest in Key Pieces: Look for timeless essentials like a well-made trench coat, a tailored blazer, high-quality trousers, and a simple, elegant dress or suit. Focus on items that won’t go out of style after one season.
- Buy Less, Choose Wisely: Old money style isn’t about owning a ton of clothes; it’s about owning a few items that you can wear for years and that stand the test of time. Quality should always trump quantity.
- Shop Second-Hand: Vintage shopping is a great way to find pieces that align with the old money aesthetic. Vintage stores and consignment shops often carry high-quality garments that are perfectly suited to the look.
- Mix and Match: The beauty of the old money style is its versatility. You can mix and match different classic pieces to create a variety of outfits. A navy blazer, for instance, can be worn with both jeans and dress pants for different looks.
Old Money vs. New Money Fashion
While the term “old money” refers to those who have inherited their wealth over generations, “new money” refers to those who have recently acquired wealth—often through business or entertainment. The key difference between old money and new money fashion is the approach to displaying wealth:
- Old Money: Subtle, understated luxury that relies on quality over quantity. It’s about class, not flash.
- New Money: Often involves more conspicuous displays of wealth, such as designer logos, flashy jewelry, and bold fashion statements.
Conclusion
Old money fashion style is a timeless, elegant way of dressing that emphasizes quality, simplicity, and understated luxury. By focusing on well-tailored clothing, classic silhouettes, high-quality fabrics, and minimalist accessories, you can achieve a sophisticated look that never goes out of style. Whether you’re building your wardrobe from scratch or looking to refine your current style, embracing old money fashion is a surefire way to elevate your overall appearance and convey confidence.
FAQs
1. Can I wear old money fashion if I don’t have a large budget?
Absolutely! You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve the old money look. Focus on buying quality, timeless pieces and look for sales or second-hand options.
2. How can I incorporate old money style into casual outfits?
You can pair classic pieces like a well-fitted blazer with jeans or chinos for a more casual but still sophisticated look. Opt for neutral colors and quality fabrics to keep things understated.
3. Does old money fashion work for both men and women?
Yes! Both men and women can embrace old money fashion by sticking to the same principles: quality clothing, timeless cuts, and understated accessories.
4. What are some old money fashion brands to consider?
Some classic brands that embody the old money aesthetic include Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Chanel, Hermes, and Brooks Brothers. Look for timeless, well-made pieces from these designers to build your wardrobe.