What Is Old Money Style? The Ultimate Guide for Men & Women
In today’s ever-changing fashion world, the old money style stands out as a symbol of timeless elegance and refined taste. Unlike fast fashion or loud luxury trends, this aesthetic is all about understated sophistication, generational wealth, and a classic lifestyle.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the old money look for men and women—its origins, essential clothing pieces, grooming tips, key brands, and how to make it part of your modern wardrobe.
What Is Old Money Style?
Old money style reflects the way people from wealthy, long-established families typically dress. It favors discretion over display, focusing on classic pieces, neutral colors, and high-quality materials. Unlike new money fashion, it doesn’t rely on bold logos or the latest trends. Instead, the style suggests wealth through quiet confidence and refined taste.
The Origins of Old Money Aesthetic
The old money aesthetic originated in European aristocracy and among America's upper-class families, especially those from the East Coast. Iconic names like the Kennedys, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers shaped this style by combining formality, tradition, and elite social norms.
The look was also influenced by institutions like Ivy League schools, boarding academies, and private clubs, where dress codes emphasized formality, modesty, and classic tailoring.
Key Characteristics of Old Money Style
Neutral color palettes are essential. Think of beige, white, navy, grey, olive, and cream—colors that evoke calm and elegance without drawing too much attention.
High-quality fabrics like wool, linen, cashmere, and cotton are preferred. These materials age well and feel luxurious.
Tailoring plays a huge role. Clothes should fit well, especially blazers, trousers, and outerwear. A well-tailored garment signals taste more than any designer label can.
Minimal branding is crucial. Flashy logos or oversized designer names are avoided in favor of clean, classic designs that speak for themselves.
Elegant accessories such as leather loafers, pearl earrings, silk scarves, and analog watches complete the look without overpowering it.
Old Money Style for Men
For men, the old money style is rooted in traditional menswear that prioritizes fit and simplicity.
Some must-have pieces include a navy blazer, oxford shirts, cashmere sweaters, and wool trousers. You’ll also see leather loafers, tailored suits, and neutral-toned outerwear like trench coats or waxed jackets.
Grooming is just as important. Men should keep a neatly trimmed haircut, opt for a clean shave or well-kept beard, and wear subtle cologne.
Old Money Style for Women
The old money look for women is defined by grace, modesty, and subtle luxury. Icons like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy embodied this aesthetic.
Key wardrobe staples include tailored blazers, midi skirts, silk blouses, cashmere sweaters, and A-line dresses. Neutral shades, minimalist jewelry, and leather flats are essentials.
For grooming, the style encourages natural makeup, clean manicures, and simple hairstyles like low buns or soft waves.
Old Money vs. New Money Style
Old money style is subtle, timeless, and polished, while new money fashion tends to be louder, logo-heavy, and trend-focused.
Old money uses neutral tones, whereas new money embraces flashy colors and seasonal patterns. Old money fashion avoids brand-name displays; new money often features designer logos front and center.
While old money style is about quality investment pieces, new money style often leans toward trend-driven purchases that may not last beyond a season.
Recommended Brands
For Men:
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Ralph Lauren Purple Label
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Brooks Brothers
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Barbour
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Loro Piana
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Brunello Cucinelli
For Women:
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Max Mara
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Chanel (classic pieces)
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The Row
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Celine (old collection)
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Burberry
These brands emphasize heritage, craftsmanship, and timelessness over hype.
How to Start Dressing in Old Money Style
You don’t need to be born into a wealthy family to adopt this look. Here’s how you can incorporate old money fashion into your lifestyle:
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Thrift classic items like blazers, trench coats, and loafers at vintage shops or online.
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Stick to a neutral color scheme and build a capsule wardrobe with timeless basics.
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Invest in tailoring. A good fit will elevate any outfit.
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Choose quality over quantity. Fewer pieces, better fabrics.
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Keep accessories minimal and tasteful.
Final Thoughts
Old money style is more than a fashion choice—it's a way of life that values elegance, discretion, and heritage. Whether you’re male or female, dressing in this aesthetic sends a message of confidence and sophistication without ever saying a word. By focusing on timeless fashion and subtle details, you can adopt a wardrobe that never goes out of style.
