This is the ultimate guide to help you perfect old-money style as we explore old money outfit ideas that embody the timeless style and classic elegance associated with the old money aesthetic.
The old money aesthetic has taken social media platforms, especially TikTok, by storm. Thanks to TV shows like Gossip Girl, Celebrity fashion, and Succession that made this aesthetic a huge trend. This style is all about classic pieces, neutral colors, and high-quality fabrics, mixed with elegant accessories for that vintage-inspired look.
If you’re looking to incorporate old money outfits into your wardrobe this season, you’re in the right place. This blog post is a complete guide to achieving the old money look that looks rich without trying too hard, featuring key elements, outfit formulas, and styling tips to help you implement this style.
What is the Old Money Aesthetic?
The old money aesthetic embodies a sense of understated elegance, emphasizing high-quality fabrics, classic colors, and impeccable tailoring. This fashion style prioritizes timeless pieces over fleeting fashion trends, focusing on investment pieces that exude quiet luxury. Outfits in this category often feature classic shades of navy, white, and beige, with subtle details that highlight a deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship.
Old money fashion focuses on understated and classic designs with minimal logos and high quality. Instead of flashy logos or trendy embellishments, the old money vibe is all about clean lines, premium fabrics, and an effortless yet polished appearance. Whether attending outdoor events, cultural events, or formal occasions, the goal is to look sophisticated without appearing like you’re trying too hard.
While social media and TV shows helped make old money become very popular in the recent years. This timeless aesthetic has been around for decades. Which can be seen clearly with Princess Diana who was very famous for her subtle elegance and impeccable style.
The Background of Old Money Style
Old money is an aesthetic based around wealthy people who have inherited their wealth instead of working for it. Their hobbies include sailing, tennis, horse riding, golfing, and attending polo matches. This explains why a lot of the outfits we will be discussing today are essentially outfits worn for these activities.
Think of figures like Lady Diana, Kate Middleton, and the effortless elegance they represent. In the United States, the old money lifestyle is often associated with the East Coast elite, country clubs, and a strong emphasis on tradition, education, and social interactions.
Unlike fast fashion, old money outfits are curated with longevity in mind. Think tailored suits, trench coats, cashmere sweaters, and crisp shirts. Accessories play a crucial role in this aesthetic, with pearl necklaces, gold hoop earrings, and brown belts adding a touch of heritage to any look.
How to Achieve the Old Money Look
If you want to embrace the old money style this season, here are some key elements to focus on:
- Neutral Colors– Stick to a neutral color palette with shades of navy, beige, white, and a pop of color with soft pastels here and there.
- Timeless Pieces – Invest in classic staple pieces like tailored blazers, cable-knit sweaters, polo shirts, and classic pair of loafers. This will help you create a capsule wardrobe with old money staples that you can easily mix and match.
- High-quality Fabrics – Choose high-quality pieces in breathable, and natural fabrics. Opt for linen or cotton for summer and cashmere or wool for winter
- Minimal Accessories – Gold accessories, silk scarves, pearl necklaces, and vintage sunglasses to complete the look.
- Beauty matters– From hair to makeup and nails keep everything polished and effortless. Old money Nails are all about classic colors and simple designs that give clean girl vibe.
10 Old Money Outfit Formulas
To help you curate your personal style with an old-money twist, here are 10 foolproof outfit ideas that exude timeless elegance for spring and summer:
Vest & Mini Skirt
A white tennis skirt is a must have to achieve the old money look. Pair it with a waistcoat for a feminine and playful look that is perfect for day out or brunch. If you want a more refined style, go for a classic mini skirt.
Tweed Blazer & Wide Leg Pants
Tweed gives such a classy look to any outfit which is why I love it for creating that timeless look. Pair a tweed blazer with straight leg trousers and heels for a night time look or with jeans and loafers for a more relaxed style.
Trench Coat, Turtleneck & Dress Pants
A trench coat is the perfect choice for cooler days. pair it with a white t-shirt or turtleneck and dress pants for a timeless look that will forever be in style.
Blazer & Maxi Skirt Outfit
This is one of my favorite outfit formulas for a sophisticated look. Pair a structured blazer with a maxi skirt for the perfect old money aesthetic style.
Navy Blazer, White Pants & Blue Shirt
This is another old money iconic look! Pair a navy blazer with white trousers for the perfect classic outfit. Layer a blue shirt underneath and accessorize with brown shoes and handbag.
White Pants & White Shirt
I think wearing monochrome outfits is the easiest way to have that old-money aesthetic. Pair a white shirt with white trousers for a refined and chic look or you can switch the pants with white jeans for a more relaxed outfit.
Checked Blazer & Black Trousers
A sophisticated outfit that gives Ralph Lauren vibes. Pair a checked blazer over a white shirt and black trousers and finish the look a pair of heels or loafers. check print is a pattern that instantly gives a more heritage feel to any outfit so it’s the perfect addition to any outfit.
Cable Sweater & Straight Leg Trousers
Another outfit that is easy to recreate. Start with a classic cable knit sweater and keep all pieces tonal for a cohesive and elegant option that is perfect for outdoor events.
Striped Shirt & Shorts
This is one of the easiest old money summer outfits to recreate. Choose a striped shirt with white or beige shorts for a relaxed yet chic outfit. add a classic tan belt and finish the look with ballet flats or loafers.
Blue Shirt & White Trousers
Blue and white is a color combination you can always count on when creating old money style. whether you choose a striped, blue shirt or a plain one pair it with white trousers and accessorize with black or tan accent pieces.
Satin Skirt & Waistcoat
By now you know how much I love waistcoats. They are such versatile piece that can be used to create endless old money outfits. pair a maxi satin skirt with a waistcoat and finish the look with a chic handbag. you can also swap the waistcoat with a cardigan for cooler days.
Old Money Prints
Old money style isn’t just about neutral colors and classic silhouettes—it also includes timeless prints that can upgrade your . You just have to know how to style it in a way that looks understated and undeniably elegant.
1. Houndstooth
Houndstooth is one of those prints that instantly makes you look put-together. Think of it as the unofficial uniform of the effortlessly elegant—it’s been a staple in tweed blazers, skirts, and coats for decades. The black-and-white version is the most iconic, but softer brown or navy tones add a modern twist. It’s perfect for business meetings, formal events, or just looking like you belong in a country club.
2. Pinstripes
Pinstripes are all about power and polish. Whether it’s a sharp dress shirt, a well-tailored blazer, or classic dress pants, this print screams “old money” in the best way. It’s sleek, understated, and a go-to choice for professional settings and evening events. For the ultimate refined look, pair a pinstripe blazer with a crisp white shirt, pearl necklace, and some gold accessories.
3.Tartan / Plaid
If old money had an official print, it would be tartan. Whether it’s a pleated wool skirt, a warm scarf, or a double-breasted blazer, plaid is a must-have for that timeless, preppy look. It adds a classic, polished touch to any outfit. It’s the perfect print to add to your fall/winter wardrobe for that polished and authentic feel.
4. Stripes
Stripes are the ultimate summer-in-the-Hamptons look. Whether it’s a breezy striped button-down, a classic Ralph Lauren polo shirt, or a flowy tennis skirt, this print always looks polished. Navy-and-white nautical stripes are a must-have for outdoor events, country club lunches, or yacht trips (even if it’s just in your imagination).
5. Polka Dots
Polka dots might not be the first print that comes to mind when you think of old money style, but when done right, they have a certain vintage elegance. Think Jackie Kennedy in a chic polka-dot dress or a delicate silk blouse with subtle dots. The key is to keep them refined—small, understated dots in classic hues like navy, black, or cream feel timeless, while oversized or bright-colored polka dots can lean too playful.
Old Money Brands
Some of the most famous luxury old money brands such as Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, and The Row are quite expensive. The good news is you can still shop this style on a budget. as there are many affordable old money brands that you can shop as well. And while the quality of the clothes matters, what matters more is your taste and unique style. As well as your ability to put simple items together to create elegant old money outfits.
For those who appreciate the luxurious side of old money fashion, you can find many high-end brands that are synonymous with sophistication. From iconic fashion houses like Chanel and Gucci to heritage brands like Hermès and Louis Vuitton, these labels offer exceptional craftsmanship, impeccable tailoring, and unparalleled attention to detail.
My favorite luxury old money brands include Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, Jil Sander, Chanel, Max Mara, and The Row.
Old money fashion doesn’t mean you have to break a bank. There are also affordable brands that capture the essence of old money style without the hefty price tag. Brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, and Brooks Brothers offer classic designs that exude timeless style and classic elegance.
My favorite affordable old money brands include Barbour, Massimo Dutti, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Lacoste, J. Crew, & Other Stories.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the old money aesthetic is all about embracing timeless elegance and investing in quality over quantity. It’s less about fashion trends that come and go, and more about timeless staples that help you create effortlessly chic looks. By incorporating these old money outfit ideas into your wardrobe, you can create a personal style that exudes class and sophistication.
So, whether you’re dressing for work, a day out with your friends, or a night out, remember high-quality fabrics, timeless designs and understated elegance are all you need to create stunning old money outfits.