In an era of fast fashion and fleeting trends, there's something undeniably alluring about the quiet luxury of old money style. This isn't just about wearing expensive clothes—it's an entire lifestyle aesthetic that whispers rather than shouts, built on generations of refined taste and understated elegance. The old money style isn’t a fashion statement but a quiet conversation between past and present, whispered in cashmere and sealed with a signet ring.
The Essence of Old Money
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, old money refers to “people whose families have been rich for a long time.” Unlike new money, whose wealth has been gained within their lifetime (like Mark Zuckerberg or Beyoncé), old money accumulates and passes wealth over generations (think Rockefellers or Kochs).
To illustrate the difference, imagine two gardens: one freshly planted with blooming flowers and a contemporary landscape design, and the other a centuries-old estate where roses climb stone walls and ancient oaks cast shadows on worn brick paths. One garden is manufactured to perfection; the other has been cultivated through generations.
Marble House – a Gilded Age mansion in Newport, RI built for Vanderbilt family. Instagram/@newport.mansions
Another old money mansion – The Elms in Newport, RI, once owned by coal baron Edward Julius Berwind. Instagram/@galeriemagazine
Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s California property, reportedly bought for $200 million, setting a record for the state. Anthony Barcelo
Another image of a celebrity couple's home. While spectacular, it reflects a different aesthetic from the old money mindset. Anthony Barcelo
Understanding the Old Money Mindset
Old money isn't merely about wealth—it’s about heritage, tradition, and a set of values passed down through generations. Unlike new money’s tendency toward conspicuous consumption, old money embraces the philosophy that true quality speaks for itself.
The diamond tiara worn by Meghan Markle on her wedding day was loaned to her by Queen Elizabeth. It originally belonged to Queen Mary, who transformed a brooch from her wedding into this tiara with exchangeable centerpiece, reflecting old money values of heritage and continuity. Karwai Tang/WireImage
The old money mindset centers on several key principles:
- Quality over quantity
- Investment in timeless pieces
- Understated sophistication
- Appreciation for craftsmanship
- Focus on experiences over possessions
- Emphasis on education and cultural literacy
- Value of tradition and heritage
The Old Money Aesthetic in the Wardrobe
Effortlessly chic Jackie Kennedy at the 17th Annual Horse Show, 1970. Getty Images
Old money style doesn’t announce itself—it simply is. Like a perfectly orchestrated symphony playing at just the right volume, it’s about the masterful execution of understated elements. The tailoring of a shirt speaks volumes more than its label. The patina on a leather bag tells stories that no flashy monogram ever could.
Think of Jackie Kennedy’s oversized sunglasses and silk scarves or how Grace Kelly could make a simple strand of pearls feel more regal than any crown. These weren’t fashion choices—they were expressions of a lifestyle where quality whispers and confidence needs no megaphone.
The Wardrobe Foundation
Ralph Lauren consistently draws inspiration from old money aesthetic, infusing each collection with high-quality essentials. This image showcases a Pre-Fall 2024 look. Instagram/@ralphlauren
The old money wardrobe is built on impeccable basics and investment pieces that stand the test of time, creating a personal uniform that never goes out of style.
Essential Pieces:
- Tailored blazers in navy and neutral tones
- Crisp white button-down shirts
- Well-cut trousers in classic materials
- A-line or pleated skirts hitting just below the knee
- Cable-knit sweaters in cashmere or fine wool
- Classic trench coat
- Little black dress
- Tennis whites and equestrian wear
The Modern Interpretation
Alexandra von Fürstenberg with family in Switzerland, embodying old money style with low-key, casual elegance. Instagram/@avfhome
While the old money world might seem locked in amber, it flows like a river—constant in its presence but ever-changing in its details. Today’s practitioners might pair a grandfather’s watch with sustainable fashion or drive an electric car to the yacht club. The essence remains the same: quality over quantity, subtlety over show, heritage over novelty.
Building an old money-inspired wardrobe takes time. Rather than buying everything in one season, carefully select pieces over years, creating a wardrobe filled with quality and intentionality. Remember: style isn’t created overnight; it’s cultivated over a lifetime.
Creating Your Old Money-Inspired Wardrobe
Smart casual outfit in old money aesthetic
The old money aesthetic relies on a refined color palette:
- Navy blue
- Camel, tan, beige, khaki
- Ivory and various shades of white
- Gray
- Black
- Forest green
- Burgundy
- Classic patterns (stripes, checks, plaids, houndstooth)
It doesn’t mean that you can’t have an affair with other colors, just try to opt for expensive-looking shades (no lime green or shocking pink!) and keep your basic essentials neutral.
Relaxed version of old money style
Elevated Classics to Start With:
Start with tailored pants in black, navy, or khaki, and invest in well-fitting blazers. Look for natural fibers like fine silk, wool, linen, and cotton. Choose crisp white button-downs and fine knitwear like turtlenecks and cardigans. Outerwear, including wool coats and trench coats, should all have a perfect fit and be made of fine materials.
Important: old money-inspired doesn’t mean “boring” or “old-fashioned”. Time change, nowadays cashmere tracksuit paired with clean sneakers can be considered old money too (when worn for appropriate occasion).
New classics: navy tracksuit in silk-cashmere. Oliviavonhalle.com
The Art of Accessorizing
Timeless pieces = timeless style
In true old money style, accessories are chosen for quality and longevity rather than trend appeal.
Signature Pieces:
- Pearl necklaces (particularly single strands)
- Signet rings
- Heritage watches (take inspiration in Cartier Tank, Patek Philippe)
- Silk scarves (Hermès scarves are iconic, but there are many alternatives)
- Classic leather bags (think Bottega Veneta, vintage Hermès)
- Ray-Ban Wayfarers
- Tennis bracelets
In beauty, the old money approach emphasizes natural elegance over dramatic statements. Which means: clean, classic haircuts like well-maintained bobs, "no-makeup" makeup look, clean nails in neutral colors (no extensions or creative nail art).
The Art of Presentation
Everyday style of Charlotte Casiraghi, who is eleventh in line to the throne of Monaco. Instagram/dailycharlottecasiraghi
If you want to fully embrace old money aesthetic, not just to mimic the its appearance, you might consider refining your body language, speech and cultural background.
Excellent posture, calm demeanor, engaged eye contact will always convey your confidence.
Rich vocabulary without pretension, well-modulated voice, and active listening suggest a depth of erudition and genuine interest.
Appreciation for literature and knowledge of arts make any person more interesting to talk to.
Enjoy the Journey, Not the Destination
Sofia Richie Grainge embodies the old money aesthetic with a personal twist, incorporating bright colors and unique touches. Instagram/@sofiagrainge
The true essence of old money style lies not in what you own, but in how you live. The best part is we don’t need to have a noble heritage to embrace the principles of old money lifestyle: quality over quantity, elegance over trends, subtlety over flashy logos.
If you are inspired by old money lifestyle, don’t put a pressure on yourselves trying to change your wardrobe and your entire life in one season. Developing any aesthetic, as well as cultivating and refining your personal style, is an ongoing journey, not a destination. If you don’t like the color scheme or clean lines of old money looks, just infuse what you love – and you’ll get your own interpretation of this aesthetic. Remember: your style should resonate with you and reflect your values, making your style a true representation of yourself.
