If you want to be inspired by the timeless elegance of the old money aesthetic, this blog will delve into the world of refined style and quiet luxury.
What Is The Old Money Aesthetic?
In the world of fashion, trends come and go. Yet, within the constant whirlwind of new money, there is a steadfast allure that remains untouched by time—the Old Money Aesthetic. It traditionally refers to a sense of quiet luxury, an understated elegance that sets it apart from the flashy displays of new wealth.
However, the old money aesthetic is more than just wealth or a selection of carefully chosen clothes and accessories. It is an attitude, a certain demeanor that communicates self-assurance, education, and a deep-rooted understanding of the world. How you carry yourself, the books you read, and how you speak and treat others contribute to this overall aesthetic.
It’s not about mimicking a lifestyle; it’s about adopting a mindset. The old money aesthetic is about valuing quality over quantity, tradition over trends, and timeless elegance over flashy flamboyance. It’s the embodiment of a certain savoir-faire, a quiet, confident elegance that speaks volumes without uttering a single word
The New Wave: Old Money Trend and Gen Z
Interestingly, the Old Money trend has become popular with the younger generation, especially among Gen Z. Inspired by shows like “Gossip Girl” and artists like Lana Del Rey, they are drawn to the allure of old-world wealth and glamour.
Gen Z’s fascination with the Old Money aesthetic stems from their yearning for a slower pace, an escape from the relentless pursuit of social media likes and instant gratification. They see the Old Money aesthetic and lifestyle as a world where wealth is inherited, and success is measured by monetary achievements, family bonds, and personal growth.
What Is Old Money Fashion?
Old money fashion is about understatement and elegance. Think cashmere sweaters in neutral tones, subtly tailored blazers, silk scarves gently knotted around the neck, crisp linen blouses, well-worn loafers, and, yes, the obligatory string of pearls. The adage of ‘less is more’ rings particularly true here; luxury is implied rather than ostentatiously displayed, woven into the fabric of everyday wear rather than reserved for grand occasions.
The Role of Old Money Brands in Cultivating the Aesthetic trend
To capture the old money vibe, it’s key to choose clothes that express a sense of tradition, quality, and subdued sophistication. Brands play a crucial role in shaping the Old Money aesthetic. Luxury powerhouses like Louis Vuitton or Ralph Lauren have become synonymous with the timeless elegance of Old Money fashion. Their iconic pieces, such as the Speedy bag or polo shirts, are favored by those seeking to convey a sense of wealth and refinement without flaunting it.
How To Dress For The Old Money Aesthetic
Old Money fashion is about embracing the classics and investing in pieces that can withstand the test of time. Dress like the succession of a wealthy family, exuding a money vibe that’s quiet luxury, not boastful.
Classic Linen dress
For the summer season, a linen dress is essential for your closet. The linen dress is timeless, and the material is known for its quality and durability.
Linen dresses also carry a sense of understated luxury to create a classy outfit. They’re not flashy or filled with logos like new money; their value is in their simplicity and elegance, which subtly hints at wealth and class without having to shout it out loud. This kind of quiet luxury is precisely what the old money aesthetic is all about.
A well Tailored Blazer
The Old money aesthetic prioritize quality over flashy trends, and nothing quite exemplifies this like a well tailored blazer. They truly are an investment piece because they are incredibly versatile.
Channel the preppy aesthetic by pairing your blazer with sweater vest, tailored shorts, and loafers or boat shoes. This look is perfect for a day at the golf course or an afternoon at the yacht club. Alternatively, you can go for a casual chic look by pairing your blazer with a plain white tee, and classic white sneakers.
Loafers
The Old Money aesthetic often embraces a relaxed and understated approach to dressing. Classic loafers are a perfect wardrobe staple for the old money trend.
Pairing these shoes with quality fabrics and well tailored pieces such as tailored pants or blazers brings the look together.
Polo Shirts
A nod to the East Coast upper class, the old money aesthetic borrows heavily from the preppy style. Polo shirts, crisp white sneakers, and boat shoes are mainstays of this look. The brand Ralph Lauren, are traditionally associated with this aesthetic due to their elegant and timeless designs.
Accessories like pearl necklaces and tennis bracelets are excellent accessories that speak to a life of leisurely wealth.
Cashmere Sweaters
The old money aesthetic places a high value on craftsmanship and quality, and a well-made cashmere sweater is the perfect example. Like most old money fashion pieces, cashmere sweaters are timeless. Their simple and classic design never goes out of style, making them a valuable addition to any wardrobe.
Wear your sweater over your shoulders and carry a good quality designer bag to really embrace the rich money lifestyle.
Headbands
Headbands are quite a simple accessory but can be an example of how to achieve the old money aesthetic. They’re not typically flashy or ostentatious, but rather add a hint of refinement and polish.
Pair your headband with a little black dress and heels for a sophisticated yet quiet luxury outfit.
The Old Money Aesthetic – Conclusion
As the Old Money aesthetic gains popularity, it’s important to strike a balance between admiration and blind imitation. The Old Money lifestyle is not just about fashion, but about a particular set of values and traditions. It’s about cultivating talents, embracing quality over quantity, and maintaining a sense of grace and dignity in all aspects of life.
