So, you want to dress like you just spent your weekend at Bergdorf’s, picking up a few essentials for your annual trip to your family beach house (which sits alongside the coastline of a tropical island and has been in your family for generations obviously) because it is simply quite gauche to be cooped up in your Hamptons mansion during the summertime. I have got you! Let’s master the ‘Old Money’ aesthetic.
So, first things first the old money aesthetic falls under the group of styles that romanticise obscene amounts of wealth. If you are having trouble imagining this visual; picture yourself on a yacht that is peacefully sailing on the French Riviera, glass of champagne in your hand, scrolling through the Neiman Marcus website and deciding on the luxury garments you need for the upcoming winter season. Still struggling? Just check out my video pin and remember to save it to one of your Pinterest boards for future reference.
What is the ‘Old Money’ Aesthetic?
The term ‘old money’ has been around for decades; it is definitely not new on the scene. However, there has definitely been an undeniable surge in the popularity of achieving this particular aesthetic from a fashion (and lifestyle) viewpoint. Old money refers to families and individuals lucratively wealthy through inheritance and lineage. These individuals may choose to work to earn more, but they can live an affluent life without ever working a day, thanks to the deep pockets and investments made by their forefathers.
The aesthetic may sometimes be confused with the preppy aesthetic, although they can overlap, and the preppy style is a derivative of the old money aesthetic; the preppy aesthetic is more geared towards an academic look, whereas this one subtly screams luxe and wealth. Old money is not a title that can be awarded overnight; the history of the money has to be long-lived; think of the type of wealth that would mean your grandchildren’s grandchildren and, possibly even further down the line, never have to lift a finger but can afford anything they could ever desire.
Old Money Aesthetic Colour Palette
The old money aesthetic is founded on elegance, sophistication and quiet luxury. The colours used within this aesthetic mirror the qualities mentioned above and are, therefore, not loud or obnoxious but rather very mute. Although the aesthetic can use many colours, especially as accents, the primary base colours found within the old money aesthetic are beiges, nudes, blacks, creams, whites, browns, pinks, greens, blues and purples. Looks tend to be monochromatic and are not ostentatious displays of bold colour blocking or neon colours, for example.
Old Money Outfit Essentials & Basics
Old money clothing is luxurious, timeless and made of the highest quality materials. It is not about excessive logos or a need to prove that they are wealthy. Old money doesn’t have to try too hard; if anything, it goes the less is more route because they have nothing to prove and would instead not attract people that are likely to use them for their wealth. Old money is all about if you know, you know; as the old saying goes: wealth whispers. It is best to ensure that you have a good variety of the essential components that form a typical outfit of this aesthetic. You probably have these items already, so you won’t have to shell out or break the bank to achieve this aesthetic. This is my must-have list for old money outfits:
- Slip dresses
- Tweed dresses
- Tailored Trousers
- Plaid Trousers
- Silk dresses
- Knit dresses
- Tweed skirts
- Blazer dresses
- Shift dresses
- Satin skirts
- Chiffon dresses
- Plaid Blazer
- Tweed Blazer
- Blazer & Suit Suits
- Blazer & Trouser Suits
- Cashmere sweaters
- Cotton cardigans
- Tailored Shirts
- Collared Tops
- White Button Down Shirts
- Ruffle Trim Blouses
- Dark Turtlenecks
- Silk Tops
- Tie Neck Blouse
- Trench Coat
- Wool Coat
- Tweed Coat
- Mary Janes
- Pumps
- Loafers
- Knee High Boots
- Court heels
- Oxfords
- Riding Boots
Accessories For Extra Points:
- Pantyhose/tights
- Silk scarves
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Leather gloves
- Cufflinks
- Brooches
- Plain Leather handbag
- Pearl Necklace
- Diamond pendant
- Signature scent
- Hair bows
- Fascinators
This aesthetic is centred around high quality, so some of the clothing linked above may be expensive but will be timeless, so it makes up for the price. However, keep the bank intact; there are plenty of items that can be found in thrift stores or reseller websites such as Depop, Vinted and Amazon that will allow you to not only shop sustainably but also get some of these pieces for a steal. As long as the clothing is good quality and appears well put together, you will achieve this aesthetic, do not think that you have to run out and purchase high-priced items for the sake of an aesthetic. As usual, feel free to edit this to this list with your individuality and make sure your personality shines through.
Old Money Accessories
Think dainty jewellery and well-crafted accessories, but less is more: Think of Coco Chanel’s advice before leaving and take something off!. Pearls are notorious for the old money look, as are diamonds, both of these stones scream wealth but in a subtle, sophisticated way. If you can, purchase genuine stones in timeless styles and make them your signature jewellery. Elegant scarves and hair clips that allow chic updos will be your best friend in achieving this aesthetic.
Now you have all the tools to create the perfect old money look; go on and look like you’re about to buy that bag and the shop you found it in!
That’s all from me,
Until next time,
Unique.
