Old Money Style: A Guide to Mastering Quiet Luxury

The resurgence of understated elegance, often referred to as “old money style,” “quiet luxury,” or “stealth wealth,” has gained widespread attention. Gen-z celebrities such as Sofia Richie, Kylie Jenner, and even the influence of shows like Succession have brought this timeless aesthetic into the limelight. With the hashtag #oldmoneyaesthetic amassing over 2.5 billion views on TikTok, it’s clear that people are eager to embrace this refined, sophisticated look.

But what exactly is old money style? How can you incorporate it into your wardrobe? In this guide, we’ll explore the essence of old money fashion and provide actionable tips to help you achieve this elegant aesthetic.

What is Old Money Style?

Old money style represents a refined and timeless approach to fashion, rooted in tradition, heritage, and understated elegance. It contrasts sharply with fast fashion or trend-driven styles, focusing instead on quality craftsmanship, enduring designs, and an effortless sophistication that transcends time. This aesthetic reflects the lifestyle of generational wealth, where luxury is innate and never overtly displayed.

At its core, old money style is about restraint and discretion. There are no bold logos, flashy designs, or attention-grabbing patterns. Instead, the focus is on subtlety—pieces that exude quiet confidence. The materials, cuts, and colors speak for themselves, with fine tailoring and superior fabrics like wool, cashmere, and silk serving as cornerstones of this wardrobe. This style eschews ostentation, reflecting a sense of security and legacy rather than new wealth or the desire for instant recognition.

The old money aesthetic often draws from historical sartorial traditions and relies heavily on classic silhouettes and neutral palettes. It’s not about following the latest trends but about wearing garments that have stood the test of time. Think classic blazers, tailored trousers, A-line skirts, and crisp white shirts—pieces that have remained staples of elegant dressing for decades. These items are versatile, built to last, and transcend the ebb and flow of fashion cycles.

The Old Money Lifestyle and Mindset

Old money style isn’t merely about the clothes themselves; it’s also about adopting a mindset of understated luxury. Those who embody this aesthetic value heritage, tradition, and taste over the transient and superficial. Their clothing choices reflect a deeper appreciation for quality and craftsmanship, as well as a sense of responsibility to maintain and preserve the legacy of the past.

This style exudes an air of quiet self-assurance. It speaks to a life of understated wealth, where one doesn’t need to impress others with outward displays of opulence. Instead, the elegance lies in the details—the perfectly tailored coat, the well-worn leather bag, or the hand-stitched seams of a cashmere sweater. The luxury is found in the knowledge that these pieces are built to last and can be passed down from one generation to the next, just as old money itself is inherited.

Moreover, old money style is about dressing appropriately for the occasion, with an emphasis on tradition and etiquette. There is an inherent respect for timeless fashion rules: formal attire for formal events, relaxed yet polished pieces for everyday wear, and an overall air of subtle elegance in every situation. In this sense, old money style is about fitting in rather than standing out, and blending seamlessly with environments that value decorum and poise.

Iconic Figures and Cultural Influence

Cultural references to old money style often revolve around icons like Princess Diana, whose fashion choices continue to epitomize the quiet luxury aesthetic. Her ability to balance formal elegance with casual refinement—whether she was attending royal functions or simply dressed down for a casual outing—has made her a lasting symbol of old money fashion.

In modern times, figures like Sofia Richie have reinterpreted this aesthetic, and shows like Succession have brought old money style into the cultural conversation, with characters often seen wearing understated yet luxurious garments. These references reinforce the notion that style isn’t about being loud but about embodying a sense of timeless grace.

In short, old money style is not just a look; it’s a lifestyle marked by an appreciation for the finer things in life, but without the need to flaunt it. It’s a fashion philosophy rooted in quality, tradition, and a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to seek validation. This enduring appeal is what makes old money style such a coveted and influential aesthetic today.

How to Dress in Old Money Style

Classic Silhouettes and Tailoring

The foundation of old money style is found in classic silhouettes and expertly tailored garments. Opt for well-fitted pieces with clean lines, such as tailored blazers, trousers, and crisp white shirts. These timeless staples exude a quiet sophistication. For instance, a well-tailored black jacket can be a wardrobe hero, instantly elevating any outfit with a polished touch.

Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

To truly embody old money fashion, focus on building a capsule wardrobe. This approach allows you to create a collection of versatile pieces that can be effortlessly mixed and matched. Choose high-quality garments that withstand the test of time, rather than seasonal trends. A few key items are all you need to craft a wardrobe of enduring elegance.

Key Pieces for the Old Money Wardrobe

• Crisp white shirt: A crisp white shirt is indispensable for achieving the old money aesthetic. For an elevated touch, consider investing in classic, high-quality pieces which offer understated elegance.
• Tailored blazers: A tailored blazer is a versatile layering piece that can transform any outfit. As an example, the Reiss Neutral Larsson Double-Breasted Twill Blazer in soft, neutral tones is an excellent example of the old money style—sophisticated and timeless.
• Day dresses: A-line dresses with fitted bodices and gently flared skirts, such as the Karen Millen Ponte Belted Midi Dress, are ideal for creating a classic silhouette. Alternatively, opt for a sleek sheath dress that skims the body, offering elegance without being overly formal.
• Evening wear: For formal occasions, a well-tailored gown in a solid color makes a sophisticated statement. The timeless Little Black Dress (LBD) remains a versatile option for any evening event.
• Trousers: When selecting trousers, prioritize fit and fabric. Neutral colors such as navy, black, or earthy tones are ideal. The White Company Stretch Wide Leg Trousers provide both elegance and comfort, offering a refined look without sacrificing ease of wear.
• Cardigans: For those who prefer cardigans over blazers, choose cashmere for a luxurious feel. The Hobbs Ainsley Cotton Blend Knit Jacket strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, effortlessly elevating your ensemble.
• Skirts: A-line skirts and tailored pencil skirts are timeless staples that define old money style. The Sosandar Champagne Gold Pleated Satin Midi Skirt adds a touch of femininity and refinement, while classic tweed or wool options bring an element of tradition to the wardrobe.
• Accessories: Accessories are an essential part of the old money aesthetic. Structured, well-crafted bags in neutral tones are preferred over logo-heavy designs. A Coach Eliza Top Handle Bag or the Aspinal Midi Mayfair 2 Ivory Patent Croc adds a refined finishing touch to any outfit.
• Footwear: When it comes to footwear, opt for classic styles like loafers, ballet flats, or understated heels. Avoid overly trendy designs in favor of timeless elegance.

Blending Old Money Style with Modern Fashion

Dressing in old money style doesn’t mean you need to forgo modern trends altogether. You can certainly combine classic pieces with contemporary fashion for a personalized twist. For example, an Argyle Sweater layered over a crisp white shirt paired with a mini skirt creates a playful yet elegant look.

Fragrances to Complement Old Money Style

Women’s Fragrances

For women, fragrances are an essential complement to the old money aesthetic, with timeless scents that exude grace, elegance, and sophistication. Chanel No. 5 is the quintessential old money fragrance, famously worn by icons like Marilyn Monroe, with its luxurious blend of floral and aldehyde notes. Equally refined is Floris White Rose, a delicate and regal floral scent favored by British royalty, offering subtlety and sophistication. Guerlain L’Heure Bleue, with its romantic and powdery blend of violet, iris, and vanilla, evokes a sense of nostalgia and timeless elegance, while Houbigant’s Quelque Fleurs is an exquisite bouquet of fresh blooms that has been a symbol of luxury since the early 20th century.

For something rich and opulent, 24 Faubourg by Hermès delivers a stunning blend of orange blossom, jasmine, and amber, perfect for women who embody quiet luxury. Jean Patou’s Joy, once dubbed “the costliest perfume in the world,” remains a classic with its rich floral composition, while Artemisia by Penhaligon’s offers a soft, sensual, and powdery scent that exudes understated femininity. These fragrances, steeped in history and crafted with the finest ingredients, are the perfect olfactory signature for women embracing the old money style.

Men’s Fragrances

For men, fragrances play an equally important role in embodying the old money aesthetic. Timeless scents reflect refinement and sophistication, echoing the quiet luxury that defines this style. One iconic choice is Colonia by Acqua di Parma, a fragrance beloved by many 1940s Hollywood stars such as Cary Grant and Gregory Peck. With its fresh citrus and herbal notes, it embodies a sense of classic, understated elegance.

Other quintessential old money fragrances include Creed Spice & Wood, known for its luxurious blend of spices and earthy tones, and Sartorial by Penhaligon’s, a modern interpretation of a tailor’s workshop with hints of beeswax, leather, and lavender. For a more contemporary choice, Terre d’Hermès offers a sophisticated fusion of woody and mineral elements, perfect for the discerning gentleman. Each of these fragrances represents the essence of quiet luxury, capturing the timeless allure of old money style.

Conclusion

Old money style is not about extravagance but about sophistication, elegance, and timelessness. By investing in key pieces that emphasize quality and craftsmanship, you can effortlessly embody this aesthetic, regardless of your budget. The essence of old money style lies in its quiet luxury—a refined, subtle elegance that speaks volumes without needing to shout.