The old money aesthetic has surged in popularity recently, with over 800,000 Instagram posts tagged under "old money." This trend, however, brings a lot of misconceptions and misguided advice. In this blog, we’ll explore the common mistakes people make regarding old money style and provide examples of how to nail the look authentically.
The Deep Shirt Mistake
Show-Off Culture
One glaring mistake is the deep shirt. Many outfits online reflect a show-off culture, posing in front of luxury cars or with extravagant items. The old money style is about subtlety and tradition, not exposing half of your chest. Deep shirts, especially in urban settings, can appear too flashy and detract from the understated elegance that defines old money style.
Excessive Jewelry
The Less-Is-More Approach
Old money style is typically reserved and minimalistic. While an old money outfit might include a high-quality dress watch, it avoids excessive jewelry. Many social media posts tagged under "old money" feature multiple bracelets, large chains, and flashy rings. True old money style minimizes accessories, focusing instead on one or two high-quality pieces.
Fashion Over Tradition
Timeless vs. Trendy
Old money fashion prioritizes timeless, elegant pieces over current fashion trends. Many outfits online are too modern, featuring oversized sweaters, flared pants, and thick-soled loafers. These trendy pieces deviate from the traditional, well-fitted clothing characteristic of old money style. Aim for straight or slightly slim trousers, classic loafers, and tailored blazers to maintain a timeless look.
Overly Flashy or Try-Hard
Authenticity Over Staging
The authenticity of old money style comes from its natural and unforced appearance. Social media often promotes staged and overly flashy looks—smoking cigars, posing with expensive cars—that feel more like costumes. True old money style is about understated elegance and subtlety, not flaunting wealth. Opt for minimalistic, high-quality pieces that look natural and effortless.
Good Examples of Old Money Style
Ivy and Preppy Look
An excellent example of the old money style is the Ivy or preppy look. Think classic loafers, well-fitted cotton trousers, and tailored blazers. This style emphasizes neutral colors and high-quality fabrics without prominent logos.
Ralph Lauren’s Timeless Elegance
Ralph Lauren’s personal style offers many great examples of the old money look. From the classic tennis sweater to double-breasted blazers and wool trousers, his outfits embody the understated elegance of old money fashion.
Casual Yet Classic
For a more casual old money look, consider a turtleneck paired with a beautiful overcoat or a safari jacket with loafers. These outfits are perfect for holidays or casual outings while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Key Elements
- Shoes: Classic loafers, dress shoes, or minimalistic sneakers.
- Trousers: Well-fitted, straight or slightly slim, avoiding oversized or baggy styles.
- Accessories: Minimal, focusing on one high-quality item like a dress watch.
- Colors: Neutral, understated tones without prominent logos.
Conclusion
In summary, identifying an old money outfit involves focusing on timeless, high-quality pieces that exude understated elegance. Avoid deep shirts, excessive jewelry, and overly trendy or flashy items. Aim for authenticity and natural looks, drawing inspiration from classic styles and notable figures like Ralph Lauren. By following these guidelines, you can achieve a genuine old money aesthetic.
Let us know your favorite old money outfits in the comments below, and if you’re interested in learning about the differences between old money style and the quiet luxury look, check out our next blog post!
