The Old Money style – also known as ‘Quiet Luxury’ or ‘Stealth Wealth,’ – conveys heritage, long-standing social status, and a commitment to timeless quality over fleeting fashion trends.
Drawing aesthetics from Preppy, Sloane Ranger, BCBG, and Countryside styles, the Old Money look depicts multiple generation affluent American and European families.
In this article, I’ll introduce you to the main clothes, footwear, and accessories you need to create several Old Money-style outfits and look like the aristocratic class.
1. Royal Navy Blazers
Three-button double-breasted (or single) blazers with aesthetic roots in British naval attire are the foundation of any Old Money style.
Best for: corporate meetings, business events
Recommended Brands: Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren, Loro Piana
2. Aran Sweaters
Knitted from wool and recognizable by their intricate cable patterns, Aran sweaters originate from the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland.
Best for: skiing trips, hiking expeditions, New Year’s Eve celebrations
Recommended Brands: Inis Meáin, Ralph Lauren
3. Oxford Shirts
Oxford cloth shorts with button-down collars are an American adaptation of traditional British polo shirts in thick cotton.
Best for: office settings, business-casual dinners, and under a blazer at academic events
Recommended Brands: Gant, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren
4. Stripy Polo Shirts
With roots in polo – a game associated with wealthy families, high-quality cotton piqué polo shirts with navy, forest green, or burgundy stripes are critical in creating an Old Money look.
Best for: golf matches, yacht club gatherings, casual brunch
Recommended Brands: Lacoste, Fred Perry, Ralph Lauren
5. Tapered Chinos
Originating from military uniforms and made from durable cotton twill, tapered chinos in earth tones like khaki or olive green are the ideal bottom-wear choice in the Old Money style.
Best for: business-casual events, art gallery openings, casual dinners
Recommended Brands: J.Crew, Dockers
6. Cricket Pullovers
Cricket pullovers are a direct adaptation of the traditional cricket uniforms – another sport played by Preppies and wealthy Ivy League students – hence its association with the Old Money look.
Best for: attending cricket matches, garden parties
Recommended Brands: Gant, Ralph Lauren
7. V-neck Cardigans
Very common in academic settings and formal dinners, V-neck cardigans are versatile layering garments in most Old Money outfits.
Best for: Academic lectures, formal dinners, art gallery openings
Recommended Brands: J.Crew, Burberry, Loro Piana
8. Penny Loafers
Crafted from premium leather or suede, penny loafers epitomize the Old Money ethos of understated luxury and timeless appeal suitable for anything, from business-casual to academic events and weekend brunches.
Best for: Business-casual events, academic symposiums, brunch meetings
Recommended Brands: Bass Weejuns, Gucci, Tod’s
9. Brogues
Recognizable for their intricate perforations, brogue shoes are a testament to British heritage and artisanal craftsmanship and are ideal for formal events where a polished Old Money appearance is paramount.
Best for: Formal dinners, weddings, and corporate galas
Recommended Brands: Church’s, Crockett & Jones
10. Sperry Top-Sider Boat Shoes
Initially designed for better traction on boat decks, Sperry Top-Sider shoes have become a signature element in Old Money style.
Best for: Yachting, beachside events, casual summer parties
Recommended Brands: Sperry, Sebago
11. Wingtip Boots
Characterized by a pointed-toe cap that extends along the sides of the boots, the Wingtip boots are a traditional footwear choice in the Old Money style.
Best for: Formal winter events, upscale dinner parties, art gallery openings
Recommended Brands: Allen Edmonds, Church’s, Grenson
12. Leather Belts
High-quality brown or black thin leather belts are a must-have accessory to complete the Old Money look.
Best for: paired with chinos or dress trousers for formal and semi-formal events
Recommended Brands: Hermès, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo
13. Silk Ties
Silk ties in traditional patterns like paisley, stripes, and argyle shapes to add a touch of Preppy sophistication.
Best for: Business meetings, formal dinners, and weddings
Recommended Brands: Charvet, Turnbull & Asser, Brooks Brothers
14. Pocket Squares
Pocket squares made of silk or linen are an essential Old Money accessory used to confer Navy blazers or suit jackets with visual details.
Best for: charity events, operas, and upscale dinner parties
Recommended Brands: Tom Ford, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren
15. Leather Gloves
High-quality lightweight leather gloves are vital in conferring the overall Old Money look with an air of exclusivity and refinement.
Best for: winter events, horse races, golfing events
Recommended Brands: Dents, Hestra, Fratelli Orsini
16. Gold (or Silver) Cufflinks
Cufflinks are significant accessories in the Old Money style and often feature monograms or family crests.
Best for: black-tie events, formal dinners, and crucial business meetings
Recommended Brands: Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Dunhill
17. Classic Watches
Classic-style wristwatches with straps of rare leather are the finishing touch for the Old Money style.
Best for: Everyday wear, business meetings, and formal events
Recommended Brands: Patek Philippe, Rolex
What is Considered Old Money?
While the term ‘Old Money’ is contemporary, the fashion style has roots in the looks of British, American, and European aristocratic families of the early 20th century.
With a rich heritage, army history, and prestigious educational institutions such as European boarding schools and Ivy League colleges, these wealthy families are at the core of this style.
The Old Money style has roots in the traditional dress codes of these institutions and the leisure activities these families engage in, such as sailing, polo, and golf, hence the emphasis on navy blazers with brass buttons, penny loafers, chinos, and cable-knit sweaters.
While Old Money clothing brands have made the style available to the general public, the look is still associated with generational wealth, social status, conservatism, and traditional values.
Old Money Similar Fashion Styles
Preppy | Ivy League | Yuppie | Sloane Ranger | Southern preppy | Northern Preppy
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I’ve always wondered what inspired the core elements of this style…now I understand! Thank you!