Do Old Money Men Wear Jeans?
Yes, Old Money men can and actually should wear jeans but not any kind of jeans.
Although associated with more formal attire, modern interpretations of Old Money allow high-quality, well-fitted jeans to be part of this sophisticated wardrobe.
Traditionally, jeans were not considered part of the Old Money wardrobe, which favoured tailored trousers and formalwear.
However, as fashion evolves, even men from prestigious, long-established families have embraced jeans for casual occasions.
The reason is simple: when chosen and styled thoughtfully, jeans add to the sophistication, timelessness, and refinement characteristic of Old Money fashion.
The modern Old Money man understands the need for versatility while maintaining class.
Yet, the key lies in knowing which jeans to choose and, more importantly, how to style them correctly.
How to Choose the Right Jeans for an Old Money Look
To uphold the Old Money aesthetic, selecting the right jeans involves more than just fit.
The colour and wash must also reflect the understated elegance central to this style.
Old Money colours include muted tones like Night Sky navy, charcoal, deep browns, and black, all of which exude quiet luxury.
This is why dark wash denim, particularly in navy or black, works seamlessly within an Old Money wardrobe, offering a more formal appearance than lighter washes.
To complement these rich tones, focus on high-quality, well-tailored jeans that fit your body shape.
Men with a triangle body shape should opt for straight or slim-cut jeans to balance their proportions, while those with an inverted triangle shape should avoid overly tight styles and choose regular fits.
If you have a rectangular body shape, slight tapering in the jeans adds dimension, creating a more refined silhouette.
Oval-shaped men should look for mid-rise jeans that offer a looser fit around the waist, and trapezoid shapes can wear almost any cut, with tailored styles being the best choice for refinement.
Hourglass body shapes will benefit from well-fitted jeans that highlight their natural balance without overemphasising curves.
Styling Old Money Jeans by Location and Occasion
Jeans, when paired with appropriate attire, can transition smoothly into various settings, from casual weekends at the country club to relaxed city lunches.
In rural or weekend retreats, dark denim jeans can be paired with cashmere sweaters or tweed jackets, capturing the rustic elegance of Old Money style.
In urban environments, a well-tailored blazer and white dress shirt elevate jeans, keeping the look polished and sophisticated for semi-formal lunches or dinners.
For social gatherings like yacht outings or garden parties, lighter wash jeans can work if styled carefully with breathable linen shirts and boat shoes.
Although jeans provide versatility, it’s important to understand that certain formal occasions, like evening galas or events in private clubs, still demand more traditional trousers.
Wearing jeans to these events could break the formality that defines the Old Money dress code.
Instead, reserve your denim for less formal but refined moments, and always ensure the rest of your outfit adheres to Old Money principles of grace and subtlety.
Conclusion
When carefully selected and styled, jeans fit extremely well within the Old Money aesthetic.
By considering your body shape, sticking to the Old Money colour palette with dark washes, and dressing appropriately for the occasion and location, you can incorporate jeans while maintaining the timeless sophistication that defines Old Money fashion.
Ultimately, jeans represent an evolution of classic style, adapting to modern needs without losing the grace and refinement that have always been hallmarks of Old Money elegance.