What comes to mind when you think of timeless, refined style?
For us, it is always the classic “Old Money” aesthetic.
You know, that effortless look of luxury and sophistication that seems to have been passed down through generations of wealthy families?
If you aspire to this look like us, knowing the key designer brands that epitomise the Old Money style is crucial.
These brands, with their rich histories and commitment to quality, offer pieces that elevate your wardrobe and exude an air of refined elegance.
Today, we want to share some of these iconic designer brands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of Old Money style and make it your own.
These labels have rich histories of dressing society’s upper crust, and by incorporating their pieces into your wardrobe, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of old money style.
Ralph Lauren
Drawing inspiration from the Preppy subculture and its way of dressing, No designer captures the Old Money looks quite like Ralph Lauren.
From the brand’s signature polo shirts to its Preppy Purple Label suits, Ralph Lauren is the epitome of polished, patrician style.
Must-haves
Navy double-breasted blazer, crisp Oxford shirt, equestrian-inspired accessories
Formality level
Casual to formal
Brooks Brothers
Founded in 1818, Brooks Brothers is the oldest clothing retailer in the United States.
The brand has been a favourite of everyone from presidents to Wall Street bankers and is known for its impeccable tailoring and fine fabrics.
Must-haves
Classic style double-breasted suits, dress shirts, repp stripe ties
Formality level
Business-casual to formal
Barbour
This British brand is renowned for its waxed cotton jackets, perfect for outdoor activities like hunting and sailing.
Barbour jackets have been worn by style icons like Steve McQueen and members of the Royal Family.
Must-haves
Waxed cotton jackets, quilted vests, chunky knit sweaters
Formality level
Casual to smart-casual
Burberry
Another iconic British label, Burberry, is synonymous with luxury and tradition.
The brand’s signature trench coats and cashmere scarves are old-money staples that exude refined elegance.
Must-haves
Trench coats, cashmere scarves, checked button-down shirts
Formality level
Smart-casual to formal
J. Press
J. Press is the epitome of Ivy League style, outfitting students and professors alike since 1902.
The brand’s tweedy sport coats and Shetland wool sweaters are like a secret handshake among the East Coast elite.
Must-haves
Tweed sport coats, Shetland wool sweaters, repp stripe ties
Formality level
Casual to business-casual
Gucci
While Gucci may be trendier than other brands on this list, its equestrian-inspired designs and luxe leather goods scream old money.
Opt for classic pieces like horse-bit loafers or a silk scarf to elevate any outfit.
Must-haves
Horse-bit loafers, silk scarves, traditional style suits
Formality level
Smart-casual to formal
Hermes
This French fashion house is the ultimate status symbol, famous for its silk scarves, leather goods, and the coveted Birkin bag.
A Hermes pocket square or tie can add a touch of luxury that creates a classic BCBG old-money look.
Must-haves: Silk pocket squares, neckties, leather belts
Formality level: Business-casual to formal
Tod’s
Tod’s is an Italian luxury brand known for its sumptuous leather shoes and accessories.
The brand’s iconic Gommino driving shoes are a favourite of jet-setters and royals alike.
Must-haves
Gommino driving shoes, leather jackets, belts, and bags
Formality level
Casual to smart-casual
Brunello Cucinelli
If you want to splurge on the finest Italian cashmere, look no further than Brunello Cucinelli.
This brand epitomises understated luxury, focusing on exquisite materials and craftsmanship.
Must-haves
Cashmere sweaters, tailored trousers, suede jackets
Formality level
Smart-casual to formal
Turnbull & Asser
This British haberdashery has been crafting bespoke shirts and ties since 1885, dressing everyone from Winston Churchill to James Bond.
Turnbull & Asser shirts are made from the finest Egyptian cotton and feature mother-of-pearl buttons.
Must-haves
Bespoke dress shirts, silk neckties, pocket squares
Formality level
Business-casual to formal
Dress Old Money With The VOU
Gents, we hope this guide has inspired you to embrace the timeless sophistication of Old Money style.
However, building a designer wardrobe can be daunting and that’s where The VOU comes in.
We specialise in helping young men like you achieve the coveted Old Money look without breaking the bank.
Our team will work with you one-on-one to curate a personalised capsule wardrobe full of classic, high-quality pieces.
When you look good, you feel good – and that confidence and poise will radiate into every aspect of your life so – find your unique style with The VOU’s fashion style analysis today.
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Burberry, McQueen, British fashion houses are taking over the world right now!
I run a small web design and SEO business in Rochester NY and looking good is a must, especially when meeting with clients. This article helped me find some new designer brands popular in Europe that I now wear when I mean with clients from over the pond and it really works to break the ice and spark a good conversation.
Let’s be honest: the best designers are always French, from classic to emerging ones: Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Chloé, Hermès, and Celine.
Smaljey, I would like to add Westwood to your comment!
I agree, nothing beats the French style. Maybe the Brits, but they’re more anarchic and wild. Love them both
We find Marc Jacobs from a sales point of view on our site does very well.
A really and informative piece of content so hats off to the author of the excellent collection of designer brands!