Are you excited for warmer weather and summer vacations? After fur coats and puffer jackets, it’s finally time for summer elegance! This is a comprehensive guide to help you perfect the old-money style & 20 old money summer outfits you can easily recreate.
In a world full of changing trends, the timeless elegance of old money aesthetic prevails. Old money or quiet luxury has become an increasingly popular style in the last few years. Thanks to TV shows like Gossip Girl, Celebrity Fashion, and Succession that made this aesthetic a huge trend.
Old Money Background
To easily implement this style, we need to understand where the old money aesthetic came from. It’s an aesthetic based around stealth wealth, reflecting wealthy people who have inherited their wealth instead of working for it.
This style focuses on high quality pieces with minimal logos, timeless designs, and tailored cuts mixed with elegant accessories for that vintage-inspired look. Think tailored suits, trench coats, linen shirts, and monochromatic looks. So, well-made, understated, and timeless pieces are key to being old money.
While shows like Succession showed us a lot of what this aesthetic is about, I think the epitome of elegance is Princess Diana. who embodied the essence of old money style. her ability to effortlessly exude grace and charm made her an icon in the world of fashion. Which is why her outfits are still the best representation of what old money fashion looks like. From power suits to polo shirts, her aesthetic outfits always had that classic style and old money vibe.
Some of the most famous luxury old money brands such as Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, and The Row are quite expensive. The good news is you can still shop this style on a budget. as there are many affordable old money brands that you can shop as well. From mid-range like Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic to a bit lower range like Massimo Dutti, and Tommy Hilfiger. If you want to know more about old money brands, check this article about old money iconic brands to shop.
Old Money Summer Wardrobe Essentials
At the core of the old money aesthetic lie timeless pieces that exude effortless elegance. When curating your summer wardrobe, focus on investing in high-quality materials and classic silhouettes that withstand the test of time. Essential pieces include the following:
- Crisp white shirt
- Striped button shirts
- Ballet Flats
- White shorts
- High waisted trousers
- Blazer
We can’t forget Statement Accessories, make sure to elevate your look with understated accessories such as hoop earrings, a classic watch, a classic bag, or a silk scarf. Choose accessories with less brand logos that add a touch of sophistication without overpowering your outfit.
How to Achieve the Old Money Look This Summer
Don’t worry you don’t have to rob a bank to achieve this style. because while the quality of the clothes matters, what matters more is your own style and taste. As well as your ability to put simple items together to create sophisticated old money outfits.
To fully incorporate the old money look, you need to focus on five key elements:
1. Create an old money capsule wardrobe
An old money wardrobe is filled with classic staples that last forever, incorporate classic pieces with your unique personal style to create endless old-money outfits. Most of these pieces you probably already own in your current wardrobe. So, no need for any additional cost.
You just need to mix and match these Old Money staples and avoid trendy pieces that may quickly go out of style.
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2. Quality OVER Quantity
Invest in high-quality pieces that will give you that classic old money style and last you a lifetime. Buying quality pieces doesn’t mean they have to be designer pieces, there are many affordable options with high-quality materials on the market.
You just need to know where to shop and take a closer look at the material list of any piece before you buy. it is always preferable to buy pieces with natural fibers and breathable material like linen or cotton to stay cool while maintaining a sophisticated look.
3.Colors
Old money style leans towards a neutral color palette, so we see a lot of neutral colors with a pop of color here and there. but to make it easier for you these are popular old money color combinations you can keep in mind when you are putting together your old-money outfits.
4. Tailoring
It’s important that you always tailor your clothes, so you can get the perfect fit. never too small or too big. invest in structured high-quality perfectly tailored clothes that suit you like a glove and accentuate your figure.
5. Patterns
Avoid bold extravagant prints like animal or floral prints. nothing is wrong with these prints, but these prints give a totally different vibe from the old money aesthetic. Instead opt for graphic prints such as stripes, polka dots, and checks.
Old Money Summer Outfits
1. Blue Shirt & Tailored Shorts
We have to start with the most “old money” summer outfit out there. Pair a blue button-down shirt with a pair of tailored shorts in a neutral color. This color combination is very classy and never goes out of style.
SHOP THE LOOK
2. Neutral Tailored Suit
Tailored suits are a huge aspect of the old money aesthetic, embodying timeless elegance and sophistication. For spring and summer, consider opting for a vest and shorts suit outfit as a refreshing alternative to the traditional full suit.
SHOP THE LOOK
3. Monochromatic Look
I think wearing Monochrome outfits is the easiest way to have that old-money aesthetic. Especially if you go for neutral shades and add some contrast with the accessories.
SHOP THE LOOK
4. Striped Shirt & White Shorts
A striped shirt is a staple for your old money capsule wardrobe. Pair it with white trousers or shorts and finish the look with neutral sandals and vintage sunglasses for a touch of glamour.
SHOP THE LOOK
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5. Red Striped Shirt
Wearing a colored striped shirt is a great way to add color to your old money outfits. Pair it with neutral bottoms and accessories and don’t forget to add a sweater over your shoulder for the perfect finishing touch.
SHOP THE LOOK
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6. A Line Dress & Blazer
Another staple in the old money aesthetic is an A line white dress. You can add a bit of sophistication with a checked/ houndstooth blazer and tan accessories.
SHOP THE LOOK
7. Striped Cardigan & Mini Skirt
How stunning is this outfit? Every piece is the definition of old money, and the gold details just add a super chic element to the look.
SHOP THE LOOK
8. Black & White Combo
This is such an easy look to recreate. you can wear it year after year, and it will never go out of style. You can create endless old money summer outfits with this contrast trim top.
SHOP THE LOOK
9. Polo T-shirt & Tennis Skirt
Tennis and golf are some of the hobbies old money individuals love, so it’s no surprise that a white tennis skirt is a must have to achieve the old money look. To master this look, pair the skirt with a Ralph Lauren T-shirt, effortlessly blending athleticism with chic sophistication.
SHOP THE LOOK
10. Crisp White Shirt & Linen Skirt
Pair a classic white button-down shirt with a maxi linen skirt for a sophisticated yet effortless look.
SHOP THE LOOK
11. Linen Trousers & Striped Shirt
This is a more casual look, perfect for daytime. Pair your linen trousers with a neutral bodysuit and a striped shirt. Complete the look with a minimal belt and a tote bag for a chic touch.
SHOP THE LOOK
12. Tweed Jacket & Jeans
I think tweed gives such a classy look to any outfit. So, a tweed jacket is the perfect item to wear on those chillier summer days.
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13. Belted Shirt Dress
Stay cool and stylish in a striped shirt dress paired with classic tan sandals. Add a belt to accentuate your figure and add a touch of elegance with a brown leather bag.
SHOP THE LOOK
14. Waistcoat & White Jeans
I think wearing tonal outfits is the easiest way to have that old-money aesthetic. Pair a knitted vest with white pants and a pair of Loro Piana shoes. Keep the color palette neutral and accessorize with gold jewelry for a timeless look.
SHOP THE LOOK
15. Linen Pants & Striped Shirt
This is one of my favorite old money outfits. These white linen pants are probably my most worn item in my closet, great quality and most importantly, not see through.
Add a bit of contrast with a raffia belt and bag.
SHOP THE LOOK
16. Silk Scarf & Linen Pants
This is such a simple and classy outfit formula that you can easily recreate. Start with white tank top and pants and accessorize with a silk scarf and straw hat for the perfect old money summer outfit.
SHOP THE LOOK
17. Blazer & Shorts
You can always count on blazers to level up any outfit. Throw a classic black blazer over a striped t-shirt and pair it with linen pants or shorts. Keep the look casual with a straw bag than gives the ultimate old money look.
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18. Denim skirt & Striped Blue Shirt
This outfit is the perfect representation of old money color palette. Choose classic and timeless pieces in this color combination and you can create endless old money summer outfits.
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19. Contrast Trim Dress
There is something about contrast trim pieces that screams old money vibes. A chic mini dress is a timeless staple in spring and summer old money wardrobe.
SHOP THE LOOK
20. Beige Trousers & Striped Cardigan
Throwing a cardigan/sweater over the shoulders is the epitome of old money style. It effortlessly elevates any outfit and adds the perfect touch of timeless sophistication.
SHOP THE LOOK
Final Thoughts
Rooted in heritage and tradition, this aesthetic offers a refreshing break from the hectic world of chasing trends. By embracing quality over quantity and investing in pieces that withstand the test of time, you can capture the essence of classic sophistication this summer and beyond.
