If you've been on TikTok recently, you may have stumbled upon the "Old Money" aesthetic—a trend that’s gaining traction among those fascinated by "Quiet Luxury," classic American prep, and the timeless allure of icons like Princess Diana and Jackie O. If your search history includes Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, and the Kennedy family, you're likely already familiar with the essence of this look.
What Is "Old Money"?
The "Old Money" style embodies understated elegance, characterized by quality, logo-free designer pieces, impeccable tailoring, and a nod to classic prep. Despite its vintage roots, the Old Money aesthetic is far from outdated; it continues to inspire modern celebrities such as Sophia Richie, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Blake Lively. Unlike TikTok trends that resurrect Y2K or '90s styles, Old Money is rooted in tradition, drawing inspiration from the wealth and understated luxury of iconic families like the Kennedys, the Gettys, and the Vanderbilts.
On TikTok, the hashtag #OldMoney has amassed hundreds of thousands of posts, showcasing everything from the history of affluent families to styling tips for both men and women. But while the aesthetic’s origins are tied to inherited wealth and classic traditions, you don’t need a trust fund to embrace the Old Money look.
Old Money Style Inspiration for Women
Looking to channel the Old Money aesthetic? Start by immersing yourself in its timeless appeal:
- Follow Influencers and Celebs: Check out the Instagram accounts of style icons like Lana Del Rey, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lawrence, and Victoria Beckham.
- Watch Classic Films: Draw inspiration from movies like Cruel Intentions, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, or the series Gossip Girl, where Blair Waldorf's wardrobe is a masterclass in Old Money style.
- Study Old Money Icons: The quintessential Old Money style is exemplified by Jackie Kennedy, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, Princess Diana, and Grace Kelly. Their understated elegance and effortless style remain influential today.
Old Money Style Inspiration for Men
The Old Money style for men revolves around a polished yet effortless look. To get started:
- Follow Style Icons: Shawn Mendes, Jacob Elordi, Jude Law, and George Clooney are great examples of celebrities who embody the Old Money aesthetic.
- Watch Timeless Films: Films like The Talented Mr. Ripley, Casablanca, and The Great Gatsby are perfect for inspiration.
- Learn from Old Money Legends: Icons like John F. Kennedy Jr., James Dean, and Marlon Brando are your go-to for timeless, sophisticated menswear inspiration.
Old Money Style Essentials for Women
To master the Old Money aesthetic, start building your wardrobe with these essentials:
- Blazers: Opt for classic, tailored blazers in neutral tones. An oversized fit can add a touch of vintage charm to jeans or a skirt.
- Knee-High Leather Boots: Timeless and versatile, these boots pair perfectly with everything from jeans to skirts. Think Princess Diana’s iconic riding boots for inspiration.
- Trench Coats: A trench coat is a staple of the Old Money style, offering versatility and sophistication. Invest in quality for a piece that transcends seasons.
- Tailored Basics: Look for well-fitting trousers, suit vests, and classic button-ups. The focus is on quality and timeless cuts that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
Old Money Style Essentials for Men
For men, the Old Money wardrobe focuses on classic pieces that speak to understated elegance:
- Loafers: Nothing says Old Money like a pair of well-crafted loafers. Pair them with chinos and a blazer for an effortless yet polished look.
- Blazers: Go for traditional colors like navy or charcoal, or mix in subtle patterns like houndstooth for a touch of preppy flair.
- Polo Shirts: A must-have for the Old Money aesthetic, polo shirts are versatile and pair well with chinos or tailored trousers.
- Sweater Vests and Chinos: Embrace the Ivy League look with sweater vests paired with chinos for a relaxed yet refined style.
Brands That Embody the Old Money Aesthetic
To capture the Old Money look, turn to brands that have long embodied this style:
- High-End Classics: Brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger offer classic staples that align with the Old Money aesthetic.
- Quality Basics: For everyday essentials, brands like COS, Arket, and Uniqlo provide timeless basics with a modern edge that still pay homage to classic prep.
Old Money Style Tips
Now that you’ve got the essentials, here are some key tips to pull off the Old Money look:
- Focus on Fit: Old Money style is all about relaxed yet tailored fits. Avoid overly tight or modern cuts in favor of loose, classic silhouettes.
- Stick to Classic Colors: Monochrome and duo-tone outfits are staples. Think navy and white, or camel and cream for a sophisticated palette.
- Embrace Retro Prints: Stripes, polka dots, and houndstooth prints perfectly capture the vintage charm of the Old Money aesthetic.
- Accessorize Wisely: Opt for classic accessories like leather belts, Ray-Ban sunglasses, or a simple gold watch to elevate your look.
- Avoid Logos: The Old Money aesthetic favors discretion—choose pieces without visible branding to keep the look refined and timeless.
- Invest in Quality: Prioritize well-made pieces that will last, avoiding fast fashion in favor of items that will stand the test of time.
The Old Money style is not just about looking wealthy; it's about embracing a classic, understated elegance that transcends fleeting trends. By focusing on quality, fit, and timeless appeal, you can master the Old Money aesthetic without a nine-figure bank account.
