Old Money Women’s Style Guide 2024

The “Old Money” style isn’t about flashy trends or expensive labels. It’s about building a wardrobe of timeless, well-made pieces that exude confidence and elegance. By focusing on quality fabrics, classic silhouettes, and understated chic, you create a look that transcends fads and reflects a sense of effortless sophistication. This guide can help you achieve that polished yet approachable old money women’s style.

Neutral Colorways

Neutral colorways are the foundation of old money style because they embody timeless elegance, understated sophistication, and versatility. Unlike bold or trendy colors, neutral shades such as beige, navy, gray, white, and black do not draw undue attention, allowing the quality of the fabric, the tailoring, and the overall design to shine through. This subtlety is a key element of old money fashion, where the emphasis is on classic, high-quality pieces that withstand the test of time rather than on fleeting trends. Neutral colors are inherently versatile, making them suitable for a variety of settings and occasions, from formal events to casual outings. This adaptability is crucial in the old money aesthetic, which values practicality and refined taste.

Furthermore, neutral colors exude a sense of quiet confidence and effortless style. They are associated with tradition and heritage, often evoking images of timeless icons and historic fashion houses. By choosing neutral colorways, individuals can create a cohesive and polished wardrobe that reflects a deep appreciation for classic elegance. This approach aligns with the principles of old money style, which prioritizes durability, subtlety, and a well-curated collection of essentials that can be mixed and matched seamlessly.

Among the top neutral colors that are considered timeless, navy stands out for its classic appeal and versatility. Navy is a color that conveys authority and sophistication without being overly bold. It pairs well with a wide range of other neutrals and colors, making it a staple in any well-curated wardrobe. Another timeless neutral is beige, which offers a warm, elegant backdrop that complements a variety of skin tones and can be easily dressed up or down. Gray, in its many shades, is also a top choice for its ability to convey both modernity and classicism.

You must read: Old money color combinations

Accessories

No old money ensemble is complete without the perfect accessories. But forget flashy baubles and over-the-top embellishments—true old money style is all about understated elegance. Opt for delicate pearl earrings, a classic leather handbag, and simple gold bangles to add a touch of refinement to any outfit. 

Key pieces include classic timepieces from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, and Jaeger-LeCoultre, which serve as both functional pieces and heirlooms. Simple yet elegant jewelry, such as pearl earrings or necklaces from Mikimoto or Tiffany & Co., and sophisticated cufflinks or tie bars from Cartier or David Yurman, are must-haves.

Well-crafted handbags from Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton epitomize luxury and exclusivity, making them investment pieces. Silk scarves from Hermès or Burberry and quality leather belts from Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo add elegance and versatility.

Timeless footwear from brands like John Lobb, Church’s, Chanel, and Manolo Blahnik, along with elegant sunglasses from Ray-Ban and Persol, and classic hats from Borsalino or Lock & Co. Hatters, complete the refined look.

Aesthetic Sunglasses

Aesthetic sunglasses are not compulsory, but they are a valuable addition to the old money style. These sunglasses enhance the overall look by adding an element of sophistication and polish. They provide practical benefits by protecting the eyes from harmful UV rays, and they contribute to a cohesive, refined appearance.

Brands like Ray-Ban, Persol, Tom Ford, and Oliver Peoples offer classic designs that align with the understated elegance central to old money aesthetics. While not essential, they certainly complement and elevate the style.

Dress

In old money fashion, dresses are chosen for their timeless elegance and sophisticated allure. For women, key pieces include the Little Black Dress (LBD), renowned for its versatility and ability to transition effortlessly from day to evening events. Brands like Chanel and Dior offer iconic LBDs that epitomize classic chic. Sheath dresses, with their fitted silhouettes that gracefully skim the body, are favored for their polished look in both formal and business settings. Design houses such as Ralph Lauren and Oscar de la Renta excel in creating these refined pieces. A-Line dresses, known for their flattering shape that nips in at the waist and gently flares out, are another staple. Brands like Carolina Herrera and Valentino are celebrated for their elegant A-Line designs. Shift dresses, with their clean lines and relaxed fit, offer comfort without sacrificing style, making them ideal for daytime events. Labels like Loro Piana and Max Mara are esteemed for their sophisticated shift dress offerings.

For men, old money dress embodies tailored sophistication. A well-fitted suit in classic colors such as navy, gray, or black remains a cornerstone of the wardrobe. Brands like Brioni, Ermenegildo Zegna, and Tom Ford are renowned for their impeccable tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Blazers paired with well-tailored slacks offer versatility for business and semi-formal occasions, with Brooks Brothers and Canali providing excellent options. Dress shirts in white, light blue, or subtle patterns crafted from fine materials like Turnbull & Asser and Charvet are essential for completing the polished look.

Key features of old money fashion dresses include high-quality fabrics such as silk, wool, cashmere, and fine cotton, ensuring both comfort and durability. Classic colors such as black, navy, white, beige, and gray dominate, offering timeless appeal that transcends trends. Minimalist designs are preferred, emphasizing clean lines and understated elegance over flashy embellishments. The impeccable fit is paramount, highlighting the importance of proper tailoring in achieving a look that exudes sophistication and refinement. By adhering to these principles, old money fashion dresses embody a timeless elegance that is both classic and enduring.

Quality over Quantity: The Golden Rule of Wardrobe Building

Less is often more.

Instead of filling your closet with fast fashion finds, focus on building a curated collection of high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Invest in well-made garments that are built to last, and you’ll never have to worry about being out of style.

Satin Blouse

A satin blouse is a wardrobe staple for any old money woman. Whether paired with tailored trousers for the office or tucked into a sleek pencil skirt for dinner, a satin blouse adds a touch of luxurious sophistication to any ensemble.  

Pairing a satin blouse with tailored trousers or skirts can elevate your look for sophisticated events, while combining it with a blazer offers a professional yet stylish ensemble. Even when worn with jeans, a satin blouse maintains a chic and upscale appearance. Renowned brands such as Hermès, Chanel, Ralph Lauren, and Silk Laundry offer high-quality satin blouses that align perfectly with the Old Money aesthetic, ensuring you achieve a look that emphasizes understated elegance and enduring sophistication.

Trench Coat

No wardrobe is complete without a classic trench coat. Perfect for layering over everything from cocktail dresses to casual denim, a trench coat exudes timeless elegance and effortless style. Opt for a neutral hue like beige or camel for maximum versatility.

The structured silhouette and high-quality materials, often associated with luxury brands like Burberry, Aquascutum, and Max Mara, highlight the coat’s enduring appeal. When worn over a tailored suit or a casual ensemble, a trench coat adds an air of refinement and effortless chic.

Trousers

When it comes to trousers, old money women prefer tailored perfection. Look for classic styles like slim-cut trousers or wide-leg pants crafted from high-quality fabrics like wool or cotton. 

Well-tailored trousers can be paired with a variety of tops, from crisp white shirts and silk blouses to cashmere sweaters and tailored blazers, creating a polished and elegant look suitable for various occasions. Brands like Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, and Armani are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail in their trouser collections. By investing in high-quality trousers, you embody the Old Money ethos of understated luxury and enduring style, ensuring a polished and sophisticated appearance.

Blazer

A well-tailored blazer is the ultimate wardrobe essential for any old money woman. Whether worn with trousers for a power suit look or draped over the shoulders of a cocktail dress for evening elegance, a blazer adds instant polish to any ensemble.

The key to achieving the Old Money look with a blazer lies in its fit and quality; a well-tailored blazer made from high-quality materials exudes refinement and attention to detail. Renowned brands such as Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, and Giorgio Armani are celebrated for their exquisite blazer designs, combining traditional tailoring with modern elegance. Whether paired with tailored trousers, a crisp shirt, and loafers for a formal setting or with jeans and a cashmere sweater for a more relaxed yet sophisticated ensemble

Cashmere Sweaters

When the temperature drops, old money women turn to cashmere sweaters for cozy luxury. Invest in classic styles like crewneck or v-neck sweaters in neutral hues like camel, grey, or navy for maximum versatility. Layer over a collared shirt for a preppy vibe, or pair with jeans for effortless weekend style.

The versatility of cashmere sweaters allows them to be dressed up or down; they can be paired with tailored trousers and a blazer for a polished look or with jeans for a more casual yet refined appearance. Brands such as Loro Piana, Brunello Cucinelli, and Ralph Lauren are renowned for their high-quality cashmere pieces, ensuring that each sweater exudes both luxury and durability.

Classic Pieces

At the heart of old money style lies a reverence for classic pieces that stand the test of time. 

• Tailored Suit: A well-fitted suit in navy, grey, or black is essential for formal occasions, exuding sophistication and refinement. Brands like Savile Row, Armani, and Ralph Lauren are known for their impeccable tailoring.
• White Dress Shirt: Crisp and versatile, a high-quality white dress shirt can be paired with suits, trousers, or jeans, making it a versatile staple. Look for brands such as Brooks Brothers and Thomas Pink.
• Little Black Dress: An iconic piece for women, the little black dress is perfect for various occasions, from cocktail parties to formal events. Chanel and Dior offer classic designs that epitomize elegance.
• Leather Loafers: Comfortable yet stylish, leather loafers are perfect for both formal and casual settings. Brands like Gucci and Tod’s are celebrated for their quality footwear.
• Pearl Necklace: A simple strand of pearls is timeless and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Tiffany & Co. and Mikimoto are renowned for their exquisite pearl jewelry.