You've most likely heard of the term "old money style," as it's a popular trend that many admire and strive to emulate. But what exactly is the old money aesthetic? It's not just a passing fashion trend but a lifestyle characterized by understated elegance, timeless grace, and a deep-seated reverence for tradition. This aesthetic is often associated with affluent women who have inherited wealth, emphasizing quality over quantity and a dedication to good manners and social grace. Below, we'll take a closer look at this style and identify the key pieces that embody authentic old money outfits.

What is Old Money Style

The old money aesthetic, often referred to as quiet luxury, embodies more than just a trend. It's not only about owning pieces with minimal brand logos; it's about exuding a timeless and expensive style that signifies high society. However, the old money outfits we see on social media often appear done up compared with what real old money individuals wear daily. They don't typically fuss over coordinating the perfect shades, the right belt, or the designer handbag. They're more inclined to dress in simple yet high-quality basics that don't attract attention, except when preparing for a special occasion.

Old Money Outfits for Women

Here are 13 old money fashion pieces that exude an understated elegance, perfect for achieving a refined and luxurious look this season. These ensembles feature classic items, subtle tones, and premium fabrics, ensuring that your wardrobe will stand the test of time, just like the enduring appeal of this trend itself.

Trench Coat 

A stylish trench coat can instantly elevate any outfit, giving off a sense of sophistication that lets you channel your inner duchess. Follow the lead of celebrities by pairing your trench with a chic coordinating bag and delicate ballet flats. Alternatively, for a more contemporary look, consider opting for modern twists on the classic coat, such as this Short trench coat Eeve.

Trousers and Button-Up

The classic combination of a relaxed button-up shirt and wide-leg trousers embodies the timeless style associated with affluent individuals. This look effortlessly balances sophistication with a laid-back vibe, a skill mastered by the perpetually wealthy. To elevate the casual ensemble, accessorize with a premium handbag, a stylish belt, and luxurious sunglasses. Start off with the Patch-pocket striped shirt and the Wide-leg suit trousers as your base.

Knitted Vest 

Somewhat preppy, yet unquestionably classic. A knitted vest is a versatile top that can be worn on its own or layered over a tee or a shirt. The minimalist and functional nature of this piece embodies an old money aesthetic. If you're looking to match this style, consider the Rollneck boucle vest Ember by Lisa Yang. Pair it with the Wide-leg suit trousers in black for a timeless black-and-white look.

Linen Shorts and Shirt 

Linen is a luxurious fabric favored by affluent individuals for sailing trips and summer vacations, making linen sets an old money clothes staple. Our Oversized Linen Shirt paired with Elasticated-Waist Linen Shorts exemplifies a sophisticated combination that perfectly captures this aesthetic.

Cashmere Sweater

Embracing high-quality fabrics that withstand the test of time is a signature of the old money style for women, making cashmere a must-have. Combine a luxuriously soft sweater, like the Rollneck cashmere sweater Sandy, with simple jewelry, such as a gold watch or a delicate single-strand necklace, to enhance this essential piece. For the bottom, we recommend the Wide suit trousers, a popular choice among many celebrities for their relaxed yet refined appearance.

A-Line Skirt

The A-line silhouette has a vibrant vintage flair. If made of high-quality materials and designed without unnecessary embellishments, it can become the perfect foundational piece for old money outfits for women. Take an A-lined midi skirt from the new House of Dagmar collection and pair it with the Tailored squared top for a put-together look with a retro vibe.

A-Line Dress 

And if there's an A-line skirt, why not a dress? People with a classic, old money style often opt for a subtle and minimalist look for everyday wear, but they really shine for special occasions. If you're aiming for a similar vibe, consider the Wrap-design satin-finish dress.

Little Black Dress

A classic piece for any occasion, a little black dress is a must regardless of the style of your wardrobe. Just add one to your collection, and you’ll never regret owning it. The sculpted Mini strap dress from House of Dagmar is a match whether for cocktail parties, a night out, or a festive event.

Striped Shirt 

If you browse through images of old money outfits on social media, you'll notice that three out of five feature striped shirts. These shirts typically come in blue and white or black and white, highlighting the minimalist approach to this style. The perfect example of this item is the Asymmetric shirt. Pair it with the Faye trousers from Tiger of Sweden, and remember to accentuate your waist with a sleek belt.

Cable Knit Sweater 

Cable knit sweaters, as we recognize them today, were initially handcrafted for sailors. Women began knitting these sweaters around 1900 to provide warmth for fishermen at sea. The intricate all-over patterns were primarily designed to add decoration and make the garments thicker and warmer. In today's fashion world, cable knit sweaters continue to be a timeless choice for elegant wardrobes, perfectly complementing the old money aesthetic. For instance, pairing the Cable knit crewneck sweater from House of Dagmar with Wide-leg suit trousers creates the ideal look for transitional weather.

Oversized Blazer

The key to pulling off an old money look is in the details. Start with the Satin midi skirt and the Neckholder cashmere top, then layer on the Oversize suit blazer. Elevate the ensemble with pearls, dark sunglasses, and strappy sandals to give it a luxurious feel. However, remember not to overdo it with too many accessories.

Belts 

You might have noticed that most trousers in this style feature a high waist and are often cinched with sleek belts. Hence, we suggest owning at least one minimalist, high-quality belt to complement your old money looks. The Slim leather belt Geometia would be an ideal choice for this style.

Silk Scarves

These images of sophisticated women wearing scarves draped around their necks or tied over their hair perfectly encapsulate the timeless elegance of old money. Incorporating a Silk scarf into an outfit instantly elevates its overall appeal.

Old Money Outfit Style Tips for Women

No need to pull off a heist to nail this style. It's not just about the quality of the clothes; your style and knack for effortlessly pairing understated pieces matter most. Embrace the old money aesthetic by focusing on these key elements:

• Old Money Capsule: An old money capsule contains timeless essentials that endure. Blend classic items with your individual style to craft countless sophisticated outfits. Most of these pieces are likely already in your wardrobe; you just have to mix and match these essentials and steer clear of bold trends that may quickly go out of fashion.
• Quality Matters: Keep an eye out for high-quality clothing that exudes timeless elegance and is built to last. Quality doesn't always equate to designer labels and unbearable prices; you can find affordable options made from top-notch materials. When shopping, pay attention to the fabric composition. Opt for natural fibers such as linen, cotton, wool, or cashmere for a refined yet comfortable style that keeps you cool.
• Color Palette: The colors associated with old money exude a classic, timeless, and understated quality, featuring deep navy blue, hunter green, and rich burgundy. These shades are complemented by neutral tones like camel, cream, and various hues of gray. Additionally, black and white are pivotal, adding crispness and elegance to the color scheme. These colors are carefully selected for their versatility and ability to communicate a sense of understated luxury and sophistication.
• Perfect Fit: Always ensure your clothes are tailored for the perfect fit. Invest in high-quality, well-structured garments that accentuate your figure without being too tight or loose.
• Patterns: Avoid bold, extravagant prints like animal or floral, as they convey a completely different vibe from the classic old money aesthetic. Instead, use graphic prints such as stripes, polka dots, and checks.
• Accessories: Choose classic accessories like pearl earrings, a leather handbag, or a simple gold necklace. Avoid trendy pieces that quickly go out of style and opt for a few high-quality items instead of many flashy ones. 
• Lifestyle: The concept of old money extends beyond just fashion; it encompasses a lifestyle characterized by good manners, proper etiquette, and a graceful approach to everyday life. It's all about embracing a refined mindset and cherishing tradition and subtle sophistication in every aspect of life.