Old Money, Quiet Luxury, Preppy…Let’s Make It Clear!
The old-money aesthetic (often also described as quiet luxury) is more than just a style—it’s a reflection of heritage, tradition, and understated elegance. Rooted in the lifestyles of aristocratic families, particularly those from Europe and America, the old-money look was cultivated by generations of wealth passed down through centuries. These families—think the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and European royalty—weren’t focused on following fleeting trends. Instead, their wardrobes embodied a sense of timelessness, with classic pieces made from the finest materials.
These garments were built to last, symbolizing a wealth that didn’t need to shout but rather whispered through subtlety and quality. Key elements like tailored blazers, camel coats, and leather loafers became synonymous with this look, representing a lifestyle steeped in tradition, with an emphasis on discretion and refinement.
Now, let’s clear up one common question: how does the old-money aesthetic differ from preppy style? While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences. The preppy style—popularized by Ivy League students and East Coast socialites—often shares elements with old-money fashion, such as classic blazers, loafers, and nautical-inspired pieces. However, preppy style leans more into bold patterns like plaid or stripes, and vibrant colors like navy, red, and pastels. It’s playful, youthful, and has a certain collegiate flair.
The old-money aesthetic, in contrast, opts for more muted tones, like rich creams, navy, and camel, with an emphasis on high-quality fabrics and simplicity. Where preppy style can be more about showcasing an aspirational lifestyle, old-money fashion is about embodying a sense of quiet luxury—wealth that doesn’t seek attention, but is evident in the craftsmanship and timeless appeal of each piece.
The Differences Between Old-Money and New-Money Style
Old-money and new-money styles may seem similar at first glance, but they’re quite distinct when you look closely. The old-money aesthetic is all about timeless, classic pieces—think garments that are understated but impeccably made. People who embody this style don’t feel the need to showcase wealth with flashy items. Instead, they wear clothes that have longevity, both in terms of quality and style. Their wardrobe tells the story of quiet luxury; it whispers rather than shouts. Old-money style is about subtlety—neutral tones, tailored pieces, and an emphasis on comfort mixed with refinement.
In contrast, new-money style often leans toward what’s currently trending. It’s more about making a statement with bold logos, eye-catching patterns, and outfits that grab attention. New-money style is often faster to adapt to fashion fads, with an emphasis on showing wealth. While both styles can feature high-end designer pieces, old-money favors discretion and tradition, while new-money thrives on visibility and status symbols.
That’s Why The Motto “Old Money Whispers, New Money Shouts”
The saying “old money whispers, new money shouts” perfectly captures the essence of these two different approaches to style and wealth.
Old money whispers in the sense that those who come from generational wealth don’t feel the need to broadcast their status through loud, ostentatious displays. Their style reflects a quiet confidence—a focus on quality, not quantity, and an emphasis on timelessness over trends. They wear well-made garments that are meant to last, and they don’t chase after what’s currently in fashion.
On the other hand, new money shouts. Those who are newer to wealth often use their fashion choices as a way to assert their newfound status. Logos, bold patterns, and statement pieces take center stage. While this style can be exciting and flashy, it lacks the restrained elegance of old-money dressing, which seeks to blend in rather than stand out.
Classic Colors to Focus On
When it comes to the old-money aesthetic, the color palette is key. It’s all about understated elegance, and the colors you choose should reflect that. For autumn, you want to focus on earthy tones that are both rich and timeless. Think warm shades like camel, beige, and taupe.
These colors not only evoke a sense of quiet luxury but also blend beautifully with the season’s natural hues.
Navy is another essential color in the old-money wardrobe. It’s a classic alternative to black, offering the same versatility but with a slightly softer, more sophisticated edge. Navy works perfectly in blazers, trousers, and outerwear, providing that polished look without being too harsh.
Cream and off-white are also staples that shouldn’t be overlooked. These lighter tones bring a sense of refinement and can easily be layered into any outfit, brightening up your autumn wardrobe. Whether it’s a cashmere sweater or a silk blouse, cream tones add a touch of luxury that feels effortless.
Lastly, camel is the hero color of old-money autumn dressing. A camel wool coat or cashmere scarf exudes timeless elegance and is a perfect way to add warmth to your wardrobe without sacrificing style. These muted, neutral tones not only look chic but are easy to mix and match, creating a cohesive, well-curated wardrobe that speaks volumes about your taste.
Layering Tips for Autumn
Autumn is all about mastering the art of layering, and the old-money aesthetic is no exception. The beauty of layering lies in its practicality—keeping warm while looking effortlessly polished—but it’s also an opportunity to showcase your wardrobe’s versatility. The key is to layer with purpose, making sure each piece adds both function and style.
Start with a classic base layer, like a silk or cotton blouse, which will provide a soft, breathable foundation. From there, you can add a light sweater or cashmere cardigan to keep warm while adding texture and depth to your outfit. I love combining materials that contrast yet complement each other—pairing a crisp cotton shirt with a luxurious cashmere knit, for example, gives off that polished but relaxed vibe.
Next, you can introduce a tailored blazer—navy or camel are perfect choices here. A well-structured blazer adds shape and sophistication to your look, and the beauty of it is that it can be dressed up or down. You can wear it with trousers for a more formal look, or throw it on over jeans for a casual yet put-together appearance.
As the temperatures start to drop, don’t forget to top off your layers with a wool coat or trench. A classic camel or navy coat adds an extra layer of warmth while maintaining the elegance that defines old-money style. And if you’re feeling bold, add a silk scarf or cashmere wrap to finish off the look. The key is to stay within that neutral color palette, allowing your layers to blend seamlessly while looking polished from head to toe.
Timeless Accessories to Complete the Look
No old-money look is complete without the right accessories. While the aesthetic itself is understated, the accessories you choose can elevate your outfit from simple to effortlessly chic. The trick is to focus on timeless pieces—those that never go out of style and add a subtle touch of luxury.
One of my favorite old-money accessories is the silk scarf. Whether it’s tied around the neck, draped over the shoulders, or even wrapped around a handbag, a silk scarf is an elegant way to incorporate color and texture into your look. Stick to classic patterns like paisley or subtle prints in neutral tones, and you’ll have a piece that works for almost any occasion.
Pearl earrings are another must-have for this aesthetic. There’s something about pearls that instantly adds sophistication and grace to an outfit. Whether you’re going for simple studs or a delicate drop design, pearls are timeless and versatile, easily pairing with anything from a casual sweater to a more formal dress.
A leather belt is a practical yet stylish accessory that can help define your waist, especially when layering bulkier pieces like blazers or coats. Choose one in a rich brown or classic black to keep with the old-money vibe. And don’t forget about your footwear—a classic pair of leather loafers or riding boots can completely transform an outfit, adding a polished finish that’s as comfortable as it is stylish.
Lastly, a structured leather handbag is the perfect final touch. Look for one in a neutral tone with clean lines and minimal hardware. This kind of bag not only complements your outfit but speaks to the longevity and craftsmanship that define the old-money aesthetic. With these accessories, you can pull together a look that’s both elegant and effortlessly timeless.
Where To Find Inspiration: The Maisons Known for Timeless Aesthetic
When discussing old-money fashion, it’s impossible not to mention the iconic fashion houses that have been synonymous with timeless style for decades, if not centuries. Giorgio Armani, for instance, is known for its clean lines, perfect tailoring, and focus on simplicity. Armani pieces aren’t about flash—they’re about fit, comfort, and the subtle sophistication that defines old-money style.
Ralph Lauren has long been associated with the old-money aesthetic, thanks to its focus on equestrian-inspired pieces, nautical themes, and the preppy, all-American vibe. A Ralph Lauren blazer or cashmere sweater is the epitome of understated luxury. Chanel, with its timeless tweed jackets and classic bags, brings French elegance into the old-money wardrobe, emphasizing both structure and femininity.
Gucci and Prada also play key roles here. Gucci’s recent collections have blended traditional and modern styles, but their classic, understated pieces—like loafers or tailored coats—fit seamlessly into an old-money wardrobe. Prada, with its focus on simple silhouettes and high-quality fabrics, offers an intellectual, minimalist take on old-money style.
For emerging brands, The Row has quickly gained a reputation for impeccable tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Their pieces are modern yet timeless, fitting perfectly into the old-money aesthetic.
But if you don’t have the budget, or you just find spending your money in super expansive items of clothing is not your cup of tea, always consider the vintage market: a treasure is always around the corner!!
…And What About Denim? Is The Fabric Allowed In The Quiet Luxury Aesthetic?
Yes, jeans can absolutely be incorporated into the quiet-luxury or old-money style, especially for younger generations, but with a few important guidelines. The key is in the cut, color, and overall look of the jeans.
High-quality, well-fitting jeans that lean toward a classic cut (like straight-leg or tailored) in dark washes (like deep indigo or black) or neutral tones (such as white or beige) can definitely work. Avoid overly distressed or trendy cuts like ripped jeans or extreme washes, as they clash with the refined, understated elegance that defines this style.
Younger generations often blend tradition with a modern twist, so pairing jeans with elegant, timeless pieces like a crisp white shirt, tailored blazer, or classic trench coat can elevate the denim and keep it aligned with the old-money aesthetic. Think of it as giving the casual nature of jeans a refined balance.
So yes, jeans are allowed—just make sure they reflect that quiet luxury and understated sophistication!
My Amazon Finds To Get The Aesthetic
Here is my selection of items I found for you on Amazon, and that will help you achieve the quiet luxury aesthetic on a budget.
Just click on the image to get the item, or to check which color and size are available:
Final Recap
As we’ve explored throughout this article, the old-money aesthetic is all about timeless elegance, quality over quantity, and an appreciation for understated luxury. From mastering a classic color palette to knowing how to layer effortlessly, the essence of this style lies in simplicity and refinement.
We’ve touched on how the right materials—cashmere, silk, wool, and leather—play a vital role in creating that luxurious, polished look. And remember, it’s not just about the clothes; accessories like silk scarves, pearl earrings, and structured handbags can make all the difference, adding a subtle touch of sophistication to any outfit.
While the old-money style is rooted in tradition, we’ve seen that it’s possible to give it a modern twist, especially for younger generations. Whether it’s incorporating jeans with a tailored blazer or updating your wardrobe with versatile autumn staples like the camel coat or classic navy blazer, there’s room to personalize this look without straying from its timeless essence.
In the end, achieving the old-money aesthetic is about investing in pieces that transcend trends and exude quiet luxury. It’s a style that whispers elegance, rather than shouts for attention, and it’s as relevant today as ever. With these tips and insights, you’re ready to embrace the season ahead with confidence, knowing your wardrobe is a true reflection of enduring style.
That’s all from me for this week, guys! I hope you enjoyed this topic.
If so, please do not forget to let me know by leaving your comment in the dedicated section below.
Always stay stylish and see you in a week!
XOXO
B&TG
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