Achieving the Old Money Aesthetic: Elegance on a Budget

The Old Money Aesthetic is renowned for its understated sophistication and timeless elegance. It exudes a sense of wealth and class without the need for extravagant spending. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can achieve the Old Money look without breaking the bank. Remember, it’s not about the size of your wallet, but the choices you make when building your wardrobe.

The Four Commandments of Old Money Aesthetic

To embrace the Old Money Aesthetic, you must adhere to its core principles:

1. Say No to Large Logos and Graphics

Old Money style is all about understatedness. Large logos, flashy graphics, and varsity jackets have no place in this realm. Keep it simple and elegant.

2. Embrace a Neutral Color Palette

Stick to a refined color palette that includes hues of browns, beiges, blacks, charcoals, whites, navies, and khakis. These neutral colors create a timeless and sophisticated look.

3. Fit Is Everything

In the Old Money world, fit reigns supreme. Say goodbye to skinny jeans and baggy pants. Everything you wear must be well-fitted and tailored to perfection.

4. Invest in Higher Quality Fabrics

Opt for fabrics that exude luxury and durability. Look for options like linen, wool, leather, cashmere, and cotton. These fabrics not only feel premium but also elevate your overall look.

Building Your Old Money Aesthetic Wardrobe

Let’s break down the essentials for building your Old Money wardrobe:

Pants: Suit Pants and Trousers

Start with a collection of suit pants and trousers. Look for options with buttons, pleats, or side adjusters, as these details exude class. These pants should be well-fitted and tailored. Invest in as many colors as your budget allows, focusing on classics like black, navy, and gray. Remember, pants are the foundation of your outfit, so choose wisely.

Table: Essential Pant Colors

Color	Significance
Black	Timeless elegance
Navy	Classic sophistication
Gray	Subtle refinement

Casual Chinos

For more relaxed occasions, consider well-tailored chinos. They offer comfort without sacrificing style. Look for neutral shades like khaki and beige, as these are versatile options that pair well with various wardrobe staples.

Elegant Polos

Invest in elegant polos that are both neutral and fitted. Polos with subtle textures like argyle, ribbed patterns, or cable knits add sophistication to your casual look. Avoid bold logos or graphics.

Table: Polo Texture Options

Texture	Sophistication Level
Argyle	Timeless elegance
Ribbed Patterns	Subtle refinement
Cable Knits	Understated luxury

Fitted T-Shirts

Fitted t-shirts are a versatile addition to your Old Money wardrobe. Look for options with unique textures, such as cable knit or sweater-like materials. These t-shirts can elevate your casual attire while maintaining the desired aesthetic.

Button-Ups and Button Downs

Button-up and button-down shirts are staples of Old Money style. Linen shirts are a must for the summer months, especially in classic white. Additionally, include striped shirts with navy and white patterns for a sophisticated touch. Don’t forget a few Oxford shirts for formal occasions.

Sweaters

Sweaters are essential for layering and adding a touch of warmth and style. Opt for high-quality materials like wool and cashmere. Classic neutrals such as navy, beige, camel, and gray are perfect for achieving the Old Money Aesthetic. Experiment with cable-knit crew sweaters, thin cashmere sweaters, and classic quarter-zip sweaters to diversify your wardrobe.

Table: Sweater Styles

Style	Elegance Level
Cable-Knit Crew	Timeless elegance
Thin Cashmere	Subtle refinement
Quarter-Zip	Understated luxury

Coats: Tailored and Structured

When it comes to coats, opt for tailored and structured options. Wool coats are your best bet, and you can often find affordable ones at thrift stores. A well-tailored coat can instantly elevate your entire look, making it an essential piece for achieving the Old Money Aesthetic.

The Holy Grail: The Suit

Every gentleman should have a classic suit in their arsenal. Invest in a well-fitted black, navy, or gray suit. A tailored suit not only exudes elegance but also serves as your go-to outfit for formal occasions. Remember that a well-fitted suit doesn’t need to come from a high-end brand; stores like SuitSupply offer quality options for various budgets.

Footwear: Penny Loafers and Oxfords

Footwear plays a significant role in completing your Old Money look. Consider investing in classic leather penny loafers and oxfords in both black and brown. These shoes are versatile, suitable for formal and semi-formal occasions. Opt for sleek and minimalistic designs that complement your outfits.

Accessories: Watches, Belts, and Eyewear

Accessories are the finishing touches that elevate your overall appearance. Here’s what you need:

Watches: Choose a watch with a leather band and a small face for that classic Old Money look. While brands like Cartier are iconic, there are more affordable options that capture the style, such as Longines, Aoris, Seiko, and Hamilton.
Belts: Invest in both black and brown belts with sleek, minimalistic buckles. These versatile accessories complete your look for various occasions.
Eyewear: Protect your eyes in style with classic frames like Ray-Ban Wayfarers, tortoiseshell aviators, or round glasses. Avoid trendy designs with overly thick frames, as they don’t align with the Old Money Aesthetic.

The Total Package

Achieving the Old Money Aesthetic extends beyond clothing. It encompasses grooming, skincare, and overall self-presentation. To fully embrace this timeless style, consider these aspects:

Grooming: Maintain well-groomed hair and facial hair. A classic haircut and neatly trimmed beard or clean-shaven look work best.
Skincare: Keep your skin healthy and clear with a skincare routine that suits your skin type. Clear, glowing skin is a hallmark of the Old Money look.
Physique: Regular exercise and a balanced diet contribute to a well-proportioned physique, enhancing the fit of your clothing.

Real-Life Examples

Let’s draw inspiration from real-life individuals who have embraced the Old Money Aesthetic:

Cary Grant: The legendary actor was a paragon of Old Money style. His impeccable suits, elegant ties, and refined grooming set a timeless standard.
Daniel Craig: Known for his role as James Bond, Daniel Craig exudes Old Money sophistication both on and off the screen. His tailored suits and choice of classic accessories align perfectly with the aesthetic.
Prince Harry: Despite his royal status, Prince Harry often opts for classic, well-fitted suits and timeless accessories. His wardrobe choices reflect a modern take on the Old Money style.

Conclusion

Achieving the Old Money Aesthetic doesn’t require an overflowing bank account. By adhering to the core principles of understatedness, neutral colors, impeccable fit, and high-quality fabrics, you can build a wardrobe that radiates elegance and sophistication. Remember to consider grooming, skincare, and overall presentation to complete the total package. Whether you’re attending a formal event or enjoying a casual outing, the Old Money Aesthetic ensures you’ll always look effortlessly stylish.