The truly wealthy people of old money have a certain flair that you can tell by their fashion choices. Their style is usually calm and confident, so much so that you’ll find them preferring simple, high-quality pieces. While they have the money to buy designer clothes and expensive jewelry, old money won’t dress to impress. They only wear what they like. So, here are fashion pieces that scream old money.
Classic Trench Coats
If you see someone wearing a classic trench coat, especially in beige or camel, you can tell it’s old-money fashion. Women with old money love these coats because of their length and zipper style. Although they may look vintage, trench coats are great for their versatility and durability. Also, they signify class without the need for flashy logos.
Button-Down Shirts
Crisp and well-fitted button-down shirts are the signature clothing for rich people with old money. While these shirts are made of cotton or linen, the texture looks quite different from the latest ones in stores. The versatility these shirts offer is unmatched: you can dress them up or down to maintain a level of class when you step out.
Minimalist Watches
A high-quality watch, especially in a minimalist style, is a key accessory for those with old money. Brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe are often chosen for their heritage and craftsmanship, not because they are flashy. The beauty of these minimalist watches lies in how well they blend with most styles of dressing.
Loafers and Brogues
Leather loafers and brogues are footwear staples that speak old-money style. These shoes are practical, durable, and well-polished. Because of how elegant they look, they are perfect for any occasion. People with a long history of money in their family can spend any amount to purchase loafers and brogues.
Tailored Blazers and Suits
Old money fashion values timeless appearance, and nothing says that more than a well-tailored blazer or suit. These pieces are custom-fitted and often come in neutral colors. They are made of high-quality fabrics like wool or cashmere. People who rock them are usually top dignitaries in the corporate world.
Cashmere Sweaters
You’ll find cashmere sweaters on people with old money when it gets cold. A luxurious cashmere sweater is a must-have for the wardrobes of rich people with old wealth. Cashmere sweaters are mostly paired with slacks or worn over a button-up shirt to provide warmth and understated luxury.
Muted Color Palette
Old money fashion often revolves around a muted color palette: navy, beige, white, and earth tones. These colors convey a sense of restraint, timelessness, and quiet confidence. If you want to spot old money, just look for rich people wearing fashionable accessories with muted color palettes.
Monochromatic Outfits
Wearing monochromatic ensembles like all-white or all-black is a key vintage money choice. These looks are effortlessly classic and aesthetically pleasing. This is not a common fashion trend, so if you see anyone rocking monochromatic outfits, you know for sure they have generational wealth.
Tweed Jackets
Tweed jackets are another classic old-money fashion choice, often seen in traditional patterns like houndstooth or plaid. People who wear tweed jackets do so for their heritage and quality. Since wealthy people love finer things, they are likely to wear them from time to time.
Leather Handbags
Women love handbags, but rich people with generational wealth don’t play with quality leather handbags. A well-crafted leather handbag is a key accessory, especially in neutral tones. These bags, often from heritage brands, are durable and classic, with an emphasis on craftsmanship over trendy designs.
Silk Scarves
A silk scarf, worn casually around the neck or draped over the shoulders, adds a touch of elegance. These scarves are often from luxury brands chosen for their craftsmanship and timeless designs. That’s why those with generational wealth love wearing them for outings. It’s classic and unique in style.
Boat Shoes and Deck Attire
Old-money fashion often includes nautical influences, like boat shoes or deck attire. Boat shoes are vintage-style shoes that reflect an affluent lifestyle connected to leisure activities like sailing. When you touch the leather of these shoes, you can feel the quality even though it’s not that attractive.
Pearls and Simple Jewelry
People with generational wealth love simplicity—nothing too flashy or flamboyant. Their fashion style favors timeless accessories like pearls, small diamond studs, and gold bracelets. These pieces are elegant but never overly flashy, great for showcasing wealth more subduedly.
Tailored Trousers
Perfectly tailored trousers, usually in wool or cotton, are a wardrobe essential. These trousers, worn in classic cuts like straight-leg or wide-leg are common with people who are rich with old money. Tailored trousers might look basic, but there’s nothing basic about their quality and durability.
Understated Branding
Rich people with old money don’t need big logos displayed on their clothing to make a statement. They love understated branding because old money isn’t loud. Instead, the focus is on high-quality craftsmanship and classic designs that speak for themselves without the need for brand recognition.
