In the ever-shifting world of fashion trends, there’s one aesthetic that refuses to fade: the old money style. Rooted in subtle luxury, timeless cuts, and effortless sophistication, this look is less about labels and more about legacy. Whether you’re curating your wardrobe or simply looking for fresh seasonal inspiration, this guide will take you deep into the refined world of old money outfits, offering tangible tips, must-have items, and influencer insights—yes, we’ll talk Paige DeSorbo—along with how to pair your look from clothing to accessories to your next winter nail shade.
This article is your full guide to embracing quiet luxury in 2025, including:
- Key elements of the old money look
- Capsule pieces for both men and women
- Styling tips using modern essentials like Isabel Marant sneakers
- Celeb & influencer examples of old money style women
- How grooming, polish, and even winter nails play a role
- And curating your own version of the old money aesthetic mans
Let’s redefine timeless sophistication—one detail at a time.
What Exactly Is the Old Money Style?
The old money style is not about shouting wealth; it’s about whispering taste. It channels the elite heritage of European aristocrats and East Coast prepsters. Think: Ralph Lauren in the 1980s, Princess Diana off-duty, or Jackie O on vacation in Capri.
This aesthetic is built around:
- Neutral tones: beiges, navy, white, charcoal
- Classic silhouettes: tailored blazers, cashmere sweaters, pleated trousers
- Natural fabrics: wool, cotton, linen, silk
- Understated accessories: leather loafers, pearl studs, aviator sunglasses
- Discreet branding or none at all
But in 2025, we’re seeing a twist on this tradition. Influencers like Paige DeSorbo are modernizing the look—blending it with athleisure, trend-aware tailoring, and touches like luxe sneakers or minimalistic manicures.
Old Money Outfits for Women: Building a Capsule Wardrobe
To channel the old money style women admire, focus on quality over quantity. Here’s your starter capsule wardrobe to build effortlessly elegant old money outfits:
Essentials:
- Camel wool coat – A mid-length cut that never goes out of style
- White button-down shirt – Crisp, cotton, French cuffs optional
- Cream knit sweater – Preferably cashmere, always chic
- Straight-leg denim – A dark rinse with no distressing
- Midi-length skirt – In wool, silk, or houndstooth
- Tailored blazer – Navy or tweed for that equestrian edge
- Loafers or ballet flats – Leather or suede
- Silk scarf – Tie it around your neck, bag, or hair
The vibe? Understated elegance that looks like it’s been curated over decades, not pulled from a single season.
And yes—swap out clunky sneakers for sleek options like Isabel Marant sneakers when you need comfort without sacrificing refinement.
The Rise of Isabel Marant Sneakers in Classic Fashion
While you might not think of sneakers as part of the old money look, modern women like Paige DeSorbo are rewriting the rules. Enter: Isabel Marant sneakers—designed in Paris with chic silhouettes, neutral palettes, and just the right amount of structure.
Why They Work:
- Blend seamlessly with monochrome outfits
- Subtle logoing keeps it understated
- Ideal for travel, brunch, or post-gym style that still looks polished
Pair them with a camel coat, black leggings, and a turtleneck, and you’ve achieved modern old money style women aspire to: comfort meets class.
Paige DeSorbo: The Influencer Who Nailed Quiet Luxury
Paige DeSorbo, star of Summer House and lifestyle influencer, is a master of mixing modern minimalism with the old money aesthetic. Her approach is crisp, coordinated, and always clean—no over-layering, no chaotic color-blocking.
Her signature pieces:
- Oversized blazers worn with cycling shorts or mini skirts
- Gold hoops paired with low chignons
- White structured blouses and pointed flats
- Subtle designer bags (think Celine or The Row—not logo-heavy brands)
What we learn from her? Old money style isn’t dated—it just knows how to breathe. It adapts.
Old Money Aesthetic Mans: Refined Masculinity
Let’s not forget the gentlemen. The old money aesthetic mans category has seen a revival, thanks to shows like Succession and TikTok’s fascination with “quiet luxury.” So how does one build the male version of the old money look?
Essential Pieces:
- Navy or grey blazer – Ideally unstructured with gold or horn buttons
- Crisp Oxford shirt – White or pale blue, never trendy prints
- Slim chinos or wool trousers – Always ironed
- Cable-knit sweaters – Over the shoulders or layered with dress shirts
- Leather loafers or driving shoes – Italian if possible
- Wristwatch – Analog, understated, perhaps inherited
- Crewneck t-shirts – No graphics, no slogans, premium cotton only
It’s less about flash and more about fit. You could be in 480p and still look like a Rockefeller.
Old Money Dress: Events, Evenings, and Elegance
Looking for something more formal? The old money dress code lives by the “never overdressed, never underdressed” rule. The goal is timeless—not trendy.
For Women:
- Little black dress – Sleeveless, midi-length, worn with pearls
- Slip dress – With a cashmere wrap
- Structured gown – Monochrome with minimal embellishments
- Shoes: Slingback heels, kitten heels, or velvet flats
- Jewelry: Real or vintage-look pearls, gold chains, or heirloom-style rings
For Men:
- Tuxedo – Preferably with a shawl collar
- Dinner jacket – Velvet in navy or hunter green
- Crisp white shirt – With French cuffs
- Polished Oxfords – Leather, no square toes
Remember, old money outfits at formal events whisper, they don’t shout. Think more Windsor Castle, less red carpet.
Seasonal Switch: From Autumn Layers to Winter Nails
It’s not just about what you wear. Your grooming completes the aesthetic—and yes, even your winter nail game matters in 2025.
For women leaning into the old money style, avoid flashy nail art or neon colors. Instead, opt for:
- Ballet pink
- Creamy nude
- Deep burgundy
- Forest green
- Soft pearl white
Keep nails short to medium-length, filed into a soft square or almond shape. Bonus tip? Match your winter nail to your outerwear palette for a chic, polished finish.
Layered Looks: Winter Styling With Old Money Flair
Winter is prime time to showcase layering skills, and the old money aesthetic thrives here. Layering isn’t just for function—it’s a form of art that shows you know how to dress.
Women’s Winter Must-Haves:
- Wool trench or pea coat
- Turtlenecks under blazers
- Cashmere scarves tucked into coats
- Riding boots paired with leggings and tailored coats
Men’s Winter Must-Haves:
- Overcoats in camel, navy, or charcoal
- Layered vests under wool coats
- Patterned socks peeking under trousers
- Wool or corduroy pants for added texture
Whether you’re heading to a ski lodge or a city stroll, these looks elevate your presence—silently. That’s the essence of the old money look.
Avoiding the Faux-Luxury Trap: What Old Money Style Isn’t
As old money fashion becomes trendier, so does the temptation to fake the look using fast fashion. But true old money outfits are never about mimicking—they’re about meaning. That’s why understanding what old money style isn’t is just as important as knowing what it is.
Old Money Isn’t:
- Loud logos or monogram prints
- Hyper-trendy accessories like metallic microbags or viral TikTok shoes
- Cheap fabrics pretending to be luxe (polyester “silk,” acrylic “cashmere”)
- Disposable trends—like excessive cut-outs or “Instagram dresses”
True old money look means wearing something that could’ve been your mother’s or something your daughter would still want to borrow in ten years. It’s a relationship with fashion, not a fling.
Tailoring: The Unsung Hero of the Old Money Look
Want to elevate your style instantly? Visit a tailor. It doesn’t matter if your blazer is from Zara or Max Mara—if it fits perfectly, it looks expensive. Old money style women and men rely on tailoring to make everything seem bespoke.
What to Tailor:
- Blazers: Take in at the waist, hem sleeves to wrist
- Trousers: Ensure clean breaks at the ankle
- Shirts: Slim the waist for a more structured profile
- Skirts: Adjust hemline to hit your most flattering point (usually just above or below the knee)
Tailoring is the difference between looking “well-dressed” and looking born into a country estate.
Mixing In Modern Staples: Old Meets New
Contrary to what some think, the old money aesthetic doesn’t reject all things modern—it simply integrates them tastefully.
Take influencers like Paige DeSorbo, for example. Her feed is filled with timeless staples updated with modern fits or accessories. A winter nail in milky nude polish, a relaxed cream pant, an oversized camel coat paired with clean Isabel Marant sneakers—this is how new pieces live inside a classic framework.
Modern Items That Fit the Old Money Mold:
- Minimalist sneakers (like Isabel Marant or Veja)
- Structured leather backpacks in neutral tones
- Updated trench coats in wool or vegan leather
- Chunky gold hoops (quiet, not oversized)
- Cropped tailored trousers for a more current silhouette
The key is restraint. One modern piece per outfit, max. Otherwise, you tip the balance from refined to reactive.
Seasonal Evolution: Old Money Style Through the Year
Fashion is seasonal, but the old money look is seasonless. Still, each time of year offers its own way to express elegance.
Spring/Summer
- White linen pants with silk tank tops
- Espadrilles or soft leather sandals
- Straw hats or silk headscarves
- Pastel blouses and light trench coats
Fall/Winter
- Wool blazers layered over fine knits
- Tall boots with equestrian silhouettes
- Cable-knit sweaters in earth tones
- Coats with velvet or shearling detail
- Subtle winter nail updates like rich chocolate or pearl gray
Remember, the most luxurious wardrobes don’t rotate out trends—they evolve with the season while maintaining a core identity.
Old Money Accessories: Subtle Statements
Accessories can make or break an old money outfit. The trick? Understated quality.
For Women:
- Leather handbags in tan, oxblood, or black (Celine, Polène, Strathberry)
- Silk scarves from Hermès or vintage markets
- Fine jewelry (studs, tennis bracelets, chain necklaces)
- Hair accessories: tortoiseshell clips, black satin bows, or minimalist gold pins
For Men:
- Classic watches: Rolex, Cartier Tank, or simple Seiko
- Leather belts with brushed metal buckles
- Driving gloves or wool scarves in tartan or herringbone
- Sunglasses: Wayfarer or aviator styles with polarized lenses
These pieces carry an air of “I’ve had this forever”—that’s what makes them timeless.
Old Money Grooming and Nails: The Finishing Touch
You might not expect it, but well-kept grooming is part of the old money aesthetic—and your winter nail game is more relevant than you think.
Old Money Grooming Principles:
- Natural over trendy: No overly sculpted brows or neon eyeshadow
- Low-maintenance haircuts: Long layers, bobs, soft curls
- Clean, glowing skin: Preferably from good sleep and facials, not just filters
- Scent: Subtle perfumes and colognes like Chanel No. 5, Dior Homme, or Byredo
Old Money Nail Inspiration (Winter 2025):
- French fade or “baby boomer” nails
- Short oval shapes in muted tones
- Soft gold tips or pearlescent bases
- Deep maroon, chocolate, or inky blue for evening occasions
Winter nails should align with your wardrobe—not compete with it. No rhinestones, no chrome. Understated always wins.
Building the Lifestyle Around the Look
Clothing is just the beginning. The old money style is a full lifestyle—encompassing home décor, hobbies, values, and presentation.
Hallmarks of the Old Money Lifestyle:
- Reading over scrolling: Books by your bedside, not your phone
- Tennis, sailing, golf over trend-based workouts
- Private dinners over public stunts
- Vintage over disposable: furniture, fashion, even cars
- Politeness and posture: Often unspoken signs of heritage
Even your home should echo the vibe—neutral palettes, wood furniture, art collected over time, not mass-produced prints.
If you want the old money look, live with intention.
Old Money Aesthetic Mans: Social Signals & Confidence
Back to men’s fashion. Dressing the old money aesthetic mans way is less about looking rich and more about looking grounded.
Confidence comes from not needing to prove anything.
Behavior That Matches the Style:
- Speaks when necessary, listens more
- No flaunting of wealth or wins
- Keeps routines and rituals (morning reads, evening walks)
- Is never rushed or flustered—at least not visibly
- Engages in art, music, literature—not just pop culture
If you wear a $2,000 coat but check your phone every 10 seconds and slouch in every chair, the illusion breaks. The old money look is about congruence between who you are and what you wear.
Sustainable Style: Why Old Money Fashion Lasts
Finally, let’s talk ethics. The world is catching on to sustainable fashion, but old money style has practiced it for decades. Why?
Because it’s built on longevity, not novelty.
- Fewer pieces, better quality
- Tailored to fit, never discarded after one wear
- Pieces repaired, passed down, and restyled
- Neutral palettes that resist seasonal trend traps
- Thrift and vintage shopping, long before it was cool
So yes, the old money outfits may cost more upfront—but they last longer, age better, and create less waste. A true luxury in 2025.
Next, we’ll wrap up this guide by exploring how to build your own signature look within the old money aesthetic, how to shop smart (on any budget), and how to project elegance in any situation—whether you’re in Isabel Marant sneakers or a tailored coat. Let me know when you’re ready for the final segment.
Crafting Your Signature Look: Personalizing the Old Money Aesthetic
Now that we’ve covered wardrobe essentials, grooming, and seasonal styling, it’s time to bring everything together. The beauty of the old money look is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all formula. It’s a blueprint you can personalize based on your body type, lifestyle, and personal story.
How to Start:
- Pick a Core Color Palette
Stick to five to six base colors—think navy, camel, cream, olive, white, and charcoal. This makes it easy to mix and match pieces effortlessly. - Define Your Daily Uniform
Are you a trousers-and-sweater person? Or are you more blazer-and-jeans? Find a silhouette that flatters and makes you feel confident. - Add One Statement Piece Per Look
That could be Isabel Marant sneakers, a vintage brooch, or a structured handbag. The goal is subtle elegance, not flash. - Stick to Three Accessories Max
Minimalism is king. If you’re wearing pearl earrings, you don’t need a stack of bracelets. If your coat is belted and bold, skip the scarf.
How to Shop Old Money on Any Budget
Old money doesn’t mean you need a trust fund to dress the part. It means you shop like someone who cares about longevity, not logos.
Smart Shopping Strategies:
- Thrift & Consignment Stores
These are goldmines for wool coats, silk blouses, and cashmere knits. Look for brands like Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Max Mara, or vintage Loro Piana. - Outlet Shopping
Visit designer outlets where tailoring and high-quality materials are available at half the price. - Invest in Tailoring
A $40 thrifted blazer can look like a $500 piece after alterations. - Buy Off-Season
Want a timeless old money dress? Buy in February when retailers slash winter prices—or in August for summer staples. - Rent for Events
Services like Rent the Runway allow you to wear luxury without owning it. Ideal for weddings, galas, or first impressions.
Remember, it’s not about quantity. It’s about intentionality. A woman in a $200 coat that fits perfectly and pairs with everything looks wealthier than someone in a closet full of chaotic fast fashion.
Creating the Mood: Old Money Is a Lifestyle
Fashion is just one expression of the old money aesthetic. To truly live the look, your presence, space, and habits should align.
Interior Vibes:
- Muted color schemes: Ivory, sage, navy, walnut wood
- Books over gadgets: Display novels, art books, or classics
- Vintage details: Candlesticks, brass mirrors, china sets
- Quality linens: Think monogrammed towels or Egyptian cotton sheets
Even your desk or vanity setup can reflect the aesthetic—especially during winter. A tray of curated perfumes, a few designer lipsticks, and a neatly filed journal creates the same calming richness of a well-planned outfit.
Influencers Who Embody the Aesthetic
We’ve talked about Paige DeSorbo—her Instagram a blend of casual luxe, monochromatic dressing, and model-off-duty polish. But here are a few more tastemakers to follow for old money style women inspiration:
For Women:
- Matilda Djerf: Scandinavian take on timeless silhouettes
- Leonie Hanne: Modern opulence with a restrained hand
- Brittany Bathgate: A minimalist fashion blogger with subtle elegance
- Sophie Roe: Soft, neutral looks that still feel powerful
For Men:
- Maxwell Osborne: Modern tailoring with an old soul
- David Gandy: The definition of sharp, British refinement
- Chris John Millington: Merges old-school masculinity with artful dressing
The best thing? None of these people try too hard. They let the clothes and posture speak volumes.
Event Styling: How to Read the Room Like Old Money
Whether you’re heading to a work dinner, cocktail party, gallery opening, or formal wedding, adapting the old money style is about reading the tone—then dressing just one level above.
Formal Event Tips:
- Women: Choose a structured old money dress with minimal jewelry. Black, cream, or burgundy always wins.
- Men: Go for a double-breasted blazer or shawl lapel tux. Polish your shoes. Style your hair with intention.
- Keep your winter nails classic—a soft almond in muted tones like oxblood, rose-beige, or gray-blue.
Business Settings:
- Neutral tones, tailored separates
- Closed-toe shoes, minimal makeup
- A leather-bound notebook over a flashy laptop case
Old money style is about presence—when you walk into the room, you command attention without shouting for it.
Styling Tips for the Old Money Aesthetic Mans
Men looking to perfect the old money aesthetic mans look should think in layers and legacy.
Key Style Habits:
- Seasonal switches: Tweed and corduroy for fall/winter; linen and cotton for spring/summer
- Grooming: Think Cary Grant—clean shaven or well-kept stubble, with a subtle signature cologne
- Layering: Sweaters over shirts, coats over blazers, never rushed, always thoughtful
- Posture and poise: Walk like you’ve inherited land, even if you haven’t
The old money style for men hinges on self-respect and awareness. It’s not just fashion. It’s a mindset.
Timeless Elegance, Your Way
So, where does this leave us? With a wardrobe of impeccably chosen pieces, nails that whisper luxury, shoes like Isabel Marant sneakers that balance comfort and style, and role models like Paige DeSorbo showing us how to elevate without overcomplicating.
Whether you’re pulling on your winter trench or sipping espresso in tortoiseshell sunglasses, remember:
- Old money style isn’t reserved for those born into privilege
- It’s about treating yourself with intention
- It’s about quality, heritage, simplicity, and substance
- It’s about saying more with less—less branding, less chaos, more clarity
And most of all, it’s about how you carry yourself. That quiet confidence. That polished ease.
Because in the end, true style—old money or otherwise—has always been about knowing who you are.
