Hope This Helps | Old Money

 Hello Everyone!

Welcome back to the blog! I hope you are doing amazing. First, I apologize for being away for so long. I have had my own priorities in real life. I think I'm starting to post more on Thursdays, but let's not make that an official post date. It's time for another edition of Hope This Helps, where I break down styles and aesthetics and teach you how to get the look. This time we are going over the Old Money aesthetic, which has held its popularity for quite some time. If you like the aesthetic and want to look the part, I got you. Grad a refreshing drink and get comfortable.

If you've been on the internet in the past two years, you've likely encountered the term "Old Money" circulating. Old Money is a broad term used to describe the visual aesthetics of those with generational wealth. It typically refers to the characteristic vibes of wealthy Europeans and sometimes Americans. The visuals are well put together, seamless, and very neat. It opposes New Money, which is often portrayed as loud, gaudy, maximal, and some may say, tacky. 

I will save you the boring rant about how I don't like the Old Money aesthetic, how it plays into classism and elitist conversations, how I think rich people lack taste, blah blah blah. All of this is purely for fun. I assume that if you're here reading this article you want to learn how to dress like Old Money. Maybe you want to look like the heir to a multi-million corporation, or a nepo baby on her way to Nice to "find herself". 

What's in a label?

Starting off with labels, a principle in the Old Money aesthetic is that you don't need to convince others that you are wealthy. In a time where designers are slapping their name and logo on every inch of a purse, belt, or piece of furniture, you should do the opposite. Instead of yelling to prove itself, true luxury is soft spoken because it will be heard either way. Try to stay away from pieces that are saturated with brand names or anything that's too flashy. 

 Money talks...

Money talks, but wealth whispers. To piggyback off the previous point, nobody cares how much you spent on a Versace shirt. A $500 shirt can be tacky the same way a $50 shirt can be stylish. Just because it's designer doesn't mean it looks good. Certain brands are notorious for creating such abominations that people eat up because of who the designer is. (Gucci, Fendi, Balenciaga, imo) Look for pieces that are stylish on their own without needing to know who designed it. Those who know will know. 

Keep it clean (and neat)

Think of every public figure you've seen. Have you ever seen them wear something that didn't fit quite right, or hung weird on their body, or didn't compliment their body shape? No. That's because they get their clothing tailored. Your clothing should look like it was made for you, even if it isn't a custom made piece. I cannot stress this enough. It doesn't matter what you have, if it isn't in good condition it's going to ruin the look. Please make sure you take good care of your pieces. Iron your shirt, clean your shoes, keep your things in the same condition you received them in. Not only does it make your appearance look better, but it gives the energy that you own good quality clothing that you can afford to maintain. 

Time & Place

Finally, you should where and when an occasion calls for a certain style. There may come a time when you're doing business with a partner company overseas and you need to know which suit to wear, because it will say a lot about you. (An English cut would be best btw, it makes you look powerful.) Or perhaps, you're about to go on a date with an art collector and you need to know what heels are best for brunch and walking along the streets of Rome. Maybe you're about to spend time in St. Moritz, so you must know what all the other rich kids are wearing so you can stay ahead of the curve and out dress them all. I'm not saying you need to study fashion trends. I'm saying pay attention to attire and how you'll be perceived. The goal is to give the vibe of an it-girl with well known parents, not an inexperienced social climber who's way in over her head. 

That was a lot to cover, but now you'll learn how to build an Old Money wardrobe. I'll keep this part simple.

Clothing

Tops, bottoms, and dresses can be kept simple. You would want something in good quality, and looks clean and fresh. If you look on Instagram or Pinterest, you'll see that a lot of staple clothing in Old Money is neutral, usually in varying shades of white or brown. I think that is the easiest way to build a wardrobe, but don't be afraid to add some color. Navy blue gives me Old Money vibes for some reason. Blouses, button ups, and polo shirts are a good place to start. Ralph Lauren was my first thought for creating an Old Money wardrobe. If you wear suits invest in a good suit. Again, I don't think you can go wrong with an English cut, but American or Italian is also fine. 

Because of its roots and inspiration, the Old Money aesthetic can lean conservative, so try to pick modest cuts of clothing. Depending on the occasion, you won't need to show much leg or arm. Furthermore, avoid anything that is too tight. Sometimes it's okay to give an hourglass moment, other times it's not appropriate. For skirts and dresses, try to avoid going above the knee or high slits. Vests, sweaters, shawls, blazers, and cardigans are perfect for this style. 

Shoes & Accessories

Do not get anything too loud or distracting for shoes. Ideally, you would want shoes that are sturdy and made well even if you aren't doing a lot of walking or manual labor. If you want a heel, I wouldn't go too high. Even a 5-inch may be pushing it. Usually, you will see closed-toe heels in Old Money but there's no rule against open-toe. Flats, loafers, mules, oxfords, Sperry's, and derbys are good shoe choices. I would suggest looking into brands that make good sneakers, but I don't think sneakers are often worn outside of sports and fitness in this particular style. 

For accessories, think stylish, and only that. You don't need to carry around a large tote or mom purse. Clutches, handbags, and small shoulder or cross-body bags are fine. Keep jewelry minimal and simple. Bonus points if you're wearing an antique or something that hasn't even been released yet. 

Makeup & Hair

Going back to my point about Old Money leaning conservative, keep makeup on the natural side. A simple red lip or wing isn't doing too much, but save it for formal occasions. The "no makeup" makeup look would be best. With hair, you want to stick with your natural hair color, or at least something that looks natural. A blowout is probably the best hairstyle you can have. Maybe a bob (look up an old money bob, it's heavenly) or updo as well. If you want inspo, look into the hairstyles that were popular in the late 90s. 

And there you have it, everyone! This was very fun to research and curate. As always, I hope you enjoyed reading. Let me know what you think about the Old Money aesthetic. Does it vibe with you? Is there anything you would suggest that I haven't mentioned? What other styles would you like me to explain? Let me know in the comments or over on Instagram. 

xoxo,

Scarlette