Old Money Trend
“Old money” is one of the biggest social media trends of recent years. And even though it's been around for a while, it's still going strong. Old money outfit ideas, old money aesthetics, old money vibes, you name it. But what is the idea behind it, where did the trend come from?
Old Money vs. New Money
The concept of old money dates back to the rise of wealthy aristocratic and noble families, particularly in Europe. These families often held their wealth for centuries, and their money and lifestyle were passed down through generations - making them (at some point) "old money". The opposite was new money: people who had become rich through recent success. While old money was and is often associated with a more modest approach, new money is said to be more boastful and ostentatious, as these people are not used to being wealthy and keeping that wealth over time.
Obviously you can’t lump everyone together and these are are mainly cliches. “Old money” usually displays a lot of wealth as well - just in a different way. The videos and pictures on social media associated with old money, portrait a way of living that we all know is expensive.
A quick side note before we take a closer look at the trend and what's typically "old money". Old money is sometimes criticised for having its origins in historical exploitation and inherited privilege. And you could do a lot of research on this, but while I think it's important to mention this aspect, it's not what this blog post is about.
Old Money style and why I am a fan of the trend
The Old Money style and outfits are what made the trend huge some time ago. It's not really surprising that after a phase of more colourful styles and lots of logos, a trend has emerged that emphasises the opposite aspects. Along with "quiet luxury", "old money" has become the term to describe a style that focuses on classic and timeless fashion choices that are of high quality. The looks are more understated and sophisticated.
Although I never really use the term on social media to describe my style, the trend is something I like. Not necessarily because my personal style is suddenly a trend, but because it focuses on aspects that I consider important: buying less but better, buying more timeless pieces that can be worn for a long time, buying better materials. The old money style (done in a good way) is actually a very sustainable approach to fashion. So I really hope that all the people who currently love the style will continue to do so, even if the trend starts to fade.
How to dress in old money and what to avoid
If you want to dress Old Money style, the following list is for you:
Don't follow trends, build a wardrobe of timeless and classic pieces
Simple cuts and more neutral colours are the way to go as they are not as susceptible to “trend-fluctuations”
Follow the "less but better" approach, invest in high quality items
Look at the material of an item: cotton, linen, silk or wool are always good choices.
Wear an outfit that is suitable for the situation you are dressing for
Tip: try shopping pre-loved. Not only is it more sustainable and can save you money, but often the items are of higher quality and more unique. Also Logos seem to be less prominent for example on vintage leather bags.
However, there are a few things you should pay attention to if you want to avoid looking like a cosplayer. If you overdo it, your whole look will look like a costume. Sometimes you see outfits online where people are wearing twin sets with beads for example or wearing “old money” outfits that are just not suitable for a situation, which kind of makes them look like a walking cliché. Of course, if you love it - go for it. But this is not really the understated look most people go for when they want to dress old money.
And last but not least: in the end you should really wear things that align with your true style. You will not feel good in your outfits if you wear something just because it’s a trend. If you love the trend but your true style is different, maybe try just mixing in certain pieces but don’t go all in.
Here are a few examples of what I would consider “old money”. Simple but elevated outfits and pieces, appropriate for the occasion.
A few final thoughts on the old money trend
As much as I can see the good in this trend, and as much as I've enjoyed this style since before I first heard the term, at the end of the day it's just a trend that will eventually go away. Of course, I hope that a lot of people will continue to wear this style and actually put into practice the idea of a long-lasting and timeless wardrobe - because it's not only budget-friendly, but also sustainable.
I also think we love to name certain aesthetics and vibes because it makes them more fun and entertaining on social media, and that is fine. But old money dressing should always be about style and not about wanting to be perceived as old money. It's not important and being old money doesn't make one better than everyone else.
And a final interesting aspect of these trends is "escapism". By embracing these curated environments, people can transport themselves to places that resonate with personal happiness or success, but that is definitely a completely different topic, just an interesting thing to think about.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this trend and style in the comments.
Love, Alice