Hate the name, love the style: how to embrace “quiet luxury.” One of the trends I’ve been seeing at the retail level is a style that’s actually quite classic.
Often dubbed the “old money aesthetic,” it’s an aesthetic that embraces comfort and relaxation, while still looking put-together. For those of us who prefer simple, timeless styles, accessories can make the difference between an outfit that’s just OK and one that sings.
Today I’m going to share some easy tips to help you accessorize with less effort and more confidence.
What Exactly Is The “Old Money” Aesthetic?
So before we get into the outfits, let’s break down what this is all about.
The old money style isn’t about showing off designer names or jumping on every single TikTok trend. The whole point is to look effortlessly chic, like you inherited your amazing closet and impeccable taste from a super stylish grandma.
I’m thinking of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s simple elegance and those off-duty Princess Diana looks that are still total goals today. It’s that kind of easy polish that seriously never goes out of style.
The Old Money Style Rules
Nailing this aesthetic is actually pretty simple if you follow these key rules:
1.Quality Over Quantity
- Put your money into timeless items that will last.
- Really focus on amazing fabrics and a great fit.
- Always go for classic pieces over trendy ones.
2.Neutral Territory
- Build your wardrobe around timeless colors like brown, navy, cream, beige, and white.
- You can add in some subtle heritage colors like burgundy or hunter green.
- I love a good tone-on-tone layered look.
3. Details Matter
- Looking pressed and pristine is a must.
- Keep jewelry subtle. Think pearl studs instead of huge statement necklaces.
- Amazing grooming is totally part of the whole look.
Now, let’s get to the fun part—the outfits!
1. The Upper Crust Summer
I am obsessed with this perfect balance of texture and simplicity. That cream cable-knit vest gives off just the right amount of heritage charm, but the sleek black pencil skirt makes everything feel so modern.
The gold accessories and classic Chanel bag are a great reminder that true luxury is all in the details. This is seriously sophisticated summer dressing done right.
2. The Modern Audrey
There is something so captivating about how this outfit plays with proportions. The cream off-shoulder top has this architectural fold that brings a modern vibe to a classic look.
Paired with that floor-sweeping black skirt and a perfectly placed belt, it creates a silhouette that feels both timeless and so current. And that structured brown bag? It adds the perfect little touch of personality.
3. The Riviera Ready
This is exactly how you pull off a polished, casual look. The powder blue button-down is tucked just right into some crisp white trousers, creating that easy-breezy summer sophistication.
I love the striped jumper draped over the shoulders—it’s pure coastal elegance. The Saint Laurent belt and the structured black bag totally elevate this outfit from just classic to quietly luxurious.
4. Academic Elegance
Here’s a perfect example of when academic style meets an elevated vibe. The layering is just impeccable—that camel coat is draped perfectly over a grey blazer, and it’s all grounded by some amazing trousers. It’s giving smart quiet luxury, and I am totally here for it.
5. The New Power Suit
This is such a masterful take on power dressing that feels both timeless and fresh. The cream pinstripe suit gets a cool, unexpected twist with that perfectly placed tie and the cropped layering.
It’s proof that corporate style doesn’t have to be boring. This is basically confidence in an outfit, without looking like you’re trying too hard.
6. The Monochrome Maven
This is the perfect way to do quiet luxury in winter white. The cream coat dress makes such an elegant silhouette, and the slim slingback heels add a super refined touch.
That structured brown tote brings in the perfect contrast. Notice how its clean lines work with the whole look instead of competing with it. So good.
7. The Avenue Ingenue
A crisp white shirt paired with tailored khaki shorts is such a perfect balance of polished and relaxed. And those chunky loafers with the ankle socks? It’s a fun, unexpected twist that makes the look feel super current while still having that heritage appeal. I love it!
8. Winter White Refinement
This is how you do heritage dressing for 2025. The cream bouclé coat is so chic with its architectural buttons, and that artfully tied silk scarf adds the perfect amount of Upper East Side polish.
The quilted Chanel bag is just the cherry on top of this totally amazing look.
9. The Upper East Side Rebel
The sharp black blazer goes so unexpectedly well with that romantic tulle skirt, and the white shirt just grounds the whole thing in classic style. It’s such a refreshing way to do power dressing and proves that heritage looks can have a playful side. So cute!
10. Modern Manor House
This is a really clever take on classic tennis club style, but reimagined for the city. The puff sleeve blouse with the contrast trim adds a little bit of drama, while those flowy trousers keep it all feeling super elegant.
It’s traditional with a fun twist, which is exactly what modern luxury should be about.
11. Executive Suite
Here’s proof that workwear can be both commanding and creative. I love how the rich chocolate silk shirt looks with the sharp black trousers. The proportions are just interesting enough to make people notice in the boardroom. It’s professional dressing, but way more fun.
12. The Evening Edit
This is such a brilliant way to play with traditional pieces. The textured white knit paired with a checked mini skirt creates a cool conversation between classic and contemporary. And the oversized blazer, draped just right, adds some architectural interest while still being super sophisticated.
13. The Academic Aesthetic
I love this sophisticated spin on collegiate style. The brown pinafore dress layered over a classic white shirt makes for such an intentional, polished silhouette.
The camel coat draped over the shoulders completely elevates the entire look from just scholarly to super chic. It’s preppy with a purpose, and I’m a big fan.
14. The Amalfi Afternoon
Pictured at a chic Italian café, this look is the definition of refined leisure. The cream polo has a navy trim that pairs perfectly with the high-waisted cream trousers, creating a really considered silhouette.
The brown leather belt adds some structure but still keeps the whole outfit feeling easy and relaxed.
15. The Heritage Classic
This chocolate leather coat is just peak luxury. The rich cognac color feels both heritage-inspired and totally modern, and the matching canvas tote shows a real appreciation for that subtle sophistication.
Layered over navy and a crisp white, it makes for a look that’s powerful but still approachable.
How to Build Your Old Money Wardrobe on a Budget
Let’s be real—most of us don’t have a trust fund to work with. But don’t worry, here’s how you can get the look without the legacy:
Invest Strategically
- Save your money for key items (like a blazer, shoes, or a bag).
- You can thrift some high-quality basics.
- Check out consignment shops in wealthier areas for some hidden gems.
Focus on Fit
- Set aside a little budget for tailoring.
- Pick out pieces that you know flatter your body type.
- Learn some basic tricks for clothing maintenance.
Master the Mix
- Try building a capsule wardrobe.
- Choose items that are super versatile.
- Stick to a consistent color palette to make mixing and matching easier.
The Bottom Line
Just remember, rocking the old money aesthetic isn’t about how much money you spend—it’s all about how you put everything together.
Focus on those classic pieces, impeccable upkeep, and that subtle sophistication. With these outfit ideas and tips, you’ll be serving up trust fund vibes even on a savings account budget!
Time to hit up those consignment shops and start building your own heritage-worthy closet. And hey, if anyone asks where you spend your summers… just give them a mysterious smile and sip your spritzer!