How to Dress Like Old Money: A Timeless Guide to Refined Style
In a world filled with fleeting fashion trends and fast consumerism, the "old money" aesthetic has resurfaced as a symbol of refined taste, understated luxury, and timeless elegance. But dressing like old money isn’t about flaunting logos or following fads — it’s about investing in quality, curating a clean look, and exuding confidence without saying a word.
If you’re ready to elevate your wardrobe and channel classic aristocratic elegance, here’s a complete guide on how to dress like old money — from essential fabrics to must-have outfit pieces.
What Is the “Old Money” Aesthetic?
The old money look draws inspiration from generational wealth, European aristocracy, and Ivy League fashion. Think tailored blazers, cashmere sweaters, neutral palettes, and heritage fabrics — all worn effortlessly.
Unlike “new money” fashion (which leans flashy and trend-driven), old money style whispers luxury. It’s quiet confidence through carefully chosen pieces that last for years, not seasons.
Core Principles of Old Money Style
Before diving into specific outfits, keep these timeless principles in mind:
-
Quality over Quantity: Fewer items, better materials.
-
Neutral Color Palette: Navy, beige, white, olive, charcoal.
-
Classic Cuts: Slim, tailored, and never oversized or flashy.
-
Subtle Details: Monograms, horn buttons, fine stitching — never logos.
Old money style is less about showing off and more about self-respect through refined dressing.
Key Fabrics of Old Money Fashion
Understanding fabrics is crucial. High-quality materials elevate even the simplest outfits:
Linen
Why Linen Feels as Good as It Looks
Linen isn’t just a fabric — it’s an experience. Woven from the flax plant, linen is one of the oldest and most luxurious materials in fashion. It’s naturally lightweight, breathable, and softens beautifully over time, adapting to your body and lifestyle.
When you wear linen, you feel cool in the heat, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties. It lets your skin breathe, making it the perfect choice for warm climates, resort wear, or elegant summer outings.
But beyond comfort, linen looks effortlessly refined. Its subtle texture, soft drape, and muted elegance give your outfit a relaxed yet tailored finish — the signature of true old money style. A linen blazer or button-down says you understand quality, but you’re never trying too hard.
Whether you're walking along the coast or attending a garden dinner, linen brings quiet confidence and timeless charm to your wardrobe.
Cashmere
The Quiet Luxury of Cashmere
There’s luxury — and then there’s cashmere. Known as the crown jewel of knitwear, cashmere is prized for its unmatched softness, lightweight warmth, and sophisticated elegance.
Harvested from the undercoat of cashmere goats, this rare fiber is eight times warmer than wool, yet far lighter. It glides across the skin without irritation, making it a perfect companion for those who value comfort as much as class. When you wear cashmere, it’s not just about staying warm — it’s about feeling elevated.
Visually, cashmere speaks in a whisper. No shine, no flash — just a matte richness that complements the minimalist, old money aesthetic. A well-fitted cashmere pullover or scarf adds effortless polish, turning a simple outfit into a refined statement.
Cashmere isn’t seasonal — it’s eternal. A properly cared-for piece becomes softer with time, turning into an heirloom you’ll reach for year after year.
Wool (Tweed, Merino)
The Heritage Strength of Wool: Tweed & Merino
Wool is more than just a cold-weather staple — it's the fabric of tradition, tailored sophistication, and enduring quality. In the world of timeless fashion, two types stand out: Tweed and Merino.
Tweed: The Gentleman’s Armor
Born in the British countryside, tweed is rugged, refined, and unmistakably classic. Woven with a distinct texture and earthy color palette, it tells a story of heritage — think hunting estates, ivy-covered manors, and slow Sunday walks.
Tweed is naturally wind- and water-resistant, making it the perfect choice for blazers, overcoats, and structured jackets that exude old-world charm. When you wear tweed, you’re not just dressing well — you’re stepping into a legacy.
Merino: Soft Sophistication
Merino wool, on the other hand, is known for its silky softness and breathable warmth. It adapts to your body’s temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool indoors. Fine enough to wear against the skin, it’s ideal for sweaters, turtlenecks, and scarves — polished essentials that work seamlessly from day to night.
Merino drapes cleanly without bulk, offering a clean, luxurious silhouette perfect for layering under a blazer or wearing solo with linen trousers.
Why Wool Wins
Unlike synthetic blends, wool is natural, biodegradable, and built to last. It resists wrinkles, holds its shape, and adds a textured richness to any outfit — the kind of quiet depth that defines the old money aesthetic.
Cotton (Piqué, Oxford)
The Everyday Luxury of Cotton: Piqué & Oxford
Cotton is often underestimated — but when crafted with intention and woven with precision, it becomes a cornerstone of timeless, elevated style. Two weaves in particular define classic menswear: Piqué and Oxford.
Oxford: Effortless Refinement
The Oxford weave is synonymous with heritage and preppy sophistication. Thicker than your average cotton, yet soft to the touch, Oxford fabric brings structure and weight to casual shirting without ever feeling stiff.
An Oxford shirt pairs effortlessly with everything from linen trousers to a tweed blazer. It’s the definition of relaxed formality — crisp enough for dinners or meetings, laid-back enough for weekend escapes.
Piqué: Understated Structure
Used primarily in polo shirts, piqué cotton features a subtle textured weave that adds both visual depth and breathability. Originally designed for sport, it now symbolizes elevated leisure — a go-to for those who appreciate quiet polish in their off-duty wardrobe.
A piqué polo, when fitted well, frames the shoulders, defines the torso, and brings an air of confidence without shouting for attention. It’s a favorite among those who understand that minimalism is a luxury in itself.
Why Cotton Matters
Unlike synthetic materials, cotton is natural, breathable, and dependable. Whether worn under a blazer or on its own, it’s a fabric that speaks to comfort, durability, and refined ease. When chosen in the right weave, it becomes a blank canvas for effortless elegance.
Men’s Old Money Style Guide
Here’s a breakdown of essential wardrobe pieces and how to style them:
1. Tailored Blazer
-
Fabric: Tweed, wool, or linen
-
Fit: Slim but not tight; unstructured shoulders
-
Pair With: White Oxford shirt, pleated chinos, suede loafers
Avoid shiny or synthetic fabrics — keep it matte and textured.
2. Linen Trousers or Chinos
-
Colors: Beige, cream, navy
-
Fit: Straight or slightly tapered
-
Style Tip: Cuff the hem for a refined, lived-in look
Old money trousers drape naturally and never cling.
3. Oxford or Piqué Polo Shirts
-
Fabric: Heavier cotton for structure
-
Colors: White, navy, olive, or dusty pastels
-
Tuck or Untuck?: Tuck in for dinners or formal occasions; untucked for resort or yacht wear
Layer with a light sweater over the shoulders (never tied too tightly).
4. Loafers or Driving Shoes
-
Material: Suede or leather
-
Color: Cognac, chestnut, dark brown
-
Brand Style: Minimal branding, handmade if possible
Socks are optional. If worn, go with invisible or neutral-toned dress socks.
5. Knitted Sweaters and Cashmere Pullovers
-
Season: Fall/winter essentials
-
Layer Over: Collared shirts or polos
-
Colors: Camel, navy, heather grey
Add a scarf or silk accessory for elevated detail.
Grooming & Accessories: The Finishing Touches
-
Watch: Slim, analog, leather strap or heirloom feel
-
Hair: Well-groomed, side part or cleanly styled
-
Scent: Subtle cologne or natural musk
-
Bag: Leather briefcase or structured tote — not a backpack
Avoid excessive jewelry or flashy sunglasses. Simplicity equals sophistication.
Seasonal Styling Tips
Summer
-
White linen shirts
-
Loafers without socks
-
Straw Panama hat or tortoise-shell sunglasses
Autumn
-
Tweed jackets, wool trousers
-
Darker color palette (olive, navy, burgundy)
-
Leather gloves and structured coats
Old money styling adapts to season — but never abandons the core.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Logomania: Big brands kill the mystique.
-
Too Trendy: Skinny jeans, chunky sneakers — not part of this aesthetic.
-
Over-accessorizing: Let the quality speak for itself.
-
Wrinkled Clothes: Keep linen lightly pressed and trousers neat.
Shop the Look at Fernache
At Fernache, we specialize in old money-inspired clothing that blends timeless elegance with modern precision. Our pieces are crafted using natural fabrics, tailored fits, and subdued colors — the foundation of a quietly luxurious wardrobe.
Browse our collections to find:
-
Tailored linen blazers
Why You Should Own the Airy Linen Pants from Fernache
Timeless, tailored, and impossibly comfortable — the Airy Linen Pants from Fernache are a modern interpretation of classic Riviera style. Designed for those who appreciate quiet luxury, these trousers are crafted from breathable, high-grade linen that softens beautifully over time.
Here’s why they belong in your wardrobe:
-
Naturally Lightweight: Made for warm climates and refined comfort, these trousers offer airflow without sacrificing structure.
-
Old Money Fit: A clean, straight cut that drapes effortlessly — never clingy, never sloppy.
-
Elevated Versatility: Pair them with an Oxford shirt for dinner or a polo for a day by the coast.
-
Heritage Look, Modern Ease: Subtle texture, minimal branding, and a refined silhouette for everyday elegance.
These are not fast-fashion pants. They're an investment in timeless taste — and a perfect foundation for building your old money wardrobe.
👉 Explore the Airy Linen Pants at Fernache
-
Structured cotton trousers
-
Cashmere blend knitwear
-
Timeless essentials that elevate your daily wear
Every piece at Fernache is designed to make you look confident, feel refined, and dress with purpose — without saying a word.
👉 Explore the Collection at Fernache.com
Final Thoughts
Dressing like old money isn’t about wealth — it’s about taste, restraint, and confidence. By investing in key fabrics, neutral tones, and refined tailoring, you can elevate your personal style and project a sense of timeless class.
Whether you’re strolling the Riviera or heading to a casual business lunch, mastering the old money aesthetic ensures you’ll always stand out — quietly.