Old Money is an aesthetic that has always been popular, however it has really taken over the internet these past few years.

Description of style:
The “old money” aesthetic is inspired by clothing worn by the rich, specifically those with “old money.” The style dates back to the mid 20th century and was generationally worn by the wealthy. The rich displayed their expensive class by dressing a certain way. The western elite, especially Americans, have been dressing in this fashion for decades to their country clubs and soirrées while calling it “preppy.” However, during quarantine, our generation popularized it for everyone, and coined the name ‘old money’ since ‘preppy’ turned into neons and Aviator Nation worn by preteens. Now “old money” is grouped with the generic internet aesthetics such as cottage-core, goth, indie, coquette, preppy and more.

Old money Icons:

An old money icon from the past is Audrey Hepburn. Hepburn has starred in a countless number of movies, where old money is showcased through Hepburn’s characters. “Roman Holiday,” “Sabrina,” and most famous, “Breakfast At Tiffany’s,” are all perfect examples of movies with the old money style. Hepburn’s characters are always dressed from head to toe in luxury.

Although old money can be worn by anyone, it has a strong connection to ‘American royalty,’ specifically the Kennedy’s, family of the President John F. Kennedy. With their New England upbringing, Ivy League education and political presence, the Kennedy’s are a perfect representation of class and sophistication. Their styles differ through members and decades, for instance, Jackie Kennedy’s bright colors and Chanel sets from the 60’s, JFK’s fashionable, but humble suits he wore in office, and Carolyn Bessinette-Kennedy’s chic minimalism of the 90’s. However, each icon of the family shares a natural talent of elegance through their clothes.

“Gossip Girl,” a TV show, is the epitome of the old money aesthetic. New York generational wealth families living their lives on the Upper East Side is all you need to know to be able to imagine their style. The three characters who have the most old money style are icons Blair Waldorf, Lily van der Woodsen and Chuck Bass. They are always in preppy couture, and they pull it off every time. Their style matches their rich personalities and brings their whole character to life.

A more recent icon for our generation is Lily-Rose Depp, daughter of actor Johnny Depp. She became popular on the internet in 2021 around the time that the old money aesthetic arose on TikTok, Pinterest and Instagram. LR. Depp’s style is quite luxurious as well as girly and simple. Her signature look is cherry red Repetto ballet flats paired with straight jeans or a skirt.

How to dress old money:

While we obviously can’t all have the lifestyle of the American royalty who inspired the old money aesthetic, it actually isn’t too hard to dress this way. Of course designer pieces, like a Burberry skirt or Ralph Lauren sweater, elevate a look to be more sophisticated, but you can thrift or buy replicas of name-brand items, making this style a little more achievable on a budget. Old money is simply very traditional clothing — skirts and dresses, even in sports. Some other staples are ballet flats, mary janes, plaid, loafers and cardigans. A typical old money outfit includes neutrals with pops of pinks, reds and blues.

A part of the old money look is to seem very sophisticated. This is conveyed through the aesthetic’s blacks and beiges that aren’t too loud or distracting. One can also accessorize with delicate jewelry, headbands, gloves and dainty watches. Hair also plays a big role in the old money style to appear put together. This can include a blowout, bouncy curls from rollers, a french braid, french twist or half-up-half-down hairdo — essentially anything that is frizz-less and feminine.

Old money Pinterest board link