When we think of “old money,” we imagine classic elegance, quiet luxury, and timeless style. Old money fashion is about subtlety and sophistication. It’s all about high-quality materials, fine tailoring, and classic designs that never go out of fashion. Many brands have come to symbolize this refined style. In this blog, we will look at some of the most iconic old-money fashion brands and their lasting influence on style.
What is the “Old Money” Style?
“Old money” fashion refers to the style worn by families with long-established wealth. The look is elegant but not flashy. It’s sophisticated but understated. People who wear old money styles avoid trends. Instead, they choose pieces that are timeless and refined.
Old money style focuses on quality. The clothing and accessories are made from the best materials. They are designed to last. The look is polished, but without obvious brand names or logos. The focus is on the quality and craftsmanship of the items.
Why is Old Money Fashion Timeless?
Old-money fashion endures because it’s not about what’s trendy right now. It’s about what’s always in style. The clothes are made to last, using durable fabrics and quality craftsmanship. The designs are simple but elegant. They focus on clean lines and classic shapes. This makes old money style is timeless and always in fashion.
Some old-money Fashion Brands:
1. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren is one of the most famous brands when it comes to old-money fashion. The brand is known for its classic American style. It blends casual and formal elements, making it perfect for the old-money look. Polo shirts, tailored suits, and cashmere sweaters are all staples of the Ralph Lauren collection.
The brand’s small horse logo has become a symbol of understated wealth. Ralph Lauren’s clothing is designed for those who want luxury without being overly flashy. The style is simple, elegant, and practical.
Influence on Style:
Ralph Lauren has helped define preppy fashion. The brand’s designs, such as khakis, blazers, and button-down shirts, are classic old-money pieces. These styles offer luxury with a relaxed touch, making them timeless.
2. Burberry
Burberry is a British brand known for its trench coats and checkered patterns. The iconic Burberry check—beige with red and black—has become instantly recognizable worldwide. Burberry’s pieces are favored by royalty and high society. The brand’s trench coats are stylish and practical, making them a staple in old money style wardrobes.
Founded in 1856, Burberry’s designs have remained classic for generations. Its trench coats are timeless, offering both style and functionality.
Influence on Style:
Burberry is synonymous with classic British elegance. The trench coat, in particular, is a key piece in old money style. It is the perfect example of luxury that is both stylish and useful.
3. Chanel
Chanel, founded by Coco Chanel in 1910, is one of the most famous fashion houses in the world. Chanel is known for its simple yet elegant designs. The little black dress, Chanel No. 5 perfume, and the quilted handbag are all classic examples of old money style.
Chanel changed the way women dressed by creating simple, elegant designs that were comfortable yet fashionable. The brand’s commitment to high-quality materials has helped it stay relevant for over a century.
Influence on Style:
Chanel has had a huge influence on the old money style. The little black dress and the Chanel handbag are symbols of timeless elegance. These pieces never go out of style and remain a favourite among those with refined taste.
4. Hermès
Hermès is a French brand that is synonymous with craftsmanship and luxury. The brand is best known for its leather goods, particularly the Birkin and Kelly bags. These bags have become symbols of wealth and exclusivity.
Founded in 1837, Hermès has always focused on creating products of the highest quality. Its bags are often passed down from generation to generation, adding to the brand’s timeless legacy.
Influence on Style:
Hermès represents old money luxury at its finest. The brand’s bags are seen as heirlooms, passed down through families. The focus on quality craftsmanship and exclusivity make Hermès a key brand in old money fashion.
5. Gucci
Gucci is an Italian luxury brand that has been part of old money style for decades. Founded in 1921, Gucci was originally known for its leather goods. The brand’s handbags, shoes, and belts were associated with wealth and status. Today, Gucci still remains a favorite among high society.
While Gucci has embraced a more modern aesthetic, its classic designs, like the leather bags with the iconic green-red-green stripe, continue to appeal to those with old-money sensibilities.
Influence on Style:
Gucci’s classic designs remain important in old-money styles. The brand’s leather loafers and striped bags are timeless pieces. Gucci combines luxury with practicality, making it a popular choice among those who appreciate both style and quality.
6. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton, known for its famous monogram, is a brand that represents luxury and sophistication. Founded in 1854, Louis Vuitton started as a luggage brand. Today, it offers a wide range of products, including handbags, clothing, and accessories.
The brand’s monogrammed bags are highly recognizable and have become symbols of understated luxury. Louis Vuitton remains a top choice for those seeking classic, durable, and stylish pieces.
Influence on Style:
Louis Vuitton’s monogrammed bags are iconic. They represent luxury that is not overly flashy. The brand’s focus on quality and durability makes it a symbol of timeless elegance in old money style.
7. Prada
Prada is an Italian brand known for its clean, modern designs. Founded in 1913, Prada started with luxury leather goods, and it soon became famous for its bags, shoes, and luggage. Over the years, Prada has maintained its reputation for high-end fashion.
Prada’s minimalist style makes it perfect for those who want a sophisticated look without being too loud. While the brand embraces modern trends, it also remains a favorite in old money style for its simplicity and quality.
Influence on Style:
Prada’s clean lines and minimalist designs appeal to those seeking luxury without excess. Its stylish yet understated pieces are key in maintaining a timeless old money look.
8. Salvatore Ferragamo
Salvatore Ferragamo is an Italian luxury brand that has long been associated with old-money fashion. Founded in 1927, Ferragamo is famous for its high-quality shoes, handbags, and accessories. The brand’s iconic shoes, known for their craftsmanship and comfort, have been worn by many high-profile celebrities and elites over the years.
Ferragamo is known for its attention to detail, using only the finest materials for its products. The brand is especially popular for its stylish yet comfortable footwear, which has made it a go-to choice for those seeking both luxury and practicality.
Influence on Style:
Ferragamo’s legacy of quality craftsmanship and timeless style has made it an important player in old money style. The brand’s shoes, handbags, and accessories are considered essential for anyone looking for understated luxury with long-lasting appeal.
Conclusion
Old money style is about more than just wearing expensive clothes. It’s about wearing pieces that reflect elegance, quality, and sophistication. The brands we’ve discussed—Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Chanel, Hermès, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Salvatore Ferragamo—are icons of this timeless style.
Old money style is about making a statement without being flashy. It’s about timeless elegance and craftsmanship. If you want to add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe, these iconic brands will help you achieve that effortlessly.
