Picture the gentry of old Europe—men like the style-savvy Gianni Agnelli or the regal Duke of Windsor. These gentlemen weren’t just rich; they knew how to dress. They defined a style that we now call the Old Money Aesthetic. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about a lifestyle of quality, simplicity, and tradition over trendy, fast-fashion statements. In this article, we’ll explore how to create your own Old Money fashion wardrobe, combining contemporary tastes with timeless charm and understated elegance. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a casual gathering, these wardrobe essentials will elevate your style without breaking the bank.
Building Your Old Money Wardrobe
1. The Perfect Suit
The foundation of the Old Money wardrobe is a well-tailored suit. Opt for classic colors such as navy and grey, which are versatile and timeless. Quality fabrics like merino wool offer softness and durability, while lightweight tweed provides a more rugged yet refined look. Ensure that the suit fits impeccably; investing in tailoring is crucial to achieving a perfect fit. A few high-quality suits are sufficient for most occasions.
Here are three exemplary suits that embody the Old Money aesthetic:
- Suitsupply Lazio Navy Wool Suit: This suit combines traditional tailoring with modern design. Made from 100% wool, it offers a sleek, sophisticated look ideal for various occasions. Suitsupply provides excellent off-the-rack options that can be tailored to fit perfectly.
- Harrison & Haines Grey Wool Suit: Known for its classic style and high-quality fabric, this grey suit is versatile and timeless. The wool fabric provides comfort and durability, making it a staple for any Old Money wardrobe.
- Savile Row Bespoke Suit: For those looking to invest in bespoke tailoring, Savile Row offers a range of custom-made suits. Opting for a bespoke suit ensures a perfect fit and the highest level of craftsmanship.
2. Classic Dress Shirts
Invest in a selection of fine dress shirts to complement your suits. Stick to crisp whites, soft blues, and subtle stripes, which are easy to mix and match. Choose fabrics such as Egyptian cotton for its superior breathability and luxurious feel, or linen for a lighter, more casual option. Shirts should fit well but also allow for some movement, providing both comfort and style.
Consider these top picks for dress shirts:
- Charles Tyrwhitt White Poplin Shirt: Made from 100% Egyptian cotton, this shirt is crisp, breathable, and perfect for formal and semi-formal occasions.
- Eton of Sweden Light Blue Twill Shirt: Known for its luxurious feel and exceptional craftsmanship, this light blue shirt is versatile and sophisticated.
- T.M.Lewin Light Grey Striped Shirt: This subtle stripe adds a touch of pattern while remaining classic. The Egyptian cotton fabric ensures comfort and durability.
3. Polished Footwear
Footwear is crucial for achieving the Old Money look. A pair of high-quality brogues or oxfords in genuine leather can elevate your entire ensemble. Look for classic designs with minimal embellishments. Regular maintenance, including polishing and conditioning, will keep your shoes in top condition. Consider investing in shoe trees to maintain their shape and extend their lifespan.
Here are three exceptional footwear options:
- Church’s Shannon Brogues: These classic brogues are crafted from high-quality leather, offering a timeless design and exceptional comfort.
- Alden Long Wingtip Oxfords: Renowned for their craftsmanship and durable leather, these long wingtips are a staple in high-quality footwear.
- John Lobb City II Oxford Shoes: For a more formal touch, these oxfords offer a sleek, elegant design crafted from premium leather.
4. Layering Pieces
Mastering layering adds versatility to your wardrobe. A cashmere sweater or a lightweight v-neck over a dress shirt creates a sophisticated yet approachable look. Pair this with well-fitted chinos and loafers to strike the perfect balance between casual and formal. Layering not only adds depth to your outfit but also allows for adaptability across different seasons.
Consider these layering essentials:
- Loro Piana Cashmere Sweater: This luxurious cashmere sweater adds sophistication and warmth to any outfit. Its versatility makes it ideal for layering.
- Everlane The Lightweight Merino Sweater: A more affordable option that offers excellent quality and a classic fit. Perfect for layering over a dress shirt.
- Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino V-Neck Sweater: Ideal for a more casual look, this sweater is both stylish and comfortable.
5. Timeless Accessories
Accessories should enhance your outfit without overpowering it. A classic wristwatch with a leather strap is both functional and stylish. A silk pocket square, folded neatly into your suit jacket pocket, adds a touch of elegance without being flashy. Stick to classic colors and patterns for these accessories to maintain the Old Money aesthetic.
Top accessory picks include:
- Rolex Datejust: This iconic wristwatch combines timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship, making it a staple for any Old Money wardrobe.
- Hermès Silk Pocket Square: Known for its exquisite silk and elegant designs, this pocket square adds a refined touch to any suit.
- Montblanc Meisterstück Rollerball Pen: A classic accessory that signifies sophistication and attention to detail, perfect for the Old Money gentleman.
Grooming the Old Money Way
The Old Money aesthetic extends beyond clothing. It’s a grooming philosophy that prioritizes timeless elegance over fleeting trends. This means adopting classic, understated grooming habits that enhance your appearance subtly yet effectively. Here’s how to embody this refined approach:
1. Classic Hairstyles
Classic hairstyles are the hallmark of Old Money grooming. They are clean, sophisticated, and avoid the extremes of trendy cuts. Think of styles that have stood the test of time and reflect a sense of tradition and refinement.
- Side Part: Popularized by Cary Grant, the side part is a timeless classic that suits almost any face shape. It’s achieved by parting the hair to one side, creating a clean, polished look that is both elegant and professional. Ask your barber for a medium length on top with shorter sides for a balanced appearance.
- Slicked-Back Hair: Inspired by Humphrey Bogart, the slicked-back hairstyle uses a bit of pomade or gel to keep the hair neatly combed back. This style exudes confidence and sophistication, ideal for formal occasions or professional settings.
- Crew Cut: A crew cut is another classic choice that remains stylish and easy to maintain. With short sides and a bit more length on top, it provides a neat, structured look suitable for a variety of settings.
2. Subtle Fragrances
Subtle fragrances are key to the Old Money grooming philosophy. They should enhance your presence without overwhelming those around you. Opt for classic, sophisticated scents with refined notes.
- Creed Green Irish Tweed: Known for its fresh, green notes combined with sandalwood, this fragrance is understated yet distinctly elegant. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a classic scent that remains subtle.
- Tom Ford Neroli Portofino: This cologne blends citrus with floral notes to create a sophisticated, refined aroma that is both refreshing and understated.
- Chanel Bleu de Chanel: A modern classic, this fragrance combines woody and aromatic notes, offering a subtle yet captivating scent that fits the Old Money aesthetic.
3. Well-Groomed Facial Hair
Whether you prefer a clean shave or a well-maintained beard, keeping your facial hair neat and tidy is essential. Regular trims and proper grooming reflect a polished and sophisticated appearance.
- For a Clean Shave:
- Edwin Jagger DE89 Double Edge Razor: This high-quality razor ensures a smooth, precise shave. Its design is both effective and elegant. Edwin Jagger DE89.
- Proraso Shaving Cream: Known for its rich lather and soothing properties, this cream helps achieve a comfortable and close shave. Proraso Shaving Cream.
- Taylor of Old Bond Street Aftershave: Provides a classic, refreshing finish to your shaving routine.
- For a Well-Maintained Beard:
- Beardbrand Beard Oil: Keeps your beard soft and well-groomed, while also adding a subtle, pleasant scent.
- The Art of Shaving Beard Trimmer: Ensures precise trimming and maintenance, essential for keeping your beard looking sharp.
- Jack Black Beard Lube: Acts as a pre-shave oil and beard conditioner, offering smoothness and ease of grooming.
Let your fashion choices tell your story
Embracing the Old Money aesthetic isn’t about showing off; it’s about subtlety, class, and a connection to an older era. By curating a wardrobe that combines quality, simplicity, and tradition, you’ll exude heritage and poise. So, gentlemen, invest wisely, choose timeless pieces, and let your style speak of refined taste—just like the old money gentlemen of yore.
Incorporating Old Money principles into your wardrobe means opting for craftsmanship over mass production and elegance over extravagance. This approach not only reflects a sophisticated style but also fosters a deeper appreciation for enduring quality and timeless design. Remember, true style is about consistency and confidence—wear your chosen pieces with pride and let your fashion choices tell a story of understated elegance and refined taste.
