The old-money aesthetic has quickly become one of my favorite fashion trends. It’s all about embracing a timeless and refined style, with classic wardrobe staples like trench coats, knitwear, blazers or lady jackets, pleated trousers, silk midi skirts, and sophisticated accessories at the core of this look.
The best part? You don’t have to break the bank to channel this kind of elegance! While I believe in investing in chic, timeless pieces, there are plenty of ways to find them at budget-friendly prices. If you’ve been on the hunt for affordable quiet luxury pieces, this article has exactly what you need.
Below, you’ll find a list of essential old-money staples to invest in for spring and summer, all included in the capsule graphic above. Keep scrolling for the perfect old-money looks!
TRENCH COAT
A trench coat is an absolute essential for achieving the old-money aesthetic! It’s especially ideal during transitional seasons like spring when the weather is still unpredictable. And don’t be quick to rule it out for summer—on rainy days, a lightweight, weather-resistant trench coat is perfect for staying stylish and dry without overheating.
CREAM JACKET
A cream jacket exudes understated elegance, making it a perfect choice for an old-money outfit. This timeless, refined piece is often made from breathable fabrics, making it ideal for warmer weather. The light tones also add a fresh, bright touch to any ensemble, effortlessly elevating your look.
STRIPED SWEATER
A striped sweater is a versatile must-have in old-money fashion. Its timeless appeal allows for endless styling possibilities, making it easy to dress up or down for any occasion. This classic piece brings a touch of effortless sophistication to both casual and more polished looks.
KNIT CREWNECK
This sweater is an excellent addition to your spring or summer old-money wardrobe! It’s ideal for those chilly days when you need a bit of extra warmth. If the temperature rises and you need to take it off, simply draping it over your shoulder adds that effortless quiet luxury vibe to your look. This piece combines practicality and style beautifully!
KNIT CARDIGANS
A quality cardigan is essential for adding extra layers to an old-money outfit. Perfect for cooler spring days, a knit cardigan offers a simple yet timeless option that effortlessly elevates your look. It’s an easy go-to piece that combines style and comfort while maintaining an air of sophistication.
KNIT TANKS
Tank tops are a staple for warm-weather wardrobes, but choosing knit tank tops elevates your outfit to a more sophisticated level. I recommend opting for neutral tones, as they make it easy to mix and match with other pieces, creating an effortlessly elegant aesthetic. This simple switch can make a big difference in achieving a polished look!
KNIT OR LINEN VEST
If it’s the middle of summer and you crave the polished look of a button-up shirt without the bulk, consider a knit or linen vest instead. This piece offers a similar aesthetic to a button-up while providing a more relaxed, warm-weather vibe. It’s a stylish way to stay cool and sophisticated during the hotter months!
POLO TEE
It’s almost a given that a polo tee is a staple in an old-money wardrobe, as it’s often associated with class and sophistication. For spring and summer, I recommend opting for a short-sleeved polo; it’s the perfect top for achieving an old-money look while staying budget-friendly. This timeless piece adds an effortlessly polished touch to any outfit!
BUTTON-UP SHIRTS
Button-up shirts bring a formal and sophisticated touch to any outfit, making them an essential piece for an old-money-inspired capsule wardrobe. They can be paired with tailored pants for a refined look or worn open for a more casual vibe. Regardless of how you style it, a button-up shirt instantly elevates your ensemble, adding an air of timeless elegance.
SLEEVELESS TURTLENECK
I adore incorporating a sleeveless turtleneck into my quiet luxury outfits! It’s a fantastic option for layering in cooler weather, but it can also be worn alone with pants, shorts, or a skirt for an elegant ensemble. Its versatility makes it a timeless addition to any wardrobe!
SHIRT DRESS
A shirt dress is a minimalist piece that exudes elegant and timeless appeal, adding a lovely feminine touch to any outfit. It’s an excellent choice for spring or summer, perfect for occasions like a coffee date or dinner with friends. Its versatility and effortless style make it a must-have in your wardrobe!
TAILORED SHORTS
Much like tailored pants, tailored shorts elevate any outfit and impart that quiet luxury vibe. If it’s a hot day or you plan to spend time at the beach or by the water, tailored shorts are the perfect choice. They offer a chic and comfortable option while keeping you stylish in warmer weather!
SLIP SKIRT
A slip skirt is an excellent way to add an elevated and feminine touch to any outfit. Its silky appearance and slightly fitted silhouette exude refinement, while also being breezy enough to pair beautifully with any spring or summer ensemble. This versatile piece is a must-have for effortless sophistication!
CLASSIC BLUE JEANS
Blue jeans definitely have a place in old-money fashion. These timeless pants can easily be incorporated into a high-end outfit when paired with elevated tops, sophisticated shoes, and refined accessories. With the right styling, blue jeans can seamlessly blend comfort with elegance, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
PLEATED TROUSERS
Pleated trousers are undoubtedly one of the most elegant pieces you can have in your wardrobe, making them a must-have for a quiet luxury capsule. While they exude sophistication, they can also be dressed down for a casual outing, whether you’re enjoying brunch or shopping with friends. Their versatility allows you to effortlessly transition from chic to relaxed styles.
CAP
You might be surprised to learn that a baseball cap seamlessly fits into the old-money aesthetic, but it’s true! This classic accessory adds a subtle sporty and preppy touch, effortlessly conveying a quiet luxury vibe while maintaining a laid-back sophistication.
TOTE BAG
Totes are perfect for spring and summer when you’re out enjoying the sunshine and need a stylish way to carry all your essentials. I recommend choosing neutral tones like beige, cream, camel, black, or classic white for a timeless, versatile look that complements any outfit. This accessory is both practical and effortlessly chic!
RAFFIA BAG
A woven raffia tote is effortlessly chic and an ideal accessory for summer! However, it works just as beautifully in spring. With raffia bags available in a variety of shapes and sizes—whether you prefer a crossbody, tote, bucket bag, or shoulder bag—you can easily find one that fits perfectly with the quiet luxury aesthetic. It’s a versatile piece that adds texture and style to any warm-weather outfit.
CROSSBODY BAG
A crossbody bag is a staple accessory for the old-money look! Leather or faux leather options have an effortlessly sophisticated appearance, and opting for gold-toned hardware can instantly elevate your outfit. A crossbody is perfect for staying hands-free during an outing or for adding a relaxed, yet polished, vibe to your ensemble.
CLASSIC FOOTWEAR
Classic footwear is essential to complement timeless clothing pieces! Simple yet elegantly designed shoes are perfect for achieving the old-money look, and choosing neutral tones enhances the overall classy aesthetic.
Here are the types of footwear I recommend for the quiet luxury style:
- Pumps
- Heeled sandals
- Brown sandals
- Ballet flats or loafers
- Classic sneakers
These options strike the perfect balance between sophistication and versatility, effortlessly enhancing any old-money outfit.
CONCLUSION
Remember, true luxury lies in the details. Pay attention to the fit, fabric, and craftsmanship of your clothing. Opt for neutral colors and timeless silhouettes that can be easily mixed and matched. And most importantly, embrace a mindset of slow fashion, valuing quality over quantity and building a wardrobe that stands the test of time.
