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OLD MONEY AESTHETIC FOR MEN – COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

In an era dominated by fast fashion and fleeting trends, the old money aesthetic offers a refreshing departure. Rooted in tradition and sophistication, this style exudes a sense of timeless elegance and understated luxury. It’s a look that transcends fleeting fashion cycles, appealing to those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and a refined sense of style.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the key elements of the old money aesthetic for men. Whether you’re looking to elevate your wardrobe or simply appreciate the beauty of classic style, this guide will offer valuable inspiration.

WHAT IS THE OLD MONEY AESTHETIC?

The “old money” aesthetic, also known as quiet luxury, draws inspiration from the understated, sophisticated style of those who have inherited their wealth rather than earned it. It emphasizes preppy, monochromatic looks and discreetly luxurious clothing, focusing on high-quality, logo-free designer pieces, expert tailoring, and classic American prep.

This fashion trend is defined by timeless, enduring pieces that prioritize quality over fleeting trends. It’s a nod to the refined elegance associated with historic family dynasties like the Kennedys, Gettys, and Vanderbilts.

In recent years, the old money aesthetic and quiet luxury have gained popularity among Gen Z and Millennials, who are drawn to its nostalgic appeal and commitment to classic, chic pieces that stand the test of time.

Style icons such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Paul Newman, and Princess Diana, as well as fictional characters like Blair Waldorf and Chuck Bass, have helped popularize this trend.

OLD MONEY AESTHETIC IN HOLLYWOOD

A quintessential Hollywood character who embodies the old money aesthetic is Dickie Greenleaf, portrayed by the handsome Jude Law in the 1999 film The Talented Mr. Ripley. Dickie epitomizes quiet luxury as a charming, eccentric multi-millionaire who inherited his wealth. He leads a carefree lifestyle in Italy, favoring rebellion over the constraints of Manhattan, where he enjoys anonymity and the freedom to indulge in his desires without scrutiny. In Italy, he feels no pressure to marry or pursue a traditional career; instead, he spends his days enjoying his allowance, frequenting jazz clubs, and escaping the expectations of his wealthy parents.

Another notable character that represents the old money aesthetic is Jay Gatsby, famously played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Gatsby is an incredibly wealthy young man residing in a grand Gothic mansion in West Egg. Renowned for his extravagant lifestyle and lavish Saturday night parties, he remains an enigma—no one knows his origins, his profession, or how he acquired his fortune. Wearing a neatly tailored tuxedo can certainly evoke the impression of an old money mob boss, exuding the refined elegance that comes with inherited wealth.

HOW TO ACHIEVE THE OLD MONEY AESTHETIC FOR MEN

Recently, the phrases “stealth wealth” and “quiet luxury” have come to define the old money aesthetic, which centers on understated elegance and refined sophistication. While the clothing may seem simple or unexciting at first glance, it is typically of exceptional quality. If you aspire to embody the old money aesthetic as a man, here are some styling tips to help you achieve that distinguished look.

MEDIUM-LENGTH HAIRSTYLE IN A CLEAN-CUT MANNER

The “old money aesthetic” for men’s hairstyles often features long to medium-length cuts. Classic, clean-cut styles, such as the undercut, side part, slicked back, wet mop, and messy curtain, serve as the foundation of this look. A prime example is Dickie Greenleaf, a character from The Talented Mr. Ripley, who sports a stylish blend of a messy curtain and side-part hairstyle.

Jay Gatsby’s slick back hairstyle perfectly embodies the old money aesthetic, characterized by sophistication and timeless elegance.This hairstyle, often paired with tailored suits and classic accessories, highlights Gatsby’s pursuit of refinement and his enigmatic persona. If you’re looking to achieve a similar look, consider using a strong styling gel or pomade for a sleek finish, and opt for well-fitted clothing that complements the sophisticated vibe.

MUTED AND SOFT COLORS (MEDITERRANEAN STYLE)

Before diving into the specific styles, it’s important to establish some prerequisites for achieving the old money aesthetic. When it comes to color, focus on muted, soft tones like white, cream, and baby blue.

The men’s old money aesthetic incorporates elements of cottagecore and soft boy fashion, but with a more refined emphasis on masculinity and elegance. Steer clear of bright, bold colors that lean toward the progressive. Instead, envision a time when wealthy billionaires spent their days on yachts rather than in underground clubs or racing expensive sports cars.

ALL-WHITE TENNIS OUTFIT

To effortlessly embody the old money aesthetic, consider sporting an all-white, tennis-inspired outfit. Brands like Lacoste and Rolex can provide great inspiration. An all-white ensemble not only exudes a “summer in the Hamptons” vibe but is also incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various aesthetics, including preppy styles.

LOOSE-FITTING LINEN BUTTON-DOWN SHIRTS

When the weather is warm, a loose linen shirt is one of the best options to achieve the old money aesthetic. Opt for neutral colors like white, cream, or baby blue.

A loose-fitting linen shirt, reminiscent of Dickie Greenleaf’s style, sends a clear message: you prefer spending time on a yacht rather than toiling away in a 9-to-5 office cubicle.

CASHMERE SWEATER OR CARDIGAN

As the weather turns colder, layering becomes essential. Consider incorporating cashmere sweaters or cardigans into your wardrobe. Cashmere is often seen as a symbol of luxury among woolen fabrics due to its richness and softness.

This luxurious wool comes from a specific breed of goats native to regions like India, and it has gained a devoted following for its exceptional quality. If you haven’t experienced cashmere yet, it’s definitely worth trying!

WEAR A CARDIGAN OR SWEATER OVER THE SHOULDERS

There’s an undeniable charm in wearing a cardigan or sweater draped over your shoulders that perfectly embodies the “old money aesthetic,” especially when paired with a sophisticated set of sunglasses.

This style not only adds an element of warmth but also enhances your overall look. However, thickness matters—avoid bulky, heavy knit sweaters that can overwhelm the outfit.

Opt for cashmere, as it adds a refined tone and texture to a vintage button-down shirt or polo underneath. Just ensure that the sweater is in a slightly different color from the shirt for a well-coordinated appearance.

POLO SHIRTS AND CHINOS

A polo shirt is a great way to achieve a polished look without appearing overly effortful, especially when styled with a French tuck or tucked in completely. This adds a touch of European flair to your outfit. When paired with tapered chino pants, you’ll perfectly embody the old money aesthetic. A polo is a timeless piece and a wardrobe staple that every man should own.

BLACK OR BROWN LOAFERS

When it comes to footwear, a stylish pair of loafers is the perfect finishing touch for your old money aesthetic outfit. They exude class, especially when paired with straight-fit chino pants. While you can certainly add a pop of personality with brightly colored or patterned socks, loafers are typically worn without socks—or with no-show socks for a clean look.

CLEAN MINIMALISTIC WHITE SNEAKERS

While high-end designer sneakers may be pricey, they tend to clash with the old money aesthetic, leaning more toward a starboy vibe.

Instead, opt for clean, minimalistic white sneakers. The neutral color exudes class and sophistication. Consider styles like Adidas Stan Smith or Alexander McQueen for a refined touch.

CONCLUSION

Remember, the old money aesthetic is about more than just appearances. It’s about embodying a certain ethos: respect for tradition, appreciation for craftsmanship, and a commitment to understated elegance. By embracing this aesthetic, you’re not just following a trend; you’re investing in a timeless style that will serve you well for years to come.

HOW TO PUT TOGETHER CUTE BUT COMFY FOR SCHOOL

School days can be long and tiring, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your sense of style. In fact, finding cute yet comfortable outfits can make those days a little bit brighter. Whether you’re a trendsetter or a minimalist, there are endless possibilities to create looks that are both fashionable and practical.

In this guide, we’ll explore tips and tricks for putting together cute but comfy outfits for school. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right fabrics to mixing and matching pieces. So, let’s dive in and discover how to express your personal style while staying comfortable throughout the day!

PICK SHERPA JACKET FOR A FLUFFY LOOK

Is it just me, or is it way harder to look cute in winter than in summer? The cold weather often makes us lazy and leads to wearing the same old navy blue coat every day.

If you want to stand out, try lighter colors—they create a nice contrast. My top pick is a soft, fluffy cream sherpa jacket. It pairs well with almost everything. Just a heads up, be ready for friends who might want to touch it!

If sherpa isn’t your style, consider a pink corduroy jacket and skirt. Also, wear heat tech layers to stay warm without looking bulky in a puffer jacket. Trust me, looking bulky is not the best style.

LAYER UP WHITE SHIRT AND SWEATER

A white shirt and sweater might seem basic, but when worn together, they really complement each other.

For a French minimalist style, layer a V-neck sleeveless sweater over a simple white shirt and pair it with an A-line skirt. This creates a stylish, artsy look.

Finish off the outfit with a casual crossbody bag and Converse sneakers. This combination looks sleek with a touch of charm!

SWITCH OUT SKINNY JEANS TO FLARED PANTS

When it comes to school staples, denim jeans are a must-have. If you think skinny jeans can be a bit predictable, it might be time to try flared jeans.

Flared jeans are fitted at the thighs and have a bell-bottom shape at the calves. This style is feminine, cute, and playful.

As someone who’s petite, I think flared jeans paired with platform shoes are the best combo because they really help make your legs look longer.

STAY COMFY IN JOGGER PANTS FOR SCHOOL

For a super comfy school outfit, jogger pants are a great choice.

Let’s face it, we all have those days when we oversleep and just need to grab whatever’s closest and run out the door.

While jogger pants are convenient, they can sometimes look a bit sloppy. To look put-together with minimal effort, focus on mixing and matching. Instead of pairing baggy joggers with a dull sweater, make your joggers stand out.

For example, try jogger pants with a unique pattern, like butterfly designs. Pair them with a sleek high bun and chunky white sneakers, and you’ll look both artistic and stylish.

UNBLOCK NEW LOOKS WITH POLO SHIRT

Guess what? Polo shirts are making a comeback, and you won’t want to miss out!

But don’t worry, we’re not talking about the old-fashioned dad shirts. To update this classic look, try tying a front knot to show off your curves.

Feeling a bit nostalgic? Try a 70s-style lime green polo tee for a unique retro vibe that really stands out.

FRESHEN UP THE LOOK WITH PASTEL HUES

If you know about color psychology, you probably already love pastel colors, right?

Instead of sticking to all black, pastel colors are proven to make you look more friendly and approachable.

And yes, that means you’ll be more attractive to everyone!

If you want to be the IT girl at school, get a baby blue top or a dusty pink plaid shirt. They’ll always make a great impression.

ADD A DASH OF DARLING WITH SCALLOP SHORTS

If you want to look cute in a subtle way, try a scallop top and shorts.

At 16, you don’t want to look dull with plain beige shorts. Scallop trim shorts add a cute, elegant touch to your outfit.

I recommend them because they’re unique and not something you see on everyone. If you want a special look (different from the usual graphic tees and biker shorts), a scalloped top will make your outfit stand out. You’re welcome!

STAY YOUTHFUL IN A TENNIS SKIRT

Seriously, if you don’t have at least one pleated skirt in your closet, are you even a high schooler?

A pleated skirt is the perfect mix of cute and stylish. It pairs well with almost anything and adds a youthful vibe.

If you want a hotter look, team it with a black retro graphic tee and combat boots. For a more comfortable style, pair an oversized hoodie with a tennis skirt for a relaxed, cool look. To add some extra style, go for a white monochrome outfit.

You’ll love how a monochrome look makes you look taller and slimmer.

STAY CUTE FOR SCHOOL IN PUFFY SLEEVE TOP

Girls, don’t stick to your old slouchy round-neck tees—puffy sleeve tops are in!

Nothing says youthful and summery like a floral ruffle top. It’s trendy and flattering for your arms.

With its puffy short sleeves and slightly low neckline, it makes your arms look slimmer. Pair it with an A-line denim dress or paper bag shorts for a look that’s irresistibly cute.

GET ON THE HAIR GAME

We all find happiness in different things, and for me, wearing fancy hair clips is a big joy.

While many of us just let our hair hang loose, it’s worth taking a few minutes to treat yourself with a satin scrunchie or ribbon headband. As the saying goes, “May your hair game be strong and your Monday be short.” I couldn’t agree more!

WEAR A BUCKET HAT FOR A CHIC STYLE

Is a bucket hat flattering? Absolutely! As someone with chubby cheeks, a wide-brim bucket hat helps make my face look smaller.

Unlike baseball caps, bucket hats have a more relaxed style.

No matter what you look like, they add a cool, laid-back touch to even the simplest outfits.

So here’s the deal: Whether you’re having a bad hair day or just want to try something new, grab a bucket hat!

GET CREATIVE WITH SOCKS COMBOS

Wearing sneakers to school is easy, but you can add some style with your sock choices.

To make your white Converse stand out, try pairing them with pink Nike socks for a sporty and cute look.

If you want a tougher vibe, go for black mesh socks.

Since my face is more on the friendly side, I prefer black knee-high socks for a preppy style. When I pair them with oxford shoes and a satchel bag, I feel like Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl!

CONCLUSION

By following these tips, you can easily create cute and comfortable outfits for school that reflect your personal style. Remember, the key is to find pieces that make you feel confident and at ease. Experiment with different combinations, play with accessories, and most importantly, have fun with your wardrobe!

So, whether you’re a fashionista or simply looking to elevate your everyday look, embrace the opportunity to express yourself through your clothing while prioritizing comfort. With a little creativity and experimentation, you’ll be able to put together outfits that are both stylish and functional, making your school days a little bit more enjoyable.