At this moment, everyone’s talking about an aesthetic that is definitely dominating mood boards. But not only those, but also street style and social feeds. And it’s the old money one, but with a new, more modern rule.
You need to forget what you know about preppy style. Definitely, it is not the costume department of a 2000s teen movie. It really is a deliberate and ultra-chic aesthetic. One that blends the non-flashy and timeless luxury. One of the generational wealth. And with a modern, effortless, and even rebellious spirit.
It’s not about following a dress code. But it’s more about understanding the vibe. Basically, confidence that whispers. It’s like saying you really didn’t give much effort or didn’t try it. But everything you own is always impeccably made.
The foundation and non-negotiables of “old money”
Here, investment is the core of this style. It’s all about building a wardrobe that will last for decades. Here, you need to prioritize quality over quantity. And forget anything with loud and obvious branding. When a label basically screams how much money you spent. It means you have broken the code.
Your fabric choice should be non-negotiable. Because it is the ultimate form of quiet luxury. Your goal should be to choose materials that not only wear well, feel amazing, but also drape beautifully. Cashmere and wool are essentials for knitwear and outerwear.
On the other hand, structured and crisp cotton should be the one for your chinos and shirts. Here, consider high-quality poplin or Oxford cloth. They should hold the shape under blazers or give a relaxed structure.
Another option to consider is silk blends or linen. You should save these as warmer-weather staples. These are natural fibers that show and communicate an effortless elegance.
Tailoring should be your secret weapon. The fit is much more important than the brand. Everything should fit you perfectly. A mid-range and perfect fit will always look more expensive than an ill-fitting and loose designer item.
You really need to invest in a good tailor. The break of your pants, no matter what you prefer, should be clean. And also, the shoulder of your blazer should fit where they are supposed to. It will really help you achieve this aesthetic.
Your foundational pieces should be premium, but free of logos. You need to stick to neutral shades. Ones that will blend seamlessly with your tailored layers.
Remember to also adhere to a core color palette. This will serve as the perfect canvas for mixing. Consider core neutrals like white, navy, soft gray, and camel or beige. And your rich accents, but that should be used subtly. Good examples are deep red or burgundy, sky blue, or hunter green.
The new rules and the modern edge
The new rules are all about breaking the uniform mindset. Now, the expensive-feeling classics are being taken and then styled with a fresh and undone attitude. One that isn’t stuffy.
The key to making it look modern is combining opposites to create visual interest and balance. You can pair a boxy, oversized blazer with a high-waisted pleated mini-skirt. The contrast of the sharp and short silhouette on the bottom with the voluminous tailoring on the top. This is definitely a modern signature.
Another good option can be a button-down shirt, like a staple. But the new rule is the way you’re wearing it. You shouldn’t button it all the way up. And then wear it open over a simple tee or tank. You can also button only the middle section. And allow the collar and hem to slightly fall off.
Consider an oversized cable-knit sweater. Low-key needs to look like you borrowed it from your yatch-owning boyfriend. You can pair it with slim-fit tailored trousers. This is to avoid it looking frumpy. You can also throw it over your shoulders and let it drape a little lower than the traditional tight knot.
You can mix the casual with formal, but always keep the quality high. You can totally pair a pair of straight or wide-leg, non-distressed denim with a tweed blazer and a silk blouse. The denim will ground the outfit. And with it the blazer will feel less corporate and more effortlessly chic.
Image source: https://www.thecoolhour.com/10-chic-looks-that-define-the-old-money-aesthetic/
You can do a sporty integration with a rugby shirt. Pick a slightly oversized one. Also, maybe a striped one. Then you can style it with tailored pants and high-quality loafers. Wear this instead of simply jeans and sneakers. You’ll be nodding to sporty history but with a modern silhouette.
Now, footwear is totally a huge signifier. Your loafers, no matter if penny or tassel, should have a chunky and slight platform sole.
The modern prep look actually uses accessories that are classic in form. But in styling, they’re totally modern. Using socks is a non-negotiable rule. You can add a playful and collegiate contrast if you wear some crisp white. Or even ribbed neutral crew socks.
Leather belts are not just functional, but quite essential. You can use them to cinch blazers, define the waist over a button-down. Or even just to add a polished break to a skirt. The hardware should be subtle, not too loud or shiny.
And when it comes to jewelry, keep it minimal. Stick to delicate gold chains, a classic watch, and a pearl stud. You can make an exception, with a slightly chunky, but classic still, cuff or even a gold signet ring.
