TOP 6+ Ultimate Summer Old Money Essentials outfits and styling
What the Old Money Aesthetic all about
The old money aesthetic is characterized by its emphasis on heritage, quality, and timelessness. It draws inspiration from the wardrobes of affluent families who have favored classic styles over generations. This look is less about ostentation and more about subtlety, focusing on well-made garments, neutral color palettes, and refined accessories.
Key Elements of Old Money Summer Style
- Neutral Color Palettes: Opt for shades like beige, ivory, navy, and olive. These colors exude sophistication and are versatile for various occasions.
- Quality Fabrics: Invest in natural materials such as linen, cotton, and silk. These fabrics not only offer comfort in warmer temperatures but also convey a sense of luxury.
- Classic Silhouettes: Choose tailored pieces that have stood the test of time, such as blazers, pleated trousers, and A-line skirts.
- Minimalist Accessories: Select understated accessories like pearl earrings, leather loafers, and structured handbags to complement your outfits without overwhelming them.
Top 6+ Ultimate Summer Old Money Essentials Outfits and Styling
1. The Timeless Linen Ensemble
Linen is a cornerstone of summer attire within the old money aesthetic. Its breathable nature and elegant drape make it ideal for warm-weather dressing.
Example Outfit:
White linen button-down shirt + beige linen high-waisted trousers + brown leather belt + tan espadrilles + straw hat.
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> White linen button-down shirt
> Beige linen high-waisted trousers
Styling Tips:
- Monochromatic Look: Pairing a white linen shirt with beige trousers creates a harmonious and elongating effect.
- Accessorize Thoughtfully: A straw hat not only provides sun protection but also adds a touch of classic charm.
- Footwear Choice: Tan espadrilles offer a casual yet polished finish to the ensemble.
2. The Nautical-Inspired Attire
Nautical themes are synonymous with old money summer style, evoking images of sailing and coastal leisure.
Example Outfit:
Navy and white striped boatneck top + white tailored shorts + navy canvas belt + white canvas sneakers + gold hoop earrings.
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> Navy and white striped boatneck top
Styling Tips:
- Stripe Selection: A boatneck top with horizontal stripes adds a maritime flair while maintaining elegance.
- Shorts Fit: Opt for tailored shorts that hit just above the knee for a refined appearance.
- Color Coordination: Keeping the color palette to navy and white ensures a cohesive and classic look.
3. The Garden Party Ensemble
For more formal summer occasions, a floral dress embodies the old money aesthetic with grace.
Example Outfit:
Pastel floral A-line midi dress + nude slingback heels + pearl stud earrings + cream clutch bag.
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> Pastel floral A-line midi dress
Styling Tips:
- Dress Selection: An A-line silhouette flatters most body types and exudes timeless femininity.
- Accessory Pairing: Pearl stud earrings and a cream clutch add subtle elegance without drawing attention away from the dress.
- Footwear Choice: Nude slingback heels elongate the legs and complement the pastel tones of the dress.
4. The Riviera Chic Look
The Riviera style is a hallmark of the old money aesthetic, inspired by the effortless elegance seen along the French and Italian coastlines. It’s relaxed yet polished, combining lightweight fabrics with sophisticated accessories.
Example Outfit:
White wide-leg linen trousers + navy sleeveless silk top + tan leather sandals + woven raffia tote bag + oversized sunglasses
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> White wide-leg linen trousers
Styling Tips:
- Balance Relaxed and Tailored Elements: Wide-leg linen trousers provide breathability and comfort while maintaining a refined silhouette. Pair them with a structured silk top for contrast.
- Choose Complementary Accessories: A woven raffia tote bag adds texture and aligns with the coastal-inspired aesthetic.
- Opt for Minimalist Footwear: Tan leather sandals with a simple strap design keep the look clean and effortless.
- Finish with Sunglasses: Large, vintage-inspired sunglasses enhance the luxurious feel while protecting your eyes from the summer sun.
5. The Equestrian Summer Look
Equestrian-inspired fashion is another staple of the old money aesthetic, embodying refinement and tradition. While typically associated with fall and winter, it can be adapted for summer with lightweight fabrics and breezy silhouettes.
Example Outfit:
Beige high-waisted riding trousers + crisp white short-sleeved polo shirt + brown leather belt + loafers or leather ballet flats + structured leather handbag
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> Beige high-waisted riding trousers
> Crisp white short-sleeved polo shirt
> Loafers or leather ballet flats
Styling Tips:
- Incorporate Classic Equestrian Elements: High-waisted trousers and a fitted polo shirt create a preppy, polished look.
- Stick to a Muted Color Palette: Shades like beige, tan, and white evoke sophistication and tradition.
- Select Heritage-Inspired Footwear: Loafers or leather ballet flats complete the ensemble while staying practical for summer.
- Add a Timeless Handbag: A structured leather handbag in brown or tan ties everything together beautifully.
6. The Preppy Tennis Club Look
A quintessential old money summer outfit draws inspiration from country club aesthetics, particularly tennis attire. It’s crisp, clean, and effortlessly elegant.
Example Outfit:
White pleated tennis skirt + navy v-neck sleeveless sweater + white canvas sneakers + pearl earrings + white leather crossbody bag
Go shop this Example Outfit Now:
> Navy v-neck sleeveless sweater
Styling Tips:
- Emphasize Clean Lines and Sharp Tailoring: A pleated tennis skirt paired with a sleeveless sweater offers a balance between sporty and refined.
- Keep Accessories Minimal and Elegant: Pearl earrings and a structured crossbody bag add subtle luxury.
- Stick to a White and Navy Color Scheme: This classic color combination exudes preppy sophistication.
- Choose Practical Yet Stylish Footwear: White canvas sneakers maintain the sporty-chic vibe while ensuring comfort.
Additional Styling Advice for Various Occasions
Casual Day Outing
Example Outfit:
Light gray high-waisted linen pants + white satin blouse + tan leather loafers + gold stud earrings + gray tote bag.
Tips:
- Fabric Contrast: Pairing linen pants with a satin blouse creates an interesting mix of textures.
- Neutral Palette: Sticking to neutral tones ensures versatility and a polished look.
- Functional Accessories: A gray tote bag is both practical and stylish for a day out.
Evening Gathering
Example Outfit:
Black sleeveless silk dress + black patent leather pumps + diamond stud earrings + black clutch.
Tips:
- Monochrome Elegance: An all-black ensemble exudes sophistication and is appropriate for evening events.
- Luxurious Fabrics: Silk and patent leather add a touch of luxury to the outfit.
- Minimalist Jewelry: Diamond stud earrings provide a subtle sparkle without overwhelming the look.
Incorporating Personal Style
While adhering to the old money aesthetic, it’s essential to infuse your personal style into each outfit. This can be achieved through the selection of accessories, the choice of colors that complement your complexion, and the inclusion of pieces that reflect your individual preferences.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Old Money Summer Aesthetic
From my own personal experience, incorporating old money summer essentials into your wardrobe doesn’t require a vast budget, just an eye for quality and timeless style. The key is to invest in well-made pieces, prioritize neutral colors, and embrace minimalist elegance. Whether you prefer the relaxed Riviera look, the refined equestrian aesthetic, or the preppy tennis club vibe, these outfit ideas will help you exude effortless sophistication all summer long.
Now, I’d love to hear from you. Which of these outfits resonates with your style the most? Do you have any go-to summer looks that embrace the old money aesthetic? Let’s chat in the comments below! 😊
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.
