Quiet luxury and old money: what do these styles have in common and how do they differ?
Recently, popular hashtags #oldmoneyaesthetics and #quietluxury appeared on Instagram and TikTok, and then these topics were picked up not only by influencers, but also by fashion magazines around the world. What is so special about these styles and why have they become popular? Let's find out together!
Every season, the world of fashion dictates new trends, which stay for a month, a year, several years - depending on the relevance, convenience and preferences of the audience. However, recently, concerns about ecology and the state of the environment have created a new trend - sustainability in fashion. This movement in particular forces brands to create timeless items. The years of the pandemic have also changed the vision of fashion - people choose comfort and quality.
Modern trends quiet luxury and old money have common features - an emphasis on the combination of clothes to create the desired ensemble, permanence, the preference of quality over quantity, a high level of craftsmanship and the use of the best materials for creating products. It’s important that both trends do not force us to drastically change our entire wardrobe, but to try to combine things in a new way and invest in quality clothes that are ethically made and create less of a threat to the environment.
Also, these aesthetics inspire us to build a strong wardrobe base, which is the opposite of "fast fashion". These styles are quite comfortable to wear and can be seen in brands that support the movement of “slow fashion”. Although it is easy to confuse these concepts, they actually have many differences. For example, the collections of the French brand Lanvin have clear features of quiet luxury, but ensembles with a printed logo show a different aesthetic.
Old money
This aesthetic carries a certain nostalgia for the past, while at the same time appreciates traditions. In recent years, supermodels and influencers have chosen vintage accessories and even worn dresses from the last century for their luxurious red carpet outfits, so the appearance of archival elements of fashion houses at the shows was quite expected. “Old money” aesthetic is characterized by high-quality fabrics, neutral colors with the right shades of contrasting details and a certain display of the luxurious wardrobe. Great examples of “old money” are the style of Princess Diana, Jacqueline Kennedy or American preppy and even the image of the fictional character Blair Waldorf. Such brands as Celine, Bally, St. John perfectly represent this aesthetic thanks to the ideal cut of the clothing, high-quality furniture and careful selection of colors.
To create “old money” style outfits, add to your wardrobe a perfectly fitting jacket or coat made from natural fabric, a tweed jacket or suit, a silk or cotton shirt, classic cut trousers or straight jeans, a pencil skirt, cardigan and polo shirt. Timeless classic fitted silhouettes play an important role in the “old money” aesthetics. Complete looks with stylish accessories with high-quality furniture. For example, branded hair accessories or vintage brooches will provide original details.
An additional inspiration for creating stylish outfits are retro photos and films about Ivy League students and their lives.
Quiet luxury
"Money talks, wealth whispers" - this quote describes the “quiet luxury” style well. This aesthetic shares features with “old money”, but does not allow brand logos on clothing or accessories. “Quiet luxury” is a proficient game with the aesthetics of minimalism, the mandatory elements of which are the highest quality materials, thoroughly selected shades of natural colors, perfect cut and fit. Also, the phrase "who knows, knows" is very accurate about this style. Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, Malo, Agnona - professionals of “quiet luxury” aesthetic. The combination of silk and cashmere, the richness of colors, light natural fabrics and unique craftsmanship will make the most demanding and stylish people fall in love with themselves.
Knitted suits, cashmere sweaters, linen jackets, midi skirts and palazzo pants will help create the desired looks. Another difference from “old money” - quiet luxury aesthetics are characterized by both a fitted silhouette and a flowy cut. It is also important to choose the right shades of natural colors that will display your individuality and sense of style.
Discovering new styles, experimenting with unexpected colors and special accessories, looking for the fresh ideas for the wardrobe - an exciting journey on which we will happily join you!
