What is Old Money Style and why is it perfect for summer?
Old Money is a fashion trend inspired by the classic, timeless style of wealthy families with a long tradition. Unlike the ostentatious New Money, Old Money is based on subtlety, quality materials, and elegance without unnecessary embellishments. This style is characterized by a neutral color palette, simple lines, and an investment in items that will last for many seasons.
For summer, Old Money Style takes on special significance. Lightweight, breathable fabrics and a subdued color scheme make outfits in this trend not only beautiful but also practical and comfortable on warm days. Men seeking effortless elegance will find the answer to their needs in Old Money Style – it's an approach to fashion that says, "I don't need to try, because I know what I'm entitled to."
Outfit 1: Classic shorts with a linen shirt
The foundation of the outfit – choosing the right shorts
The first and most important Old Money summer outfit is a combination of classic shorts with a breathable shirt. The shorts should be made of natural materials – cotton or linen – in subdued colors such as beige, khaki, navy blue, or white. The length of the shorts should reach the knee or just below – this is a key element of Old Money Style, distinguishing it from casual, too-short variants.
Men's cotton shorts are an ideal choice for this outfit. Their loose fit ensures comfort, and the cotton material allows the skin to breathe on hot days. Shorts in this style have classic details – simple pockets, a traditional closure, and a timeless design that won't go out of style.
The complement – shirt and accessories
Pair the shorts with a short-sleeved linen shirt in white, light beige, or light blue. Linen fabric is perfect for summer – it dries quickly, breathes, and has a natural, elegant look. You can wear the shirt unbuttoned or buttoned – both variations look stylish in Old Money Style.
Accessories for this outfit will be classic sunglasses, a simple watch with a leather strap, and a linen shoulder bag. All elements should be in neutral colors and made of natural materials.
Outfit 2: Linen trousers with a polo shirt
The elegance of linen trousers for summer
The second outfit is a combination of linen trousers with a polo shirt – an ideal solution for men who want to be elegant but not overly formal. Linen trousers are synonymous with summer luxury – they are light, airy, and have a natural, effortless chic that is key to Old Money Style.
These men's trousers combine the advantages of both materials – cotton provides durability, and linen adds lightness and elegance. Such trousers in colors like beige, light gray, or white will be an excellent choice for summer. Their simple cut and classic details make them suitable for both casual and more formal occasions.
Polo shirt and overall styling
Pair the linen trousers with a polo shirt in a subdued color – white, light blue, or beige are classic choices. The polo shirt has an elegant, sporty character that perfectly complements linen trousers. This combination is versatile – you can wear it for a walk, to a cafe, or for a summer dinner.
Complete the outfit with classic loafers or slip-on shoes, a simple belt, and a watch. All elements should be in harmonious, neutral colors.
Outfit 3: Shorts with a linen shirt unbuttoned over a white t-shirt
Layer upon layer – Old Money layering
The third outfit is a more modern approach to Old Money Style – layering. This technique allows for greater flexibility and adds depth to the outfit, even on hot days.
Start with a white, classic cotton t-shirt. Then put on an unbuttoned linen shirt in a light color – beige, light gray, or light blue. The shirt here acts as an outer layer, adding elegance and protecting from the sun. Pair this with men's cotton shorts, loose for summer Old Money in a subdued color.
Layering accessories
This outfit allows for more casual accessories. You can add a linen bag, classic sunglasses, and a simple watch. Shoes should be comfortable and classic – white sneakers, sandals, or loafers are good choices. Layering in Old Money Style is the art of balancing casualness with elegance.
Outfit 4: Ready-made set – Old Money shirt and shorts
A comprehensive solution for men
The fourth outfit is an ideal solution for those who want to ensure that all elements match. This men's set is a ready-made outfit that eliminates the need to combine individual elements.
Such sets are specifically designed so that all colors and materials harmonize with each other. The shirt and shorts are made of natural, summer materials, and their design reflects the classic values of Old Money Style. This solution is ideal for men who value simplicity and certainty.
How to wear a ready-made set
You can wear the ready-made set exactly as it is – shirt buttoned or unbuttoned, depending on the temperature and occasion. Add classic shoes, a simple watch, and sunglasses, and you'll be ready for any summer occasion. Such sets are versatile and can be worn repeatedly without the risk of looking boring.
Outfit 5: Elegant outfit with slip-on shoes
The role of shoes in Old Money Style
The fifth outfit focuses on the role of shoes in Old Money Style. Shoes are an element that often determines the entire outfit – they can elevate it to a higher level of elegance or add a casual character. In Old Money Style, shoes should be classic, comfortable, and made of natural materials.
Men's loafers are an ideal choice for summer outfits. Loafers have a long tradition and are a symbol of classic elegance. Their minimalist design makes them suitable for almost any outfit – from shorts to linen trousers. Slip-on loafers are comfortable because they don't require laces, and at the same time look elegant.
Styling with slip-on shoes
Pair loafers with linen trousers or shorts in a subdued color, a linen or cotton shirt, and a simple watch. Slip-on shoes will add elegance to the entire outfit, while also being comfortable for the whole day. Mule shoes are an alternative to loafers – they can have a more sporty character, but retain a classic aesthetic.
This outfit is ideal for a summer dinner, a walk around town, or a meeting with friends. Slip-on shoes are versatile and can be worn all year round, but they look particularly good in summer outfits.
Colors and materials – key elements of Old Money Style for summer
Old Money color palette
Old Money Style is based on a neutral, subdued color palette. For summer, ideal colors are: white, beige, light gray, light blue, khaki, and navy blue. These colors are versatile, easy to combine, and never go out of style. Avoid bright colors and patterns – Old Money is about subtlety and elegance.
Natural materials
Natural materials are the foundation of Old Money Style. Cotton, linen, silk, and wool are materials that should dominate your summer wardrobe. They are breathable, durable, and have a natural, elegant look. Avoid synthetic materials – they do not fit the Old Money aesthetic.
How to build a summer wardrobe in Old Money Style
Invest in basic elements
Instead of buying many cheap clothes, invest in a few high-quality basic pieces. Classic shorts, linen trousers, linen and cotton shirts – this is the foundation on which you can build various outfits. Such items will be worn for many years and will never go out of style.
Mixing and matching
Old Money Style is the art of combining classic elements into new, interesting combinations. Don't be afraid to experiment – you can wear a white shirt with shorts, linen trousers, or even as a layer. Classic elements are so versatile that they allow for endless styling possibilities.
Summary – Old Money Style for summer
Old Money Style is an approach to fashion based on classicism, quality, and subtlety. For summer, this style is particularly practical – lightweight materials, neutral colors, and classic cuts make outfits both beautiful and comfortable. The five outfits we described are just the beginning – the possibilities are endless.
Remember: Old Money Style is not about looking rich, but about looking elegant and confident. Invest in quality, choose natural materials, and stick to a neutral color palette. Your summer wardrobe will be timeless, versatile, and always stylish.