Want to get the old money aesthetic without breaking the bank? You’ll love my guide on how to dress old money in spring and summer while staying on budget!
How To Dress Old Money On A Budget: Spring/Summer
The old-money aesthetic is one of my favorite fashion trends as of late. Old money fashion is all about capturing a timeless and refined aesthetic. So classic wardrobe staples like a trench coat, knit pieces, blazers or lady jackets, pleated trousers, silk midi skirts, and elevated accessories are a must for this look.
Fortunately for all of us, channeling this sophistication and elegance doesn’t have to come at the expense of your wallet! While I do believe you should invest in chic, timeless pieces, you can often find many at a great price. If you’ve been searching for quiet luxury pieces within your budget, this article has what you’re looking for.
Below, I’ve listed the best old-money staples to invest in for spring and summer that I’ve included in the capsule graphic above. Plus, there are over a dozen chic and classy old-money outfits below to inspire you and help you find new fave pieces to add to your closet. So keep scrolling to the end!
Trench Coat
A trench coat is a no-brainer when it comes to the old-money look! This piece is especially great in a transitional season like spring when the weather hasn’t fully warmed yet. And while you may think a trench coat is too hot for summer, this weather-resistant coat is perfect for rainy summer days.
Cream Jacket
A cream jacket has an understated elegance that’s excellent for an old-money outfit. This classic, elevated piece is usually made from breathable material that’s great in warm weather. Plus, the light tones work well to brighten up any ensemble.
Striped Sweater
A striped sweater is a versatile piece that’s considered a staple in old-money fashion. My favorite thing about this timeless sweater is how you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion.
Knit Crewneck
This sweater is great to have in your spring or summer old-money wardrobe! It’s perfect for chilly days when you need a little extra warmth, and if you find yourself having to take it off as the day warms up, you can drape it over your shoulder for that effortless quiet luxury look.
Button-Up Shirts
Button-ups add a formal and sophisticated feel to any outfit, so this is definitely a piece you want to keep in any old money-inspired capsule. These tops can be paired with tailored pants for a refined look or left open for a more casual vibe. Either way, a button-up shirt will add an elevated feel to your outfits.
Knit or Linen Vest
If it’s the middle of summer and you want the high-end look of a button-up shirt but don’t want such a long layer – opt for a knit or linen vest instead. This piece has a similar look to a button-up but has a more laid-back and warm-weather vibe.
Sleeveless Turtleneck
I love having a sleeveless turtleneck for quiet luxury outfits! This is fantastic as a cool-weather layer or can be worn alone with pants, shorts, or a skirt for an elegant ensemble.
Polo Tee
It almost goes without saying that a polo tee belongs in an old-money wardrobe since a polo is commonly associated with class and sophistication. I recommend a short-sleeved tee for spring and summer, and you’ve got the perfect top for looking old money on a budget.
Knit Tanks
Tank tops are an obvious choice for a warm-weather wardrobe – but opting for knit tank tops will instantly give your outfit a more sophisticated look. I suggest sticking with neutrals here so you can easily pair it with other pieces for an effortlessly elegant aesthetic.
Knit Cardigans
A quality cardigan is a must for an old-money outfit with extra layers. If you’re dressing for colder spring days and want something simple but timeless, a knit cardigan is an easy go-to!
Pleated Trousers
Pleated trousers are probably one of the most elegant bottoms you can have in your closet, so obviously, I have to include them as a staple for a quiet luxury capsule. And while they’re incredibly classy, they can still be dressed casually for brunch or shopping with friends.
Classic Blue Jeans
Blue jeans absolutely have a place in old-money fashion. These pants are definitely timeless, and if you pair them with elevated tops, shoes, and accessories – there’s no doubt that you can incorporate them into a high-end outfit.
Slip Skirt
A slip skirt is perfect for adding an elevated and feminine feel to any outfit. The silky look and slightly fitted silhouette of this piece is so refined, and it’s also breezy enough to wear with any spring or summer ensemble.
Tailored Shorts
Like tailored pants, tailored shorts instantly upgrade any outfit and give it that quiet luxury feel. If it’s a particularly hot day or you’ll be spending time on the beach or water – tailored shorts are absolutely the piece to wear (in my opinion).
Shirt Dress
A shirt dress is a minimalistic piece with an elegant and timeless appeal, and I love that it adds a feminine touch. Plus, it’s a fantastic choice as a spring or summer outfit, whether you’ll be out on a coffee date or having dinner with friends!
Classic Footwear
Classic footwear is a must to pair with classic clothing! I find that simple but elegantly designed shoes are excellent in old-money fashion – and opting for neutrals is also a great choice for creating a classy aesthetic.
These are the types of footwear that I would recommend for the quiet luxury look:
- pumps
- heeled sandals
- brown sandals
- ballet flats or loafers
- classic sneakers
Crossbody Bag
A crossbody is definitely a staple accessory here! Leather or faux leather has an undeniably sophisticated look, and finding a crossbody purse with gold-toned hardware will easily elevate your outfit. I suggest a crossbody if you want to be hands-free during an outing or if you want to add a laid-back vibe to your ensemble.
Raffia Bag
A woven raffia tote is effortlessly chic and perfect for summertime! But you can absolutely wear this in the spring as well. Plus, a raffia bag comes in all shapes and sizes – so whether you want your raffia bag to be a crossbody, a tote, a bucket bag, or a shoulder bag, you can easily find one that fits with the quiet luxury aesthetic.
Tote Bag
Totes are ideal during the spring and summer when you want to be outside enjoying the sunshine and need to carry all of your essentials while out and about! I think neutral tones are best with this accessory – so opt for beige, cream, camel, black, or classic white when choosing a tote.
Cap
It may surprise you to learn that a baseball cap fits in perfectly with the old-money aesthetic, but it’s true! This hat has a bit of a sporty and preppy vibe that easily gives off a quiet luxury feel.
The Ralph Lauren cap above screams old money, but it is on the expensive side. Don’t worry, though – I have affordable alternatives listed above as well!
Accessories
And lastly, you can’t forget about the little details that bring an outfit together! When it comes to looking old money on a budget, elevated accessories are essential. The accessories above are the finishing touches that will put your quiet luxury outfit over the top. I suggest having at least one option for each category on the list below:
- brown belt
- black belt
- jewelry
- sunglasses
Old Money On a Budget Outfit Ideas
For style inspiration, I’ve put together chic and effortless old-money outfit ideas that work on a budget! So scroll on and find affordable looks for the old-money aesthetic in 2024.
trousers + button-up
get the look:
This stunning, breezy is perfect for strolling through a farmers’ market or enjoying a latte on the patio with friends this spring.
pleated pants, turtleneck + cardigan
get the look:
Layered knit pieces with pleated pants are a must for looking elegant while staying warm during cooler spring days.
trousers + knit crewneck
get the look:
I recommend a simple crewneck sweater and ballet flats for a cute, casual ensemble with a quiet luxury feel!
pleated pants, cardigan + sneakers
get the look:
You can easily pair simple, neutral sneakers with an old-money outfit for an elegant yet relaxed vibe that’s suitable for any indoor or outdoor occasion.
jeans, button-up + cardigan
get the look:
Grab brunch with the girls in this elegant old-money outfit—and don’t forget the chic accessories for that effortlessly elevated look!
tailored shorts + knit cardigan
get the look:
Tailored shorts are perfect for starting your summer off in style, and this ensemble has a relaxed vibe that’s ideal for a day of shopping or running errands.
jeans + cardigan
get the look:
I love the feminine feel of this quiet luxury outfit, and you can sport this look anywhere from date night to a casual lunch.
trousers, button-up + cardigan
get the look:
This combination of pleated trousers, a button-up, and loafers has a sophisticated aesthetic, making this outfit a must for a semi-formal spring or summer event.
shirtdress + heeled sandals
get the look:
If you want to look timeless on a breezy summer day, this shirtdress and heels combo is my top pick for you.
striped sweater + pleated trousers
get the look:
A striped sweater is an old-money wardrobe staple that looks stunning with tailored pants and chic ballet flats.
tailored shorts + striped button-up
get the look:
I love this look for an old-money summer outfit, and it’s definitely my first choice for a day spent sipping cocktails at your favorite beachside restaurant!
slip skirt + turtleneck
get the look:
Spice up a quiet luxury look with feminine pieces like a slip skirt and sling-back heels for the ultimate spring or summer dinner date outfit.
knit vest + trousers
get the look:
On warm summer days, a knit vest, flowy trousers, and ballet flats are great for a refined, feminine look.
Old money fashion has an elegant, expensive aesthetic, but you don’t need to go all out on an old money wardrobe! Use the budget-friendly outfit ideas in this guide to add chic old-money pieces to your closet this spring and summer.
More Style Inspiration You’ll Love:
How To Look Expensive On A Budget
How To Get The Old Money Aesthetic + Outfit Ideas To Recreate
