You’re in search of old money brands. Below, I’m helping you explore them at every price point. As I mentioned in this list of the top quiet luxury labels, interest in understated elegance is surging.
When you browse the collections from the brands below, you’ll see why.
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Affordable Old Money Brands
Some of these brands are decidedly old money. Others will help you embody the look without overspending.
Established in 1818, Brooks Brothers is a pillar of classic American style. Since its inception, this old-money brand has outfitted numerous U.S. presidents and noteworthy figures. Today, you can find tailored trousers, suit jackets, and wool cardigans among the collections- with many pieces under $200.
Pro Tip: I recently learned that many vintage Brooks Brothers pieces are of superb quality and can be found for resale on Ebay.
Enjoy collegiate-inspired looks? J.Crew is another all-American brand brimming with crisp staples. You can find preppy essentials here from chinos to crewneck sweaters to buttoned cardigans like the ones Michelle Obama was often spotted in during her time as First Lady.
My Clothing Pick:
Timeless and made of 100% cotton. Yes, please.
L.L. BEAN
A true American heritage brand, L.L. Bean has been outfitting the discerning but practical since 1912. Their iconic Bean Boots, flannel shirts, and Fisherman sweaters are the kinds of buy it for life pieces that are often passed down through generations, making them a perfect fit for the old money ethos.
Ralph Lauren embodies the quintessential American style and offers some affordable pieces that suit the old money aesthetic. Whether strolling through Martha’s Vineyard or wandering the streets of Manhattan, the brand exudes timeless elegance.
Side note- if you’re ever in London, stop into the flagship store on Bond Street. You can pursue old money clothing until your heart’s content.
LACOSTE
With its roots firmly planted in the world of tennis, Lacoste offers a sporty, sophisticated take on the old money aesthetic. You’ve undoubtedly seen Lacoste’s familiar polo shirts but don’t overlook their beautifully crafted knitwear and classic outerwear- ideal for the “weekend at the country club” look.
Marrying European sophistication with timeless style, Massimo Dutti is a go-to source for quality cashmere and wool items. The brand, sometimes called “ a high-end Zara” (the two share a parent company) offers minimalist pieces that give off an elegant yet effortless vibe.
If you want old-money clothing without the steep costs, don’t forget about Banana Republic. While the brand lacks the prestige of true luxury labels, it offers quality pieces in polished cuts.
Explore my list of brands like Banana Republic.
While it’s not a true old-money brand, many Tuckernuck pieces fit the bill. The brand strikes a balance between preppy and bohemian. So you’ll find chic and polished clothing, including breezy dresses and vibrant accessories that support a relaxed yet refined style.
Mid-Range Old Money Brands
Barbour’s trademark outdoor jackets have a legacy dating back to 1894. Expect durability, heritage, and a blend of style and function from this British brand. I recently attended a Barbour fashion show in Seattle and can confirm the jackets look amazing in person. So it’s one of the best old money clothing brands for functional and chic pieces.
My Clothing Pick:
Emblematic of British country style, the Barbour waxed jacket is a buy it for life piece often passed down through generations.
Certain brands scream old money despite being relatively new on the scene. Brochu Walker, led by French Native Karine Dubner, falls into this category. Find 100% cashmere sweaters, draped dresses, and more luxe feminine pieces here.
If impeccable tailoring and Italian fashion labels sound intriguing, you’re probably well acquainted with Max Mara.
The brand is lauded for its beautiful coats (British Vogue declared the Camel Coat “The Ultimate Fashion Investment”) which will outlast any trends- stealth wealth included.
Explore authenticated Max Mara pieces for a fraction of the retail price.
I used to view Eileen Fisher as exclusively for the 40+ crowd. But a look at their recent collections has left me (pleasantly) proven wrong. In addition to championing ethical fashion, Eileen Fisher offers designs at the intersection of nonchalance and polish. Perfect for old money outfits.
When I think of underrated brands that fit the old money category, Lafayette 148 springs to mind. Impeccable tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and understated ethos all blend in this brand. Their pieces are built to last, which is why I recommend exploring The RealReal for secondhand finds from the brand. You can often find incredible deals on their timeless designs.
Hyper-Luxury Old Money Brands
These brands rest securely on their rich legacies and their focus on exquisite craftsmanship.
An old-money brand that needs no introduction, Hermes, boasts an illustrious history of iconic bags and silk scarves that never fail to turn heads (subtly, of course).
While the Birkin and Kelly are notoriously difficult to obtain, the true entry point to the Hermès world is their silk scarves and shawls. I’ve seen a single, beautifully tied scarf elevate an entire outfit.
BOTTEGA VENETA
With no logos to be found, Bottega’s signature Intrecciato woven leather is its calling card, recognizable only to those in the know.
What’s fascinating to me is how the brand remains both timeless and completely modern, evolving under different creative directors. True to the old money ethos, unparalleled craftsmanship is at the heart of the label.
Fine fabrics. A rich history. Unattainable for most. Loro Piana is a hyper-luxury brand worn by a select few and coveted by many more. According to LVMH which acquired the brand in 2013, Loro Piana “produces superlative textiles and luxury goods using the world’s finest, rarest raw materials.”
KHAITE
While a newer name on the scene, Khaite has swiftly become a cornerstone of modern, understated luxury. What I (and many critics) adore about the brand is how the designs strike that perfect balance of structure and fluidity. It’s worth exploring if you appreciate classic silhouettes but with a distinctly modern, cool girl sensibility.
You can occasionally score Khatie for a fraction of retail on The Real Real.
If any brand can take credit (or blame) for the meteoric rise of the old money trend, it’s the luxury Italian label Brunello Cucinelli. The brand featured heavily in the hit show Succession and is the epitome of understated elegance.
Burberry is a reliable, no-fuss brand that puts the old in old money. Yep, it was founded in 1856 and the unmistakable check pattern endures, much like its quality garments.
Fun fact- Celine started out as a custom children’s shoe shop. More relevant fact- the brand now delivers quality leather goods and ready-to-wear garments that are perfectly Parisian chic.
It’s a good thing you scrolled all this way. I saved the oldest, most luxurious brand for last. Founded in Brussels in the year of our lord 1829, Delvaux is the world’s oldest luxury leather goods brand. The brand’s most famous bag? Le Brillant, of course.
How to Dress Like Old Money
Get it Tailored
There’s a reason certain people look impeccable in their garments. And no, it’s not about how much they spend. It’s all about perfect fit.
With assistance from a skilled tailor, your clothing will be altered to drape flawlessly on your body, creating a polished look that others will notice.
Wear Neutral Colors
You’ll notice an emphasis on neutral shades like navy, beige, tan, and white when you shop old money brands. While it is possible to have a chic colorful wardrobe, a muted color scheme carries a certain gravitas and timelessness with it. You can always find a signature accessory or accent color to add more dimension.
Dress Modestly
Yours truly wearing the Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan and Mia Mules.
Another hallmark of old money outfits?
Conservative necklines and hemlines. Layering strategically helps add interest (yes, tailored blazer it’s your time to shine) and keeps you covered. Even in warmer weather, lightweight layers like cashmere cardigans or silk scarves add that touch of sophistication without being ostentatious.
Old Money Fashion FAQs
Heritage brands like Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren, Hermès, and Chanel all fall into the old money category. But the most luxurious old-money labels are often not well known. Brands like Delvaux, for example, put the quiet in quiet luxury.
Here are the quintessential old money items I’ve seen people styling:
Tailored Blazer: Neutral, best if it’s tailored to your specific measurements.
Cashmere Sweater: 100% cash if you can, NAADAM has affordable options.
Crisp White Shirt: Almost too obvious. But you need a crisp white button down.
Turtleneck: A fitted turtleneck offers polish in an instant, especially in black or beige.
Polo Shirt: You can also opt for a polo sweater, slightly nautical blue and white.
Trench Coat: An investment piece that you’ll get a great ROI on.
Tailored Trousers: Opt for tailored pants in neutral colors like navy, black, or gray.
Leather Loafers: Quality leather loafers in black or brown are a smart casual staple.
Silk Scarf: Show me an outfit a silk scarf can’t elevate, I dare you.
