Certain fashion trends come and go – often within the blink of an eye. This can make it difficult to upgrade your style in a sustainable way, as you don’t want to spend a fortune on outfits that quickly look tired or outdated.
One way in which this can be remedied, however, is by adopting a more timeless style or aesthetic. For example, this could include Old Money or New Money Fashion.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Old Money and New Money Fashion while also giving you some advice on how you can use these timeless styles to elevate your wardrobe!
Fashion’s Class Clash: Old vs New Money
Firstly, it is important that you’re able to distinguish between old and new money fashion. After all, their strong associations with luxury brands and opulence mean that they’re often grouped together in fashion guides, blogs, and articles.
However, there are many differences that set these two styles apart.
What is Old Money Fashion?
When you think of old-money fashion, you likely think of tailored suits, cocktail dresses, and fabrics such as tweed and cashmere. This is because Old Money Fashion is built around wearing understated, high-quality clothing – which does not always mean branding or even designer clothing. Instead, it’s about picking pieces that look both timeless and expensive while still maintaining a sense of subtlety.
What is New Money Fashion?
While old-money fashion is built around subtlety and elegance, new-money fashion is much flashier. For example, a new money wardrobe would likely contain many statement pieces from recognisable brands. Think Louis Vuitton Heels, with their red bottoms, for example.
Those taking on a new money aesthetic, therefore, may be more inclined to purchase from the latest designer brands or leading designers.
The Stylish Divide: Battling Old and New Money
What are the differences between old and new money styles?
The key differences between old and new money styles include:
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Those adopting an old-money aesthetic will select timeless and elegant pieces for their wardrobes, whereas those who prefer new-money aesthetics will wear a wider variety of clothing that incorporates the latest trends.
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Old-money style is rather minimalistic when it comes to accessories; adopters will pick out items that complement their clothing, not to stand out. Conversely, new money fashion is much more accessory-heavy, with items being used as statement pieces to elevate outfits or showcase opulence.
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As old money fashion is more traditional, it tends to stick to a specific, dark, and “rich” colour palette, whereas new money fashion incorporates a broader spectrum of colours. For example, this could include trending colours, otherwise known as the colour of the season. This could, theoretically, make it easier to find clothes that complement your complexion and skin tone.
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Old money clothing is tailored especially for the wearer, whereas there’s typically less tailoring required when it comes to buying clothing for a new money-inspired wardrobe. This could mean that you are able to buy more products off-the-rack, which could cut down the costs associated with buying high-end clothing somewhat.
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Old money fashion is often described as understated, whereas the same cannot be said for new money fashion.
Why is there a difference between the two types of fashion?
There are many reasons why these two styles differ, despite both originating from a combination of wealth and style. For example, new money fashion is often described as being the result of those who have recently come into money looking to spend it as quickly as possible or to show off their successes to the world. As such, they may be more inclined to buy high-end items from the world’s leading designers – especially if their logo or branding is featured. However, old money fashion is more “settled.” It is rich without having to state so explicitly.
Classy Fashion Showdown: Old vs New Money
There are many debates surrounding old and new money fashion, regarding which is the “better” style. More often than not, this comes down to the question: which option is classier?
Which is classier?
Both old and new money clothing are considered classy, especially when compared to more modern styles. After all, they’re often rather traditional in nature. However, between the two, old money fashion is perhaps the classiest option. This, again, is because it’s a more subtle show of wealth and opulence. Some people who prefer old money fashion, for example, may not like the “flashiness” associated with new money clothing, finding it to be somewhat tacky. However, when careful consideration is put into building a new money-inspired wardrobe, this does not have to be the case.
Fashion Face-Off: The Clash of Class and Style
The differences between old money and new money fashion could perhaps best be described as a clash between class and style. Old money fashion is elegant, understated, and timeless – whereas new money fashion is chic, cutting-edge, and eye-catching. They’re both the makings of an incredibly well-dressed individual, just rather different in their execution
For this reason, in a fashion face-off, it can be difficult to say which style is better than the other. In fact, this largely comes down to personal preference or which style of clothing may suit you better. For example, if you’re a fan of a specific colour palette because it suits your complexion or brings out your eyes, then you could use this to inform your decision as to which style to adopt. Alternatively, you may want to look to your favourite style influencers, stylists, or celebrities to see whose fashion or clothing speaks to you the most.
Old Money Fashion vs New Money Style: The Ultimate Showdown
Another way in which you can better differentiate between Old Money Fashion and New Money Styles is by comparing their influences within both the fashion world and pop culture. This makes it easier to compare the two styles overall.
For example, James Bond has had a profound influence on fashion trends. In fact, Bond is often credited for helping old money fashion stay so popular. Each film release coincides with a renaissance for watches, tailored suits, and tuxedos- even though each actor is given the choice to customise their look somewhat.
While this may seem overly dramatic, “Omega reportedly saw a 20x increase in sales of its Seamaster watch after Daniel Craig wore it in his first James Bond outing.”
Conversely, the new money style is influenced by current and ongoing trends, which means it is more susceptible to change. Those who follow the new money fashion circuit must keep their finger on the pulse, paying attention to the latest up-and-coming designers and trends. In some cases, they may scramble to buy items as soon as they are released, paying premium prices while doing so. In some cases, these fashion choices may also be influenced by pop culture, such as new film releases or the latest red carpet looks – much in the same way that old money fashion is heavily influenced by the Bond movie franchise.
Style Wars: Old vs New Money Fashion
As mentioned above, it can be hard to determine which style or fashion is better than the other. However, there are some factors that may change your purchasing decisions somewhat, the most obvious being pricing. Purchasing clothes from “trending” fashion designers will likely cost more money than going for clothes from lesser-known (but still high-quality) brands, which is perhaps why it may be easier to adopt an old money style.
You may also want to think carefully about what styles of clothing best compliment your figure. For example, you may want to choose clothing that creates a particular silhouette – whether that is one that makes your waist look slimmer or your shoulders broader.
If you are unsure which style of clothing suits you better, then you may want to work with a personal stylist. They’ll be able to give you more specialist advice on which style will bring out the best in your appearance or leave you feeling the most confident.
Class and Style: The Battle of Old and New Money
As mentioned above, the battle between old and new money fashion is often a “battle” between class and style.
If you’re looking for a sleek, classy look for a formal event – then look toward old-money fashion staples for some advice. For men, this could include a tailored suit or tuxedo, matched with quality leather shoes and, of course, a statement watch. For women, this could include high-end, fitted dresses and coats alongside more refined jewellery such as pearl necklaces. In terms of unisex clothing, focus on specific, high-quality fabrics such as cashmere and chiffon.
However, if you’re looking for something a little more sleek and stylish, then you need to select some new money fashion staples. For men, this could still include suits and tuxedos, only those that are a little more modernised or en-vogue. For example, instead of sticking to a simple black suit, you may want to introduce a pop of colour or even a patterned fabric to the mix. For women, this once again includes trending items and pieces taken straight from the catwalk. For both men and women, focus on buying from recognisable companies, which often feature their distinctive branding on their clothes and accessories. Doing so will help you to build a wardrobe of impressive pieces while ensuring that you’re matching the new money aesthetic.
Clash of Fashion Titans: Old Money vs New Money
When it comes to buying outfits in the style of old money or new money, it is important that you know which brands and companies to look out for. This can simplify the shopping journey quite considerably, making it easier to find pieces or items you love – whether you’re shopping for a few stables or starting your entire wardrobe from scratch.
As mentioned previously, new money fashion tends to focus on recognizable designer clothing. However, that’s not to say that an old money wardrobe does not contain designer pieces – it does, though they are often more purposefully selected and do not tend to showcase the brand’s name or logo. For this reason, you could shop at any of the following brands when adopting a new money or old money style: Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Armani… the list goes on!
As old-money fashion tends to err on the side of subtlety, you could also purchase clothing from luxury, family-owned brands. While they may not be as well-known as some of the brands listed above, their quality speaks for itself.
Final Thoughts.
Both old money and new money styles have their merits, and they’re also entrenched within the fashion industry. This means that both aesthetics have taken on a certain timeless quality – no matter which option you choose, you’re sure to look great and stand out from the crowd.
After all, those adopting an old money style will ooze class and confidence through subtle yet luxurious pieces, rich colour schemes, and well-selected accessories. Those opting for new money styles will stand out due to their boldness, whether they’re wearing trends hot off the catwalk or an iconic designer piece.
For this reason, those looking to upgrade their wardrobe in the new year need not look further than this style of clothing. After all, not only will it not fade out of style any time soon, but when you purchase high-end clothing, you’re making an investment. These pieces, when cared for correctly, will stand the test of time and will continue to look great while doing so. The same cannot be said for fad trends or fast fashion items.
Furthermore, as there are countless items or articles of clothing to choose from when adopting these styles, you’re sure to find something that not only makes you look good but feel good, too. After all, true style is about how the clothes make you feel!
