Old money outfits for men that stay classic, with a modern twist to keep you sharp and timeless.

The old-money look is all about quiet luxury, timeless elegance, and effortless sophistication. But let’s face it—there’s a fine line between looking like a modern-day gentleman and accidentally stepping into your grandfather’s wardrobe. The key to pulling off this look is balancing classic, refined elements with modern touches that keep it fresh, youthful, and sharp. Here’s how to make old money outfits for men feel current, stylish, and totally you—without stepping into a time machine.
1. Tailoring That Fits Like a Glove

The magic of old money style starts with fit. However, there’s no room for those oversized, boxy suits that scream “vintage!” in a bad way. Today’s old money look is all about sharp, sleek tailoring that looks like it was made just for you.
The Fit: Keep your suit slim but not skinny. Think clean lines with a modern taper. The goal is a silhouette that feels both contemporary and timeless—no saggy trousers or billowing blazers here. A well-tailored suit with a refined fit is the secret to looking both like you belong at a polo match and at the coolest bar in town.
The Jacket: Say goodbye to padded shoulders that make you look like you’re about to run for office in 1950. Go for a soft-shouldered blazer that drapes just right. It should hug your frame but allow for movement, striking that perfect balance between classic and modern.
2. Fabric That Breathes New Life into Old Money

Old money outfits are known for their luxurious fabrics, but today’s luxury fabrics come with a twist—lighter, softer, and more breathable. The goal is to stay refined without sweating bullets.
Wool and Cashmere Blends: While wool and cashmere are forever staples in old money wardrobes, today’s wool blends are much lighter and offer a sleek drape. Think merino wool or a soft cashmere blend that looks so luxurious, but you’re not drowning in it. These fabrics offer a clean, modern feel without sacrificing that quiet, aristocratic air.
Linen and Cotton: When the weather warms up, reach for linen or cotton. These fabrics scream sophistication with a relaxed edge—perfect for the country club or a weekend at the Hamptons. A well-fitted linen blazer feels breezy, but in the best way. It’s effortless, not sloppy. And it won’t make you look like you’ve time-travelled from a sepia-toned photo album.
3. Neutral Tones with a Dash of Character

Old money outfits for men are all about subtlety, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to dreary shades. Keep your color palette muted, but don’t shy away from adding a little personality.
Keep It Neutral: Navy, grey, beige, and white are your trusty sidekicks in the old money game. These classic tones will always be in style, but feel free to experiment with modern takes on these colors—slate grey, charcoal, or even a deep, moody burgundy. It’s all about finding shades that complement your skin tone and feel fresh.
Pattern Play: Old money is known for avoiding loud prints, but subtle patterns are your friend. A soft houndstooth or windowpane check? Yes, please. Pinstripes are also fair game, as long as they don’t look like they belong on Wall Street in 1987. The key is low-key, sophisticated patterns that add just enough intrigue to keep the look fresh.
4. Footwear That’s Classic, Not Grandma’s Loafers

Let’s talk shoes. Old money outfits for men come with a strict no-sneakers-in-suits rule, but that doesn’t mean you have to go all-in on the grandfatherly look.
Loafers, But With an Edge: Loafers are a must, but you’re not here for the chunky, dated designs. Think sleek, Italian-made penny loafers or elegant slip-ons with a refined profile. A minimalist design with a streamlined toe keeps the old money vibe while making sure you don’t look like you just came from a golf course in the ‘60s.
Leather Sneakers: Yes, you read that right. Leather sneakers can work with old money outfits for men if you know how to style them. Go for a crisp, clean design in white or black leather—nothing too flashy. The beauty of this move is that it combines comfort with sophistication, showing you know how to mix modern casual with classic formality.
5. Accessorize Without Overdoing It

Accessories can make or break an old money look, and the rule here is simple: Quality over quantity. Less is more, always.
Quality Over Flash: The best accessories don’t shout, they whisper. Think leather belts with understated, refined buckles, a vintage watch that’s more heirloom than trend, or a pair of sleek cufflinks that don’t scream for attention. These pieces should feel timeless, never trendy.
Minimalist Jewelry: Keep your jewelry low-key. One or two simple pieces, like a classic tie bar or a crisp pocket square, are all you need to bring that elevated touch. Think of your accessories like the punctuation at the end of a sentence—just enough to finish off the look without overpowering it.
Socks with Personality: Don’t sleep on socks. A pair of subtle, patterned socks (we’re talking classic stripes, argyle, or solid tones with a slight texture) can add just the right pop of personality while keeping your outfit grounded in sophistication. Keep them neat, and steer clear of anything too bold or garish.
Psst… still unsure? No worries! Dive into this guide for a step-by-step breakdown of how to elevate your old money outfit with the perfect accessories.
6. Outerwear That’s Cool, Not Stuffy

The right coat can be the difference between looking sharp and looking like you’re about to give a speech in the 1920s.
Coats with Clean Lines: Go for outerwear that’s modern but still classic. Think sleek wool peacoats or a minimalist trench coat that can easily transition from a boardroom to a cocktail party. These coats should feel current but retain that old money elegance, making sure you look like you’ve got places to be and people to impress.
Cashmere Scarf: A cashmere scarf is your secret weapon—luxurious, soft, and just the right touch of sophistication. Keep it simple in neutral shades like grey, navy, or camel, and wrap it loosely around your neck for an effortlessly chic look that says you’ve got style, but you’re not trying too hard.
7. Hair and Grooming That Feels Fresh

Looking good in old money outfits isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you carry yourself. A well-groomed appearance is essential, and it doesn’t need to be outdated.
Classic Cuts, Modern Twist: Old money style demands a classic haircut, but make sure it’s sharp and relevant. Go for a clean cut with a modern fade or slick it back with a bit of texture for a timeless but youthful vibe. Whatever you choose, just make sure it’s neat, not stiff.
Beard Care: If facial hair is your thing, make sure it’s well-maintained. A defined beard or light stubble adds to the look but doesn’t age you. Keep it tidy and polished—no scruffy, unkempt beards here.
8. Avoid Overly Traditional Accessories

Sometimes, less is more. Old money outfits are about refinement, not overstatement.
Ties: Ditch the thick, patterned ties from the ‘80s. Instead, opt for a sleek, narrow silk tie or a knitted option in a neutral tone. If you’re feeling bold, skip the tie altogether and let your crisp shirt and pocket square do the talking.
Pocket Squares: A pocket square is a must, but keep it simple. Opt for a white linen square or a soft, muted pattern in tones that complement your outfit. The key is to keep it understated—nothing too bright or flashy.
9. Less Is More
Ultimately, the secret to nailing the old money look without looking like you’ve raided a vintage shop is simple: restraint. It’s about making your clothes work for you—whether it’s a perfectly tailored suit or a simple accessory—without shouting your wealth from the rooftops. Old money style is all about quiet confidence and understated luxury.
Think you’re ready to tackle this look? Head over to ZALORA Philippines to browse through the latest old money outfits today!