Ready to channel timeless elegance this summer? The Old Money summer aesthetic is your go-to for looking effortlessly chic, classic, and refined. Think neutral tones, natural fabrics, and silhouettes that never go out of style. In this guide, I’m sharing all the must-have pieces and styling tips to build your Old Money summer outfits and wardrobe.
Whether you’re heading to a European beach or strolling through an Italian villa, here’s how to embrace the old money aesthetic outfit for the summer season, written by an Italian blogger (me, of course).
What Is Old Money Summer Style?
Old Money fashion is rooted in understated luxury. Unlike flashy trends, it’s about investing in quality over quantity, choosing pieces that look expensive because of their cut, fabric, and timelessness. In the summer, this style leans into light fabrics, tailored silhouettes, and a refined, minimalist vibe.
Must-Have Old Money Summer Pieces
1. Linen Trousers
A staple in any Old Money summer wardrobe: lightweight, breathable, and undeniably classy! Linen is the foundation of elegant summer outfits. Opt for high-waisted, straight-leg linen trousers in white, beige, or taupe for the perfect summer vibes.
Perfect with a crisp button-down or lightweight sweater.
2. Tailored Shorts
Go for tailored shorts in cotton or linen with pleated detailing. They are an elegant alternative to casual denim, tailored shorts worn with a soft silk blouse are great for European summer outfits.
Styling tip: Stick to neutral tones and pair with a tucked-in blouse or silk cami. For the shoes, pair your outfit with loafers or leather sandals for a polished vacation outfit.
3. Crisp White Button-Down Shirt
A crisp white shirt never fails, it’s an essential to any old money wardrobe. Wear it tucked into linen trousers or draped over a swimsuit, perfect for beach outfit transitions from day to sunset dinners.
Roll up the sleeves for relaxed elegance and an effortless, classy summer outfit.
4. White Summer Dress
Every Old Money wardrobe needs one! Choose cotton, eyelet, or linen and look for timeless cuts like a modest mini dress, midi lengths, square necklines, or puff sleeves.
5. Lightweight Cable-Knit Sweater
Perfect for coastal evenings, choose ivory or cream shades for the ideal neutral outfit.
Styling tip: Drape it over your shoulders for that yacht-club vibe or that iconic preppy old-money aesthetic outfit.
6. Silk Scarf
Tie it around your ponytail, neck, or the handle of your bag to add instant sophistication to get classy elegant outfits aesthetic vibes.
Choose classic patterns or solid neutral shades for your scarves.
7. Midi Skirt
Midi skirts in neutral tones paired with high-quality tanks or tees make for modest classy summer outfits.
Styling tip: Add a belt and classic flats for a look that’s effortlessly expensive.
8. Structured Handbag
An Old Money look isn’t complete without a classic bag, think top-handle styles, minimal logos. Opt for leather or canvas in neutral tones.
A structured bag, whether it’s a mini leather tote or a woven basket, is essential to any outfit old money inspired.
9. Classic Loafers or Ballet Flats
Choose footwear that whispers luxury, like leather loafers or soft ballet flats in beige, tan, or black. Go for well-made, comfortable, and elegant styles.
10. Minimal Jewelry & Pearl Accessories
Pearls are timeless and oh-so-Old-Money. Go for small pearl studs or a dainty necklace for a delicate look and avoid chunky statement pieces.
11. Oversized Sunglasses
When choosing a pair of sunglasses, go for vintage vibes. Think about Jackie O or Audrey Hepburn and stick to black, tortoiseshell, or soft beige frames for a polished beach outfit or old-money city vibes.
12. Boat Shoes
Nautical flair meets classic prep in a pair of boa shoes. Prefer colors such as tan, navy, or white to create an old money capsule wardrobe that works well and elegantly.
It works well with tailored shorts or cuffed trousers.
The Old Money Summer Color Palette
The key to pulling off this look lies in neutrals, earth tones, blues, and pastels.
• Neutrals: beige, ivory, white, soft gray.
• Earth tones: brown, olive, tan, khaki.
• Blues: navy, muted blues.
• Pastels: muted pastels, soft peach, dusty rose.
Avoid bold prints or bright neons. Stick to elegant, timeless shades that blend seamlessly.
How to look expensive this summer, and Old Money summer style is all about embracing elegance without the need for logos or flashy trends. From tailored pieces to muted tones, the secret is in effortless sophistication.
Whether you’re curating vacation outfits, classy vacation nails, or upgrading your apartment wardrobe with classy summer outfits, the old money fits are all about timeless pieces, refined palettes, and subtle luxury. This summer, embrace the old money fashion lifestyle with pieces that elevate your style and give your wardrobe a lasting edge.
Ready to start outfit planning for your dream summer seasonal wardrobe? Start curating these must-have Old Money summer essentials to create stunning and classy summer outfits.
