The old money style is characterized by classic elegance, subtlety and a tasteful selection of colors that reflect sophistication and luxury without excessive ostentation. Combining colors in this style is an art based on a muted palette, harmony and the ability to choose shades that emphasize the timeless character of the wardrobe. In this article, we will suggest how to combine colors in the old money style to create classic and elegant styles.
1. A subdued color palette – the foundation of the old money style
The basis of the old money style is the choice of classic, subdued colors that are subtle and elegant. Here, bright and flashy colors are avoided in favor of more refined shades that are associated with tradition and good taste. Here are the most important colors used in this style:
- White and cream : These neutral colors are the foundation of the old money style. White symbolizes purity and elegance, while cream shades add subtlety. Perfect for shirts, sweaters, blouses or dresses.
- Beige and Brown : Warm shades of beige and brown are often used in jackets, coats and trousers. They give an effect of elegance without unnecessary ostentation.
- Navy and navy blue : Navy is one of the most important colors in the old money style. It is universal and suits most occasions, both formal and casual. It works great on jackets, sweaters or trousers.
- Olive green and khaki : These shades are popular in preppy style and work well with other colors in a muted palette. Often used in outerwear such as parkas or jackets.
- Grey : Another neutral colour that can be combined with almost any other shade. Grey sweaters, trousers or old money coats give the style an elegant and balanced character.
2. How to combine colors in old money style?
The old money style is based on subtle combinations of colors that emphasize elegance and sophistication. Here are some rules that will help you create harmonious styles:
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Monochrome with an accent : One of the classic ways to create an old-money look is to use a single color in different shades. For example, combining different shades of beige – light pants, a darker sweater and an ivory coat – creates a sophisticated but still interesting look. To add character, you can use a subtle accent, such as a scarf in a delicate shade of burgundy.
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Earthy colors : Colors inspired by nature, such as beige, brown, olive green and khaki, work well together. Combining these shades allows you to create a coherent style that looks elegant yet casual. For example, a brown sweater, olive pants and a beige coat are a typical combination for the old money style.
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Contrasting combinations in a subdued version : In the old money style, contrasts are not flashy, but subtle. An example is the combination of a navy sweater with white trousers or a cream shirt with a dark gray cardigan. Such combinations add expressiveness to the style while maintaining elegance.
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Adding accents with classic patterns : Old money style often uses traditional patterns, such as houndstooth, checks or stripes. It is worth including them in the style as an accessory, such as a scarf, a shawl or a vest in a delicate check. These patterns usually come in muted colors, which allows them to be harmoniously combined with the basic shades.
3. What colors to avoid in old money style?
Although the old money style is characterized by great freedom in combining colors, there are a few color rules that are worth avoiding:
- Bright, neon colors : Colors like neon pink, lime green, and bright orange are considered too flashy and not in keeping with the old-money aesthetic. It is better to go for more subdued and classic shades.
- Shiny Materials : Avoid materials that reflect too much light, such as satin or sequins. Old money style favors matte, natural fabrics that emphasize sophistication.
4. Examples of old money styling
To better illustrate how to combine colors in the old money style, here are some suggestions for elegant styling:
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Fall Look : Beige wool coat, dark brown trousers, light ivory sweater and olive green checkered scarf. The whole look is completed by dark brown leather loafers.
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Summer style : Navy blazer made of light fabric, white shirt, sand-colored chinos and brown loafers. This set is perfect for family outings or summer gatherings.
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Everyday styling : Khaki sweater, soft gray pants and a beige trench coat. The whole can be completed with a leather bag and a scarf in shades of brown.
5. Materials and colors – how to combine them?
The colors in the old money style are closely related to the type of material. Natural fabrics such as wool, cashmere, cotton or linen best reflect the character of this style. Here's how to match colors to specific materials:
- Wool and cashmere : Darker shades such as navy blue, olive green, brown or grey are ideal for coats and sweaters made from these materials.
- Cotton and linen : Light colours such as beige, cream and white work well in shirts, trousers and light jackets.
Combining colours in the old money style is an art based on harmony, subtlety and the choice of muted shades that reflect classic elegance. Styles based on neutral colours such as beige, navy blue, grey and white create a sophisticated and timeless look. Avoiding bright colours and shiny materials allows you to create classic, balanced styles that will always look stylish. The old money style is a choice for people who value tradition and subtle elegance, regardless of the occasion.
