The “old money fashion” trend embraces classic wardrobe staples that prioritize quality. This form of quiet luxury is a style trend that shows no sign of slowing down. From well-tailored blazers to pencil skirts, we’ll dive into the old money clothing trends to invest in right now.
Table of Contents
An overview of the global women’s apparel market
Top 5 old money fashion trends
Summary
An overview of the global women’s apparel market
The global women’s apparel market was valued at USD 936.30 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 2.71% until 2029.
A major driver of the market is the influence of social media. Many emerging fashion trends continue to arise and circulate on online platforms, driving sales and clueing consumers into certain styles. Women, especially, continue to invest in premium apparel.
Another trend in the women’s clothing market is diverse product ranges that include gender-neutral and plus-size apparel. A rising awareness about inclusion and body positivity is shaping the future of the industry.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at five “old money fashion” trends looking to go big in 2025.
5 top old money fashion trends
1. Pencil skirts
Old money fashion adores pencil skirts for their feminine appeal. The ideal cut is below the knee because it creates a longer silhouette.
To ensure a long pencil skirt maintains its shape throughout the day, thicker fabrics like cotton or wool are most attractive. Neutral shades such as navy or gray are also favored, with quality zippers or buttons enhancing the skirt’s overall look. Additionally, a slit along the back or side of the pencil skirt allows for more movement when walking.
According to Google Ads, the term “pencil skirt” garnered a search volume of 165,000 in August and 301,000 in December, which equates to an 82% increase over four months.
2. Pantsuits
A tailored pantsuit is an essential addition to any old money wardrobe. Matching pantsuits can pair perfectly with buttoned shirts and exquisite accessories, while pantsuit trousers should be designed to flatter the body without being too tight. Monochrome varieties work best, otherwise, avoid items that feature too many colors.
Luxurious fabrics such as wool or cotton are ideal, while small patterns that do not overwhelm the outfit, such as houndstooth or pinstripe, can also be used. Lastly, details like hidden belt loops or high-quality clasps and buttons improve the craftsmanship of a women’s pantsuit.
The term “women’s pantsuit” saw a 22% increase in search volume between August and December, with 60,500 and 74,000 searches, respectively.
3. Button-up shirts
In the fashion market, button-up shirts for women never go out of style and are a go-to choice for customers interested looking to achieve an old money aesthetic.
High-quality fabrics such as silk or cotton – fabrics that are breathable enough to be worn all day – are best when it comes to women’s button-up shirts. A neutral sweater can also be tied over the shoulders to finish off the look.
Women’s button-up shirts typically come in classic colors like white or blue, with white being the most enduring shade. According to Google Ads, the term “ladies’ white button-up” attracted 18,100 searches in August and 27,100 in December, which represents a 49% increase over four months.
4. Tailored blazers
A tailored blazer for women can be worn throughout the year and is a core garment in old money style. The classic women’s blazer can be dressed down with a white T-shirt or paired with a crewneck sweater for formal occasions.
The key to this trend is finding the perfect fit over trendy designs. Old money blazers should be fitted at the waist and have structured shoulders, which can be achieved with shoulder pads. Wool or tweed are the most popular fabrics, while patterns such as classic checked, herringbone, or houndstooth patterns create a sophisticated look. A double-breasted blazer is another option for customers looking for a powerful yet timeless appeal.
The term “women’s blazer” saw an 82% increase in search volume over four months, going from 90,500 in August to 165,000 in December.
5. Tweed jackets
Inspired by Chanel’s heritage designs, the tweed jacket is a symbol of timeless elegance best known for its unique texture, achieved using woven fibers. In short, no old money wardrobe is complete without one.
A pastel color palette with a plaid or herringbone pattern is the most common look for women’s tweed jackets. And no matter if the jackets come with a single or double-breasted design, the buttons of the coat are generally made from metal to accent the tweed.
The term “women’s tweed jacket” garnered a search volume of 27,100 in August and 60,500 in December, which equates to a 120% increase over four months.
Summary
Old money fashion is one of the latest trends to take the women’s clothing industry by storm. There are several key pieces of this trend that can be mixed and matched to create a multitude of old money outfits. Tailored pants suits and blazers are essential, while other staples like button-up shirts, tweed jackets, and pencil skirts can be used to tie these outfits together.
As opposed to the new money fashion trend, which favors modern looks and flashy pieces that flaunt wealth, the heart of the old money aesthetic is about investing in well-tailored pieces. Businesses are therefore advised to do careful research so as to source items that are most likely to help them capitalize on the timeless charm of old money designs.
