Fresh Old Money Dressing Philosophy: Reconceptualizing Luxury
This year, the big trend is still the return of timeless classics. However, there are some subtle changes in the familiar old money style.
In my opinion, these changes can be summarised as 'fresh old money'. This term refers to the young new force in the old money class. Although they identify with 'old money', their taste and vision are not outdated. They are keeping up with the times and are more fashion-forward than traditional 'old money'. They prioritize texture and style over wealth, and value quality and style over wealth, unlike 'new money'. They are more stylish than old money, more trendy than new money, and pay close attention to texture and style. They never intentionally seek attention, but they invariably set the trend for consumption.
Additionally, 'fresh old money' represents the continuous evolution of the old money style. Nowadays, the concept of old money has evolved beyond its traditional stereotype. It is now more relaxed and responsive to contemporary social norms, with a new outlook that is better suited to the current context.
What exactly is the 'fresh old money' class like, and how can you distinguish it from the rest?
Old Money
But New Taste, Classic and Youthful
Fresh old money and old money share common characteristics: wealth and refined taste accumulated over a sustained period. While not as traditional in aesthetic taste as old money, new old money is able to keep up with the times and remain youthful, embracing change.
Princess Kate is a prime example of fresh old money. Under the strict rules of the royal family, she has maintained a traditional aristocratic temperament while incorporating elements of professional attire, ultimately finding a style that suits her best.
With a discerning eye and extensive experience, she makes rational and calm purchasing decisions, avoiding trends and relying on her own judgement to determine what is truly suitable and worth buying.
Compared to the seriousness of traditional old money, the nouveau riche have adopted a more relaxed style while still emphasizing subtle personality. They combine the core qualities of old money with the aesthetics of the nouveau riche, resulting in a unique and versatile style that encompasses quiet luxury, old money elegance, and high-knowledge sophistication.
Understated in Appearance
Embrace Nature to Achieve the Highest Level of Tactility
Some people believe that winter clothing is a reflection of one's class and taste. However, fresh old money has high standards for fabrics throughout the year.
They strive to embrace nature and pursue purity. Although their appearance may seem low-key, their clothing is made of the highest quality natural fabrics such as cashmere, wool, mulberry silk, and linen. The clothes may appear plain and simple, but they have a high value.
When skin and nature come together in the embrace of the most precious material, people experience unparalleled comfort and coziness. This allows their bodies to be in the most comfortable state, which is the epitome of luxury.
Therefore, even in spring and summer, fresh old money insist on wearing cashmere wool fabrics to pursue the ultimate wearing experience. This has become an unspoken rule of the upper class.
Natural rare fabrics have unique touch and temperature control characteristics that provide unparalleled comfort. Cashmere wool, in particular, is ideal for all seasons as it keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. This breaks the conventional perception that cashmere is exclusive to fall and winter. It has become a symbol of respectability in the fresh old money circles. It is important to note that the improved text must be as close as possible to the source text and no new content should be added.
To outsiders, the old money style may seem aspirational, but for those in the fresh old money crowd, it is simply a way of life.