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Exploring The Timeless Elegance of the 'Old Money' Aesthetic

Writer: RachRach

Though not a new concept by any stretch, the correlation of fashion to interior design has always been particularly interesting to me. As a firm believer that our homes should be an extension of not just our personality and taste; but the way we carry ourselves; the way we present to others and the way we like to feel, it makes sense to me that both fashion and interior design go hand in hand.


Old money aesthetic style kitchen.
Plivot Sconce by Lemieux Et Cie
Classic fashion style girl walking in Paris
Dissh Tailored Skirt seen on Dom Overseas

Truth be told, as someone in their 30's with little to no experience on TikTok, I first discovered the theme creeping into my Pinterest feed. Naturally sparking my interest to dig a little deeper and understand the trend in it's entirety. Generating over 140 million post's on TikTok in the last year alone, its fair to say the "old money" aesthetic has spread wide and far. Let's explore what the trend means in the world of interiors and how you can incorporate it into your home for a refined, timeless look.


1991 Ralph Lauren Home Advertisement
1991 Ralph Lauren Home Advertisement

The "old money" aesthetic embraces a timeless, sophisticated style. It draws from a rich legacy of preppy fashion, luxury lifestyle, and understated elegance, resonating with a generation seeking quality and refinement in their homes. It's not about flashy displays of wealth or trend-chasing designs but rather about cultivating an environment that speaks to quiet confidence, heritage, and quality over quantity.


This aesthetic is grounded in timeless elements - think grand estates, country homes, and a sense of history. There’s an emphasis on materials and furnishings that stand the test of time, both in terms of durability and style.



Parisian inspired atelier with wall panelling, marble and velvet.
Motiv Atelier by Dizain Interiors features wainscotting to the heritage wing of the building, paired with calacatta viola marble coffee table by Fleur Studios, rich chocolate brown suede chairs by Ellison Studios and silk pendant lights by Tigmi Trading. Photographed by David Chatfield.



Key Characteristics of the "Old Money" Aesthetic in Interior Design


1. Classic Colour Palettes

Neutral, muted tones form the backbone of this aesthetic. Colours such as cream, navy, deep forest green, and rich burgundy exude sophistication. The focus is on creating an atmosphere of elegance without overwhelming the senses.


2. Antiques and Heirloom Pieces

Possibly my favourite characteristic to the trend, the aesthetic emphasises a curated collection of furniture and décor. Antiques, inherited family pieces, and custom-made furnishings are key elements. These items bring history and depth into a space, telling a story of legacy and quality craftsmanship. Incorporating a few well-chosen vintage pieces into your homes evokes the sense of heritage that is central to this aesthetic.


3. Luxurious Materials

Rich fabrics like velvet, silk, and cashmere are frequently used in upholstery, drapery, and accents. Similarly, wooden furniture made from mahogany or oak and marble countertops or fireplaces all contribute to the luxurious feel.


4. Understated Elegance

One of the hallmarks of this aesthetic is the absence of excessive embellishments. It's all about refined, understated elegance. Simple yet elegant crown moldings, well-placed wainscoting, and minimal yet impactful artwork or décor should be carefully selected. This approach suits those who favour subtle sophistication over opulence.


5. Tailored Spaces

The old money look favours rooms that feel purposeful. Every piece in a room should have a place, creating a curated, harmonious environment. From built-in bookshelves to perfectly styled coffee tables, attention to detail is critical. This trend encourages careful consideration of every corner and surface, ensuring that the space feels both personal and polished.

6. Create Timeless Appeal

Though it can be argued that all designs are a trend at some point or another, by prioritising classic pieces, rich materials and thoughtful colour choices, this aesthetic looks to create an enduring interior that stands the test of time for many years to come.



Classic and timeless residential home design facade.
Residential Projects - Colby Design


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