How to Style Eyewear for the Old Money Aesthetic

In stark contrast to the bright, baggy, and synthetic spirit of the Y2K style, the old money aesthetic draws inspiration from tailored attire attributed to the upper class. This look is synonymous with subdued but well-made pieces from high-quality materials and is characterized by a timeless styling approach focused on quality and understated luxury rather than fad-driven pieces.

Recently, old money fashion has become very prominent, with brands like Hermes and Brunello Cucinelli being some of the most prominent names leading the style. Even more casual brands like Aimé Leon Dore, known for its street and casual wear, have released their own old money style pieces and even fused them with their contemporary wear. Besides garments, accessories are also a key element of the old money aesthetic, and eyewear is one that plays a huge part in putting a look together. From Audrey Hepburn in the ’50s to Sofia Ricci today, sophisticated eyewear is a time-tested way to perfect a luxurious aesthetic. If you want to learn more, below are some eyewear styling tips for the old money look.

Choose vintage frames

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For those drawn to the old money aesthetic, selecting the right frames for your eyewear is one of the best ways to enhance this timeless style. A perfect choice would be vintage sunglasses, which are often made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship. Whether cross-century or retro-styled, vintage frames convey a sense of elegance and class—both of which are important components of the old money aesthetic. An optimal example would be cat-eye glasses, as seen in multiple looks from old money icon Grace Kelly in the golden age of Hollywood. In recent years, fashionable stars like George Clooney have also been seen in vintage-styled eyewear, seeming to have a preference for thin frames, aviators, and clubmasters. While vintage frames come in many different styles, shapes, and colors, it’s best to opt for classic designs that can be easily paired with a variety of outfits.

Besides selecting classic colors such as black or brown, other details to keep an eye out for include gold or silver accents, tortoiseshell frames, or unique shapes that capture the essence of old money elegance. Some perfect choices would be the Joseph Marco Forsythe and Franco, Vogue’s oversized tortoiseshell glasses, and many of Ray-Ban’s classics such as the aforementioned Aviator and Clubmaster.

Complement the colors of your outfit

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In the old money aesthetic, eyewear is not meant to be flashy. Instead, the best way to complement your neutral frames is to wear them with similarly hued outfits. In fact, going monochromatic is a surefire way to nail the old money look.

A monochromatic color scheme will create a sense of unity and uniformity, allowing the focus to be on the quality and craftsmanship of the clothing rather than on the flashy ensembles that trendy pieces tend to have. Luxury brands like Ralph Lauren and Versace carry a lot of choices for both men and women. To get more creative, take inspiration from outfits worn by celebrities with a penchant for the old money style—such as Kate Middleton or Meghan Markle. These duchesses showcase monochrome in an old money style perfectly, with many of their looks featuring vintage eyewear.

Balance it out with accessories

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When it comes to choosing accessories for an old money outfit, it is important to keep in mind that less is often more. Alongside eyewear, select a few carefully curated luxury pieces that add a touch of elegance while complementing the frames and the rest of the outfit.

For example, a silk scarf is a classy piece that adds refinement to an outfit. If the eyewear frames are oversized, tie the scarf around your neck to balance out the head accessories. However, if they’re small and thin, try wrapping the scarf around your head. Also serving as a functional item, a vintage handbag could carry your essentials and tie your entire look together. For example, supermodel Gigi Hadid is often seen matching her bags with whatever eyewear she has on. In your daily styling, try a structured top-handle bag or a classic leather tote from brands like Cartier or Louis Vuitton to finish off your outfit. Look out for details such as a tortoiseshell handle or polished hardware that you can match with a pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses.

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