Maybe you’ve already seen it all over your social media: The old money aesthetic. You’ll see a collection of button downs, sweaters thrown over the shoulders, and crisp khaki pants. It is simple, a far cry from the flashy logo driven items that scream expensive. I came across the trend via styling videos, watching creators eager to tell you how to get the look. Meanwhile the media is trying to figure out why you would want that at all. I came across this quote from Maggie Bullock in the Wall Street Journal:
Not trying too hard was always a really important part of the equation when these clothes originated,” said Ms. Bullock, explaining that patches, wrinkles and scuffs were desirable. “That all conveyed an ease in this lifestyle that you were not a striver, you were already there…”
Maggie Bullock, as quoted by Rory Satran in the Wall Street Journal
You were already there. I have seen outlets that talk about Gen Z going after this look for the sustainability aspect of it. Simple well-made clothes will last longer than trend led fast fashion. And there is the “this is just a fashion trend,” aspect. I’m personally stuck on the perception of ease.
Without putting meaning that other people don’t intend, it is not lost on me, that this is a time of uncertainty. There are massive company layoffs, ongoing conflicts, inflation, and have you seen the gas prices lately? Life can feel like a struggle. But what if it didn’t? What if you had no monetary concerns? What if you didn’t even have to work but could still afford your country club fees? Or what if you just looked like you did?
Despite potential concerns about inequality wrapped into the idea of generational wealth, I wonder how many of us wish we had that bit of security. Fashion is a way for each of us to convey a message to others and to ourselves. Maybe this trend is a way of us telling ourselves it will all be okay, by looking like it already is.
This is the article I referenced:
Satran, R. (March 25, 2023). ‘Old Money’ Style, in This Economy? The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/articles/old-money-style-preppy-fashion-aesthetic-47607135
A Wren Says 