Are you tired of wearing uncomfortable mini dresses that barely do anything for your body and feel uncomfortable as long as you are in them? Sure they had their allure once when you were in your 20s and had a life that you could live like crazy, but with time, everyone’s fashion tastes evolve and you find yourself investing in more elegant dresses that keep you more comfortable- like knee length dresses or midi and maxi dresses.
One fashion trend that has been developing quite a following is the old money fashion. Old money fashion exudes an enduring, refined elegance associated with longstanding wealth and social pedigree. Old money fashion, which has its origins in more traditional forms, values quality above all else and places an emphasis on subtle elegance with knee length dresses and outfits that are expertly made from premium fabrics and are wardrobe mainstays. Do we need a Chanel bag for it? No. Do we need Gucci accessories? No. We will channel a look more normcore that is a tad muted, but still highlights the elegance in you. In this blog, Feedhour will talk about how you can dress up like old money too with just the right dresses and accessories. We will also enlist some of our favourite picks for knee length dresses for old money fashion that could definitely get you started in the trend.
What Is old money fashion all about?
“Old money fashion” is a classic and elegant style that is linked to well-known, wealthy families that have passed down their wealth and social status from generation to generation. Old money fashion is based on traditional elegance and values quality over trendiness. It favours basic and long-lasting pieces. This style has well-tailored shapes, soft colours, and high quality fabrics that give off quiet confidence. Knee length dresses, tailored suits, and classic accessories are all wardrobe staples that show a dedication to long-lasting style over passing trends. Old money style goes beyond trends and shows respect for history, cultural refinement, and a sense of natural ease and has roots in a long and interesting past when clothes showed family ties, social status, and a strong desire to look good for a long time.
What once were markers for classism and oppression have now made their way into accessible fashion- and I do appreciate the irony in that. The key to it is simple too- it is not the “quiet luxury” that we aim for, it is timeless pieces that will always be relevant and give your stature a power of your inherent self.
Symbols of old money aesthetic that you can draw inspiration from
- and no, it’s not Sofia Richie.
1. Kate Middleton
If there was one woman who has been killing it with her looks- that is still more nuanced and subtle than the classism that Old Money brings with itself- it is Kate Middleton. Her Highness just has the most perfect A-line dresses and tailored trousers in the most neutral palette that she has even repeated on multiple occasions. She also has the most elegant sets of pearls that she channels into her usual accessories for the most cohesive look.
2. Audrey Hepburn
For me, it was Audrey Hepburn who literally epitomised the Old Money aesthetic with her timeless pieces. Some even argue that it was she who got the world obsessed with little black dresses. I mean- look at her looks in her movies- Breakfast At Tiffany’s, My Fair Lady, Sabrina and more.
3. Diana Ross
Diana Ross has a more maximalist style, but I could not help but put her on the list. For many Diana Ross was the IT girl on Ebony with a gorgeous Afro and diamond earrings that I would never be able to afford. She did have her share of exaggeration in fashion- the exact opposite of the style that Old Money demands but had the confidence that was shinier than any of the diamonds she owned- a look that truly defines the Old Money aesthetic that I want to aim for. Even now, Diana Ross owns her body and rocks what she wants to wear whenever she wants to wear.
4. Meghan Markle
The list would simply not be complete without Meghan Makle’s epic sense of old money fashion with some of the most stunning silhouettes I have seen in a long while. Like her sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, she too invests in structured blouses, classic coats and midi or knee length dresses. What makes her more relevant is that she has a not seen before penchant for mixing her high end pieces with affordable basics- a lesson in old money fashion that all of us need.
Top picks for knee length dresses for you
1. White Lace Top Pleated Midi Dress
The dress has a white lace top and a pleated skirt with a back zipper closure that makes it a beautiful knee length style. The pretty lace pattern gives off a bridal vibe, making it perfect for a knee length wedding dress too. The dress will go perfectly with gold strappy heels, or even white Barely There heels for a sophisticated look.
2. White Floral Print Frill Detail Midi Dress
This White Floral Print Frill Detail Midi Dress looks great on all body types and is a must-have for special events. This cute outfit gives a major Sofia Vergara in Modern Family vibe with the fitted silhouette yet a chic feel. The dress is made of a stretchy white material and has a pretty flower print, frill arms, and a tie that defines the waist for a chic and feminine look. You can simply pair the dress with white shoes with straps for a classy look.
3. Emerald Green Long Sleeve Pleated Midi Dress
This show stopping Emerald Green Long Sleeve Pleated Midi Dress is perfect for formal events with its long sleeves, figure-flattering pleated skirt, and trendy green colour. The dress is a must-have for any fancy event on the weekends. You can also accentuate your outfit further by wearing silver strappy heels and your favourite pearls or diamonds- or faux ones for that matter and you will be good to go.
4. Black Cotton Halterneck Ruched Midaxi Dress
How could you not have a classic black knee length dress when talking about Old Money feels? Steal the spotlight in the Black Cotton Halterneck Ruched Midaxi Dress with a halter neck and ruched design. The midaxi length adds an extra touch of elegance and gives you a figure-worshipping fit.
Also Read – Embrace Elegance With These Ruffle Dresses For Women
Conclusion
There is only one thing that remains constant about fashion– that it is a fickle fool and has no anchor, which is why it is never wise to spend a bit too much on acquiring clothes for a mere trend. It is one thing to love the Old Money Aesthetic; an entirely different to max out your cards looking for high end pieces. The easier way is to invest in high quality staple pieces from affordable and sustainable brands like PrettyLittleThing which have the most premium collection but do not cost you an arm and a leg. Check out Feedhour’s picks for the best knee length dresses on PrettyLittleThing today and transform the way you approach fashion itself.