Old Money Style for Indian Men explained
Have you ever searched the internet with terms like “Old Money Style”, “Old Money Style for Men” or “Old money Style for Indian men”, “Old money brands for Indian Men”?
But you never really found a comprehensive guide that talks in detail about Old Money Style specifically for Indian Men.
Well, today is your lucky day. In today’s edition of the Big and Stylish blog we will be defining what is Old Money Style and we will specifically define Old Money style for Indian Men. You see as an Indian man certain colors will look better on you and certain colors may not be as flattering as they are on your western counterparts.
As Indian Men have a slightly darker skin complexion in general in the tones of beige, tan and brown; henceforth if the clothes that you wear also consist of and compliment the same tones, not only do you look better but you also flatter your own specific skin tone.
And not to mention that the height and physique of Indian men also differ to their western counterparts so you should also keep that in mind when choosing the brands from which you will buy your clothing.
Let’s have a look at the key takeaways that you will get from this blog:
Key Takeaways
- What is Old Money Style?
- Indian aspects of the Old Money aesthetic for men
- Old money color tones for Indian Men
- Old Money T shirts for Indian Men (with buying links)
- Old money Formal shirts for Indian Men (with buying links)
- Old Money Trousers for Indian Men (with buying links)
- Old money Jackets and Blazers for Indian men (with buying links)
- Old money sweaters for Indian men (with buying links)
- Old money shoes for Indian men (with buying links)
- Old money Style a Personal stylist’s Perspective
What is "Old Money" Style?
Is it about wearing sweaters and tweed jackets in the peak of summer? Is it about wearing top of the line luxury brands?
Is it about showcasing yourself as a man with deep pockets and a high social status with the help of your clothes?
Well, if you feel that Old money style is about the things mentioned above, then I am sorry to disappoint you but the answer to all of the above questions would be a resounding no.
True “Old Money” style is all about timeless elegance. It is nothing but a trendier term for what we Sartorialists like to call “Classic, timeless style”.
Basically, if a person took your photo today and then put a Black and White filter on top, a person should not be able to tell whether the photo was clicked in the 19th century or today.
As you can see on the photo above. That is me wearing my favorite Navy Double Breasted Glen Check Suit with some black Chelsea boots.
But as you can see if you put a Black and White filter on the pic, you can’t really tell whether the photo was clicked in the 1920s or today.
That is what true “Old Money Aesthetic” is all about.
You see, style should be like an old wine, the more it ages the more tasteful it should become, and it should always feel great to take a sip. The same logic also applies to your clothes and wardrobe.
Your clothes should preferably outlive you and be such that it can be passed down to your grandchildren as a family heirloom.
Now if you were to google the term “Old Money”, the definition would say that it refers to a person who comes from a family of generational wealth or one who has inherited their wealth, rather than earning it.
So, what “Old Money Style” really describes is the type of clothing and wardrobe pieces that a man coming from an “Old Money” family is expected to wear.
But don’t get me wrong you don’t need to be coming from a family of Ambanis, Tatas or the Birlas to dress “Old Money”.
It’s about having good taste rather than deep pockets. The focus should be on quality rather than quantity.
But sadly, I see a lot of “budget” old money content around the internet. Let me be clear, there is no such thing as a “budget” old money wardrobe.
A true classic wardrobe should always focus on buying less of higher quality items rather than more of cheaper low-quality items. It requires you to save up and buy higher quality pieces made up of higher quality fabrics like 100% Merino wool, Cashmere, Giza cotton, Irish linen etc. rather than buying their cheaper alternatives like Polyester, Rayons etc.
They may cost you more in the short term, but it is safer for your skin and not to mention the environment.
Also, the higher quality items will have a lower Cost per Wear, so it will be ultimately more profitable in the long term. Learn the concept of Cost per wear by clicking here.
Also buying high quality does not always mean buying from mainstream luxury brands. Sometimes they just overprice their clothing while providing you with inferior synthetic blends.
So always check the composition tag of your clothing.
And sometimes these luxury brands are so overpriced that you can probably have bespoke or custom-made clothing commissioned for a much lower price.
Check out our review of the Raymond’s Custom tailoring program.
Indian Aspects of Old Money Style for men
There are certain aspects of Indian “Old Money” traditional styles that you need to know before we move forward.
When you think of the “Old Money Aesthetic” you immediately think of British suits, Italian shirts, trousers and European shoes.
But India has had its own tradition of “Old Money Style”.
I am talking about classic Indian and Indo Western Styles like Bandh galas/Nehru Jackets, Kurtas, Jodhpuri Suits, Mandarin collared shirts, Jodhpuri Boots and Kolhapuri Chappals.
And when you wear them in classic neutral palates like shown above then you get classic “Indian Old Money Style”.
Not to mention you also need to be mindful of the climate in the Indian subcontinent when choosing your fabrics.
Merino Wool is an excellent choice for the Indian Climate as it has a unique quality of keeping you warm in the winters and cool in the summers.
It comes from the unique Merino breed of sheep.
Since the summers are very intense in India and the temperature does not mostly go below 25 degrees Celsius in the winters in most parts of India. Merino wool is an excellent choice for your Jackets and Blazers.
Learn more about Merino Wool here.
Old money Color tones for Indian Men
There are certain color tones in the Old Money palate that will look better on an Indian Man rather than their western counterparts.
For e.g. Instead of a classic white maybe a beige or an ivory would look better in the Indian landscape.
You may even try colors like Emerald Green, Olive green, Khaki and Dark brown. In fact, Khaki is a color that is almost synonymous with the Indian subcontinent.
Let’s also discuss some materials as well. We talked about Merino Wool in the previous section.
If you are thinking of buying an all-season blazer for the Indian subcontinent, A Merino wool Blazer that is half-lined is a perfect choice!
For your shirts Giza cotton is an excellent choice. It is the most luxurious form of cotton in the world with its origin in the Nile, Egypt.
Irish linen is also a great choice for a summer suit or blazers/bandh galas. Consequently,100% linen shirts are also a classic choice for summer.
Wool linen blends and Merino Wool are a perfect choice for your trousers/ dress pants.
And if you are looking for some sweaters for the winter, Merino Wool or Cashmere are an excellent choice.
Consequently, Merino wool is also a great choice for Bandh galas and Jodhpuri Suits.
Old Money Tshirts for Indian Men
If you feel that a T shirt is just a basic item that you can throw on and you should not care much about it.
Then my friend, let me change your opinion!
A good quality T-shirt can be the foundational piece for your Old Money Wardrobe. I am talking about Classic White/tan/beige shirts with no logo or funky prints on them.
Here are some recommendations by a Personal Stylist –
- Combed Supima Cotton White T-shirt by Jockey. This is a classic and superb budget option to start with for the basics.
2. Luxe Glider White Tee by Bombay Shirt company in 100% Jersey Cotton. This shirt is for those who just love luxury basics.
3. Luxe Beige T shirt by Bombay Shirt Company. This is the kind of tone that will not only look great on the Indian skin tone but also this is the kind of shirt you can just tuck into your trousers for an effortless old money casual style.
4. You must have had many recommendations for trying out the white polo, but I am asking you to try out this classic brown buttonless Polo. This one is a versatile piece that will not only go with your jeans but also your trousers.
P.S. I am recommending a couple of Bombay Shirt items only because it is a very high-quality luxury brand, and I only recommend good brands that my clients can treat as a good investment. This blog is in no way sponsored by Bombay Shirts.
5. Classic Zip up Olive Green polo by Bombay Shirts. This kind of a color is another one of those, that will look great on an Indian Skin tone.
Old Money Shirts for Indian Men
From Classic OCBD (Button Down Shirts) to Striped Shirts, your Old Money Wardrobe is incomplete without some great classic formal shirts.
These are essential for those times when you are required to ditch your t-shirts and polos for a more dressed up look. So here are some good recommendations by me.
- This is as classic old money as it gets. A classic Striped Brown Barboni Spread Collar Shirt by Zodiac Clothing.
2. If you feel like the striped shirt above is a little bit too formal for you, then this is a great and more casual alternative with the button-down collar.
3. The Classic Oxford Cloth Button Down Shirt (OCBD Shirt) but in a sky-blue color by Zodiac clothing. This is as Old Money as it gets .
4. If you are looking for a shirt with the breathability of Linen but that does not wrinkle like Linen, then a Bamboo shirt is the way to go. Bamboo is also way more sustainable than cotton as it requires a lot less amount of water. The Above blue Bamboo shirt in a Dobby weave by Bombay Shirt is a must have in your Old Money Wardrobe.
Further this shirt is completely customizable and in a made to measure program. So, if you did not find any of the above shirts in your size, then this is the option to go for.
In terms of customizable details, I recommend going for either a Mandarin Collar or a Button-Down Collar on this shirt with classic single button cuffs and side shoulder pleats at the back for added mobility.
Old Money trousers for Indian Men
Your Old Money Wardrobe is incomplete without a Classic Pair of high rise trousers in earth tones. I am talking side closure, cuffs and some nice pleats. So here are some recommendations in terms of trousers that you must have in your wardrobe.
- 55% Linen 45% Cotton and with Classic Neapolitan Side Adjusters, within a high rise and with double pleats. This is the kind of trousers you can wear every day and just throw on with a pair of some classic tees for an effortlessly sexy style!
2. The Classic Old Money trouser. Made in 100% Wool flannel.
If you want a luxury made in Italy trouser for your looks, this is the one to go for. It comes in a high rise with single pleats, classic Italian double button closure, side adjusters and turnups/cuffs at the bottom.
3. Raymond Made to Measure/ Custom tailored trousers.
If you are like me and on the bigger side in terms of your waist measurement. You will need a custom tailored trouser from a Raymond shop near you. Go for something in a neutral palette like the beige above or in a Navy, Brown or Grey. Go for a high rise in terms of length. In terms of material- Merino Wool is an excellent choice.
I recommend going for a belt less configuration with some suspender buttons sewn inside if you have a belly like me. And have the trousers cut a little looser around your waist for some added comfort.
4. Aravind Made to Measure/ Custom tailoring near you.
This is a great alternative to the Raymonds Made to Measure/ Custom tailoring. If you like to have a waistband that will adjust accordingly after you had dinner or lunch, then you must try out their Premium Stitching option.
Old Money Blazers and Jackets for Indian Men
Old Money or not, no menswear wardrobe is ever complete without some good quality Blazers and Jackets in it. A Blazer/Jacket is an essential piece for any man’s wardrobe. It builds up your shoulders, slims down your waist and elongates your silhouette making you look taller and slimmer than your actual build. No Old money wardrobe is ever complete without some classic Jackets in it.
Here are some great recommendations.
- A classic Old Money Custom Tailored Bandh Gala Jacket in a Merino Wool that is half lined. For colors, choose a Classic Navy, Beige or brown.
To have this made you can go to the nearest Raymond shop or an Aravind Store near you. And if you are sticking to a budget then the Siyaram’s shop is also a good alternative.
2. This Coffee colored 100% Wool Band Gala Nehru Jacket from The French Crown is an absolute must have for a Classic Indian Old Money Wardrobe. This goes well with both a classic Kurta and some trousers and a formal shirt.
3. If you are like me and love the sophisticated casual wrinkling on Linen, then this blue 100% Linen Nehru Jacket from Regalia is a must have in your wardrobe for summer.
4. Made to Measure / Custom Tailored Blazer.
You really cannot go wrong with a custom-made blazer that is commissioned according to your specific measurements. You can visit your nearest Aravind/ Raymond/Siyaram Store near you for the same.
In terms of Material and construction go for a Merino wool within a half-lined construction for a 3 season Jacket. Go for something with a texture or pattern like in the photo above with Light padding on the shoulders, classic Notch lapels and in terms of color you can go for a Beige, Tan, Brown or a Classic Navy.
5. If you like a Premium Italian Tailored Jacket with soft shoulders that is more casual than a structured Jacket, this Beige Double Jacket in Natural Wool from Canali is the one to go for.
6. Another Soft tailored Unstructured Blazer from Canali with no shoulder padding and a textured dark brown wool fabric for your smart casual looks.
7. If a Blazer feels too formal for you and you want something a tad bit more casual, then this Super 180s Flannel Overshirt from Pini Parma is a super luxurious Made in Italy option that you can go for.
(Another alternative for this kind of Jacket is to go for a Safari Jacket in a made to measure program from a Raymonds/Aravind shop near you in Merino Wool or 100% Linen. Go for a color in the same tone as above or a Tan/Tobacco Brown Color)
8. In terms of Casual Jackets this Eton Jacket from Bombay Shirt that is custom made to your size in an Olive Green color is also a great option to include in your Old Money Wardrobe.
9. This 100% Linen Ecru Jacket in a Twill Weave from Bombay Shirt Company is a classic option for a Lightweight Casual Summer Blazer in your wardrobe.
10. If you want a luxurious soft tailored Neapolitan Jacket that is Made in Italy, then you must have a look at this Ocean Blue Jacket in a Wool, Silk and Cotton blend from Pini Parma.
11. This Brick colored Cotton, Wool and Silk blend jacket from Pini Parma is another all-season Jacket that you can have a look at to include in your wardrobe.
Old Money Style Sweaters for Indian Men
When it comes to the whole crux of Old Money Style specially for the Fall and Winter season, you must invest in some classic timeless knitwear. I am talking about Classic V neck Sweaters, Cricket sweaters, Jumpers and Turtlenecks.
So, without any further delay let’s hop onto some great knitwear/sweater recommendations for your wardrobe.
- The Full Stop Old Money Sweater – The Classic V neck Cricket Sweater. If you want to invest in only one sweater for your wardrobe, then this is the one to go for. This particular one is from Peter England in 100% cotton.
2. The Classic Merino Turtleneck. This is a great staple that any man must have in their wardrobe for Fall and Winter. This is the type of sweater that looks best when layered under a Jacket. This particular brown one is from Selected Homme in 100% Merino Wool.
3. The Classic Navy V Neck Sweater. This is the kind of sweater you can wear on its own layered over a collared shirt with or without a classic tie. Consequently, you may also layer this sweater under a Jacket/Blazer for a classic Preppy Look. This Particular sweater is from Charles Tyrwhitt in a 100% Merino Wool.
4. The Classic Quarter Zip Sweater. Treat this as a sportier cousin of the V neck Sweater. This can be worn on its own for a classic casual outfit or layered under a Jacket for a more preppy look. The above both sweaters are from Charles Tyrwhitt in a 100% Merino Wool. In terms of colors, I recommend going for the Emerald green or the Burgundy one as shown above.
Old Money Style shoes for Indian Men
Your whole outfit can easily be ruined if you do not choose the right kind of shoes to wear with your Old Money Outfit.
Your shoes are what bring the whole outfit together and describe the vibe of a particular outfit.
Here are some great reccomendations for your classic wardrobe.
- The Classic Low Top White Sneaker from The Dapper man. Your go to shoes for all your casual and smart casual outfits.
2. The two tone houndstooth and tan leather sneakers from Monkstory. A vegan friendly alternative for your casual and smart casual outfits.
3. Beige Suede Sneakers from The Dapper Man.
4. Single Monkstrap Coffee Leather shoes from Rosso Brunello for all your Formal, Indo Western and Semi formal outfits.
5. Cognac tassel loafer from The Dapper man. A more travel friendly slip-on shoes for your smart casual and semi formal outfits.
6. Tan Suede Penny Loafers from The Dapper Man. Another travel friendly option but with a little bit of an interesting texture.
7. The Classic Chelse boots. Another travel friendly slip-on option but with a lot more rugged feel. And also, a vegan friendly option from The Alternate.
8. Suede Chocolate brown Chukka boots from The Alternate. Another rugged but more sleek option. Also vegan friendly.
9. Chocolate brown Suede Jodhpuri Boots from The Alternate. Think of this as a royal cousin to the Chelsea boot. A must have for your Semi formal, formal and Indo Western looks. Also, Vegan friendly.
10. The Regal Single buckle in Cognac from The Dapper Man. This is your go to for Ethnic wears, Indo Western and Semi formal looks. A more chic version of your slippers. Make sure to have them moisturized to avoid any shoe bites.
11. Tan Peshawari Sandals from Monkstory. A vegan friendly alternative for your Ethnic, Indo Western and Semi Formal Outfits. Make sure to have them moisturized to avoid any shoe bites.
Old Money Style, a Personal Stylist's Perspective
If I wasn’t fishing for search terms, I would have used the term “How to build a Classic Timeless Menswear Wardrobe” rather than “Old Money Style for Indian Men” to headline this blog.
The “Old Money” trend is nothing but a mark for the upcoming change in the attitude of Fast Fashion/ Fashion consumers. People are tired of trends and fads that only last a few months before leaving the shelves.
The demand for classic timeless wardrobe pieces has never been higher. We can also see this in the fits that we now see in ready to wear garments. Outlets are now using the terms like “tailored fits” instead of “slim fits” or “skinny fits” to market their products, as classic tailored silhouettes will never go out of style.
Gone are the days of tight sausage like fitting clothes. People are now going for more relaxed but tailored silhouettes in their wardrobes. Yes, there is the ongoing “baggy clothing trend” but like all trends it will too, wither away in time.
My prediction as a Personal Stylist is that in the coming years, we will see a return back to the classic fitted/tailored silhouettes in clothing.
Not to mention having something classic and timeless in your wardrobe is always a better investment than investing in trends. As timeless pieces stay in your wardrobe for a long time and make you look amazing, whereas if you invest in trends, you will likely have to clean out your wardrobe every few months just to stick to the current trend.
Take any of the above pieces that I have shared in the blog above. All the pieces are classic timeless investment pieces and when it comes to styling, it literally is a no brainer, you can combine any of the above two or three pieces to create a classic outfit.
You can literally divide all the above pieces into 4 categories – the top (t-shirts and formal shirts), the bottom(trousers), layering piece (sweaters, jackets, blazers) and footwear. You can take any one piece from any of the 4 categories and combine them together for a classic timeless outfit.
Now, if you are serious about your Personal Style and Wardrobe and want to sit down with an Expert Personal Shopper and Men’s Personal Stylist for a customized Wardrobe or Personal Shopping plan for yourself then click on the button below.
That was it for today’s edition of the Big and Stylish Blog. Stay tuned for the next edition for more such interesting trends and insights into Menswear.