How to Mix Old Money and Parisian Style: The Elegant Girl's Ultimate Fashion Guide
Let’s be honest—some days, you want to look like you were born at a French chateau, raised on vintage Vogue, and casually summer in the South of France. But how exactly do you mix old money elegance with that effortlessly chic Parisian style without looking like you tried too hard? I’ve been there, standing in front of my closet, debating between a buttoned-up cardigan and an oversized blazer, wondering if Coco Chanel would roll her eyes at me.
So if you’re obsessed with understated luxury, neutral tones, and clothes that whisper “she’s got taste” (rather than scream “she’s got cash”), you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about the art of blending timeless refinement with French-girl cool. Trust me, it’s easier than you think.
1. Understand the Foundations of Each Style
Old Money Style in a Nutshell
This aesthetic isn’t about flaunting wealth. In fact, it’s about not flaunting it. Think quality over logos, heritage over hype. Key elements:
Neutral color palettes (creams, navies, greys, muted browns)
Classic tailoring (blazers, trousers, A-line skirts)
Natural fabrics (wool, cashmere, cotton, linen)
Minimal jewelry (pearls, signet rings, dainty gold chains)
Ever seen Princess Diana in a cable-knit sweater or Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in a slip dress? That’s old money energy.
This aesthetic isn’t about flaunting wealth. In fact, it’s about not flaunting it. Think quality over logos, heritage over hype. Key elements:
Neutral color palettes (creams, navies, greys, muted browns)
Classic tailoring (blazers, trousers, A-line skirts)
Natural fabrics (wool, cashmere, cotton, linen)
Minimal jewelry (pearls, signet rings, dainty gold chains)
Ever seen Princess Diana in a cable-knit sweater or Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in a slip dress? That’s old money energy.
The Parisian Style Vibe
Parisian style is like that friend who looks flawless even when she “just threw something on.” It’s intentional nonchalance:
Fewer pieces, better quality
Unstructured blazers, effortless denim
Ballet flats, loafers, kitten heels
Simple gold accessories
A love for monochrome or subtle contrast
Pro Tip: Parisian women love mixing masculine pieces with feminine ones. So yes, you can wear grandpa’s blazer with a silk cami and still look like a muse.
2. Build a Core Wardrobe That Marries Both Worlds
Now let’s talk about what to actually wear. These staples are your foundation—mix them well, and you’ll turn heads for all the right reasons.
Must-Have Pieces:
Tailored Blazer: Get one that fits like it was made for you. Navy, black, or beige works wonders.
Cashmere Sweater: Bonus points if it’s oversized and in a soft neutral.
Straight-Leg Jeans: Light or medium wash, minimal distressing (or better yet, none).
Silk Button-Up or Cami: A touch of sensual elegance that feels very French.
A-Line Midi Skirt: Old money structure meets French femininity.
Trench Coat: If you buy only one jacket, make it a good one. Beige or camel, please.
Loafers or Ballet Flats: Comfort + class? We’re in.
Don’t forget: The vibe is I woke up like this, but also my grandfather had a trust fund. 😉
3. Prioritize Texture and Quality Over Flashiness
Old money doesn’t do cheap fabrics, and Parisian women don’t do tacky trends. So if you’re mixing the two? Quality is non-negotiable.
Choose fabrics that feel like luxury:
Wool for winter coats
Linen for warm-weather staples
Silk for blouses and scarves
Organic cotton for shirts and dresses
Avoid anything too synthetic or shiny. If it makes noise when you walk, it’s probably not the vibe.
FYI: Thrift stores and consignment shops are goldmines for quality pieces. I once scored a vintage Max Mara coat for the price of a Zara blazer. Yes, really.
4. Accessorize Like You Inherited It
The secret to nailing this aesthetic? Accessories that don’t scream for attention but still elevate your entire look.
Elegant Accessories to Consider:
Structured Leather Handbag: Look for timeless shapes like the top-handle or saddle bag.
Silk Scarf: Tie it around your neck, hair, or even your bag.
Minimal Jewelry: Think gold hoops, a thin chain, or a vintage watch.
Sunglasses: Cat-eye or rounded frames work well. Just avoid anything too oversized or “influencer-ish.”
Rule of thumb: If your accessory looks like it came from your stylish French grandmother’s drawer, you’re doing it right.
5. Embrace Understated Beauty
This part is less about clothes and more about aura. Looking elegant and Parisian isn’t just what you wear—it’s how you carry yourself.
The Subtle Beauty Routine:
Skincare First: Healthy skin > heavy makeup
Effortless Hair: Loose waves, messy buns, sleek ponytails
Neutral Makeup: A bit of mascara, tinted moisturizer, maybe a red lip (but only if everything else is minimal)
Want to smell like you belong at a garden party in Provence?
Perfume Picks: Chanel No. 5 (iconic), Diptyque Eau Duelle (modern), or anything with notes of bergamot, iris, or sandalwood.
6. Don’t Follow Trends—Curate a Signature Look
The most stylish women I know (IRL and online) wear the same pieces over and over again. They know what works and make it part of their signature.
So find your formula and stick to it. Maybe it’s a trench coat over every outfit, or your favorite silk blouse paired with vintage jeans. Whatever it is, own it.
Ask yourself: Would this still look chic in five years? If yes, it belongs in your wardrobe.
7. Mix High and Low Like a Pro
Here’s the fun part: You don’t need a Dior budget to look like you brunch with aristocrats.
Smart Splurges:
Outerwear (you wear it the most)
Shoes (comfort + polish = worth it)
Handbags (even one good one can elevate a whole outfit)
Save On:
Trendy pieces (that striped vest everyone’s wearing will be gone next month)
T-shirts and basics (as long as they’re in good condition)
Pro tip: Pair your best thrifted blazer with a $10 Uniqlo tee and vintage Levi’s. Boom. Paris meets prep-school realness.
8. Final Touches: Attitude is Everything
Okay, real talk: You can be dripping in Celine and still look messy if you don’t carry yourself with confidence. Style isn’t just clothes—it’s energy.
Channel this: Calm, composed, slightly aloof (like you’re on your way to a museum date with an art dealer). But kind, obviously. We’re elegant, not snobby.
So stand tall, speak softly, and always choose elegance over chaos. Even if your coffee spills.
Conclusion
Mixing old money and Parisian style isn’t about dressing up like someone you’re not. It’s about refining the style you already have with timeless pieces, quiet confidence, and a little French flair.
So next time you reach for that perfectly worn-in trench or slip into ballet flats with your cashmere sweater, know this: You’re not just getting dressed—you’re telling the world you have taste, grace, and maybe (just maybe) a fabulous inheritance you’re too classy to mention. 😉
Now your turn: What’s your signature mix of old money and Parisian chic? Spill the tea in the comments, or send this to a friend who’s obsessed with looking rich but hates logos. Because we all deserve a little effortless elegance, don’t we? 🙂