Defining the Old Money Aesthetic
The Old Money Aesthetic is a lifestyle that exudes understated elegance, timeless grace, and a deep-rooted appreciation for tradition. It's not just about fashion; it's about a lifestyle that embodies quality over quantity, good manners, and social grace. This aesthetic is famously represented by style icons like Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana, and is synonymous with destinations like the Hamptons and Lake Como.
Why Linen Embodies Timeless Elegance
Linen, with its natural charm and exceptional qualities, has been revered for centuries. Its timeless aesthetic makes it effortlessly chic and understatedly elegant, perfect for the Old Money look. Linen garments, whether it's a crisp shirt, a flowing maxi dress, or tailored trousers, elevate any ensemble with an air of casual sophistication that aligns beautifully with the Old Money aesthetic's emphasis on clean lines and understated elegance.
Historical Significance of Linen in Premium Fashion
Linen's journey through history underscores its value and versatility. From ancient Egypt, where it symbolised purity and wealth, to its role in the wardrobes of Roman senators and the sails of Viking ships, linen has been a staple textile in cultures around the world.
In the late 19th century, it became a trademark of men in the upper classes, who wore warm-weather suits made of coloured linen, while women adorned themselves in linen dresses and riding habits. This historical backdrop not only highlights linen's enduring appeal but also its alignment with the Old Money aesthetic's preference for materials that reflect a commitment to sustainability and quality.
Curating Your Linen Wardrobe: Essential Pieces
Linen Pants & Shorts: Mastering Warm Weather Looks
- Essential Styles: We're all about the breezy vibes with linen pants and shorts. They're not just for the beach; styled right, they can even pass as office attire. Wide leg linen pants are summer favourites due to minimal fabric contact, perfect for those hot days.
- Styling Tips: To keep linen from looking too casual, pair it with a fitted bodysuit or a tailored blouse. For a monochromatic look, stick to close shades like whites and creams or tans and beiges.
The Versatility of Linen Shirts
- Classic White and Beyond: A white linen shirt is a must-have for its adaptability across occasions. Don't overlook other colours like navy blue, light grey, and olive green, each adding a unique touch to your wardrobe.
- Styling for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a casual outing or a formal event, linen shirts fit right in. Pair a classic white linen shirt with vintage jeans for a timeless look, or dress it up with wool pants for office wear.
Accessories: Elevating Your Look with Linen
- Beyond Clothing: Linen isn't just for garments. Consider linen accessories like scarves, hats, and bags to complete your outfit. These pieces not only add style but also maintain the comfort and elegance of linen.
- Choosing the Right Accessories: Opt for deadstock fabric bags and pouches for a subtle yet stylish addition to your everyday look.
By embracing these essential pieces and tips, you can curate a linen wardrobe that embodies the old money style with a modern twist.
Styling Tips for Linen Garments
Achieving a Polished Look with Linen
- Press for Success: We find that taking the time to steam or press linen garments really shows you care about your appearance. Even though linen tends to wrinkle, a quick delicate ironing can make a world of difference, giving you a crisp, polished look that's perfect for both casual and formal settings.
- Flexible Fit: Embrace lightweight linen pieces like cropped wide-leg pants which offer both comfort and a polished appearance throughout the day. Opting for garments with a bit of stretch can also enhance wearability while maintaining a sleek look.
Linen for Different Occasions: From Casual to Formal
- Casual Day Out: For a relaxed yet stylish day look, pair a linen shirt with denim jeans, or throw a denim jacket over a linen dress. These combinations are not only comfortable but also effortlessly chic.
- Elevated Events: When dressing for a special occasion, such as a kindergarten graduation or a summer wedding, choose elegant pieces like a linen maxi shirtdress. Accessorise with a colourful scarf, statement jewellery, and stylish footwear to elevate your linen ensemble.
- Office Ready: Linen isn't just for the beach or weekend wear. For a work-appropriate outfit, try a linen jumpsuit or a tailored linen blazer, which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pairing these with appropriate accessories can make linen suitable for professional settings.
Combining Linen with Other Textiles
- Texture Play: Don't be afraid to mix linen with different fabrics to add depth to your outfits. Combining linen with organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, or even deadstock canvas creates interesting contrasts and elevates your overall look.
- Seasonal Adaptation: Linen can be wonderfully versatile across seasons. Pair it with wool cardigans or jackets during cooler months. Layering a linen blouse under a sweater or a linen dress with tights can offer both style and comfort when the temperature drops.
By embracing these styling tips, you can ensure your linen garments are not only versatile across various occasions but also maintain that timeless elegance that's synonymous with the old money style.
Maintaining Your Linen Collection
Care and Storage Tips for Linen
- Proper Washing Techniques: We always recommend washing your linen garments with mild soap or detergent. For those stubborn stains, a softer detergent followed by a club or softer washing soda works wonders. Remember, separate your lighter and darker shades to maintain their pristine condition.
- Drying and Ironing: To keep that quintessential linen texture, tumble dry your linens or let them air dry partially before ironing. This helps retain the natural wrinkles which add character to the fabric. If ironing is needed, spray your linen garment with water a few minutes beforehand to ease the process and avoid damage to the fibres.
- Storing Your Linen: Avoid plastic bags at all costs as they can cause condensation and yellowing of the fabric. Instead, opt for fabric-friendly bags or packs that allow your linens to breathe. A cool, dry, and dark environment is ideal for preventing any damage.
Dealing with Common Linen Wear and Tear
- Immediate Stain Removal: If you encounter a stain, treat it immediately with a suitable stain solution for linen. Avoid bleach-based products for coloured garments as they can strip the fabric of its colour and damage the fibres.
- Repairing Tears and Rips: For any tears, whether straight or L-shaped, align the fabric grain and use clear adhesive tape to hold the tear in place temporarily. Then, apply a piece of adhesive mending tape over the area and iron it according to the manufacturer's instructions. This method ensures a nearly invisible fix, extending the life of your beloved linen items.
- Preventive Measures: Always launder your linens before storing them to avoid mildew. For long-term storage, use cardboard boxes lined with sheets instead of plastic to prevent staining and ensure the fabric remains in top condition.
Why Quality Linen is Worth the Investment
- Durability and Longevity: Quality linen pieces are a sustainable choice due to their durability and ability to last for many years. The robust nature of linen means it can withstand frequent washing and wearing, which softens the fabric over time, enhancing its comfort and appeal.
- Timeless Elegance: Investing in linen is investing in a piece of timeless sustainable fashion. Its classic appeal ensures that it never goes out of style, making it a staple in any wardrobe for years to come.
- Environmental Impact: Linen is made from the flax plant, which requires fewer resources and chemicals to produce compared to other fabrics. This makes linen an environmentally friendly option that helps reduce your wardrobe's ecological footprint.
By following these care tips and understanding the value of investing in high-quality linen, you can ensure your linen collection remains beautiful and functional for years, embodying the old money aesthetic with a responsible, modern twist.