The resurgence of the “Old Money” aesthetic has taken over social media and the red carpet alike, capturing a sense of understated luxury that has become synonymous with timeless elegance. With roots that stretch back to icons like Marilyn Monroe and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, this look celebrates rich, glossy hair and styles that radiate sophistication without being overtly flashy.
According to celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein, the Old Money look is all about refined beauty: “It’s about being polished and timeless, with an air of subtle luxury,” she explains. “Clients seeking this style want a glossy, put-together, and polished appearance.” This trend evokes images of fashion icons from the 1920s flappers to modern-day stars like Sofia Richie Grainge, Margot Robbie, and Kaia Gerber.
The key to achieving this Old Money look lies in versatile, luxe hairstyles that emphasize health, shine, and effortless styling. Whether it’s a wavy brunette bob or a soft, bouncy blonde chignon, what unites these styles is their confidence and luxury, exuding an effortless beauty that feels both elevated and approachable.
Celebrity Hairstylist Insights
Celebrity stylists like Rubenstein and Dimitris Giannetos have worked with stars such as Leighton Meester, Cate Blanchett, and Kim Kardashian. Giannetos highlights the significance of sleek, polished styles: “Old Money hair is known for clean, sophisticated styles—smooth blowouts, brushed-out waves, or simple low buns. Colors should be natural and rich, with deep brunettes, golden blondes, and warm chestnuts all offering that essential glossy finish.”
Accessories play an important role, adding just a touch of luxury. Giannetos recommends items like silk ribbons, tortoiseshell clips, or thin headbands, which add refinement without drawing too much attention. Rubenstein also stresses the importance of healthy, strong strands, using products like Nutrire shampoo and conditioner to ensure hair is both shiny and resilient.
Classic Old Money Hairstyles to Try
Here are 19 standout looks that perfectly capture the rich, polished energy of the Old Money hairstyle.
Sleek Low Bun
Carolyn Bessette Kennedy often wore her signature low bun with a side part, creating a soft and clean silhouette.
Old Hollywood Bob
Zendaya’s auburn bob, styled with soft, bouncy curls, exudes Old Hollywood glamour.
Faux Headband
Sofia Richie Grainge creates a sleek look by tucking her blonde-highlighted hair behind her ears, mimicking the effect of a headband.
Voluminous Layers
Keke Palmer’s modern take on Old Money includes rich copper layers with a sleek blonde money piece, keeping the look shiny and voluminous.
Tortoise Headband
Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s tortoiseshell headband adds just the right amount of sophistication while remaining subtle.
Slicked-Back Bun
Sofia Richie Grainge perfects the slicked-back bun, a go-to for polished elegance.
Bouncy Blowout
Cindy Crawford’s supermodel blowout combines healthy, voluminous curls with a confident, timeless shine.
Voluminous Pin Back
Dianna Agron’s glamorous updo with side-parted curls exudes playful sophistication.
Long Vintage Waves
Lily Collins embodies classic Hollywood with vintage waves that complement her bold lip and diamond accessories.
Side-Parted Lob
Zendaya’s honey-blonde curls, styled in a loose lob, are the epitome of refined elegance.
Soft Waves
Laura Harrier’s glossy, asymmetrical waves deliver a timeless vintage vibe.
Italian Bob
Penélope Cruz’s chin-length bob, paired with caramel highlights, radiates understated luxury.
Shiny Bob
Hailey Bieber’s polished bob is a sleek and subtle nod to Old Money style.
Wavy Tendrils
Hannah Bronfman’s twisted updo with face-framing tendrils offers a charming yet sophisticated touch.
Effortless Chignon
Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s simple, low chignon remains a timeless representation of Old Money elegance.
Structured Waves
Selena Gomez opts for brushed-out waves with a side part, creating a chic, polished look.
Flippy Bob
Lily Collins’s flippy bob with animated bangs introduces playfulness to her classic, blunt chop.
Polished Bouffant
Kaia Gerber channels her mother’s runway legacy with a gravity-defying bouffant that feels modern and luxurious.
Half-Up, Half-Down
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s sleek half-up hairstyle is the ideal balance of volume and refinement.
The Old Money hairstyle captures the essence of quiet luxury—achieved through healthy, shiny hair styled with grace and sophistication. These iconic looks prove that a little effort can go a long way in creating a look that feels both timeless and luxurious.
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