Australian “Old Money” style for men is a distinctive interpretation of classic preppy, characterised by a refined yet relaxed aesthetic that perfectly complements the Australian lifestyle.
It’s not a mere imitation of British or American preppy but a unique style shaped by Australia’s colonial history, diverse climate, and a strong emphasis on outdoor and sporting traditions.
In this comprehensive fashion guide for men, we’ll explore the subtleties of this style, providing insights into its evolution, core garments, and how to achieve the quintessential Aussie preppy look.
Aussie Preppy Aesthetic Origins
The roots of the Australian “Old Money” style can be traced back to the colonial era, reflecting the attire of early settlers and the British aristocracy.
However, this style has evolved far beyond its British foundations, incorporating practical, functional elements suited to the varied Australian climate and way of life.
It embraces a more relaxed elegance, contrasting with the rigidity of traditional European Old Money.
British Sartorial Heritage – Classic British tailoring provides the base for the style, with staples like tailored blazers, Oxford shirts, and meticulously crafted trousers.
These garments are reinterpreted with a more relaxed fit and lighter fabrics for greater comfort in warmer climates.
The Spirit of Australian Sport – Australia’s sporting culture, especially sailing, cricket, and polo, profoundly influences the “Old Money” style.
This is reflected in the prevalence of nautical-inspired clothing, cricket jumpers, and polo shirts, all made with high-quality materials and focused on performance and design.
Coastal and Rural Integration – The style connects with the Australian land and the sea, evidenced by the preference for natural fibres like linen, cotton, and merino wool.
Garments are practical and stylish, suitable for rural excursions and coastal leisure, reflecting an easy-going Australian elegance.
International Style Cues – Exposure to global fashion, particularly from American Ivy League, Italian style, and British tailoring, contributes to the style’s unique character, reinterpreted to fit the Australian context.
Evolving Masculinity – The style acknowledges that masculinity isn’t solely defined by ruggedness but can also be expressed through elegance and comfort.
This allows for an inclusive and flexible approach to men’s style.
Indigenous Influences – A subtle but growing appreciation for Indigenous Australian traditions, like using natural materials, such as wool and leather, and earthy tones, reflecting a profound understanding of Australian heritage and a connection with natural resources.
Australian Old Money vs. Other Preppy Styles
To appreciate the unique nuances of the Australian Old Money fashion style, it’s vital to compare it with preppy styles from other countries:
Aspect | Australian Old Money | American Ivy League | British Preppy |
---|---|---|---|
Overall Aesthetic | Relaxed yet refined, practical, sun-faded elegance, easy-going sophistication. | Structured, collegiate, traditional, classic East-Coast refinement. | Refined, tailored, formal, with an emphasis on tradition and heritage. |
Fabrics | Lightweight linen and cotton, merino wool, durable canvas with a sun-bleached texture. | Tweed, corduroy, heavier cotton, more robust and structured. | Fine wool, cashmere, and high-quality cotton, focusing on luxurious textures. |
Colour Palette | Earthy tones (sand, olive, khaki, navy), muted pastels (sky blue, sage green), and sun-faded or washed-out hues reflect the Australian landscape. | Navy, burgundy, forest green, khaki, emphasising classic and bold preppy colours. | Navy, grey, muted colours, and subtle patterns reflect British restraint and understated elegance. |
Key Garments | Linen and cotton shirts, tailored chinos, lightweight shorts, boat shoes, high-quality knitwear, and outdoor jackets influenced by sports and coastal activities. | Tweed blazers, Oxford shirts, chinos, penny loafers, rep ties, classic college attire. | Tailored suits, Oxford shirts, brogues, trench coats, classic country attire. |
Fit | Comfortable, slightly relaxed fit, unconstructed blazers, focusing on freedom of movement. | Classic, structured fit, semi-fitted garments with a more traditional shape. | Slim fit, tailored silhouettes, with a focus on precision and structure. |
Accessories | Leather belts, woven bracelets, high-quality sunglasses, Panama hats, and functional watches reflect a practical and outdoor-oriented approach. | College pins, repp ties, canvas totes, leather belts, a focus on collegiate and Ivy League symbols. | Silk scarves, cufflinks, leather briefcases, signet rings, with a focus on heritage and classic menswear accessories. |
Climate Suitability | Ideal for warm and temperate climates, focusing on breathability and sun protection. | Suitable for variable climates, with a focus on layering for different seasons. | Suited to cooler climates, emphasising warmth and protection from the elements. |
This comparison illustrates that the Australian Old Money style is not just a copy of international preppy looks but an authentic and original interpretation tailored to Australia’s unique climate, lifestyle, and cultural influences.
Australian Old Money Style Wardrobe Essentials
The Australian “Old Money” wardrobe is curated with carefully selected pieces, emphasising quality, versatility, and timeless style.
These garments reflect the Australian lifestyle, designed to offer comfort and sophistication, making them equally appropriate for a day at the yacht club or a casual lunch.
Shirts
The foundation of any “Old Money” look in Australia is the shirt, focusing on natural, breathable materials. Key styles include:
Linen Shirts – Essential for warmer weather, crafted from high-quality linen in light colours such as white, sky blue, or soft beige, with breathability and a relaxed yet refined appearance.
Look for shirts with single cuffs and gently curved hem featuring a slightly relaxed fit and a soft, unstructured collar.
Oxford Cloth Shirts – A versatile classic, these shirts should be chosen in traditional colours such as white, light blue, or subtle pastels and crafted from mid-weight Oxford cloth.
Look for button-down collars with a gentle roll, single cuffs, and a box pleat at the back, which offers a slightly heavier and more structured feel compared to linen, and they can be worn casually or dressed up with a blazer.
Cotton Poplin Shirts – Ideal for a crisper look, made from tightly woven cotton poplin, available in solid colours or subtle patterns, such as thin stripes and checks, providing a smooth, clean finish.
The fit should be tailored but not restrictive, with a classic collar and barrel cuffs, which are excellent for smart-casual and more formal settings.
Trousers and Shorts
The lower half of the outfit is equally important, with trousers and shorts that are comfortable and stylish:
Tailored Chinos – A wardrobe essential, tailored chinos should be chosen in versatile colours such as khaki, navy, stone, or olive.
Crafted from mid-weight cotton twill, they offer a refined yet relaxed fit with a straight leg or a subtle taper.
Look for features like a flat front, side adjusters, and a medium-high rise.
Lightweight Cotton Trousers – Perfect for warmer days, these trousers are crafted from breathable, lightweight cotton in light colours.
A straight-leg or slightly tapered fit provides comfort without compromising style. Look for details like a medium rise, minimal detailing, and a clean finish.
Tailored Shorts – These are essential for casual summer looks and are made from high-quality chino fabric or lightweight cotton.
They should be well-tailored, sitting just above the knee, avoiding overly short or baggy styles.
Look for options with a flat front, side adjusters, and a clean hemline. The emphasis is on quality and a refined fit.
Jackets and Outerwear
Layering is essential in Australian style, and a well-chosen jacket can elevate an outfit:
Unstructured Blazers – These are ideal for adding a touch of sophistication and are crafted from lightweight linen, cotton, or a blend.
Colours like navy, charcoal, or light beige are versatile and timeless.
The key is the unstructured design, which allows for a relaxed fit with minimal padding and a natural shoulder line.
Details should be kept minimal, with classic lapels and patch pockets.
Waxed Cotton Jackets – Reflecting the rugged, outdoor spirit, these jackets are crafted in classic designs from durable, waxed cotton.
They are practical and stylish, suitable for cooler evenings or countryside outings.
Look for features such as a corduroy collar, brass hardware, and a functional, weather-resistant design in traditional colours like olive green, navy, or tan.
Lightweight Knitwear – Merino wool or high-quality cotton knitwear pieces, such as crew neck sweaters, cardigans, or cricket jumpers, are essential for layering.
They should be chosen in navy, grey, cream, or subtle earthy tones, offering a versatile and stylish way to add warmth.
Look for a fine knit and a tailored fit with ribbed cuffs and hem.
Footwear should combine comfort, practicality, and style, complementing the relaxed yet refined aesthetic:
Leather Boat Shoes – Classic boat shoes are crafted from high-quality brown, tan, or navy leather.
These are perfect for casual and semi-formal settings and reflect a subtle nautical influence. Look for hand-sewn construction, a non-slip sole, and a comfortable fit.
Suede Loafers – Offering a more dressed-up alternative, suede loafers should be chosen in shades such as tan or navy.
They are comfortable and stylish, made from fine suede with a durable sole, and feature a classic penny loafer design or a tassel detail.
Leather Brogues – For more formal occasions or when a touch of classic style is desired, leather brogues in brown or black are an excellent choice.
They are crafted from high-quality leather, featuring classic brogue detailing and a lighter sole, and the fit should be comfortable and supportive.
Accessories
The details complete the outfit. Look for timeless, high-quality pieces:
Leather Belts – Belts from high-quality brown or black leather with elegant buckles. Braided leather belts add a more casual, textured option.
Woven Bracelets – These should be subtle and crafted from natural materials or feature nautical-inspired designs, adding a touch of personal style without being overly ostentatious.
Sunglasses – Choose classic designs like Wayfarers or Aviators for sun protection and added style. The emphasis should be on high-quality materials, durable frames, and polarised lenses.
Panama Hats Ideal for warmer months, a genuine Panama hat provides excellent sun protection and adds a touch of sophistication. Look for a classic design with a fine weave and a dark ribbon.
Functional Watches A watch should combine style with functionality, with a classic design, a leather or metal strap, and a high-quality movement, making it a timeless accessory.
Australian Preppy Outfit Ideas by Season
Adapting the Australian “Old Money” style to the seasons ensures comfort and sophistication throughout the year.
Spring
A quintessential spring ensemble starts with a light blue linen shirt and stone-coloured tailored chinos.
Trousers should sit comfortably at the natural waist and have a clean, straight leg – layer with an unstructured navy blazer in a lightweight cotton blend.
Footwear comprises tan leather boat shoes worn without socks, emphasizing the relaxed and preppy look.
Accessories should include a woven leather belt in dark brown and classic aviator sunglasses with a tortoiseshell frame.
Summer
A classic summer outfit features a white linen shirt with tailored shorts in light khaki.
Shirt should be slightly relaxed and shorts should sit just above the knee, with a clean hem.
Pair with brown suede loafers, a natural-fibre woven bracelet, and a genuine Panama hat for sun protection and a touch of sophistication.
The goal is maintaining a sense of style while remaining cool and comfortable.
Autumn
As the weather cools, a versatile autumn outfit features a cream-coloured merino wool crew neck sweater layered over a light blue Oxford shirt, paired with olive-green tailored chinos.
Shirt’s collar should be visible above the sweater for a clean look and trousers should have a slight taper for a modern feel.
For footwear, choose dark brown leather brogues worn with wool socks in a complementary shade.
Complete the look with a tan waxed cotton jacket for warmth and a classic feel.
Winter
For colder months, start with a navy-blue merino wool cricket jumper layered over a white Oxford shirt. Pair with darker-coloured tailored chinos in charcoal or navy.
Footwear should be dark brown or black leather brogues with a durable sole, and look can be completed with a tan waxed cotton jacket with a corduroy collar for extra warmth.
Essential Australian Preppy Terms
Familiarity with key terms will enhance understanding and appreciation of the Australian Old Money fashion style.
“Yachtie” – Used to describe someone who enjoys sailing and nautical activities associated with a specific style of dress, such as boat shoes, chinos, and polo shirts.
“Ringer” – Reference to classic Australian workwear, characterised by durable materials and practical designs, sometimes incorporated into the old-money look.
“Akubra” – An iconic Australian hat brand known for wide-brimmed felt hats, traditionally worn in rural and outback areas but adopted by some for a classic look.
“Driza-Bone” – An Australian brand famous for durable, waxed cotton coats for outdoor activities and creating a vintage, classic feel.
“Boardies” – Casual term for board shorts seen in nautical or sporty settings and suitable for relaxed Australian old money style.
“Chinos” – Versatile, tailored trousers made from cotton twill, a cornerstone of Australia’s “Old Money” wardrobe.
“Boat Shoes” – Classic leather shoes with non-slip soles associated with nautical style and relaxed elegance.
“Blucher” – This type of shoe is similar to a Derby, made with leather or suede upper, a timeless choice for casual and semi-formal looks.
“Cricket Jumper” – Classic knitted sweater with cable stitching and featuring a V-neck, designed for cricket players but adopted by Australian preppy style enthusiasts.
Australian Old Money – Do’s and Don’ts
To successfully adopt the Australian “Old Money” style, consider respecting the following do’s and don’ts.
Do’s
Prioritize Quality – Invest in high-quality materials and well-made garments that will last. This is about timeless elegance, not fast fashion.
Wear Natural Materials – Favour linen, cotton, merino wool, and leather for comfort, breathability, and durability.
Focus on Fit – Ensure clothing fits well. Tailored pieces should fit the frame without being too tight or too baggy – a slightly relaxed fit is preferred in Australia.
Keep it Simple – Avoid overly trendy or flashy pieces. Simplicity is key to achieving a sophisticated, understated style.
Adapt to the Climate – Choose garments appropriate for the Australian climate. Opt for lighter fabrics in the summer and warmer layers in the winter.
Incorporate Sporty Elements – Integrate subtle sporty influences into looks like a polo shirt, boat shoes, or a cricket jumper, reflecting Australia’s active lifestyle.
Add Personal Touches – Express personality with carefully selected accessories, such as a woven bracelet, stylish watch, or Panama hat.
Learn from the Experts – Check out Australian menswear brands defining the modern Australian style.
Don’ts
Over-Accessorise – Avoid wearing too many accessories or items that are too loud and distracting. The goal is refined simplicity.
Follow Trends Blindly – The “Old Money” style is about timeless elegance, not fleeting trends. Focus on classic pieces that transcend seasons.
Wear Ill-Fitting Clothes – Avoid clothing too tight, too loose, or the wrong size. Proper fit is essential for a sophisticated look.
Wear Unnatural Materials – Steer clear of synthetics or materials that don’t breathe. Opt for high-quality, natural materials.
Wear Overly Formal Clothes – Avoid overly formal attire for casual occasions. Australian style embraces relaxed elegance, and formality should be toned down.
Forget Sun Protection – In Australia, it’s essential to protect from the sun. Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat when needed.
Overdo the “Aussie” Look – The goal is to create a sophisticated, refined style, not a costume. Balance practicality with elegance and avoid falling into caricature.
Modern Australian Old Money Look
The Australian “Old Money” style is not static; it evolves while honouring its roots.
Modern interpretations incorporate contemporary cuts, new fabrics, and a greater emphasis on personal expression.
Today’s Australian preppy man might pair a classic linen shirt with modern tailored shorts or team a traditional cricket jumper with slim-fit chinos.
The key is to adapt classic elements to create a timeless and contemporary look.
This evolution also includes a growing appreciation for sustainable and ethically produced clothing, aligning with the increasingly conscious consumer.
Must-Know Brands
Several brands epitomize the Australian “Old Money” style, each offering pieces that capture the essence of this distinctive aesthetic:
Christian Kimber – A Melbourne-based designer redefining Australian menswear, offering refined and relaxed pieces, focusing on quality and craftsmanship.
M.J. Bale – This Australian brand is renowned for its tailored suits and quality menswear, blending classic style with modern cuts, ideal for achieving a sophisticated “Old Money” look.
R.M. Williams – An iconic Australian brand known for its high-quality leather boots and durable clothing worn by those connected to the land and the outback, providing a rugged yet classic element to the wardrobe.
Country Road – A popular brand offering classic pieces in natural materials such as linen and cotton, well-suited for building an Australian “Old Money” wardrobe, providing versatile, high-quality clothing.
Oroton – Primarily known for its leather goods and accessories, Oroton offers high-quality leather belts, bags, and wallets that are ideal for completing a refined look.
Zanerobe – Though more known for its streetwear aesthetic, Zanerobe offers high-quality, well-fitting chinos, shorts, and casual tops that can easily be incorporated into a more relaxed “Old Money” style.
P.E Nation – Though primarily activewear, P.E Nation’s menswear collection blends sporty elements with classic designs, reflecting the active Australian lifestyle.
Double Rainbouu – This brand’s unique approach to resort wear, featuring bold prints and relaxed styles, can be incorporated into a more modern “Old Money” aesthetic, showing the more playful side of the style.
Bassike – This brand focuses on minimalist design and sustainable practices, offering high-quality basics in natural materials that are perfect for layering, providing a more modern, refined approach to old money style.
Iconic Australian Old Money Figures
Certain figures have come to embody the Australian “Old Money” style, each showcasing a slightly different facet of this diverse look:
David Gonski – A prominent Australian businessman known for his elegant and understated style seen in tailored suits and classic pieces, representing the Australian style’s refined and sophisticated aspect.
Hugh Jackman – Though a global star, Hugh Jackman’s casual style reflects the laid-back elegance of the Australian “Old Money” style, with a preference for high-quality basics and practical outdoor wear, reflecting a connection to the land and the Aussie spirit.
Rod Laver – The legendary tennis player whose on and off-court style embodies classic Australian sportsmanship. His style is always classic, understated, and refined, reflecting a sense of heritage and tradition.
The Duke of Edinburgh – Prince Phillip embodied a classic, sophisticated style that has heavily influenced some traditions and customs of old-money aesthetics seen in tailored clothing and practical accessories, which has heavily influenced some of the Australian upper class.
Kerry Packer – The late Australian media mogul whose personal style featured practical clothing and durable materials, reflecting the rugged yet sophisticated side of the Australian “Old Money” style, blending practicality with subtle elegance.
Conclusion
The Australian “Old Money” style for men offers a unique blend of classic preppy influences with the relaxed elegance of the Australian lifestyle.
This distinctive style values quality, comfort, and a subtle, understated sophistication.
It adapts traditional pieces to suit the diverse Australian climate and way of life, incorporating sporting traditions, coastal influences, and a deep appreciation for natural materials.
By focusing on well-made garments, a perfect fit, and carefully selected accessories, anyone can embody the essence of the Aussie preppy style, showing a level of timeless and authentically Australian elegance.
It is not just about the clothes but about a broader approach to life, combining refinement with a relaxed approach.
Embracing this style is a way to express respect for tradition and the contemporary culture that has shaped this unique look, reflecting the Australian gentleman’s refined taste and understated elegance.