A good jacket does most of the work in an old money outfit. Put it over a knit or a shirt and the look is finished. Below are the seven classic styles, when to wear each and what to pair them with. You do not need all seven. Two or three cover almost every season.
What makes a jacket old money
- Classic shapes: field jackets, blazers, simple zip jackets.
- Quiet colours: navy, cream, olive, tan and brown.
- Useful details: flap pockets, a good collar, real buttons. No big logos.
- A clean fit: room for a sweater underneath, sleeves that end at the wrist.
1. The field jacket
Four flap pockets, a belted waist and a classic collar. It started as a military piece and became a country classic. In navy it looks smart enough for town. Wear it over a roll neck or a knit with pleated trousers.
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2. The suede-look hunting jacket
A brown jacket with a lapel collar and patch pockets, inspired by country hunting jackets. It adds warmth and texture to a simple outfit. Wear it with a cream roll neck, grey trousers and suede boots. Our version is made of soft polyester with a suede look, so it is light and easy to care for.
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3. The light button-up jacket
A light jacket with a stand collar, two chest pockets and a ribbed hem, somewhere between a work jacket and a Harrington. In cream it is the perfect spring and early autumn layer. Wear it open over a white T-shirt with olive or navy trousers and loafers.
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4. The linen jacket
For warm evenings and holidays. A light linen-blend jacket over a striped T-shirt and white trousers is the classic Riviera look. Linen creases a little, and that is part of the charm.
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5. The lightweight zip jacket
A clean zip jacket with a shirt collar is the most practical layer for travel, work and weekends. Wear it over a cable knit with dark jeans or chinos.
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6. The navy blazer
The most classic old money jacket of all. A navy blazer goes with grey trousers, chinos, jeans and white shirts. Choose a soft, unstructured one for a relaxed look, and keep the buttons simple.
7. The wax or quilted jacket
The British country jacket for rain and cold. An olive wax jacket or a navy quilted jacket over a knit works for walks, weekends and travel. It looks better the older it gets.
How to build a small jacket wardrobe
- Spring and summer: a linen jacket and a cream button-up jacket.
- Autumn: a field jacket or a suede-look jacket.
- All year: a navy blazer and a light zip jacket.
Not sure about your size? Our size calculator helps. Jackets should leave room for a sweater underneath.
Keep reading
- Old money outfits for men
- Quiet luxury sweaters for men
- Quiet luxury pants for men
- Old money loafers
FAQ
What jacket is most old money?
The navy blazer, followed by the field jacket and the wax jacket.
What colour jacket is old money?
Navy, olive, cream, tan and brown. These go with almost every knit and trouser.
Can I wear a jacket over a sweater?
Yes, that is the classic way. Make sure the jacket has enough room in the chest and shoulders.
What shoes go with old money jackets?
Suede-look loafers, clean white sneakers or suede boots.
