What makes clothes look expensive is rarely the logo. It is the fabric: how it falls, how it feels and how it ages. Old money wardrobes are built on a few natural materials. Here are the five that matter most, what they are good for and how to look after them.
1. Cashmere
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. It is light, very soft and warm without bulk. It is the classic fabric for sweaters, cardigans and scarves.
Good to know: a cashmere blend is cheaper and often more durable. 100% cashmere is softer and gets better with age. Care: hand wash or use a wool cycle, dry flat, fold instead of hanging.
Cashmere knitwear
2. Silk
Silk has a soft sheen and feels cool on the skin. A silk blouse, scarf or slip skirt looks refined without effort. Choose muted colours like ivory, champagne or navy.
Care: hand wash cold or dry clean, and iron on low from the inside.
3. Wool
Wool is the everyday fabric of old money style. It is warm, breathes well and does not hold smells. Merino is fine and soft. Heavier wool makes great cable knits, coats and trousers.
Care: air it out between wears, brush it, and wash only when needed on a wool cycle.
Wool sweaters
4. Linen
Linen is made from flax. It is light, breathes very well and gets softer with every wash. It creases easily, and that relaxed look is part of its charm. Perfect for summer trousers and shirts.
Care: machine wash gently, hang to dry and iron while slightly damp if you want it smoother.
Linen trousers
5. Mohair and alpaca
Mohair (from angora goats) and alpaca are soft, fuzzy and very warm. They give knitwear a relaxed, textured look. A mohair-blend cardigan over a shirt is an easy winter outfit.
Care: hand wash cold, never wring, dry flat.
How to spot good fabric
- Read the label. Check the fibre mix, not just the product name.
- Feel it. Good knitwear feels dense and springs back when stretched.
- Look at the seams. Neat, straight seams and even knitting are a good sign.
- Blends are fine. A little nylon or polyester can make a knit last longer. Just know what you are buying.
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FAQ
What fabrics are old money?
Cashmere, wool, silk, linen, cotton and textured knits like mohair. Natural fibres in calm colours.
Is cashmere worth it?
Yes, if you look after it. A good cashmere sweater can last many years.
Is polyester old money?
Not on its own, but a small amount in a blend can add strength. Check the label.
What is the best old money fabric for summer?
Linen, followed by light cotton and silk.
