Old money shoes for men are simple, well made and a little worn in. There are no big logos, no chunky soles and nothing that looks like it came from this season's trend list. Five pairs cover almost every situation, from the office to a summer weekend by the sea. Here is what they are, what to look for and how to wear each one.
What makes a shoe look old money
- A slim, low shape. The sole is thin and the toe is rounded, not pointed and not bulky.
- Matte materials. Suede, smooth leather or a good matte suede-look microfiber. Avoid shiny patent and plastic-looking uppers.
- Quiet colours. Brown, tan, beige, navy, black and white. Brown suede is the most useful of all.
- No visible branding. If you can read the brand from two metres away, it is not old money.
- Care. Clean, brushed shoes matter more than new ones. A good pair that is looked after gets better with age.
The 5 old money shoes every man should know
1. Suede loafers
If you buy one pair, make it suede loafers. They work with pleated trousers, chinos, linen and even a suit in summer. Brown goes with navy, grey and cream. Beige is lighter and looks best with white or navy trousers in warm weather.
Our Old Money Suede Loafers are a classic penny loafer in brown, and the Men's Versatile Loafers are a softer slip-on in beige, closer to a driving shoe. Both have a suede-look microfiber upper, not real suede, which keeps the price down and makes them easy to look after. If you want real suede and are happy to spend more, Tod's, Sebago and Carmina all make excellent loafers.
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2. Clean white leather sneakers
Yes, old money men wear sneakers, but only very plain ones. White or off-white leather, a thin sole and no large logo. They make tailored trousers and a knitted polo look relaxed without looking sloppy.
We do not sell sneakers at the moment. Common Projects and Koio are the well-known premium options. Whatever you choose, keep them clean. Dirty white sneakers ruin the look fast. For the same outfits with a smarter look, try our suede-look loafers.
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3. Leather oxfords
Oxfords are the formal shoe. You need one pair for weddings, funerals, interviews and dinners where a suit is expected. Choose dark brown for business and black for evening. A plain toe or a simple cap toe is enough. Skip heavy broguing if you only own one pair.
We do not make oxfords. Crockett & Jones and Carmina are the classic names, and Meermin is a good choice at a lower price.
4. Suede Chelsea boots
In autumn and winter, a slim suede Chelsea boot replaces the loafer. It works with flannel trousers, a knit and an overcoat. Pick a sleek shape in brown or taupe, not a heavy work boot.
R.M. Williams and Sanders are the reference brands. Look for a leather sole or a thin rubber one.
5. Driving shoes
Driving shoes, or moccasins, are the most relaxed shoe on this list. They belong to summer, boats and long lunches. Wear them with linen trousers, shorts or chinos, always without socks.
Tod's made the style famous. Our Versatile Loafers give you the same soft, easy look for a lower price.
What to wear with old money shoes
- Loafers: navy pleated trousers, a knitted polo and a leather belt in a similar brown.
- White sneakers: cream or navy trousers and a light cotton or cashmere sweater.
- Oxfords: a suit or grey wool trousers with a shirt and a fine knit.
- Chelsea boots: flannel or cord trousers, a cable knit and a wool coat.
- Driving shoes: linen trousers and a short-sleeve knitted polo.
More trouser ideas are in our guide to quiet luxury pants for men.
Socks or no socks?
With loafers and driving shoes in warm weather, go without socks, or wear thin no-show socks so your feet stay dry. With oxfords and Chelsea boots, always wear socks. Match them to your trousers, not your shoes, so the leg looks longer.
How to look after suede and leather
- Spray new suede with a protector before you wear it the first time.
- Brush suede after wearing it to lift the nap and remove dust.
- Use cedar shoe trees. They keep the shape and pull out moisture.
- Do not wear the same pair two days in a row. Leather needs a day to dry.
- Clean white sneakers with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, then let them air dry.
FAQ
What shoes do old money men wear?
Mostly suede loafers, plain leather oxfords, slim Chelsea boots, driving shoes and very clean white sneakers. The shapes are classic and the colours are brown, navy, black and white.
Are sneakers old money?
Plain white or cream leather sneakers are. Chunky, colourful or heavily branded sneakers are not.
What colour loafers should I buy first?
Brown suede. It goes with navy, grey, cream and beige trousers and works all year.
Can I wear loafers with jeans?
Yes. Dark, straight jeans with suede loafers and a knit is a classic weekend outfit.
Where can I see all BLENIN shoes?
In our men's loafers and sneakers collection. For the full look, see the quiet luxury edit for men.
