20 Classic Old Money Hairstyles for a Polished Look
The allure of old money aesthetics transcends fleeting trends, embodying a quiet elegance rooted in timeless sophistication. This refined sensibility extends beyond fashion and accessories, influencing hairstyles that emphasize polish and understated luxury. From neatly styled medium hairstyles for work to classic short hairstyles and gracefully styled long hairstyles, these looks focus on impeccable grooming rather than bold statements. Old money hairstyles are not about dramatic cuts or flashy color but about healthy, well maintained hair shaped in flattering, traditional styles. Inspired by iconic families and modern style icons alike, these hairstyles transition effortlessly from daytime engagements to formal evenings, always appearing appropriate and elegant. Whether worn in subtle waves or perfectly styled updos, these hairstyles reflect quality, heritage, and a sense of enduring grace. Discover how to achieve timeless hair looks that enhance natural beauty and capture the effortlessly chic essence of the old money aesthetic.
The Classic Blowout: Effortless Polish
The classic blowout is a cornerstone of the old money hairstyle repertoire, offering a polished yet effortless look that suits virtually any occasion. This style emphasizes healthy, voluminous hair with a smooth, frizz-free finish. Achieving the perfect blowout starts with using high-quality hair products designed to protect and nourish the hair. A good heat protectant is essential, followed by a volumizing mousse or spray applied to the roots. Using a round brush, section the hair and blow-dry each section from root to tip, creating lift and smoothness. The key is to focus on creating volume at the crown and ensuring the ends are sleek and polished. A boar bristle brush can help to distribute natural oils and create a smooth, shiny finish. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place without stiffness. This hairstyle embodies understated elegance and can be easily dressed up or down, making it a versatile choice for any event. The blowout is a testament to the power of simple, well-executed styling, a hallmark of the old money aesthetic.
The Low Ponytail: Understated Chic
The low ponytail, when executed with precision, transcends its simplicity to become a statement of understated chic, a hallmark of old money style. This hairstyle is not about a haphazardly thrown-together ponytail; it's about sleekness, control, and a touch of refinement. Start by applying a smoothing serum to damp hair to eliminate frizz and create a polished base. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean, precise part, whether it's a center part or a deep side part. Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and secure it with a hair tie that matches your hair color for a seamless look. Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it, securing it with a bobby pin underneath. This adds an extra touch of sophistication and elevates the simple ponytail. For added polish, use a hairspray to tame any flyaways and ensure the ponytail stays sleek and in place throughout the day. The low ponytail is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. It exemplifies the old money aesthetic by showcasing simplicity and attention to detail. This is a style that speaks volumes through its quiet elegance.
The Ballerina Bun: Timeless Elegance
The ballerina bun is the epitome of timeless elegance, a hairstyle that has graced the heads of dancers and socialites alike for generations. This classic updo is not only practical but also incredibly chic, exuding a sense of refined sophistication. To achieve the perfect ballerina bun, start by brushing your hair to remove any knots or tangles. Apply a smoothing serum or hair oil to add shine and control frizz. Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, creating a neat and compact bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, ensuring that all stray hairs are tucked in. For a more polished look, use a hairspray to smooth down any flyaways and add shine. The ballerina bun is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for both formal and casual occasions. It's a perfect choice for showcasing elegant jewelry or highlighting your facial features. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, elegance, and timelessness. It's a classic for a reason.
The Half-Up, Half-Down: Effortless Sophistication
The half-up, half-down hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between effortless and sophisticated, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a polished yet relaxed look. This versatile style works well with a variety of hair textures and lengths, adding a touch of elegance to any ensemble. Start by creating soft waves or curls in your hair using a curling iron or wand. This adds texture and dimension to the style. Gather the top section of your hair, from the temples to the crown, and secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins. You can create a simple half-up ponytail, a small bun, or even a braided detail. For a more romantic look, leave a few face-framing strands loose. This softens the style and adds a touch of femininity. Use a hairspray to keep the style in place and tame any flyaways. The half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect for showcasing your hair's length and texture while still keeping it out of your face. It's a versatile choice for both daytime and evening events. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by showcasing natural beauty and understated elegance. It's a classic for a reason.
The Side-Swept Waves: Romantic Glamour
Side-swept waves evoke a sense of romantic glamour, a hairstyle that has been a red carpet staple for decades. This timeless style is both elegant and flattering, drawing attention to the face and creating a soft, feminine look. To achieve side-swept waves, start by creating deep side part in your hair. Use a curling iron or wand to create loose, flowing waves throughout your hair. Focus on curling the hair away from your face to create a more open and flattering look. Once you've curled all of your hair, gently brush through the waves with a wide-tooth comb to soften them and create a more natural look. Sweep all of your hair to one side and secure it with bobby pins behind your ear. Use a hairspray to keep the style in place and tame any flyaways. Side-swept waves are perfect for special occasions or any time you want to add a touch of glamour to your look. It's a versatile style that works well with a variety of hair lengths and textures. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by showcasing effortless elegance and timeless beauty. It's a classic for a reason.
The French Twist: Sophisticated Updo
The French twist is a sophisticated updo that exudes timeless elegance, a hairstyle that has been a favorite of royalty and socialites for generations. This classic style is both polished and refined, making it perfect for formal occasions or any time you want to elevate your look. To create a French twist, start by teasing the hair at the crown to add volume. Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, but don't secure it with a hair tie. Twist the ponytail upwards, tucking the ends in as you go. Secure the twist with bobby pins, ensuring that all stray hairs are tucked in. For a more polished look, use a hairspray to smooth down any flyaways and add shine. The French twist is a versatile hairstyle that can be customized to suit your personal style. You can add braids, twists, or accessories to create a unique and personalized look. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing elegance, sophistication, and timelessness. It's a classic for a reason.
The Sleek Bob: Modern Classic
The sleek bob is a modern classic that embodies effortless chic, a hairstyle that has been a favorite of stylish women for decades. This versatile cut is both timeless and on-trend, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated and low-maintenance look. To achieve a sleek bob, start by getting a precise haircut that falls just above the shoulders or at the jawline. Use a smoothing serum or hair oil to add shine and control frizz. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush, focusing on creating a smooth, sleek finish. Use a flat iron to straighten any remaining waves or curls. For a more polished look, tuck one side of your hair behind your ear. This adds a touch of asymmetry and highlights your facial features. The sleek bob is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. It's a perfect choice for showcasing your personal style and adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, elegance, and timelessness. It's a classic for a reason.
The Headband Tuck: Effortless Elegance
The headband tuck is an effortless way to achieve a chic and polished updo, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any occasion. This style is surprisingly simple to create and works well with a variety of hair lengths and textures. Start by placing a stretchy headband around your head, positioning it across your forehead. Take sections of your hair, starting at the front, and tuck them up and over the headband. Continue tucking sections of hair until all of your hair is tucked into the headband. Adjust the headband and tucked hair to create the desired shape and volume. You can leave a few face-framing strands loose for a softer look. Secure the style with bobby pins if needed. The headband tuck is a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down. It's a perfect choice for adding a touch of sophistication to a casual outfit or for complementing a formal gown. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by showcasing effortless elegance and timeless style. It's a simple yet chic way to elevate your look.
The Braided Crown: Romantic Sophistication
The braided crown is a romantic and sophisticated hairstyle that exudes timeless elegance. This stunning updo is perfect for special occasions or any time you want to add a touch of fairytale charm to your look. To create a braided crown, start by creating two braids, one on each side of your head, starting near your temples. Secure the ends of the braids with hair ties. Drape one braid across the top of your head, positioning it like a crown, and secure it with bobby pins. Repeat with the other braid, overlapping it slightly with the first braid. Tuck the ends of the braids under each other and secure them with bobby pins. Add a few delicate flowers or hair accessories for a more romantic touch. The braided crown is a versatile hairstyle that can be customized to suit your personal style. You can create a single braid, a fishtail braid, or even a Dutch braid for a unique look. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by showcasing effortless elegance and timeless beauty. It's a perfect choice for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
The Low Chignon: Understated Glamour
The low chignon is the epitome of understated glamour, a hairstyle that whispers sophistication rather than shouts it. This classic updo is perfect for formal events, adding a touch of timeless elegance to any ensemble. To achieve a flawless low chignon, begin by creating a deep side part. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, as if you were creating a low ponytail. Instead of pulling the hair all the way through the hair tie, create a loop, leaving the ends of your hair tucked inside. This creates a soft, voluminous bun. Gently pull on the sides of the loop to loosen it and create a more relaxed shape. Secure the chignon with bobby pins, ensuring that all stray hairs are tucked in. For added polish, use a hairspray to tame any flyaways and add shine. The low chignon is a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down. It's a perfect choice for showcasing elegant jewelry or highlighting your facial features. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, elegance, and timelessness. It's a classic for a reason.
The Voluminous Waves: Natural Beauty
Voluminous waves celebrate natural beauty, a hairstyle that emphasizes healthy, bouncy hair with plenty of movement. This effortless style is perfect for showcasing your hair's natural texture and adding a touch of glamour to your look. To achieve voluminous waves, start by using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Apply a volumizing mousse or spray to damp hair, focusing on the roots. Blow-dry your hair using a diffuser attachment, scrunching the hair as you go to enhance the waves. Once your hair is dry, use a curling iron or wand to create loose, flowing waves throughout your hair. Gently brush through the waves with a wide-tooth comb to soften them and create a more natural look. Use a hairspray to keep the style in place and add shine. Voluminous waves are perfect for showcasing your hair's natural beauty and adding a touch of glamour to any outfit. It's a versatile style that works well with a variety of hair lengths and textures. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing natural beauty and effortless elegance. It's a classic for a reason.
The Center Part: Understated Simplicity
The center part is the epitome of understated simplicity, a hairstyle that focuses on clean lines and a balanced aesthetic. This classic look is both timeless and versatile, working well with a variety of hair lengths and textures. To achieve a perfect center part, start by combing your hair while it's damp. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a precise part down the center of your head, starting at your hairline and extending to the nape of your neck. Ensure that the part is straight and even on both sides. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush, focusing on creating a smooth, sleek finish. If you have any flyaways, use a smoothing serum or hair oil to tame them. For a more polished look, tuck one side of your hair behind your ear. This adds a touch of asymmetry and highlights your facial features. The center part is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. It's a perfect choice for showcasing your facial features and adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, elegance, and timelessness. It's a classic for a reason.
The Tucked-Behind-the-Ears: Effortless Chic
The tucked-behind-the-ears hairstyle is the ultimate in effortless chic, a simple yet sophisticated look that exudes understated elegance. This style is perfect for showcasing your facial features and adding a touch of polish to any outfit. To achieve the tucked-behind-the-ears look, start by styling your hair as desired, whether it's straight, wavy, or curly. Create a side part or a center part, depending on your preference. Gently tuck the hair behind your ears on both sides of your head. Use bobby pins to secure the hair in place, if needed. Leave a few face-framing strands loose for a softer look. This adds a touch of femininity and helps to balance the style. The tucked-behind-the-ears hairstyle is a versatile look that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. It's a perfect choice for highlighting your jewelry or showcasing your makeup. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, elegance, and effortless style. It's a classic for a reason.
The High Gloss Finish: Healthy Hair Focus
A high gloss finish isn't a hairstyle in itself, but rather the ultimate commitment to healthy, well-maintained hair, a cornerstone of the old money aesthetic. This look emphasizes shine, smoothness, and overall hair health, reflecting a dedication to quality and grooming. Achieving a high gloss finish starts with a healthy hair care routine. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and hydrate your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine once a week to nourish and repair your hair. Use a smoothing serum or hair oil to add shine and control frizz. Protect your hair from heat damage by using a heat protectant spray before using any styling tools. Avoid over-processing your hair with harsh chemicals or dyes. Regular trims are essential to remove split ends and maintain healthy hair growth. A high gloss finish is the ultimate expression of healthy, well-cared-for hair, reflecting a commitment to quality and grooming. It embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing natural beauty and effortless elegance.
Subtle Highlights: Natural Enhancement
Subtle highlights offer a natural enhancement to your hair color, adding dimension and depth without appearing overly processed, a key element of the old money aesthetic. This technique focuses on enhancing your natural hair color, rather than drastically changing it. To achieve subtle highlights, opt for shades that are only one or two levels lighter than your base color. Ask your stylist for balayage or babylights, which are techniques that create soft, natural-looking highlights. Avoid chunky or streaky highlights, which can look dated and artificial. Focus on adding highlights around your face to brighten your complexion. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to protect your highlights from fading. Regular gloss treatments can help to maintain the shine and vibrancy of your highlights. Subtle highlights are a perfect way to enhance your natural beauty and add a touch of dimension to your hair. They embody the old money aesthetic by prioritizing naturalness and understated elegance. It’s about enhancing, not masking, your inherent beauty.
The Low Messy Bun: Relaxed Refinement
The low messy bun offers a relaxed yet refined look, a hairstyle that balances effortless style with a touch of sophistication. This versatile updo is perfect for casual outings or any time you want to achieve a chic and understated look. To create a low messy bun, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Twist the hair loosely and wrap it around itself to form a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, allowing a few strands to fall loose for a more relaxed look. Gently pull on the sides of the bun to loosen it and create a more voluminous shape. Use a hairspray to keep the style in place, but avoid using too much product, as you want to maintain the messy, effortless feel. The low messy bun is a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down. It's a perfect choice for showcasing elegant earrings or highlighting your neckline. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing simplicity, comfort, and understated elegance. It’s about looking effortlessly put-together, even when relaxed.
The Side Braid: Classic Simplicity
The side braid embodies classic simplicity, a hairstyle that offers a touch of bohemian charm while remaining effortlessly elegant. This versatile braid can be adapted for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. To create a side braid, start by parting your hair to the side. Gather your hair to one side of your head and divide it into three sections. Braid the hair down to the ends, using a classic three-strand braid technique. Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie. Gently pull on the sides of the braid to loosen it and create a more voluminous, textured look. You can add a few delicate flowers or hair accessories for a more romantic touch. The side braid is a versatile hairstyle that can be customized to suit your personal style. You can create a fishtail braid, a French braid, or even a Dutch braid for a unique look. This hairstyle embodies the old money aesthetic by showcasing effortless elegance and timeless beauty. It’s a classic for a reason, offering both practicality and style.
Natural Texture: Embracing What You Have
Embracing natural texture is a celebration of individuality and effortless style, a hairstyle philosophy that perfectly aligns with the old money aesthetic's emphasis on authenticity. This approach encourages you to work with your hair's natural characteristics, rather than trying to force it into a style that doesn't suit it. To embrace your natural texture, start by understanding your hair type. Is it straight, wavy, curly, or coily? Use products that are specifically designed for your hair type to enhance its natural texture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or styling tools that can damage your hair. Let your hair air dry whenever possible to minimize heat damage and encourage natural texture. If you need to use heat, use a diffuser attachment to enhance your curls or waves. Regular trims are essential to remove split ends and maintain healthy hair growth. Embracing your natural texture is a way to showcase your unique beauty and express your personal style. It embodies the old money aesthetic by prioritizing naturalness, authenticity, and effortless elegance. It’s about confidence in your own skin (and hair!).
