Whether You Like It Or Not, The Old-Money Trend Is Here: Textures That Make It Work

Even with trends constantly being recycled in the modern age, some interior styling choices just never go out of style. That's the concept, anyway, with the old money décor trend, which imbues quiet luxury using high-end materials, artisanal furniture and decor pieces, and the timelessness that captures a polished, sophisticated look. This is done through understated styling choices, such as subtle designer furniture, antiques, and classical artwork. 

That said, textures are just as important in capturing the essence of the old-money decor trend as layering, patterns, and even furniture, and knowing which types of fabric and textures to use can instantly elevate the look. These fabrics can be anything from soft, elegant materials like silk, linen, and velvet, to rougher textures like wool and tweed.

Similar to the quiet luxury trend, old-money interior decor is all about subtleties to convey wealth and sophistication. Meaning, you'll want to avoid textures that are cheaply made or mass-produced decor, as well as viral decor moments, like plush boucle, trendy artworks, and synthetic fabrics. Rather, you're looking for classic, high-quality fabrics and textures. Layering also adds warmth and visual intrigue, but it also lends an effortlessly lived-in look that feels modest and refined rather than flashy. This means when choosing your textures, you'll want to make sure they complement each other in a space instead of competing for attention.

When it comes to adding texture to your home decor, there are a few key points to keep in mind to balance contemporary and traditional elegance. You're seeking historically inspired materials, like something you'd see in grand estates with sprawling staircases, marble flooring, aging brass hardware, and classic dark woods. Keep in mind that the space should look refined to avoid overwhelming the space; it should look effortlessly collected. That said, envisioning how the textures play together and move throughout a space can make layering easy. Flooring is a great place to start, such as dark woods like mahogany, along with flooring accessories like rugs.

Stick to classic textures, like velvet sofas, paired with soft throws made of heavy, high-end linens, and sophisticated silk draperies, for example, which are great combinations for a living room that feels polished yet humble. Add a minimalist, cozy Persian rug and an artisanal coffee table made of dark cherry wood to refine the look even further. In the bedroom, you want luxurious comfort over quantity. Opt for soft cashmere throw blankets and pillows with thick velvet drapes, a traditional wooden canopy bed, with a large wooden chest that layers beautifully with a wool rug.

Hardware is in the mix of textures, too. Aging metals, like brass or gold that have a subtle and natural patina, can make any space look rich without looking too boastful. For instance, consider adding an unlacquered brass lighting fixture, like traditional Banker's lamps or a mosaic stained glass Tiffany lamp, which can stand out in a study or entry way for a chic look. A classic crystal chandelier will instantly add an elevated sophistication to a space, too.