The 7 Most Elegant Old Money Sandals to Invest in for 2025
- BY MAMELLO MOKOENA
- Apr 25
- 4 min read

Nothing completes an elegant, effortless wardrobe quite like a pair of refined, timeless sandals. In 2025, the "old money" aesthetic continues to reign supreme, characterised by classic silhouettes, high-quality materials, and an air of understated luxury.
This aesthetic is championed by celebrities such as Sofia Richie Grainge, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Gwyneth Paltrow. Their wardrobes are carefully curated with pieces that exude effortless wealth—never flashy, always refined. The essence of old money style lies in the philosophy that less is more. Instead of ostentatious logos and loud branding, the focus is on exceptional craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics and timeless designs that stand the test of time.
Here is our curated selection of 7 of the finest sandals that embody the heritage, craftsmanship and impeccable style of the old money aesthetic.
1. Manolo Blahnik Susa Sandals

A true testament to Roman-inspired design, the Manolo Blahnik Susa Sandals are crafted from supple calf leather. Featuring crossover front straps with a toe stem and an elegant instep strap, these sandals provide both sophistication and durability. The flat stacked heel ensures comfort, making them an essential investment for any timeless wardrobe. Their minimalist yet refined design seamlessly aligns with the old money aesthetic and has a sense of effortless elegance and classical inspiration. Their historical influence adds a cultured, well-travelled touch to any ensemble. For a similar look, try the Ted Baker Women's Harpurr-Flat T-Strap Sandal.
2. Jimmy Choo Ayla Suede Sandals

A delicate yet statement-worthy piece, the Jimmy Choo Ayla Sandals are made from luxurious tan goat suede. The buckle-fastening ankle strap secures the foot gracefully, while the soft suede straps curve elegantly to create a flattering silhouette. The slight heel adds just enough lift, making these perfect for relaxed yet polished occasions. Their rich suede material and classic, understated design make them a quintessential choice for those who appreciate heritage luxury with a modern twist. The sculpted straps reflect a meticulous attention to detail, a hallmark of quiet affluence. For a similar style, consider the Blu Betty Zara Diesel.
3. Ezra: Leather Raffia Sliders

The Ezra sliders perfectly blend comfort with elegance. These sandals feature raffia detailed dual straps with adjustable buckles. They are designed with a leather platform and rubber sole. The gold-tone hardware adds a subtle touch of refinement, making them a must-have for those who appreciate effortless luxury with everyday practicality.
4. Chanel Runway Slingbacks

Chanel never fails to deliver timeless sophistication and the runway slingbacks are no exception. Made with premium goatskin and grosgrain, these sleek sandals boast a modest 20mm heel which offers just the right amount of lift while maintaining supreme comfort. A staple for any old-money wardrobe, they effortlessly transition from breakfast to dinner date with classic grace. Look into the JEFFREY CAMPBELL baby doll sandals for a similar version with a bit of a heel, or the Women's Madison Bluma pump from Bash
5. Steve Madden Mona Sandal

For a modern take on the classic three-strap sandal, the Mona by Steve Madden offers relaxed finesse. Constructed from leather with a molded footbed, these flatform sandals feature substantial gold-tone hardware for a refined yet contemporary touch. With an adjustable hook-and-loop front strap and a 2cm heel, they balance ease with elevated style.
6. Saint Laurent Tribute Flat Sandals

Slip-on sandals have never looked so chic. Saint Laurent’s Tribute Flat Sandals are made from metal-free tanned leather, featuring intertwining straps that exude quiet luxury. Their square-toe design adds a subtle modern twist to an otherwise classic aesthetic, making them a versatile staple for warm-weather dressing. An alternative to these sandals, you can try the Cole Haan Women's Chrisee Slide Sandals.
7. Hermès Oran Sandals

The Hermès Oran Sandals are a true icon of quiet luxury. Crafted in Box calfskin with the signature “H” cut-out, these sandals are the epitome of effortless elegance. A go-to for those who appreciate heritage craftsmanship, they remain an essential piece in every old-money wardrobe. If you are looking for a more accessible option, consider the Halle Flat Mule from Forever New.
How To Achieve the Look on a Budget
For those who want to embody old-money elegance without the designer price tag, look for sandals that prioritise these key features:
Neutral tones: Black, beige, tan, white and navy ensure timeless versatility.
Minimal branding: Logos should be subtle or nonexistent to achieve an understated quiet luxury look.
High-quality materials: Opt for genuine leather, suede or silk to replicate the luxury feel.
Simple, elegant designs: Avoid overly trendy or flashy details to maintain a refined aesthetic.
The understated approach ensures that every piece looks effortlessly elegant, transcending fleeting trends in favour of classic sophistication. It’s about choosing quality over quantity and favouring a well-made leather sandal that ages beautifully over time rather than something that loudly announces itself with excessive embellishments or logos. Each of these sandals encapsulates the essence of old money luxury—timeless design, high-quality craftsmanship, and an air of effortless elegance. Whether you prefer the structured sophistication of Manolo Blahnik or the relaxed refinement of Birkenstock, these selections ensure you step into 2025 with undeniable style and grace.