Recreate Ralph Lauren Interiors: Old Money Home Decor Ideas
Ever looked at a Ralph Lauren interior and thought, Wow, this is what success smells like? That’s the magic of the old money aesthetic—timeless, polished, and effortlessly sophisticated. Whether it’s the perfectly layered textures, the deep color palettes, or the vintage leather armchair that looks like it has a trust fund of its own, Ralph Lauren interiors scream Ivy League charm and generational wealth.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to actually come from old money to make your home look the part. You just need to know the key elements that define this style and how to work them into your space without blowing your entire decorating budget.
Lucky for you, we’ve broken it all down—from the rich plaid patterns to those antique-inspired finishing touches—so you can recreate Ralph Lauren interiors and have your home exuding that classic, ivy-league energy in no time.
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How to Nail the Old Money Aesthetic with Ralph Lauren-Inspired Home Decor
Understanding the Old Money Aesthetic
The old money aesthetic is more than just a look—it’s an attitude. Think timeless, not trendy. It’s about elegance that whispers rather than shouts. No flashy logos or over-the-top gimmicks here; it’s all about quiet luxury, quality craftsmanship, and pieces that feel like they have a story to tell.
Ralph Lauren has absolutely mastered this vibe. His interiors are a tribute to the heritage of wealth, steeped in classic design elements like heirloom-quality furniture, tailored fabrics, and rich textures. Everything is deliberate and curated—nothing feels out of place or rushed.
Here’s the big takeaway: the old money aesthetic isn’t about buying the most expensive thing on the market. It’s about making intentional choices that prioritize quality and timelessness.
You’re aiming for a space that feels like it could have been featured in a 1930s estate, but also fits seamlessly into 2025. Intrigued? There are a few must-have elements that make this style work so well.
Key Elements of Ralph Lauren Interiors
If Ralph Lauren interiors were a person, they’d be the kind of effortlessly chic Ivy League grad who plays polo on the weekends and spends their evenings sipping Scotch in a leather armchair by the fire.
Luckily, you don’t need a trust fund or a horse to recreate this vibe in your home. Here’s how you can channel that old money energy without breaking a sweat—or the bank.
Rich, Classic Color Palettes
Step one: ditch the bright neons and overly trendy hues. Ralph Lauren interiors are all about timeless, moody colors like navy, forest green, deep burgundy, and creamy neutrals. These shades instantly add a sense of warmth, depth, and sophistication.
Pro tip: Use a neutral base—think white walls or beige furniture—then layer on those deep, rich tones with accent pieces like throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. This balance keeps your space feeling polished, not overwhelming. It’s basically the interior design equivalent of wearing a tailored suit with a bold pocket square.
Layered Textures
Here’s the secret sauce to making your home feel like a Ralph Lauren catalog: texture. This style thrives on layers—leather sofas, chunky knit throws, velvet cushions, and wool plaid blankets all work together to create a cozy yet upscale vibe. It’s the mix of rugged (think raw wood tables) and refined (silky drapes, anyone?) that really nails the look.
To get this right, don’t be afraid to mix materials. Pair a distressed leather ottoman with a plush velvet chair. Layer a jute rug under a Persian one. The more textures you combine, the richer your space will feel—literally and figuratively.
Tartan Plaid, Stripes, and Equestrian Motifs
Let’s talk patterns. If you want to get Ralph Lauren’s old money look, tartan plaid is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a tartan blanket draped over your sofa or plaid wallpaper in your study, this classic pattern is a nod to timeless preppy style.
Stripes are another staple, especially when paired with crisp neutrals. Ralph Lauren is most known for his dark tartan styles, but he also creates collections of light and airy and even floral designs, too!
Similar bedding:
But the real star of the show? Equestrian motifs. Think horse prints, vintage riding boots as decor, or even a saddle casually leaning against a bookshelf. It’s all about adding subtle nods to the highbrow hobbies of yesteryear. You know, the kind that say, Yes, I do own a country estate in my dreams.
Vintage and Antique-Inspired Pieces
Ralph Lauren interiors always feel like they’ve been collected over decades, not purchased in a one-weekend shopping spree. To capture that vibe, incorporate vintage or antique-inspired furniture and decor. Look for leather-bound books, brass candlesticks, or a slightly weathered chest of drawers.
Not ready to splurge on antiques? No problem. Thrift stores and estate sales are gold mines for finding unique pieces on a budget. Bonus points if they look like they’ve been passed down through generations—even if you just picked them up last weekend.
Elegant and Functional Furniture
Furniture in Ralph Lauren interiors is equal parts comfortable and elegant. Think Chesterfield sofas with deep tufting, wingback chairs that feel like they belong in a country manor, or four-poster beds straight out of a Jane Austen novel.
When choosing pieces, prioritize quality and timeless design. This isn’t the place for flimsy furniture or overly trendy styles. Instead, opt for solid wood, rich leather, and classic silhouettes that will never go out of style. If it feels like it could survive a hundred years of family dinners and board games, you’re on the right track.
Subtle Luxury Through Accessories
Here’s the thing about Ralph Lauren interiors: they don’t need to scream luxury, because they already exude it. Accessories like crystal decanters, polished brass lamps, and silver trays add a touch of glam without feeling over the top.
The key is balance. A few well-chosen pieces—like a vintage clock on the mantle or a gilded mirror in the hallway—can make your space feel elevated without trying too hard. Remember, less is more when it comes to accessorizing this look.
Thoughtful Art and Wall Decor
Ralph Lauren walls are like a gallery of understated elegance. Classic oil paintings, vintage landscapes, and old-school portraiture are all staples of this style. You can also mix in framed equestrian prints or antique maps to add interest and personality.
If a full-blown gallery wall feels intimidating, start small. A single, oversized piece of art above your sofa or bed can anchor the room and make a bold statement. And don’t forget: ornate frames are your best friend here. The fancier, the better.
Monogramming and Personalization
Nothing says “I belong in a Ralph Lauren ad” like a touch of personalization. Monogrammed pillows, embroidered linens, or a custom leather desk set add that old-money polish. The key is to keep it subtle—think initials discreetly tucked onto a corner, not splashed across the entire room.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making your space feel like it was custom-designed for you, a person of great callibur, specifically. And honestly, what’s more old money than that?
Shopping Guide: Where to Find Ralph Lauren-Inspired Decor
You know the look; now it’s time to find the goods. Here’s where to shop, whether you’re splurging or saving.
I’ve created this big Ralph Lauren shopping guide, including authentic RL branded items, as well as non-RL pieces that still have the Ralph Lauren aesthetic. Simply click the images below to shop!
Pro tip: Keep an eye on local estate sales and auctions. You’d be surprised at the incredible, one-of-a-kind finds you can score—sometimes for a fraction of the cost of new items.
How to Incorporate Ralph Lauren’s Old Money Style in Your Home
Now you've seen my Ralph Lauren shopping guide, and you’re ready to turn your home into a Ralph Lauren masterpiece. But, where do you even start when it comes to placing your new pieces in your home? Let’s break it down into actionable steps.
Start with Small Updates
If overhauling your entire home feels overwhelming, begin with bite-sized changes. Swap out your throw pillows for ones in plaid or velvet. Add a leather tray to your coffee table. Hang a vintage equestrian print on your wall. These little tweaks can instantly add old-money vibes without requiring a full renovation.
Focus on one room at a time—like your living room or bedroom—and build from there. Trust us, it’s easier (and way more fun) to nail the look in stages.
Invest in Key Pieces
You don’t need to deck out your whole house in high-end furniture, but investing in a few standout pieces can make all the difference. Think a tufted leather armchair, a Persian rug, or a mahogany writing desk. These are the kinds of items that anchor a room and give it that “collected over generations” feel.
The good news? You don’t have to buy everything brand new. Estate sales, vintage shops, and even Facebook Marketplace are full of gems that look like they’ve been passed down in your (imaginary) family for decades.
DIY and Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Not ready to drop serious cash on furniture? No problem. There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to get the Ralph Lauren look. For example:
- Paint a room in a deep navy or hunter green.
- Shop for plaid blankets and wool throws at thrift stores.
- Hunt down vintage-looking brass lamps or candleholders on Etsy.
It’s all about finding creative ways to channel that old-money vibe without draining your actual bank account.
Ralph Lauren Interiors: The Ultimate Guide to Old Money Home Design - Conclusion
Creating a home that looks like it belongs in a Ralph Lauren catalog isn’t just about buying fancy furniture—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that values timeless design, subtle luxury, and a sense of heritage.
With rich textures, classic patterns, and carefully curated decor, you can nail the old money aesthetic without needing a trust fund.
Start small, invest in a few key pieces, and don’t be afraid to hit up thrift stores and estate sales for those unique, character-filled finds. By layering textures, choosing a sophisticated color palette, and sprinkling in some equestrian charm, you’ll have a home that oozes Ivy League vibes in no time.
So pour yourself a glass of Scotch (or, you know, sparkling water in a fancy glass), and get to work—your old money dream home is just a few thoughtful updates away.
