# Book Review: “The Old Money Book: How to Live Better While Spending Less—Secrets of America’s Upper Class” by Byron Tully

_Byron Tully’s_ “The Old Money Book” sets out to decode the seemingly mysterious lifestyle of America’s inherited wealth class and adapt its secrets for readers who aspire to live with more elegance, poise, and financial savvy—on a budget. As someone fascinated by personal finance, etiquette, and the psychology of status, I approached this book eager to see whether it could deliver practical guidance or would simply repackage old clichés about “fitting in” among the blue blood. In what follows, I’ll explore the core arguments, highlight the book’s strengths and weaknesses, and assess its usefulness for anyone seeking to “live better while spending less.”

## 1. Overview and Structure

**The Premise.** Tully suggests that “old money” isn’t just about what you own; it’s a mindset, a set of habits and values passed down through generations. By adopting key behaviors—ranging from sartorial choices to conversation skills—readers can project an air of refinement without breaking the bank.

**Organization.** The book unfolds in three major sections:

1. **Foundations of Old Money**  

   Explores the historical roots of inherited wealth in America: how families built and maintained legacies, and the cultural codes that governed their lives.

2. **Lifestyle & Aesthetics** 

   Offers guidance on wardrobe, home décor, entertaining, travel, and hobbies—emphasizing quality over flash and timelessness over trends.

3. **Mindset & Manners**  

   Dives into etiquette, communication, financial prudence, and charitable giving as pillars of the “old money” outlook.
Each chapter ends with “Tully’s Takeaway,” a bullet-point summary of actionable tips.

## 2. Key Takeaways

1. **Invest in Classics, Not Fads**  

   Whether it’s a navy blazer, a well-tailored pair of trousers, or a durable leather briefcase, Tully champions classic pieces that endure both styles- and wear-wise.

2. **Quality Over Quantity**  

   By spending more on a few versatile items and caring for them properly (e.g., learning basic shoe polishing), you avoid wasteful “fast fashion” and replace items less often.

3. **Cultivate Discretion**  

   Old-money individuals rarely flaunt their wealth. Tully advises readers to master the art of understatement: no logo mania, no ostentatious displays, and minimal social media boasting.

4. **Polish Your Social Skills**  

   Good posture, firm but polite handshakes, proper table manners, and thoughtful conversation topics (arts, history, travel) build rapport and confidence.

5. **Be Financially Prudent**  

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   Live below your means, automate savings, and avoid high-interest debt. Even when you do indulge—be it a weekend getaway or a fine bottle of wine—plan ahead so it doesn’t derail your budget.

6. **Give Back Generously—And Gracefully**  

   Tully underscores philanthropy as a hallmark of true prosperity: volunteer time, serve on boards, donate discreetly, and involve family members to create a legacy of giving.

## 3. What Works

1. **Accessible Tone.**  

   Tully writes like a friend who’s quietly impeccable—never preachy, always encouraging. He peppers anecdotes of real “old money” families and historical vignettes to ground his advice in lived experience.

2. **Practical Exercises.**  

   Each chapter’s “Takeaway” list is paired with short challenges: e.g., audit your wardrobe, host an intimate dinner party for four, or read a work of classic literature. These prompts help bridge theory and real-world application.

3. **Budget-Minded Hacks.**  

   Even readers on modest incomes can benefit: Tully points out thrift-store gold mines, how to spot sales on investment pieces, and when to splurge versus save. He debunks the myth that “elegance” requires a millionaire’s bank account.

4. **Holistic Approach.**  

   The book isn’t only about clothes or money; it’s about mindset. Chapters on gratitude, lifelong learning, and measured risk-taking remind us that character underpins style and wealth alike.

## 4. Where It Stumbles

1. **Occasional Elitism.**  

   Despite his egalitarian posture, Tully can veer into “membership by invitation only” territory. A few passages imply that without a storied family background or prestigious schooling, true “old money” authenticity remains elusive.

2. **Limited Diversity.**  

   The examples skew toward East Coast WASP institutions (think Newport summer colonies and Ivy League clubs). There’s scant attention to other American legacies—Southern plantations, Midwestern industrialists, or newer forms of inherited wealth in tech hubs.

3. **Repetitive Advice.**  

   Some tips—like “dress well” or “be polite”—recur so often that seasoned readers of self-help and etiquette guides may yawn. The book’s pacing slows when it circles back on foundational points without adding fresh nuance.
## 5. Who Should Read This

- **Young Professionals & Career-Minded Millennials.**  
  If you’re at the stage of building your personal brand—whether in finance, law, academia, or the arts—Tully’s emphasis on polished presentation and social grace can pay dividends.
- **Budget-Conscious Style Seekers.**  
  You don’t need a high salary to dress like a million bucks. The “buy fewer, buy better” philosophy is at once sustainable and wallet-friendly.
- **Etiquette Enthusiasts & History Buffs.**  
  Tully’s historical interludes and deep dive into American upper-class rituals will appeal to readers who savor cultural context as much as practical tips.
- **Anyone Burned Out by Consumerism.**  
  The book’s core message—quality living over indulgent spending—resonates in an age of digital distraction, fast fashion, and instant gratification.

## 6. Final Verdict

Byron Tully’s “The Old Money Book” is a charming, well-researched guide to adopting the best habits of America’s upper class—without draining your bank account. Its strength lies in blending historical perspective with actionable advice, all delivered in a warm, conversational style. While the book occasionally lapses into elitist tropes and could broaden its cultural lens, its core principles of discretion, durability, and decorum are universally valuable.
Whether you aspire to refine your wardrobe, elevate your social repertoire, or simply cultivate a more considered approach to money and manners, Tully offers a blueprint that’s as aspirational as it is attainable. In a world that often equates wealth with flash, “The Old Money Book” reminds us that true affluence begins with character: living deliberately, giving generously, and always investing—in people, principles, and timeless quality.


Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5)

*This review was written for BoundlessReads, where we explore the best in personal development, style, and sustainable living. Have you read “The Old Money Book”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!*