When Gossip Girl first aired in 2007, everyone was beyond hung up on Serena’s effortless “It girl” style and Blair’s modern and aspirational preppy aesthetic. For this reason, we almost overlooked the original rich mom — Lily van der Woodsen. Gasp! One of the most iconic wealthy matriarchs of all time, van der Woodsen (played to perfection by Kelly Rutherford), really set the blueprint for how to dress like a rich mom . . . though her style likely required a high net worth (those endless Hermès bags and cuffs!). If you want her exact look without the bank-breaking price tag, we found 18 fashion pieces that will help you channel her vibe — effortlessly!
Best described as quiet luxury, LVDW’s wardrobe typically consisted of trench coats, structured totes, a scarf for an accessory and simple cashmere sweaters. Of course, she also had a closet full of ball gowns and midi dresses for charity luncheons as well. (Don’t we all?) Her look was laid-back and casual, yet simply stylish. That’s exactly the aesthetic we want to recreate. Read on to get Lily Van Der Woodsen-approved rich mom style!
17 Rich Mom Resort Styles to Get You Ready for Spring Break
1. Classic Cashmere: It’s actually cashmere! We think LVDW would have selected this exact cashmere coat to stay warm in cold Manhattan weather — $200!
2. Only the Best: Made of 100% Mongolian cashmere wool, this bestselling crewneck sweater is certain to keep you both cozy and chic — just $50!
3. Timeless Trench: In a place like New York (which has all four seasons), a trench coat like this one is a must. We seriously can’t choose a color — just $100!
4. Fitted and Flattering: With core shaping technology and a flattering fit, all rich moms need a good pair of Spanx skinny jeans. If you see your size and length, you’ll want to grab — snag ’em for $49!
5. Headed to the Hamptons: Get the resident Hamptons queen’s style with this puff-sleeve dress which is perfect for an al fresco brunch at Sant Ambroeus. It’s just casual enough — just $44!
6. Everyday Essential: Hey there, expensive-looking queen! This simple short-sleeve knit sweater ties in perfectly with the quiet luxury theme — just $33!
7. All Day Shoe: With a jam-packed schedule, a comfortable heel is necessary and these kitten heel pumps will make walking around Manhattan a breeze — was $125, now $110!
These 15 Transitional Spring Staples Are Already Low in Stock — And It’s Only February
8. Simple and Chic: We can picture LVDW wearing this cardigan with skinny jeans and some flats for a casual look. You’ll trendset on the daily in this striped find — was $33, now $25!
9. Best Baggage: Elegant and simple, this handbag includes gold hardware, a simple rounded design and plenty of room to carry the essentials. It hit the lowest price in 30 days, so you’ll want to take advantage of it — was $37, now $17!
10. Luxe Leather: Add some edge to any simple outfit with this distressed leather jacket that comes in both black and brown. It’s totally splurge-worthy — was $598, now $538!
11. Pleats, Pretty Please: A pleated skirt is an easy and comfortable way to create a chic outfit, and this one from J.Crew comes in four stunning colors — was $128, now $60!
18 Quiet Luxury Fashion Finds to Survive the Cold Months Ahead
12. French Girl-Chic: We can bet that while vacationing in Nice, LVDW would have worn a French girl-style striped long-sleeve top like this classic find from Abercrombie and Fitch — just $60!
13. Beautiful Basic: We can see something that looks like this classic leather belt with gold hardware being a staple in LVDW’s accessories department — just $48!
14. Carry It All: Why choose when you can bring everything? Not only can this crossbody tote bag carry all of the essentials, but it’s particularly sophisticated — just $30!
15. Simplicity = Sophistication: This pack of 14k gold plated earrings is enough to be able to pair with your entire wardrobe. Added to cart — just $13!
16. Date Night: Perfect for fancy date night plans, this fit-and-flare sleeveless cocktail dress is incredibly flattering — was $160, now $128!
17. Posh Pants: Great for everything from party planning to PTA meetings, these tapered cropped pants have a slim fit and a comfortable four-way stretch. They’re top-rated for good reason — were $118, now $50!
18. Silky Scarf: LVDW was often spotted in chic, expensive-looking scarves like this one, which makes a cute accessory for so many outfits. You’ll wear this all year round — just $15!
17 Rich Mom Pieces That Are Equally Comfy and Chic
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
