Is YOUR luggage new money? As England players show off Hermes and Louis Vuitton bags, expert reveals the brand real posh people would NEVER carry

As the England players jetted off to the United States on Monday ahead of the World Cup, they showcased very designer luggage – from Ollie Watkins’ £65,000 Hermes Birkin to Nico O’Reilly’s full Louis Vuitton collection worth £7,500.

But whisper it, some of these carry-on options are incredibly ‘New Money’, according to Julius Smith, a former royal butler with more than thirty years’ experience.

He told The Daily Mail: ‘Luggage has certainly come a long way since the Duke of Wellington used to travel with what they called a “travelling chest” – containing a secure office and clothes rack – and which needed six soldiers to move it.

‘Thankfully, luggage is now a lot easier to manoeuvre – but it has also become a fashion statement that screams to the world who you are. Although, some people prefer a mere whisper as they glide through First Class or private travel.’

Read on to discover the brands that ‘scream nouveau riche’ and the designers who are ‘under the radar’ and loved by the Old Money crowd.

BURBERRY IS NEW MONEY WITHOUT THE BIG BUDGET 

‘Amongst the guiltiest must be Burberry, which says “I am New Money, but don’t have the big budget”, claimed the former royal butler.

He also named Goyard, saying: ‘It is truly one of the greats but has been hijacked,’ before adding: ‘Lastly for New Money on the go is Tumi. Whilst being incredibly versatile, it has become all too common now.’

LOUIS VUITTON SCREAMS NEW MONEY

Julius insisted that the most ‘New Money’ brand for ‘many years’ now is awarded to Louis Vuitton.

He said: ‘Old Money long ago stopped purchasing new types from here as they did not want to be seen as middle class. However, vintage Louis Vuitton is another matter, and this shows great taste.

‘Whilst the quality is undeniably wonderful, the problem is that it’s gone mass market.

‘Hermes could also be seen as going the same way, but the price tag makes it appear exclusive and certainly out of the reach of many – still, that makes it appeal more to New Money.’

THE BRAND THAT WHISPERS OLD MONEY

‘There is one wonderful brand out there that will not be seen on the England team going to the World Cup, and that is Globe Trotter,’ insisted Julius.

‘The late Queen purchased a set of luggage from the brand in 1947 for her honeymoon and to this day, numerous members of the Royal Family are still using this iconic brand.’

THE ITALIAN BRAND THAT’S ‘UNDER THE RADAR’

Julius said: ‘Serapian is an Italian leather luggage maker very much under the radar. It’s a case of “if you know, you know”.’ 

OVERSIZED LOGOS ARE ‘NEW MONEY’ 

Meanwhile, celebrity stylist Lisa Talbot told The Daily Mail that when it comes to old money style, the focus is ‘rarely on displaying wealth through obvious branding’.

She said: ‘The luggage is often beautifully made, crafted from quality materials and designed to last, but it doesn’t necessarily feature oversized logos or instantly recognisable branding. 

‘In contrast, new money style often embraces statement pieces that are designed to be noticed. 

‘The difference is that old money luxury tends to be recognised by craftsmanship and quality, while new money luxury is often recognised by the label itself.’

QUALITY COMES BEFORE TRENDS 

Lisa insisted: ‘People who embrace an old money aesthetic are generally investing in pieces they expect to use for years, if not decades. 

‘They’re less concerned with what’s trending on social media and more interested in durability, craftsmanship and timeless appeal. 

‘Rather than replacing luggage every season, they look for pieces that will stand the test of time both practically and stylistically.’

CLASSIC COLOURS ALWAYS WIN

‘Colour plays a big role in creating an old money look,’ insisted the stylist. ‘Traditional shades such as navy, tan, cream, dark brown and black have a timeless quality that never feels dated. 

‘These colours work effortlessly year after year and coordinate easily with the rest of a travel wardrobe. 

‘New money style often leans towards brighter colours, bold patterns, limited editions or trend-led collections that are designed to make more of a visual statement.’

A LITTLE WEAR AND TEAR TELLS A STORY

‘One of the biggest differences is that old money style isn’t obsessed with perfection,’ revealed Lisa.

‘A well-made leather case that has accompanied its owner on years of business trips, holidays and adventures can often feel more luxurious than something brand new. 

‘The marks and scuffs become part of its character. It reflects a lifestyle where quality items are bought to be used and enjoyed rather than simply displayed.’

THE OVERALL LOOK MATTERS

‘Luggage is only one element of the overall image,’ insisted Lisa. ‘Old money style is about looking polished, considered and effortlessly put together without appearing overly styled. 

‘Everything works together harmoniously, from clothing and accessories to luggage choices. 

‘The overall impression is one of understated elegance rather than drawing attention to any single item.’