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Old Money, New Woman: How To Manage Your Money and Your Life - Secrets of America's Upper Class
In ‘Old Money, New Woman’, author Byron Tully provides powerful insights and wit-soaked wisdom to help you make the most of your money and improve the quality of your life. Revealing 8 'Old Money Secrets' for women, the author shares time-tested tips and step-by-step strategies used by the women of America’s Upper Class, generation after generation. From education and etiquette to cosmetics and clothing, this must-read book details the coveted, rarely-discussed fundamentals that any woman can use to achieve financial independence, discover her personal style, and make the most of every opportunity. Of course, we all want to learn the secrets of six figure women--those affluent, stylish gender icons that seem to have it all. Many women ask themselves 'How can I become rich?' But in truth we know that, as important as money is, it is not the be-all, end-all of a fulfilling life. But what are the elements of a rich, rewarding life? How can I reach my goals? What tools do women of the upper class use to accomplish their goals, enrich their lives, enjoy their relationships, and fuel their dreams? The author answers all these questions--and more--in this revealing, accessible book, and it doesn't matter who you are or where you are right now in life. You can learn these techniques and strategies and apply them to your life right here, right now. First, you'll learn how to look at your life, how to consider your education, and how to avoid money mistakes. You'll learn financial literacy, and what financial independence really is. Want to be a millionaire mom? A success in your career? This book can help. Thinking about having children? Read this book first. Not only will Byron provide you with information and insights into how upper class women live their lives, he'll ask questions that will make you think for yourself and find your own, true answers and solutions. At the end of each chapter, exercises will help you understand where you are in life, improve your decision-making process, and identify illusions that may be holding you back. With 18 chapters full of eye-opening information and life-changing inspiration, 'Old Money, New Woman' is a handbook and a guidebook—a 'life manual’ packed with effective tools, enlightening examples, and soul-searching questions only you can answer—all with one goal in to help you make it in the modern world.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2019
95 people are currently reading
1240 people want to read
About the author
Byron Tully
12 books76 followersGrandson of a newspaper publisher and son of an oil industry executive, Byron Tully is the author of "The Old Money Book".
His second nonfiction book, "The Hindu Way To Wealth" was also published that same year.
"The Old Money Guide To Marriage" was published in January of 2016.
"Old Money, New Woman: How To Manage Your Money & Your Life" was published in 2019.
"Old Money Style - The Gentleman's Edition" was published in 2020.
"How To Be A Rich Man...or Woman!" was published in 2022.
Byron lives in Paris and travels frequently.
His second nonfiction book, "The Hindu Way To Wealth" was also published that same year.
"The Old Money Guide To Marriage" was published in January of 2016.
"Old Money, New Woman: How To Manage Your Money & Your Life" was published in 2019.
"Old Money Style - The Gentleman's Edition" was published in 2020.
"How To Be A Rich Man...or Woman!" was published in 2022.
Byron lives in Paris and travels frequently.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 24, 2021
75% sensible, 15%twaddle,10% home vacation photos
As my subject line says this book is 75% sensible, 15% twaddle, and 10% very poor quality photos of a vacation in Spain (which has 100% of NOTHING to do with the topic and truly made the book seem extremely amateurish.)
There is much that is good and sensible about this book (education and health and spending/saving/investing habits e.g.). The inspirational biographies at the end of each chapter are nice and include some lesser known heroines.
For the most part the male author saves himself from mansplaining by backpedaling and qualifying his insights into women.
Where the book fails is the section on fashion (again most of it is fine but a good bit is hopelessly outdated and clearly written by an older man) and the incredibly amateurish photos of Spain between every chapter. Why?!?
I'd actually be reading along thinking 'very sensible.....interesting...' and then wham you're yanked back into the authors living room being forced to look at bad holiday snaps. An editor (if there was one) should have yanked them as they lowered the tone and seriously harm the authors credibility.
So all in all a quick reasonable read with a twinge or two of annoying. The author knows something but needs work on presentation.
As my subject line says this book is 75% sensible, 15% twaddle, and 10% very poor quality photos of a vacation in Spain (which has 100% of NOTHING to do with the topic and truly made the book seem extremely amateurish.)
There is much that is good and sensible about this book (education and health and spending/saving/investing habits e.g.). The inspirational biographies at the end of each chapter are nice and include some lesser known heroines.
For the most part the male author saves himself from mansplaining by backpedaling and qualifying his insights into women.
Where the book fails is the section on fashion (again most of it is fine but a good bit is hopelessly outdated and clearly written by an older man) and the incredibly amateurish photos of Spain between every chapter. Why?!?
I'd actually be reading along thinking 'very sensible.....interesting...' and then wham you're yanked back into the authors living room being forced to look at bad holiday snaps. An editor (if there was one) should have yanked them as they lowered the tone and seriously harm the authors credibility.
So all in all a quick reasonable read with a twinge or two of annoying. The author knows something but needs work on presentation.
March 14, 2019
I received a copy of this in a Goodreads giveaway and it has not affected my review.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover how much I enjoyed this book, and how helpful I found it. It's practical, accessible, and filled with beautiful pictures. I was more than a little skeptical when the introduction sometimes came off as paternalistic, but I could tell the author meant well and I decided to let it slide - and I'm so glad I did.
I had expected this to be a personal finance book but found it much more interesting and useful as an overall life guide (and indeed, one of the author's main points is that money is the means to the achievement of a fulfilling life, not the end goal). For example, early on in the book he introduces the idea of Tentpoles, the general structure of life from young adulthood to career to retirement. I should add here that the whole point of this book is about leading a conventional life, taking after the traditions of Old Money families, and if that's not something that interests you or could ever apply to you, then you certainly won't appreciate this book. I, however, am squarely in the target audience - except for when sometimes the author seems to be giving advice to students graduating high-school or college, including having short biographies of remarkable women at the end of each chapter and noting "If you're interested in a career in [field], you may wish to learn more about [famous woman]." (I still liked these bios though!)
I loved every chapter and have many highlighted passages and useful advice I'll be returning to. Here are just a few short quotes that have stuck with me:
"The question is not: do you want to have children one day? The question is: do you want to be a parent for the rest of your life?"
"The more cluttered the closet, the emptier the life."
"The best kind of exercise for a person to do is the exercise they will do every day."
"‘Wealth’ is viewed as the ability to enjoy independence and quality of life, not the ability to purchase things."
I highly recommend this book if you find any of the above intriguing and you'd like to read more! It's a delightful, thought-provoking, and perhaps life-changing read.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover how much I enjoyed this book, and how helpful I found it. It's practical, accessible, and filled with beautiful pictures. I was more than a little skeptical when the introduction sometimes came off as paternalistic, but I could tell the author meant well and I decided to let it slide - and I'm so glad I did.
I had expected this to be a personal finance book but found it much more interesting and useful as an overall life guide (and indeed, one of the author's main points is that money is the means to the achievement of a fulfilling life, not the end goal). For example, early on in the book he introduces the idea of Tentpoles, the general structure of life from young adulthood to career to retirement. I should add here that the whole point of this book is about leading a conventional life, taking after the traditions of Old Money families, and if that's not something that interests you or could ever apply to you, then you certainly won't appreciate this book. I, however, am squarely in the target audience - except for when sometimes the author seems to be giving advice to students graduating high-school or college, including having short biographies of remarkable women at the end of each chapter and noting "If you're interested in a career in [field], you may wish to learn more about [famous woman]." (I still liked these bios though!)
I loved every chapter and have many highlighted passages and useful advice I'll be returning to. Here are just a few short quotes that have stuck with me:
"The question is not: do you want to have children one day? The question is: do you want to be a parent for the rest of your life?"
"The more cluttered the closet, the emptier the life."
"The best kind of exercise for a person to do is the exercise they will do every day."
"‘Wealth’ is viewed as the ability to enjoy independence and quality of life, not the ability to purchase things."
I highly recommend this book if you find any of the above intriguing and you'd like to read more! It's a delightful, thought-provoking, and perhaps life-changing read.
February 16, 2019
Old Money, New Woman: How to manage your money and your life by Byron Tully. I highly recommend this book. I have already taken two action steps as a result of it. Byron provides Old Money Secrets throughout the book to summarize his points. One of my favorite features of the book is the stories of the women at the end of each chapter. Byron has a no nonsense approach which I found very refreshing. Some things are not fair but we are not victims and we are not helpless. He provides plenty of advice and actionable steps.
One ah-ha moment for me was his explanation of boarding school and why parents may send their kids there. It gave me a totally new insight into the boarding school experience. Another insightful section was on the three major influences we are under: mass media, friends and family. I think we underestimate the impact media is having on our decisions unconsciously.
The chapter that discussed the benefits of an Extremely Challenging Endeavor also has me pondering my ECE. In chapter 7, he shares some Old Money Protocols. These protocols decided in advance help us when we have to face the tough decisions.
There is so much I still want to share. Ladies the last several chapters were about how we present ourselves. Excellent tips and reminders.
I was shocked when I read all of the dangerous ingredients in our makeup.
Bottom line: I highly recommend this book for any woman. I wish I had read it 20 years ago.
One ah-ha moment for me was his explanation of boarding school and why parents may send their kids there. It gave me a totally new insight into the boarding school experience. Another insightful section was on the three major influences we are under: mass media, friends and family. I think we underestimate the impact media is having on our decisions unconsciously.
The chapter that discussed the benefits of an Extremely Challenging Endeavor also has me pondering my ECE. In chapter 7, he shares some Old Money Protocols. These protocols decided in advance help us when we have to face the tough decisions.
There is so much I still want to share. Ladies the last several chapters were about how we present ourselves. Excellent tips and reminders.
I was shocked when I read all of the dangerous ingredients in our makeup.
Bottom line: I highly recommend this book for any woman. I wish I had read it 20 years ago.
March 30, 2022
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. Part of me wishes I had read it when I was 20 years old, but a larger part of me knows I wouldn't have listened. He has great advice about living below your means and saying no to advertisements and mindless entertainment. I respect that. I loved his allusions to slow fashion and its superiority to fast fashion and trends. That being said, he's an old white guy. I think he's trying to be a feminist, and I commend him for that, but a man simply can't understand a woman the same way a woman can. He doesn't seem to understand the effects of dysfunctional families, mental health, and psychological issues on the masses. There is no mention of God or any kind of religion, and their massive influences on the ability to be an "old money gal." I almost gave this three stars, but his exemplar women and knowledge of them really redeemed the oversights in the book. Overall? Worth reading.
April 2, 2019
Some good advice, but way too feminist and progressive. I liked his earlier books much more.
April 4, 2020
It has been a hot minute since I read a good self-help book. In fact, I’ve been reading quite a few self-helps back to back for the past months. At one point, they started to blend in and sound just exactly like the next one, despite being written by different authors. However, this little book has successfully captured my full attention, by how short and easy it is to flip through the pages. The book is written by a male author, yet it’s written for female readers. Just that alone is enough to get me curious on how he would address any advice or suggestions without triggering feminists. And the book didn’t disappoint. Not one bit.
I’m strongly impressed by the writing, the structure to the examples themselves. Everything just exudes class. I especially enjoyed reading the exemplars at the end of each chapter, where Tully introduced a short biography of a classy ‘Old Money Gal’ in real life. Eleanor Roosevelt undeniably made it on the list, which I found interesting since Susan Cain also referred her as a primed example of an introvert in the “Quiet” book. In short, a classy woman like Eleanor would know her value inside out well enough, that she wouldn't need any superficial factors to express so. Instead, it’s the knowledge, the decisions, and the kindness that could take a classy woman further in life. One of my most favorite quotes from this book has to be, “Education is your way up. It is your way out. It is your weapon. It is your shield. It is your light. It is your fire. Get it and use it. Education is yours forever. Once you have it, it can never be taken away.” Highly recommend for any sisters and friends out there! 5*/5*
I’m strongly impressed by the writing, the structure to the examples themselves. Everything just exudes class. I especially enjoyed reading the exemplars at the end of each chapter, where Tully introduced a short biography of a classy ‘Old Money Gal’ in real life. Eleanor Roosevelt undeniably made it on the list, which I found interesting since Susan Cain also referred her as a primed example of an introvert in the “Quiet” book. In short, a classy woman like Eleanor would know her value inside out well enough, that she wouldn't need any superficial factors to express so. Instead, it’s the knowledge, the decisions, and the kindness that could take a classy woman further in life. One of my most favorite quotes from this book has to be, “Education is your way up. It is your way out. It is your weapon. It is your shield. It is your light. It is your fire. Get it and use it. Education is yours forever. Once you have it, it can never be taken away.” Highly recommend for any sisters and friends out there! 5*/5*
May 13, 2020
probably don’t bother, unless it’s free.
Well. This is a book. Without getting into how weird it is when men write books like this for women, it has some good parts and a lot of bad parts.
Disclosure: I love books like this because they’re so different from the culture that I live in, but this one is just... weird? To put it lightly. Punctuated with pictures of his wife’s holiday to Spain, none of which match the subject matter or have anything to do with the concept of an “Old Money Gal,” this book has no idea where it’s actually trying to go.
Chapters on deportment and presentation out of nowhere become a bizarre series of pages upon pages on the EVILS of tattoos and now getting one will mean you can’t have MRI’s and will probably contract hepatitis (I say this as somebody with no tattoos or plans to get any), and the finances chapter turns into a spiel about toxins in make up. It’s just a pointless book that should have been blog posts instead.
Well. This is a book. Without getting into how weird it is when men write books like this for women, it has some good parts and a lot of bad parts.
Disclosure: I love books like this because they’re so different from the culture that I live in, but this one is just... weird? To put it lightly. Punctuated with pictures of his wife’s holiday to Spain, none of which match the subject matter or have anything to do with the concept of an “Old Money Gal,” this book has no idea where it’s actually trying to go.
Chapters on deportment and presentation out of nowhere become a bizarre series of pages upon pages on the EVILS of tattoos and now getting one will mean you can’t have MRI’s and will probably contract hepatitis (I say this as somebody with no tattoos or plans to get any), and the finances chapter turns into a spiel about toxins in make up. It’s just a pointless book that should have been blog posts instead.
January 8, 2021
3.5/5
Filled with sage advice I wish I had when I was 18, (although I probably wouldn’t have seen the wisdom in it that I do now, nearly 20 years later) the book is a good high-level read on general financial principles and life practices to produce a balanced and useful life alongside establishing financial security. Sometimes overly general to the point of offering platitudes, the wisdom imparted is across multiple areas (education, dating/marriage, personal appearance, saving and investing). Most of it makes sense but it’s more like a sampling of topics that can be pursued further than a complete reference manual.
Filled with sage advice I wish I had when I was 18, (although I probably wouldn’t have seen the wisdom in it that I do now, nearly 20 years later) the book is a good high-level read on general financial principles and life practices to produce a balanced and useful life alongside establishing financial security. Sometimes overly general to the point of offering platitudes, the wisdom imparted is across multiple areas (education, dating/marriage, personal appearance, saving and investing). Most of it makes sense but it’s more like a sampling of topics that can be pursued further than a complete reference manual.
April 1, 2019
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
A sensible and ‘down to earth’ approach to handling money. I feel it should be required reading for women young and old. In fact, maybe it should be re-read at various stages of life. It is filled with a common-sense philosophy that has the reader saying ‘of course’ when it is laid out in such a simple to understand manner.
A sensible and ‘down to earth’ approach to handling money. I feel it should be required reading for women young and old. In fact, maybe it should be re-read at various stages of life. It is filled with a common-sense philosophy that has the reader saying ‘of course’ when it is laid out in such a simple to understand manner.
August 9, 2022
Where to start? As they say”I found my people”. I have always been different from people around me for what concerns the things I like, the way I dress, the things I am attracted to…I must be an old money gal! Or maybe I was i my previous life. I have to say that I have adopted many of the concepts described in the book throughout the years and they work for me. It is not for everyone!
I don’t agree with everything the author says, especially about the “risks” of some cosmetics ingredients (some of those have been scientifically proven to be safe for use), or when he says we should go and get the things we want. I agree to some extent. I’d say we need to know how to respect ourselves and learn what’s good for us and what isn’t, when, how and to whom to say yes or no, but Right now I don’t particularly agree with “planning to get somewhere”. This is mainly because I have been introduced to Human Design and finding out I am a Projector changed my whole perspective. Having experimented a bit, I can say that “go and get” does not work for me. Therefore, in the is society, especially in highly competitive cities, I don’t agree with “be the best worker”, they will exploit you and you will burnout. Not worth it, I’ve been there.
I totally agree with investing in every aspect, especially fashion and cosmetics, buy good quality of both that you know you will use (even if it’s an expensive lipstick because if you like the shade, why not? As long as it doesn’t become a collection of 30 lipsticks).
I highly recommend the book even though it won’t change your mentality overnight.
I don’t agree with everything the author says, especially about the “risks” of some cosmetics ingredients (some of those have been scientifically proven to be safe for use), or when he says we should go and get the things we want. I agree to some extent. I’d say we need to know how to respect ourselves and learn what’s good for us and what isn’t, when, how and to whom to say yes or no, but Right now I don’t particularly agree with “planning to get somewhere”. This is mainly because I have been introduced to Human Design and finding out I am a Projector changed my whole perspective. Having experimented a bit, I can say that “go and get” does not work for me. Therefore, in the is society, especially in highly competitive cities, I don’t agree with “be the best worker”, they will exploit you and you will burnout. Not worth it, I’ve been there.
I totally agree with investing in every aspect, especially fashion and cosmetics, buy good quality of both that you know you will use (even if it’s an expensive lipstick because if you like the shade, why not? As long as it doesn’t become a collection of 30 lipsticks).
I highly recommend the book even though it won’t change your mentality overnight.
December 19, 2022
A fantastic self-help book for modern women that avoids ideology and offers a sensible and coherent philosophy, but mostly the author encourages the reader to discover for themselves what works for them and how to achieve their purpose. There is a little bit of rehash from the author's other books, which are also worth reading.
What I find interesting is that the book offers a reality check for the millennial generation, who are told to "pursue your passion!" and #selfcare spending in the name of mental health awareness post-2019, and in the 30s, are faced with the reckoning of growing debt and dead end jobs while still figuring out what to do in the increasingly competitive economy that compensates expertise, and that threatens to eliminate a lot of jobs due to advanced in automation. The philosophy here boils down to looking at life decisions as an investment and choice -- to invest time and money in education or skills, in life experience to share with loved ones or to grow emotionally, or to toss them away in mindless consumer products or vices. This is an empowering mindset because it reminds us that we still have a choice in how we live our lives, in what we eat, whether we exercise, and how to spend time and money. The author admits that life is unfair for women, minorities, and marginalized groups, but we do have a choice in the end and we are not victims. I find that attitude deeply empowering, and a useful one to adopt so to propel us into achieving true freedom and equality and power - which is impossible without financial independence.
What I find interesting is that the book offers a reality check for the millennial generation, who are told to "pursue your passion!" and #selfcare spending in the name of mental health awareness post-2019, and in the 30s, are faced with the reckoning of growing debt and dead end jobs while still figuring out what to do in the increasingly competitive economy that compensates expertise, and that threatens to eliminate a lot of jobs due to advanced in automation. The philosophy here boils down to looking at life decisions as an investment and choice -- to invest time and money in education or skills, in life experience to share with loved ones or to grow emotionally, or to toss them away in mindless consumer products or vices. This is an empowering mindset because it reminds us that we still have a choice in how we live our lives, in what we eat, whether we exercise, and how to spend time and money. The author admits that life is unfair for women, minorities, and marginalized groups, but we do have a choice in the end and we are not victims. I find that attitude deeply empowering, and a useful one to adopt so to propel us into achieving true freedom and equality and power - which is impossible without financial independence.
January 6, 2021
Thanks to Byron for providing this ebook via a Goodreads Giveaway.
This book covered many areas of a woman's life (from education, parenthood, finances, spending, comportment among others). I appreciated the Exemplars he included and motivational quotes. I would have liked to know how many old money women he interviewed, how old they are and where they lived. The advice seems to be rather conservative and old-fashioned in some areas. (Home libraries full of books? Isn't everything going digital now?)
This book would be helpful to young women and those who advise young women. I think it would also be helpful for older women who's life is hot mess (or like me and took a giant step in the wrong direction) and they can identify where they went wrong and how to adjust.
This book covered many areas of a woman's life (from education, parenthood, finances, spending, comportment among others). I appreciated the Exemplars he included and motivational quotes. I would have liked to know how many old money women he interviewed, how old they are and where they lived. The advice seems to be rather conservative and old-fashioned in some areas. (Home libraries full of books? Isn't everything going digital now?)
This book would be helpful to young women and those who advise young women. I think it would also be helpful for older women who's life is hot mess (or like me and took a giant step in the wrong direction) and they can identify where they went wrong and how to adjust.
June 10, 2023
Is it any wonder that so many people are broke in the is world? Living beyond our means to sustain a lifestyle that doesn’t leave us with any disposable income? Scared to use credit for fear of not being able to pay it off?
I found Old Money, New Woman an interesting read. I have started to implement some of the recommendations into my own life.
The only thing I would say is I found some of the paragraphs longwinded, and the information could have been condensed into fewer words!
There were also some errors e.g missing words in sentences and capital letters where they weren’t needed.
I’m not sure at this time if it’s a book I’d read again. I think I’ve retained all the information available from reading it and probably won’t gain anything by reading it again.
I found Old Money, New Woman an interesting read. I have started to implement some of the recommendations into my own life.
The only thing I would say is I found some of the paragraphs longwinded, and the information could have been condensed into fewer words!
There were also some errors e.g missing words in sentences and capital letters where they weren’t needed.
I’m not sure at this time if it’s a book I’d read again. I think I’ve retained all the information available from reading it and probably won’t gain anything by reading it again.
July 20, 2021
Tully gives a lot of practical advice and repeatedly reminds women that we have so many more freedoms than our foremothers. This is true, but some of his advice comes off a little tone deaf, particularly about beauty and fashion. As women, we know how much our currency lies in our appearance. I believe as a man, it’s easy to stay stop buying beauty products and indulging in beauty treatments, but I don’t think he realizes how much those indulgences give us currency in society. All in all, it was a great read. I’ll be returning to this for his no-nonsense approach to life and strategy.
March 31, 2021
I found the title to be a bit misleading. I was anticipating a book about the upper class and money. Although these topics were mentioned, that wasn't the basis of the book. Where to go to school, tattoos, clothing and how to put on makeup weren't what I am interested in reading. I think this book should be geared more to middle schoolers or high schoolers. I did love the exemplars and quotes.
April 4, 2021
This book is fair, average if you will. If I was younger, perhaps fresh out of college I would get more out of it but as it stands I didn’t find this book very helpful for anyone from 25 yrs old and on. I also wanted more practical tips and examples of old money women not just mini bios of said women. Book wasn’t bad just not what I wanted.
April 5, 2021
I love Byron Tully's books. He has a matter-of-fact way of putting things and strategies for making decisions that are in your best interest. You can take early as his advice but I think that you will be better off for the having heard it.
September 24, 2024
Really enjoyed this; very straightforward, blunt and encouraging. He gives very efficient advice and suggestions and you can see he wants to better things for women instead of making himself seem better or more knowledgeable than them.
March 12, 2019
Great Read
Very modern and relevant to today’s women! I would definitely recommend to a friend or coworker. One of my favorite book thus far this year.
Very modern and relevant to today’s women! I would definitely recommend to a friend or coworker. One of my favorite book thus far this year.
May 7, 2019
Very valuable advice for women
This is the best book I've read so far on women/lifestyle. I particularly liked the example inspiring lives of amazing women from history.
This is the best book I've read so far on women/lifestyle. I particularly liked the example inspiring lives of amazing women from history.
May 30, 2021
Interesting read
June 8, 2021
Lots of good advice. This would be a nice gift for a high school grad.
June 15, 2021
Enjoyed reading this book, had some great tips.
December 14, 2023
Unexpectedly good.
March 11, 2024
Well written, some great practical knowledge and references to accessible sources. It became repetitive towards the end but overall a useful and enjoyable read.
October 2, 2023
While I don't agree with everything in this book and am not fond of the author's writing style, this book was life-changing.
dnf
August 26, 2023I couldn't finish after he wrote pregnancies were "no 'accidents'" and that "unplanned pregnancy is a consequence of ignorance, carelessness, bad decision-making, or a combination of the three."
This was 10% in and still hadn't touched on any practical financial management.
This was 10% in and still hadn't touched on any practical financial management.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews