England’s national team flew into the United States on Monday, arriving with designer luggage that immediately drew attention. Striker Ollie Watkins travelled in a £65,000 Hermes Birkin HAC 50, while midfielder Nico O’Reilly showcased a full Louis Vuitton collection valued at £7,500. According to a former royal buutler, Julius Smith, the luggage now serves as a status symbol that loudly declares one’s wealth, a sharp contrast to the discreet travel gear of the past.

Hermes and Louis Vuitton: The New Money Flagship Brands

Smith told The Daily Mail that the most "New Money" brand for "many years" is Louis Vuitton. He noted that "Old Money long ago stopped purchasing new types from here as they did not want to be seen as middle class," yet vintage Louis Vuitton remains a sign of great taste. The price tag of Hermes, while exclusive, also makes it appealing to New Money, according to Smith, who said the brand’s high cost keeps it out of reach for many.

Burberry, Goyard and Tumi: The New Money Trio

Smith highlighted Burberry as a quintessential New Money brand that "doesn't have the big budget," and praised Goyard as "one of the greats but has been hijacked." He added that Tumi, thouh "incredibly versatile," has become "all too common". These brands, he argues, are embraced by those who want to signal wealth without the overt opulence of older luxury houses.

Globe Trotter and Serapian: Old Money’s Quiet Choices

Smith insisted that the only brand not seen on the England squad is Globe Trotter, a company the late Queen purchased in 1947. "Numerous members of the Royal Family are still using this iconic brand," he said. He also mentioned Serapian, an Italian leather maker "very much under the radar," suggesting that true Old Money favors understated, heritage brands that have stood the test of time.

Stylist Lisa Talbot: Craftsmanship Over Logos

Celebrity stylist Lisa Talbot told The Daily Mail that Old Money luggage rarely features oversized logos. "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," she said. In contrast, New Money embraces statement pieces that are designed to be noticed. Talbot added that "old money luxury tends to be recognised by craftsmanship and quality, while new money luxury is often recognised by the label itself."

Colour, Durability and the Wear‑and‑Tear Narrative

Talbot emphasized that classiic colours—navy, tan, cream, dark brown and black—are hallmarks of an Old Money aesthetic. "These colours work effortlessly year after year and coordinate easily with the rest of a travel wardrobe," she said. New Money, on the other hand, leans toward brighter hues, bold patterns and trend‑led collections. She also noted that a well‑made leather case that has seen years of use can feel more luxurious than a brand‑new piece, as the marks and scuffs become part of its character.