Quiet Luxury Fashion: When Money Talks But Wealth Whispers
In a world that’s been clamoring for more—is it more luxury, more opulence, more Instagrammable moments?—there comes a trend that gracefully sidesteps the noise. Enter "Quiet Luxury," a term that you've probably seen trending across social media or perhaps heard being discussed by your most fashion-forward friends. So, what is it that has both trendsetters and timeless style aficionados enamored? Let’s delve into the world where less is truly more.
The Evolution of Luxury
Remember the days when "luxury" meant giant Dior gowns or clothes splashed with big, bold logos? Fast forward to 2023, and the game has changed, my friends. Brands like The Row, Bottega Veneta, and Khaite are giving luxury a makeover, and let me tell you, it's all kinds of fabulous. Forget logos and flashy details; this is all about that understated, “I woke up like this” kind of elegance.
What is Quiet Luxury?
Great question! Quiet Luxury is basically the fashion world’s best-kept secret. It’s all about going for those classic, high-quality pieces that blend seamlessly with your own unique style. Imagine Sienna Miller in "Anatomy of a Scandal," or catching a glimpse of the Olsen twins casually rocking their laid-back looks. The clothes make a statement without screaming for attention. Basically, it's like the fashion version of a mic drop.
The Subtle Influence of Pop Culture
Cultural phenomenons like HBO’s "Succession" have not just dominated the television scene, but have also made a substantial impact on this fashion trend. The show’s nuanced takes on wealth and power echo through the wardrobes of its characters, making "quiet luxury" not just a fashion choice, but a lifestyle.
Quiet Luxury is the Foundational Pieces of your Wardrobe
When we think of the items that create the backbone of the quiet luxury movement - they’re often the elevated basics that make up the foundation of a workable wardrobe. What do I mean by that? I mean that for a wardrobe to be truly versatile, and aligned with your lifestyle, you need basics that can be built into various outfits.
Do you remember the healthy eating pyramid from our youth? Protein and grains on the bottom (the foundation) and surgery sweets at the top. Well a “healthy” wardrobe is similar. 50% of your wardrobe should ideally be made up of basics - pieces that can be worn multiple times in a variety of ways. In other words… the quiet luxury part of your wardrobe. Or the cake to frosting in another analogy I often use with my 1:1 styling clients.
This foundational part of your wardrobe should also have at least 50%-75% of your clothing budget allocated to it. Because these are the pieces worth investing in - they’re the ones that will be worn the most often. Think of it on a cost per wear basis - how often you wear the item divided by the cost.
Because these items are worn on repeat (think about your favorite jeans or white tee or blazer) the cost is amortized. And the items ideally need to be made of better quality to stand up to the wear and tear of repeated use. This is the place you can confidently use girl math to justify the purchase.
It’s More Than Just a Trend; It's Smart and Sustainable
What really makes me a fan of Quiet Luxury? It's the focus on sustainability. Designers are all about creating pieces that you won't just wear for a season and forget. It's not just shopping smarter; it's shopping for the planet. Imagine buying a high-quality jacket or pair of boots that you'll love not just this winter but for many winters to come.
As Quiet Luxury continues to win hearts (and closets!), it’s also a perfect moment to think about your own style. This trend is all about you being you, without chasing after every new seasonal fad. When you wear these pieces, you’re basically saying, "This is me, take it or leave it."
Quiet Luxury is Available at ALL Price Points
Another great thing about this trend is that the “look” is available at all price points. Literally, it can be found at The Row and at Cos - and everywhere in between. My professional recommendation is to stay within your budget but be mindful of investing more in the items you’ll wear the most often (like jeans or an overcoat).
And in that vein, I’m linking some of my most beloved Quiet Lux looks at various price points to show you exactly HOW TO do it. Let me know what you think!
Quiet Luxury Outfit Inspiration: Splurge + Save
Outfit Total: $8,170
Shop the look
Outfit Total: $269
Shop the look
Outfit Total: $5,781
Shop the look
Outfit Total: $158
Shop the look
Outfit Total: $2,641
Shop the look
Outfit Total: $316
Shop the look
In a world full of noise, it turns out some of the most impactful statements come in soft-spoken, sophisticated whispers. So, next time you feel like upgrading your fashion game, remember: sometimes it's the quietest gestures that steal the show.
