While 'Salted Granola' style and silver fashion are having their moment over on TikTok, the fashion world is also beckoning in a new, discreetly opulent style movement otherwise known as 'Quiet Luxury'—but what does it actually mean and how can you wear it?
Known also as 'stealth wealth', the Quiet Luxury movement turns everything we assume about wealth on its head, while also celebrating minimalism and offering a breath of fresh air from the recent resurgence of all things loud (and sometimes gaudy) with 90s and 2000s fashion.
Before, when thinking of wealth you would probably picture someone dripping in designer brands, with logos covering everything from their Louis Vuitton handbags to their Cartier bracelets, but 'Quiet Luxury' now infers that the key to embodying wealth or 'old-money' vibes if you will, is actually forging these tell-tale signs altogether. Here's an in-depth explainer of the trend and how to embody quiet luxury in your own capsule wardrobe—plus the best subtle bougie brands to opt for...
What is 'Quiet Luxury'?
For a visual depiction of this fashion vibe, all you need do is tune into an episode of Succession and observe the Roy siblings and their fashion, especially Kendall and Shiv's outfits. There you will see all the appearance of wealth and chicness, minus any obvious calling cards from designer brands. Not to mention the whole 'ludicrously capacious bag' saga, where Greg's date was ridiculed by the Roy circle for her obvious and large, Burberry bag.
Think investment pieces, made from high-quality materials that look, well expensive, but minus any obvious, noisy branding—that's Quiet Luxury.
Celebrities like Sofia Richie and Kendall Jenner's outfits of late are also good examples of the aesthetic, as the pair are not often seen sporting labels (minus Kendall's go-to Adidas Samba sneakers, that is) but flattering and timeless styles.
@sherhymeswithorange ♬ Succession (Main Title Theme) - Nicholas Britell
@thenewyorkstylist ♬ Succession (Main Title Theme) - Nicholas Britell
@fabianacristinx ♬ original sound - XVX
From what we've gathered, it's all about quality basics that make you look 'expensive' even if the piece itself isn't all that pricey—like muted and versatile tones, for instance, that go with everything and most importantly, last.
Celebrity stylist, Ellis Ranson also defines the trend as 'minimalist', adding: "Quiet luxury is a trend which is minimalist and all about quality and fit, but with a price tag and no logos. This isn't a new thing; I think the likes of Succession and Sofia Richie’s wedding have brought it to the forefront. I have always found you can see when someone has money—because they don't have it displayed across them with branding."
As Ranson explained, this 'trend' is by no means, a new phenomenon though, as often the whole point of a capsule wardrobe—particularly a work capsule wardrobe—is about chic, timeless pieces.
So, if you are looking to embody that 'old money' feel, it might mean that you actually save up for pieces; like a pair of leather boots, nice structured trousers, or a tailored jacket, rather than doing a spring fashion haul for instance.
Right now, 'Quiet Luxury' has over 86 million views on TikTok, with users using sharing their tips and tricks to embody the look and while the name might imply a heavy price tag, you can actually find some staple 'Quiet Luxury' pieces on a budget.
Tips for achieving the 'Quiet Luxury' trend—according to an expert...
If you're wanting to channel 'old-money' with your summer styling, Ranson recommends 'muted color ways' and 'classic shapes' adding: "Consider your basics as a staple piece to every outfit and the fact the whole look needs to be polished. Use a steamer or iron as it is all about the details with this trend. Tailoring is your go-to! I would avoid crop tops and baggy denims."
If you need a starting point for your new 'Quiet Luxury' rotation, Ranson suggests: "A classic blazer, a roll neck, tailored trousers and your basic t-shirt."
As for what brands to aim for, if you're on a budget, Ranson says: "I think stores like Arket, Max Mara and Cos can pull off this styling at a more affordable price tag or even investing in a tailor/seamstress can really make such a difference."
Our pick of chic 'Quiet Luxury' staples
If you want to flesh out a timeless, expensive-looking wardrobe, basics are the way to go. A good, flattering pair of trousers for instance, and some thick T-shirts and turtlenecks along with simple, durable jewelry like gold chains and pearl earrings, will never fail to afford you that expensive look.
1. Smart trousers
2. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks are always stylish and go with pants, skirts and are even perfect for layering. Opt for a wool blend, cotton, or cashmere top that will last and retain its shape.
3. Vests
4. Loafers
Best 'Quiet Luxury' brands
If you're looking for some investment pieces, we've rounded up some good 'Quiet Luxury' brands, from pricier to uber-affordable...
- The Row: Founded by style icons Mary-Kate and Ashely Olsen, The Row is a favorite brand of Kendall Jenner! The model can frequently be spotted wearing their low-key pieces, affording her that effortlessly chic look.
- Tory Burch: For staple leather bags, watches and expensive-looking jewelry, minus the major designer price tag
- The Frankie Shop: Another brand heralded for their capsule staples, including trousers, blazers and vests
- COS: Cos is on pricier than the likes of ZARA and H&M but still very affordable and pivots towards minimalist styles like trousers, vests and coats
- Mango: This high-street retailer is very affordable and while it does follow some trends, you can snap some seriously timeless styles
- Arket: Another great place to snap up some elegant staples!
- Reiss: Ranson also recommends Reiss for an expensive-looking, highstreet brand
