With Gwyneth Paltrow’s recent trial wardrobe in the Utah courtroom that rocked the Internet to the unfussy, inconspicuous styles in the latest season of the series Succession, it seems like everywhere you turn, there’s another luxury item being worn.
To understand the foundation behind this aesthetic, explore our complete guide to quiet luxury style.
Luxury fashion has become more accessible with the rise of high-end streetwear and designer collaborations, but the outsized price tags remain out of reach for many. But don’t despair! There are plenty of ways to get stylish without spending a lot of money on a pricey wardrobe.
Here’s our guide on how to achieve the quiet luxury look without spending a fortune:
Fundamental Concepts of a Quiet Luxury Look
At its core, quiet luxury is about simplicity and restraint. The idea here is to focus on high-quality pieces — from classic silhouettes to timeless colors — that can be easily dressed up or down.
This mindset extends beyond fashion into everyday habits and choices, as explored in our guide to the quiet luxury lifestyle.
Here are a few pointers to consider when creating your own quiet luxury look:
Invest in quality basics
Classic pieces like a white shirt, a little black dress, and well-made leather items are always a good idea.
Neutral power pieces
Never underestimate the power of a good neutral piece! Not only will it fit with any outfit, but it will also make you look more polished and luxurious.
Logo-free fashion
This is tricky since some modern luxury brands rely heavily on logos to create a statement. But there are plenty of non-logo options, so don’t be afraid to look beyond the designer labels.
Mix high and low
Don’t be afraid to mix a designer piece with something from a fast fashion store. This will help you create interesting outfits without spending too much money, especially on items you won’t wear very often.
For example, if you have one or two luxurious cashmere sweaters, you only need to pair them with a pair of jeans or a midi skirt from Zara to create an effortless, high-low look.
Opt for sustainability
Opt for sustainable fabrics like silk, wool, and linen whenever possible. These materials are not only better for the environment, but they also tend to be more durable than synthetic alternatives.
Focus on handmade or tailored pieces
When it comes to quiet luxury fashion, nothing beats handmade and tailored pieces. Not only will these items fit you perfectly, but they’ll also show that you really care about the quality of what you wear.
For instance, a great pair of tailored jeans or a handmade leather bag can go a long way in creating an elevated look without having to break the bank.
Look for items with subtle details or unique embellishments
Another way to make sure you’re buying quality items is to look for those with subtle details or unique embellishments. This could be anything from an intricate print to a special lining — it all depends on your style!
While these small details are not easily detectable, they can make a huge difference in how luxurious your look is. For instance, a silk blouse with DIY-style embroidery may look simple at first glance, but its small details will add a touch of quiet luxury to your outfit without screaming for attention.
Affordable Brands and Retailers for Quiet Luxury
Some affordable brands and retailers focusing on quiet luxury include Everlane, Cuyana, Zady, Amour Vert, Reformation, Mango, and H&M Conscious. Each one offers stylish yet timeless pieces made from quality fabrics at a variety of price points.
Many of these labels take inspiration from more established houses, as seen in our guide to quiet luxury brands.
1. Everlane® (aka the Editor’s choice)
Known for its commitment to transparency, Everlane offers a range of sophisticated essentials like The Day Loafer, a pair of classic flat shoes that transcends seasons and current trends. Their Italian cashmere sweaters also provide a cozy and luxurious touch to any outfit without burning a hole in your pocket.
2. Cuyana
This sustainable brand features minimalistic and elegant clothing and accessories. Their Classic Structured Leather Tote is an excellent investment piece due to its versatility, spaciousness, and durability — a stylish yet practical everyday accessory.
3. H&M Conscious Collection
Despite being known worldwide as a fast fashion brand and one of the biggest mass-market retailers, H&M also offers a Conscious Collection of ethical pieces made from sustainable materials. This eco-friendly line offers affordable and sustainable options, making it easier for the everyday woman to incorporate sustainable fashion into her wardrobe.
4. Uniqlo
Known for its well-made essentials, Uniqlo’s Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater comes in various chic shades, making it a sophisticated touch to your wardrobe that won’t break your budget. Besides that, Uniqlo’s wide product segments range from tailored blazers to timeless denim to interior-style homeware — so there’s something for everyone.
5. Mango
Mango is an excellent go-to for high-end basics that are both affordable and stylish. Their Velvet Blouse is a great piece that adds an elegant touch to any outfit, while this faux leather shopper bag offers the perfect balance of form and function.
6. COS
COS, or Collection of Style, is a contemporary brand known for its minimalist yet sophisticated designs. This minimalistic Swedish label offers classic pieces with clean lines, muted colors, and neutral tones. From blazers to dresses, everything is designed with a timeless aesthetic that will never go out of style.
The use of high quality materials in its designs gives each piece an extra touch of luxury without being too loud or ostentatious. Their wool blend coats are a classic must-have for those cooler days and nights and will last you year after year.
Styling Tricks for a Luxurious Look
The key is to keep it classic but add a few special touches here and there. For example, a simple blazer can easily be jazzed up with statement earrings. Similarly, a pair of jeans could look more expensive with a designer belt.
This understated approach stands in contrast to more expressive styling, as explored in our quiet luxury vs loud luxury guide.
A few tips to keep in mind when styling the quiet luxury look:
Statement Accessories
Invest in simple yet elegant accessories — a classic watch, a delicate necklace, or a chic scarf can elevate any outfit with minimal effort.
Tailoring
Well-fitted clothes instantly create a more polished and luxurious appearance. Off-the-rack clothing may not always flatter your body shape, so consider investing in affordable tailoring to enhance your overall look.
Monochrome Magic
Sticking to a monochromatic color palette or neutral colors can add an air of sophistication and simplicity, which signifies quiet luxury.
This same principle of cohesion and simplicity also applies to interiors, as explored in our quiet luxury home decor guide.
Capsule Wardrobe
Focus on building a versatile wardrobe with key pieces that can be mixed and matched. Prioritize quality over quantity, ultimately saving money and reducing wastefulness.
And, you can save time and hassle when getting dressed in the morning as well!
Final Thoughts
It is the perfect way to add sophistication and luxury to your wardrobe without compromising comfort or practicality. Still, you don’t need to break the bank for luxurious pieces, as plenty of affordable options still maintain the same level of quality.
The main idea to achieve this look is to focus on investing in well-made and timeless pieces rather than settling for trendy items that will quickly become outdated. Keep it simple but stylish, and you’ll surely achieve the perfect balance of quiet luxury!