The Rise of “Quiet Luxury”
BY: ALEXANDRA KESHISHIAN | @ALEXXKESHISHIAN
If your social media feeds look anything like mine have for the past few months, there is a high likelihood you have seen an incline in “quiet luxury.” This increasingly popular fashion trend fosters class and elegance and is described as discrete, simple, and lowkey. Although less busy than recent trends, it still isn’t considered minimalism. As many people have begun reverting to basics after over-consuming and participating in all the “maximalist” trends, people are starting to develop a deeper understanding of the idea that “less is more.”
There was a variation of this trend from 2008 to 2016 when “normcore” took over. The idea was similar, removing logos and brand names from our clothing and sticking to a neutral color palette. We see this now, with a heavier emphasis on looking more luxurious. Unlike normcore, a tiny Chanel logo is still on the theme when trying to achieve quiet luxury.
Source: @sofiarichiegrainge
Although this trend has slowly been weaving into mainstream fashion, it gained significantly more momentum when Sofia Richie Grainge’s wedding was all the rage. As we watched her and her new husband Eliot Grainge, celebrate in the South of France, everyone began discussing the desire to execute their version of her understated looks and overall taste. Her taste is not precisely minimalistic; however, many of her looks consist of basics compiled together with attractive accessories in a chic manner.
Many noticed this trend while watching Succession, especially during this last season. Because of Shiv Roy's muted-hued, fitted suits, the idea of "quiet luxury" or “stealth wealth” has been propelled into the public consciousness as a popular new trend in fashion. She dominates the screen while dressed in previously mentioned suits, knit dresses, turtlenecks, and occasionally a cocktail dress in her preferred shades of black, brown, gray, and beige.
Source: Natural Diamonds
Source: Pinterest
Besides the idea of “stealth wealth,” many have been emphasizing the concept of a capsule wardrobe, which is crucial to achieving this look without excess clothing. Nothing feels worse than having a cramped closet with pieces you won’t wear. With a capsule wardrobe, it's all about quality, not quantity. You can take your money and invest in items you know will last for a long time instead of purchasing what you think you want at that very moment. A few pants, some basic tops, a jacket and blazer, and a few skirts and dresses may seem like nothing; nevertheless, this handful of pieces can create a multitude of outfits for any occasion.
The real question is, where does one shop to build this wardrobe? There isn’t a specific place since you're just looking for quality and versatility (regardless of your shopping location). Contrary to the name of the trend, you don’t necessarily need to spend a considerable amount of money to achieve the look; however, a critical factor in the movement is buying designer or high-end brands that look less flashy and more classy. Here are a few stores where you can shop to embody “quiet luxury” at various price points.
