What is 'Quiet Luxury'? A look inside the muted style trend

Jun 14, 2023

The Quiet Luxury trend is making waves thanks to shows like 'Succession' but how can you wear it?

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...

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.

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.

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."

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.

COS Wide-Leg Tailored Pants

RRP: $135

These trousers are the ultimate staple, they're available in four shades, but we'd recommend opting for either black or beige as these shades go with everything. In sizes 2 to 14.

& Other Stories Wide-Leg High-Waist Pleated Trousers

RRP: $129

These linen trousers are perfect for summer and are also stylish all year long.

Pair with a tank top, blazer, or blouse with a simple black belt and you've got a casual, luxury-looking fit.

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.

Mango Turtleneck Knitted Sweater

RRP: $35.99

This knitted turtleneck is perfect for layer under coats and blazers. Available in both beige and black and in sizes XXS to 4XL.

H&M Turtleneck Sweater

RRP: $29.99

Nothing says sophistication like a turtleneck jumper, especially when paired with loafers, trousers and some simple, but statement jewelry like chunky hoops.

FRANKIE SHOP Gelso Satin and Grain De Poudre TENCEL Lyocell-blend Vest

RRP: $235

This vest can chic up any fit, whether you're wearing a white t-shirt and jeans or are going for a suit-like look.

COS Single Breasted Waistcoat

RRP: $135

This vest from COS is another excellent option for a smart look. It's gives major French-girl vibes and is available in sizes 2 to 14.

Tory Burch Perrine Square Toe Loafer

RRP: $328

These loafers are classic but with a twist thanks to their square toe and gold detailing—ideal for injecting some personality into your minimalist fit.

Vagabond Cosmo 2.0 Penny Loafer

RRP: $165

These are actually a version of Kendall Jenner's go-to loafers!

They're perfect for styling with pants and jeans, for a more sophisticated look. They definitely belong in your work capsule wardrobe.

If you're looking for some investment pieces, we've rounded up some good 'Quiet Luxury' brands, from pricier to uber-affordable...

Naomi is a Lifestyle News Writer with the Women's Lifestyle team and has recently earned her Gold Standard diploma in Journalism with the NCTJ. She has a background in design, having studied Illustration at Plymouth University but has taken a leap into the world of journalism after always having a passion for writing. She currently writes pieces on beauty, trends, fashion, and entertainment for GoodTo and My Imperfect Life. She also tests and reviews beauty and skincare products and tries out the latest TikTok hacks for My Imperfect Life.

Before working for Future Publishing's Lifestyle News team, she worked in the Ad production team. Here she wrote and designed adverts on all sorts of things, which then went into print magazines across all genres. Now, when she isn't writing articles on celebs, fashion trends, or the newest shows on Netflix, you can find her drinking copious cups of coffee, drawing and probably online shopping.

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