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2023 trend -

If there is one trend to look out for in 2023, it’s what fashion journalists are referring to as "quiet luxury."

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All the rage -

As the rich and famous ditch their gaudy branded pieces for understated investment items, we regular folk begin to follow suit.

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Quietly developing -

The concept of quiet luxury is nothing new. In fact, it is a trend that has slowly developed over the years, while other, less subtle trends have taken center stage.

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Mood -

Quiet luxury is best described as a mood, rather than an aesthetic. Nonetheless, there are visual elements that are associated with the trend (think neutral colors and streamlined silhouettes).

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More than a mood -

More than that, though, quiet luxury is about functionality and investment clothing. It is about developing a sustainable and genuine relationship with certain brands.

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Anti-fast fashion -

Quiet luxury does not have time, for example, for people who believe they can only wear the same outfit once.

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Multi-use -

Rather, it is about investing in a handful of timeless and flexible pieces that can be worn throughout the year, independent of the season.

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Expert opinion -

As Forbes journalist Bianca Salonga put it, “It’s about maximizing cost per wear without sacrificing elegance.”

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Quiet luxury in action -

For a real-life example of quiet luxury in action, think Gwyneth Paltrow defending herself in the civil trial after her 2016 ski accident.

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Gwyneth Paltrow -

Here she appears in her merino dress from The Row—classy, yet understated, with a price tag of more than a grand.

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Mark Zuckerberg -

Another example would be Mark Zuckerberg, whose famous gray t-shirt he purchases on order from Brunello Cucinelli in Milan rather than buying off the rack.

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Brands -

In the era of quiet luxury, there are certain brands that have come to be most associated with the trend.

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The Row -

For example, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s brand The Row is one that quickly springs to mind. Celebs are often seen stepping out in their luxury ready-to-wear items.

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Other brands -

Other brands on the list would be Khaite, the aforementioned Brunello Cucinelli, Jil Sander, and Loro Piana. People ‘in the know’ of these brands appreciate them for their understated quality.

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The million-dollar question -

You might be thinking that all sounds well and good, but how can I partake in the quiet luxury movement without having 10 grand to drop on a throw over coat?

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On everyone's lips -

As TV shows such as ‘Succession’ popularize the quiet luxury look, more and more people are asking this question.

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Investment -

Now, quiet luxury may be more than a look, and it is definitely about investing in items that are made to last.

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Things you can do -

That said, it is possible to hit the right note with quiet luxury without breaking the bank. Indeed, there are certain tips you can follow in your pursuit.

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Pick a neutral color palette -

When it comes to items of clothing, think understated, neutral colors. Quiet luxury is the opposite of the gaudiness and fluorescence of the noughties.

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Comfort is king -

For a strong, quiet luxury look, go for head-to-toe neutral tones. Opt for loose, comfortable items that won’t require you to always breathe in.

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For active people -

Of course, neutral tones aren’t always practical, particularly if you have kids or you’re always on the move.

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T-shirt and jeans -

If that sounds like you, opt instead for a carefully ironed white t-shirt tucked into a comfy pair of dark jeans.

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Optimizing convenience -

Combining class with comfort, what could be better and more practical for your busy, on-the-go lifestyle?

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Accessories -

When it comes to accessorizing, go for simple gold items that you can keep on day in, day out. There is no need for diamonds or pearls.

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Simple gold pieces -

Remember that repeatedly wearing the same item is the ultimate quiet luxury behavior, so you don’t even need to worry about taking your jewelry off at night.

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Hair and nails -

For your hair, consider a low messy bun at the nape of your neck. And for your nails, a lick of clear nail polish will do the trick.

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Enjoy it! -

Revel in the fact that all this takes considerably less effort than an ornate manicure or blow dry. Practicality is at the heart of quiet luxury, and we all can appreciate that!

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And don't overthink -

Last but not least, don’t overthink it. The simpler the better when it comes to achieving this look, and it doesn’t need to break the bank.

Sources: (Forbes) (Vogue) (The Guardian)

See also: The most influential fashion designers of all time

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