In the ever-evolving world of fashion, trends can be around for an instant, however some key moments surpass the test of time - often unnoticed. Last year, there was a resurgence of interest in the Quiet Luxury aesthetic. Sometimes known as ‘Old Money’, this way of dressing has been revered over decades, showcased by style icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana and more recently emulated by Sophia Richie. The antithesis to loud, overstated style, understand what exactly defines this timeless trend, and the key Karen Millen pieces to invest in to obtain the perfect Quiet Luxury look.
What is Quiet Luxury Style?
With simplistic elegance at the heart of Quiet Luxury, pieces that fit into the aesthetic are of premium quality. Investment styles are rarely impulse purchases, providing both longevity and versatility in every wardrobe. Understated icons such as sumptuously soft linen for summer and a neutral trench for autumn/winter are key starting points to mastering the piece, as well as understated-yet-considered accessories that complete a well-thought-out ensemble.
Luxe Fabrications
With quality superseding quantity, the first step in mastering Quiet Luxury is through premium fabrications. Think leather that effortlessly ages through time, soft, breathable cotton, lightweight linen or cold-weather cashmere. When it comes to design, the more pared back, the better.
Summer Linens
An instant entry into warm weather dressing, the addition of a linen shirt or elevated linen trousers, linen captures summer ‘Quiet Luxury’ dressing with ease. Look to an oversized linen shirt as a layering essential during the daytime, or over a swimsuit when on a getaway. Additionally, a linen piece combats the humidity of a summer in the city, embracing both practicality and style.
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Essential Tailoring
Whether sported as separates or an ensemble combination, luxe tailoring is the cornerstone of Old Money dressing. Be it a blazer alongside a T-shirt and jeans as a relaxed weekend combination or trousers matched with a high-neck jumper to embrace minimalistic dressing, an investment into a few, hardworking suits in shades such as camel, beige, navy, and black thus create an endless plethora of outfitting solutions.
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Subtle Hues
Those who favour rich tones of fuschia, cobalt blue or lime green - make these the secondary point of your Quiet Luxury-inspired outfit, as neutral hues are what reign supreme. Ranging from a spectrum of snow white to midnight noir - and every neutral in between, classic-yet-polished understated shades provide an instant entry into this aesthetic. Plus, their minimalistic nature creates a plethora of multifunctional outfit potential.
Effortless Shirt Dress
Be it weekday or weekend, a shirt dress is a perfect throw-on piece, providing instant sophistication. Again, a neutral, pared back offering is the best choice, with a midi length flattering on all figures. Having trans seasonal appeal, during the summer months wear alongside heeled sandals or wedge shoes, or as an alternative alongside boots and a longline camel coat as the temperature cools.
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Understated Accessories
With attention to detail a sartorial must when taking on the Old Money trend, finishing touches are a key part of completing the look. With this in mind, look to subtle, understated pieces of gold jewellery to complement the look in full. A small pair of hoop earrings or studs, or a slim belt can tie everything together with easy elegance.
Trench Coats
Look to a trench coat as the ultimate transitional outerwear hero when the colder season edges. A signature style icon that can be counted on no matter what the year, a longline trench coat in particular has scope for multifunctionality. Possible to be worn as a dress as a romantic date look, or on top of tailoring as a workwear fundamental, it’s not just a pillar for the Quiet Luxury aesthetic, but for any wardrobe.
