fashion

Five Outfits That Nail The Quiet Luxury Trend

TikTok has a tendency to turn *everything* into an aesthetic - old or new. Brown smoky eyes became "latte make-up", boho chic became "cottagecore", basic dressing became "normcore" and so. many. more. Despite the flurry of micro trends, one has reigned supreme in 2023: quiet luxury. From Gwyneth Paltrow's coveted courtroom wardrobe to everyone's obsession with Succession, quiet luxury has slowly become fashion's favourite phrase. Unlike Barbiecore, this trend is harder to pin down. It has many of the hallmarks of a classic and minimalist aesthetic: well-crafted staples, unfussy styles and quality over quantity. It's basically looking put together, but without trying too hard. Still not totally up-to-speed? Here are five easy-to-recreate outfits that we think tick all the quiet luxury boxes (with the occasional River Island twist).

Shop Dresses

Shop Jackets

Waistcoats are big news this season, but here's how to give this trending item a quiet luxury spin. First things first: choose a waistcoat in a neutral colourway like beige, cream or white. Keeping your colour palette simple is the easiest way to achieve that coveted "stealth wealth" aesthetic, if you ask us. We'd also recommend a waistcoat with a slightly oversized fit for an effortlessly cool feel. Next, pair your waistcoat with wardrobe classics like these straight-leg jeans and minimalist-inspired heels. Add an RI spin to your look with this zebra-print bag. It's crafted in 100% leather for a premium feel – fancy *and* fun.

Shop Waistcoats

Shop Bags

Need something that takes two seconds to put on but makes it look like you made an effort? Enter: the co-ord. Unlike the usual shirt-and-trouser combinations, this one is made up of a maxi skirt and a top in a breathable linen-blend. It also shows off a chocolate brown shade that's perfect for embracing the latte girl trend, the minimal way. Style with a simple gold necklace and classic ballerina pumps featuring a chic pointed-toe and mesh panel. School drop-offs never looked so good.

Shop Co-ord Sets

Shop Ballerina Pumps

The key to quiet luxury lies in the detail. The outfit may look simple, but if you get down to the nitty-gritty of it, you'll see that it's far from it. Take this outfit for example: it's not just a simple 'trousers and top combination'. Instead, the pieces have been chosen for their detail, fabric and fit. We started with this elevated bandeau featuring an asymmetric style. It's designed in a thick fabric with just the right amount of stretch. Contrast the tighter fit on top with a pair of relaxed (but perfectly tailored) trousers in a neutral hue to balance out the outfit, and finish with designer-inspired pumps and an easy bag. Simple, but thoughtful.

Shop Tops

Shop Trousers

Quiet luxury is all about simplicity, quality and discretion. It's the epitome of looking low-key but elevated at the same time; a hard line to walk if you ask us. The easiest way to achieve this is with a classic outfit made up of straight-leg jeans, a crisp white shirt and tailored blazer. It's chic, timeless and cool without trying too hard. Accessorise with a simple belt and loafer combination. The best part: this outfit works just as well for the office as it does for after-work drinks.

Shop Shirts

Shop Jeans

The best quiet luxury outfits are made using timeless pieces that look luxurious, without drawing too much attention to themselves. Basically, it's time to pack away the bright colours, logo-clad designs and bold prints. If you're a self-confessed lover of adding a little bit of sparkle/print/colour to your outfit (same), then this may be tricky. BUT, let us convince you with this simple but effective outfit. Starting strong with draped bodycon dress that features an interesting one-shoulder design. It's a striking piece that requires little to no styling. All you need to do is add a simple pair of slip-on loafers, basket bag and tortoise shell glasses.

Shop Dresses

Shop Loafers