Gaining momentum in 2024, quiet luxury is an understated way of dressing that champions premium materials, discreetly chic details and quality over quantity. Bypassing maximalism, dopamine dressing, or flashy logomania, quiet luxury emerged as an effortlessly elegant alternative to the attention-grabbing yet fleeting trends doing the rounds on TikTok. Here, we teamed up with M&S to share a few valuable key tips for customers to build wardrobes that stand the test of time.
Quiet luxury: More than just aesthetic
The quiet luxury trend isn’t just about aesthetics; it signals a considered approach to shopping that encourages a ‘buy less but better’ mentality. Investing in high-quality, versatile pieces ensures your wardrobe goes the distance and remains relevant year after year. Keep your garments in immaculate condition by repairing any snags or dropped hems as soon as you notice them. M&S’ new partnership with SOJO is ideal for this – a door-to-door repair and restoration service.
“Quiet luxury is about feminine, timeless style, but it’s also about making smart choices,” says Lisa Illis, Head of Design at M&S. “By investing in fewer, higher-quality pieces and caring for them properly, you can create a wardrobe that lasts a lifetime, both in terms of durability and style.”
Curating a ‘quiet luxury’ capsule wardrobe
Coats & jackets – the ultimate investment: A recent survey of British women conducted on behalf of M&S revealed that when it comes to wardrobe investment, outerwear takes the crown. 31% of respondents said they spend the most on coats and jackets, followed by tops (28%) and dresses (21%). The right coat has the power to elevate an entire outfit, adding an effortless touch of sophistication while ensuring comfort and warmth. Whether it’s a classic trench or a tailored wool piece, investing in quality outerwear is a surefire way to enhance your wardrobe for years to come.
Focus on premium fabrics: quiet luxury begins with fabrics like wool, silk, cashmere, cotton and leather for starters. Natural fibres may command a higher price tag but that doesn’t mean they aren’t a savvy purchase. Take care of your garments and they’ll take care of you, ensuring you look polished while also being breathable, hardwearing and tactile.
Create a shopping list: Try writing a shopping list of foundational wardrobe items to help keep your ‘quiet luxury’ capsule wardrobe on track and avoid impulse purchases – your budget (and the planet) will thank you for it in the longer term.
Choose a tonal palette: While pops of fuchsia, cobalt blue and, most recently, ‘brat summer’ bright green all have their moments, the ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic calls for a tighter and more muted palette. Reach for pieces in black, navy, cream, white, camel, biscuit and tan to create the base for your outfits, adding accents in autumn-ready forest green, burgundy or pillar-box red.
Invest in premium accessories: The right accessories can effortlessly elevate your look. A timeless handbag, vintage-inspired watch, fine jewellery, and a great pair of shoes will complete your ensemble with polished elegance. Suede is hot news for autumn/winter ’24 and a roomy tote bag is a great way to stow your day-to-day essentials. Alternatively, a more structured leather bag, like this sleek tote by L.K. Bennett, is a wise purchase. Choose a style with metal hardware that co-ordinates with the jewellery you tend to wear for a flawless finish.
