Buzz
The trend of quiet luxury, wearing simple, classic, yet expensive clothing, is increasingly prevalent. To embrace the 'sophisticated silence' trend, individuals must pay careful attention when choosing and coordinating their outfits.
Explore what quiet luxury entails
Highlighted in the TV series Succession, quiet luxury, translating to 'sophisticated silence,' becomes one of the major fashion trends in 2023. Before the film's release, fashion houses continuously showcased outfits in this style at the four fashion weeks (New York, Paris, Milan, London).
Fashion is a reflection of life. In my opinion, this trend aligns well with the current economic and social context.
Going beyond logo elimination and reducing intricate details, the quiet luxury trend signifies a new consumer attitude and approach to using clothing. To apply this fashion, individuals need to equip themselves with knowledge and exhibit sophistication in their choices and outfit coordination.
Reflecting the economic landscape
In my definition, quiet luxury represents high-quality fashion items without ostentation. Specifically, clothing in this style often lacks logos or monograms (if present, these details are usually discreet or embossed).
Premium fabrics like cashmere, silk, and leather are employed in garment design. The precision in cutting and needlework must ensure meticulousness, ensuring the clothing fits the body perfectly. In my view, quiet luxury can be likened to bespoke high-end fashion.
Additionally, garments often feature neutral colors such as black, white, brown, and beige, creating a sense of sophistication and elegance. The combination of these color tones also becomes more effortless, saving the wearer time in outfit coordination.
Quiet luxury is a fashion trend reflecting the economic landscape. Image: Noconcept.
Quiet luxury was particularly popular in 2008, amid the global economic recession. Its resurgence in 2023 also mirrors a part of the current lifestyle landscape.
After the conclusion of the Covid-19 pandemic, fashion enthusiasts return to the streets and social events. Rebellious trends such as ultra-short dresses, cut-outs, oversized logos, and eye-catching patterns are immediately celebrated.
However, 2023 brings about significant changes in the economic landscape. With income sources no longer abundant, individuals need to make wise choices in shopping and adapt their consumer habits.
'Sustainability' is the fitting keyword for the current context. Thus, quiet luxury demonstrates the fashion industry's rapid adaptation to the times. Beauty and aesthetic qualities are maintained in the serenity and discretion.
Furthermore, this trend also reflects a compassionate attitude in the fashion realm. Quiet luxury minimizes the rich-poor divide, limiting judgments based on outward appearances.
Image: Noconcept.
Understanding to choose right
In the early 2023 fashion season, renowned brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior showcase classic, minimalist, and highly practical designs. No longer extravagant and boastful, clothing returns to its original state, serving as a protective layer for the body.
Amidst the era of information, we must absorb a large volume of news, reflect, and worry about numerous issues every day. Hence, the rule of simplification, particularly necessary, lightens the burden for fashion consumers.
To embrace this trend, individuals should focus on 5 key factors, including material, stitching, color, style, and durability. These elements help you distinguish clothing in the quiet luxury style from others.
Concerning materials, a prerequisite factor that defines a quiet luxury piece is high-quality fabric. Designers and brands often carefully choose fabrics to ensure the quality of fashion products.
Additionally, some precious materials are used to elevate the outfit. Sheepskin or crocodile leather are examples of fabrics that belong to the rare and relatively expensive category.
Premium materials and meticulous stitching are the essence of the quiet luxury style. Image: sirtailorvn.
Regarding stitching, constructing the form, cutting fabric, and sewing are time-consuming tasks. Professional pattern makers and tailors must pay attention to each needle stitch. This is the only way to ensure that the clothing fits the wearer perfectly.
Considered as custom-made attire, garments following this trend need to showcase meticulous craftsmanship down to every centimeter. Designers should take detailed measurements from the customer to avoid cases of loose or tight clothing.
Concerning color, neutral tones or subdued hues highlight the minimalist spirit of quiet luxury. These items are also easy to mix and match with various types of shoes and accessories.
Beyond restraining logos and patterns, clothing in this style should also limit the color palette. Vibrant and eye-catching tones are discouraged when embracing this trend.
Concerning style, knitted sweaters, plain shirts, cardigans, and jackets are essential items. High functionality is a top priority for those embracing quiet luxury.
Not limited to specific events or special occasions, basic clothing can be worn in various situations such as work, casual outings, social gatherings, shopping, and parties. Developing these product lines is also a direction for many global fashion houses to increase revenue in the economic downturn.
In terms of durability, with good materials and minimalist designs, clothing following this trend can be reused many times, ensuring sustainability after multiple washes. Quiet luxury attire rarely wrinkles, fades, or loses its shape after washing and drying.
5 Icons of Quiet Luxury
When it comes to quiet luxury, I immediately think of 5 minimalist, classic items, including watches, simple coats, logo-free bags, knitted sweaters, and leather shoes.
These are timeless clothing items, rarely going out of fashion. One can wear the entire ensemble or mix and match each piece with other clothing and accessories.
Watches, especially classic timepieces from Swiss brands, always demonstrate their allure across generations. This 'small but mighty' accessory showcases your fashion taste, personal style, and character.
Simple coats with refined cuts are icons of quiet luxury. Basic styles like long trench coats, blazers, and vests suit every occasion and remain timeless.
Jackets, shirts, and knitted sweaters stand as symbols of 'quiet luxury' style. Illustration: @maxmara.
Logo-free bags and accessories also gain favor among fashion enthusiasts. These items can effortlessly pair with various outfits, suitable for multiple uses without creating a sense of monotony.
Knitted sweaters are a safe choice, with both cardigan and pullover styles being easily applicable. Neutral colors take precedence when selecting this item.
Leather dress shoes are a must-have in men's wardrobes, especially for those embracing quiet luxury fashion. Classic designs and premium leather make this item suitable for the 'sophisticated silence' style.
Fashion designer Võ Công Khanh
Awarded for Creativity, Vietnam Collection Grand Prix (2002).
Second Prize in Fashion Design awarded by the French Ministry of Industry (2007). Affiliated with Fashion Voyage, Vietnam International Fashion Week.
Posted by: Thúy Hồng Mai
Keywords: Quiet luxury is about eliminating logos while maintaining elegance
