Words by April Hollamby
From Shiv Roy’s power suits worn in hit TV series ‘Succession’ and Sophia Richie’s South of France wedding style, to Gwyneth Paltrow’s understated (and wholly elevated) courtroom attire — 2023 has set the tone for a closet-defining trend this summer: a new quiet luxury. Whether summarized as a mood, look or lifestyle (or all three), a few of fashion’s most-loved names, revered for their clean aesthetic, are delivering signatures perfectly attuned to the moment — think The Row’s Bufus pants, Nanushka’s expertly crafted knits and Jil Sander’s timeless wardrobe staples.
It’s worth noting that quiet luxury is not to be confused with ‘normcore’, minimalism or classic dressing, but instead an elevated modesty; premium yet understated. In a season that celebrates the luxury of less comes a few key styles to consider. Here, our fashion editor, Sophie George, highlights the key pieces fit for shaping your quiet luxury wardrobe, all available to shop now on FARFETCH.
The tailored jacket: Saint Laurent
‘The hallmark of every quiet luxury wardrobe is undoubtedly the well-tailored blazer,’ says George. ‘This chic, wrapped iteration has a luxe silk lining and the hood is a little unexpected.’ The classic suit jacket gets a dressing-down courtesy of Saint Laurent and its signature spring/summer 2023 detailing, creating a more relaxed look. ‘Saint Laurent has remained true to its quietly luxurious aesthetic with predominantly monochrome collections and classic accessories that have stood the test of time,’ George adds. In addition to the timeless all-black option, this hooded jacket comes in mustard yellow and white too, while the likes of Brunello Cucinelli, Valentino Garavani and Miu Miu also deliver standout blazer styles this season that are perfectly in keeping with this less-is-more mood.
The barely there sandal: Khaite
‘Who can forget the viral Katie Holmes moment when she wore Khaite’s cashmere bra and matching cardigan?’ George notes. Known and loved for its coordinating sets and hard-working accessories that lend a refined touch to every look, the brand’s founder and creative director, Cate Holstein, has mastered the art of pared-back, elevated staples. Speaking to the latter, Khaite’s Linden sandals can be styled with the label’s tonal leather pieces — as well as the subtle prints presented across separates — to build a clean and considered look. ‘A strappy, 1990s-esque style, the barely there Linden sandals are the go-to heel this summer. Pair these with the Olivia raffia tote, the Charlene denim skirt — and for an extra layer, the brand’s classic cashmere sweater — a summer look you’ll turn to year after year.’
The elevated slip dress: Toteme
‘Similarly to Khaite, Toteme is known for versatile luxury staples. A strong case in point, this slip dress can be layered with a pair of jeans and loafers, or worn solo with heeled flip-flops or even minimal sneakers — all of which have been popular with quiet luxury lovers of late,’ George highlights. ‘The tied straps give a nice update to the mainstay summer dress — unexpected strappy details nod to the brand’s design flair and luxury craftsmanship.’ The spring/summer 2023 collections deliver many iterations of the perennial slip, with more key callouts including Jil Sander’s cutout frayed midi dress and Jacquemus’ La Robe Gaua maxi, both also available to shop on FARFETCH now.
Understated signatures: Prada
Among this season’s key callouts is the Antique top-handle tote — a practical investment piece created in durable nappa leather and featuring multiple pockets that maximize on storage. ‘A quiet luxury dresser might invest in Prada loafer or a leather tote like this slate-gray design, which has been seen throughout the collections and is a nice update on the perennial black bag.’ Unlike the ‘ludicrously capacious handbag’ called out in ‘Succession’, this Prada offering is designed to slot seamlessly into your closet rather than become a statement style.
The versatile pant: Brunello Cucinelli
‘I think Brunello Cucinelli really represents quiet luxury both in terms of design as well as its brand ethos and practices,’ George explains. Expert Italian craftsmanship, exclusivity and lifestyle are central to the label’s DNA — a philosophy that translates into collections that serve as a complete capsule closet for the discerning dresser. This summer, Brunello Cucinelli’s timeless aesthetic plays out in crisp shirts, cargo jumpsuits, sandals and cross-body bags, all available in a myriad of muted color palettes. ‘Designed with a wide leg, these linen-blend pants offer a quality, versatile choice for work, events and travel — a perfect summer option thanks to their lightweight feel.’
Artful accessories: Jil Sander
‘Jil Sander’s artful minimalism is paired with high-quality design and makes for a key quiet luxury contender,’ says George. Whether it’s everyday wardrobe staples or stylish investment pieces, the label’s collections have it all: tailoring, tote bags, tank tops, and timeless bags with sneakers to match. ‘Jil Sander always do failsafe, high-quality statement earrings with a good weight to them, and this particular shape is a modern update to the usual hoop,’ she adds. Subtle design details such as the twisted drop on this pair are the touches that lend themselves to a timeless, thoughtful closet. Elsewhere in accessories, other noteworthy styles include Saint Laurent Eyewear’s most-wanted sunglasses and Maison Margiela’s Replica sneakers.