As much as the quiet-luxury aesthetic has been discussed or argued about in 2023, it continues to be something of a mystery to many people. Many people I talk to remain puzzled over how to get the look themselves. But as someone who dedicated her life to putting together a wardrobe that feels more expensive and luxurious than it should be, I know that mastering the subtly chic dressing style isn’t complicated. All you need is to avoid logos and stick to a clean and classic colour palette.
To finally make quiet luxury easily achievable, I went ahead and laid out all of the various shades in its wheelhouse so you can start to create more timeless and elegant ensembles immediately, taking pieces from your existing wardrobe and supplementing them with new ones that you’ll own and wear forever. So, without further ado, scroll down to discover the nine colours that matter most if you want to build a closet that whispers wealth.
Starting off strong is black, especially when the “colour” is worn from head to toe. Classic, flattering, and undeniably one of fashion’s favourite and most-worn uniforms, an all-black outfit is the ultimate no-brainer combination no matter the occasion, season, or weather.
The epitome of chic.
This looks so good with jeans.
XXL tote = XXL style.
Navy blue has been a slept-on colour for far too long. The midnight shade that almost always gets skipped over for black is arguably one of the chicest and most versatile hues of all, and it pairs perfectly with pretty much every one of the luxurious colours below, from ivory to chocolate brown.
The perfect desk-to-dinner dress.
Party shoes that will last as long as you do.
Proof that linen is so much more than just white trousers.
Baby pink would have once made me think of cheesy country club outfits covered in tiny printed logos, but the shade has taken on a new persona and is now quite the opposite. Very modern and minimal, the pastel shade will make any outfit look more expensive and enviable.
Such a versatile piece.
I love this entire look.
How good are these Mary Janes?
If it’s summertime and you want to live your best, most lavish-looking life, putting on an all-white outfit will always be step number one. Just be careful not to spill. We’re only trying to look rich, not pay for a giant dry-cleaning bill.
Bandeau tops are having a moment right now.
Denim so good you’ll want to trade in your blue jeans.
A designer-looking bag for under £90? I’ll take it.
Blame it on Anthony Vaccarello, but olive green now automatically makes me think of Saint Laurent and the shockingly upscale lifestyle that must come with being able to afford runway pieces from the Paris-based label. There’s just something so bold yet understated about the colour that makes it the perfect choice every time.
Goes with just about every kind of skirt and trouser you can think of.
Just add chunky sandals and a raffia bag.
A new It bag in the making.
A deep shade of chocolate brown will never disappoint if you want to look like your purse is filled with black cards instead of a stray Lifesaver mint and Rhode’s Peptide Lip Treatment (or is that just me?). Simply look at the pieces below if you need additional proof.
Throw-on-and-go perfection.
Add a white tee or crisp white shirt and gold jewellery.
Effortlessly elegant.
Nine times out of ten, when I spot a gorgeous outfit on Instagram or a runway, it features at least one ivory piece, be it a dress, skirt, top, or pair of trousers. Consistently elegant brands like Khaite, The Row, and Toteme frequently work with the color, so it’s not like I should be surprised or anything.
A fresh take on the denim maxi skirt.
Our editors can’t stop talking about this dress.
A true wardrobe staple.
Every time I think of charcoal grey wardrobe items, I think of classic ’90s Prada looks, which are the epitome of understated elegance and cool factor combined. If you want to keep things minimal, go for an all-grey outfit, though Miuccia Prada would probably add a subtle bit of red, orange, or green in there for a touch of brightness to balance it out.
Many people associate khaki with autumn, but I’m a fan of the classic color all year long, whether it’s worn in skirt form with a boat-neck tank and kitten heels or on a trench coat styled with a gorgeous LBD underneath. And let me say: There’s nothing boring about beige, period.
Such chic layering.
Linen summer dresses never go out of style.
Easily one of the best pieces on the COS website right now.
