Defining Quiet Luxury and getting started
To understand and master the quiet luxury approach to style, we have to reflect on the meaning of luxury itself. In recent years the concept has taken a wholesome turn and is no longer solely associated with inaccessible products and privileges. The modern vision goes beyond mere presentation and shed light on personal experience, intentionality, and transparency.
In its essence, quiet luxury is an ode to authenticity. Exceptional craftsmanship pairs with effortless personal style and subtle details, where there is less visible branding and more meaningful philosophy. It's not just wearing clothes, it's the embodiment of a cascade of thoughtful choices, from the hands that create the product to the one to whom it later belongs.
Embracing this lifestyle of refined taste means making the conscious choice to Wear Your Values, selecting practical pieces that standout for their quality, with an emphasis on comfort, neutral colours and earthy tones.
Before we go deeper on the key principles, there is an important reminder to make.
When you invest in your appearance and mindfully purchase clothing and accessories that highlight your silhouette, you pave the way to confidence with easy elegance. Honouring and nurturing your individuality has a ripple effect to all areas of your life. It is a mindful practice that empowers you to trust yourself, so you feel more ready to face challenges that come your way.
Now that it is said, let's look at the essential elements of the quiet luxury wardrobe.
Unparalleled quality
When it comes to quality there are a few fundamentals to watch out for. Superior natural materials have an inherent luxurious feeling, yarns like cashmere, silk or linen are consciously selected for their beauty and durability. Different fabrics serve different purposes and will determine how the garment drapes and moves on the body thus, influencing the final look.
Garments must also feel comfortable to wear and present impeccable fit so, it is worth considering minor alterations like adjusting pants length if necessary.
Details matter even in the most minimalistic creation, stitching, pockets, buttons, pleats or shoulder pads, are amongst many other elements that contribute to elevate the look of a piece.
These quality of design and craft are essentials to assure not only the appearance but also the longevity of the product, which is a main concern in the quiet luxury lifestyle. This also translates in costs upon purchase, because such high-end items come with the price tag, the intent must fit the bill if you will. Having a wardrobe that you can enjoy for years saves you the energy of always looking to replace what does not last, and the constant adds up of prices that might result in costing you more in the long run. If you are curious about why an initially more expensive purchase might be better for your wallet, check out our “Cost per Wear article”. (link)
Timelessness
If we already established that premium materials and making are designed to stand the test of time, there is nothing that screams timelessness more than a curated wardrobe and staples that never go out of style. Think Iconic pieces like a suit, a button up shirt, a pencil skirt, jeans, and trench coat to only name a few, they have been on the fashion scene for decades. Quiet luxury favour understated simplicity and versatility, most of your pieces can be dressed up or down, allowing you flexibility and easy closet management. Whether you are dressing up for work or packing up for a holiday, you will look gorgeous and never lose precious time wondering how to make your outfit work.
Treasuring
Quiet luxury is an invitation for emotional connection with your clothes, appreciating how they were made and how they are supporting your everyday moves. As they serve you well, so you take good care of them. Your wardrobe is a garment version of a photo album that can hold memories, and some very special pieces can even have a sentimental value attached to them. Building a healthy relationship with your wardrobe isn't as unhinged as it might sound. Every morning you are participating in this mostly conscious dance of getting ready to face the world, covering your body in clothing, pondering on what embellishments you could add, and ultimately how you would like to be perceived. When you treasure your clothing you send a message yourself and to future generations: heirloom pieces mean love.
A word on sustainability
Implementing mindful shopping habits through the principles of quiet luxury can support a more ethical fashion industry. Conscious brands ensure high-quality craftsmanship by being extremely selective regarding their partners along the supply chain. They endorse strict sustainable and ethical credentials from raw material to the finishing touch.
It appears clear that nothing of value can be made quickly, and with the parallel idea of slow luxury we can observe a shift from indulgence to the caring and interconnected nature of life. As the demand for meaningful clothing grows, collections that go beyond seasons help reduce waste, protect our environment and promote social initiatives in communities.
From day one this has been Lotta Ludwigson's commitment. A purpose driven fashion where quality, transparency, and circularity are the new norm, empowering women with fierce style and values.
