The term “subtle luxury” has been thrown around loosely in the fashion world over the years, often used to describe luxurious garments which feature little to no obvious branding or logos. While there still seems to be a gray area in terms of what garments fit this category, the formula is mostly this: muted knit dresses, cashmere sweaters, and understated wool trousers.
With the trend first gaining traction late last year, it has since been popularised by the biggest celebrity names—from Gigi Hadid to Gwyneth Paltrow—porting understated ensembles in monochromatic or neutral palettes. Another recent patron of the modish style is none other than Kendall Jenner, who has recently been sighted in a number of looks from Khaite to The Row.
On the spring/summer 2023 runway, we saw some of the key players adopt this trend into their various collections. Powerhouse brands such as Saint Laurent and Jil Sander stripped it back, focusing on immaculate cuts and classic silhouettes over heavy iconography or noticeable branding. Matthieu Blazy’s Bottega Veneta kicked it up a notch, showing flannel-printed shirts and denim trousers made entirely of supple calf leather. The Row and Lemaire continued their strong showings of understated garments made from high-quality fabrics and expert craftsmanship, further driving home their status at the top of the “subtle luxury” ladder.
In a time where maximalism and logomania has reigned supreme, subtle luxury is the new kid in town. Perhaps this trend is fashion’s second welcoming of “normcore”. Below, shop Vogue Singapore’s curated list of the timeless wardrobe staples that will take your chic factor to whole new heights.
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Khaite Nimbus cashmere turtleneck sweater, $1,680
Available at Net-a-Porter.
10 / 19
Bottega Veneta flannel-printed leather shirt, $9,510
Available at Mytheresa.
14 / 19
Bottega Veneta denim-printed leather pants, $8,800
Available at Mytheresa.
17 / 19
Saint Laurent silk blazer jacket, $6,360
Available at Saint Laurent.
