Investment dressing

There’s something to be said about embodying effortless style, season after season. Some refer to it as curating a capsule wardrobe. Others, investment dressing. But at its core, quiet luxury is about collecting a set of everyday outfit essentials, where the focus is on quality rather than quantity.

And when it comes to the mathematics of quiet luxury, the return on investment is well worth the price. 

Take the Soft Margaux 15 Bag from The Row. Made in Italy with 100 percent calfskin leather and lined with 100 percent cotton herringbone, the bag reached a cult-like status thanks to it’s minimal and refined look. Stripped of logos and flashy hardware, since it was launched in 2018 the Margaux has been spotted on the arms of many of fashion’s most public figures—from Kendall Jenner to Harry Styles.  

Meticulously crafted, what truly makes the Margaux luxurious is its scarcity. The Row rarely restocks the bag and releases drops in small quantities, making it almost impossible to buy and seeing the luxury consignment e-commerce site, The RealReal call it a ‘modern heirloom’. And with its if ‘you know, you know’ status, and ability to be styled with everything from jeans to crisp tailored suits, it’s the definition of quiet luxury. 

Then there’s a black silk slip-style dress. 

Slinky, sensual and versatile, it’s a modern wardrobe staple for many. Nili Lotan’s Cami Gown is the perfect example—with a v-neckline and finished with spaghetti straps, it’s a nod to the ‘90s without getting too nostalgic, and the fluid movement of the fabric combined with a chic silhouette makes it ideal for date night when worn with a pair of strappy stilettos. But add some ballet flats or a pair of sneakers and a leather jacket, and it’s perfect for popping out to the shops or catching up over a coffee. 

And what about jewellery? A gold bracelet like the classic offerings from Cartier is a forever piece that looks just as impressive with a white t-shirt as with an evening gown, while diamond and blackened gold gypset hoop earrings from Jessica McCormack are a timeless addition to any look.

When looking for versatility, a Long Gabardine Ellingham Fit-and-flare Car Coat from Burberry, a Manuela coat from Max Mara or a classic white collared shirt stretch far beyond one season. Easily becoming staples in your wardrobe, they’re all worthy investments—because not only do you look good wearing them, but you feel good too.

That’s the power of quiet luxury; it’s not just about creating a uniform look. It’s about building a wardrobe that lasts beyond trends, not only thanks to the quality craftsmanship, fabrication and finishes, but also its ability to be worn across multiple seasons and outfits. 

And while there are a few basics that will always stand the test of time (a good pair of jeans, pearl earrings and a cashmere sweater), a true investment is one you’ll want to wear. Whether that’s the Chanel 11.12 handbag or a bag from David Jones, is up to you. 

But when it comes to the numbers, the math speaks for itself.

Max Mara Manuela Coat

Made with 100 per cent pure camel hair and designed by Anne-Marie Beretta, the Manuela coat has long been recognised for its classic silhouette, belted waist, and refined tailoring. Considered one of Max Mara’s staple “Icon” coats, it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.

Tennis Bracelet

Originally known as a diamond “eternity bracelet” or “line bracelet”, the tennis bracelet became both a staple for sportswear and evening wear in the 1980s. Gaining its iconic name when Chris Evert’s diamond bracelet slipped off at the 1987 U.S. Open, the bracelet has since become a timeless emblem of effortless luxury.

The ROW Margaux Bag

With an instantly recognisable slouchy shape and a fan base that includes Kendall Jenner, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Jennifer Lawrence, the Row Margaux Bag is an extraordinary everyday piece that can instantly update an outfit. Reinterpreted in various colourways and fabrications since it was first introduced in 2018, the beauty is in its simplicity.

Black Silk Dress

Evolving from 1920s lingerie into a 1990s minimalist fashion staple, the black silk slip-style dress was popularised by designers Calvin Klein and John Galliano. Modern, effortless and luxurious, it is synonymous with the iconic grunge and waif looks of the era and remains a versatile fashion staple.

Earrings

Diamond earrings are considered a staple of luxury, but they’re no longer saved just to be worn on special occasions. While simple diamond studs remain an essential in any wardrobe, oversized hoops, dramatic drop earrings, and geometric shapes are an easy way to elevate any outfit.

Burberry  Long Gabardine Ellingham Fit-and-flare Car Coat 

When it comes to timeless outerwear, a trench coat from Burberry never goes out of style. Inspired by an archival trench, the Long Gabardine Ellingham Fit-and-flare Car Coat is loved for its relaxed look and practicality. Made in Yorkshire from water-resistant gabardine, it’s a wardrobe essential.

White Shirt

A classic white collared shirt will always be the hardest working, most versatile top in your closet. As easily styled with jeans as with black trousers, both silk and cotton options look elegant. Make sure that it’s beautifully tailored and look to Princess Diana and Victoria Beckham for styling inspiration.