Wardrobe Staples

By now, many of you would have heard the term ‘quiet luxury’ being passed around fashion circles as the newest trend. Essentially, what this phrase is referring to is the shift away logomania which dominated the fashion scene for many seasons. The focus is now on building looks that appear effortlessly minimal. Think tonal dressing, elevated basics, clean lines and classic cuts.

The term luxury is up to you to define. What I love most about this trend is that it is a great opportunity to review your closet and use this coming season as a time to create a seasonal wardrobe of elevated basics that can help you create a capsule collection, if you will, of core garments that will truly last you beyond the current season. Regardless of your budget, this trend can be adopted by all.

I’ve compiled a list of 6 key garments that can help you attain the ‘quiet luxury’ trend, whilst help strengthen your wardrobe for the coming months, all whilst remaining sustainable in your choices – clothes of high quality, with true wearability will hold their own and thus, support a more circular fashion economy.

A clean line skirt - preferably in a beige, khaki, black or white is a core item and one that is easy to find in many Highpoint retailers. I found a great option in Cue that is worth checking out (look for the matching boxy jacket to complete the set) although Seed, Country Road and Aje will also fulfil your desire. This is a timeless silhouette that can easily be styled up or down for versatility. What this means is simply by changing up your accompanying layers and accessories, you can take this piece from a coffee run or school drop off look and rejig the piece into a look perfect for the evening. If you really want to be on trend, look for a cargo infused clean lined skirt – Zara, Glassons and Sportsgirl.

A white tank – so simple and so easy to create a chic and carefree look, perfect for the summer ahead. I love Supre, Sportsgirl and Cotton On tanks for their low price and great fit. You could easily pair this with a clean line skirt for a relaxed look. Just add accessories to elevate.

A pair of blue jeans – perhaps the most essential of them all! A blue jean in a straight cut (although baggy works too if you are that way inclined) should last you years. R.M. Williams have you covered with high quality denim in great cuts for all genders. I also love ZARA for denim as they have a huge range of different silhouettes whilst retaining a great price point. Across the walkway is your Australian denim retailer, Just Jeans who are also worth checking out. This should be your base piece, that works in every possible combination. The reason I prefer the straight leg is 1) skinny cuts are well in the past and 2) it’s a more versatile cut that allows for a boxy blazer or oversized coat to be thrown over. Sometimes layering loose items over baggy bottoms can swamp you. Remember, we are trying to build a wardobe of pieces that will work back with one another so I suggest trying the straight leg first. A great tip to always remember is find yourself a great tailor (there is one near Sheike called Alter It on level 3). Getting your pant hems sitting at the right length is crucial for creating looks that flatter your body and in returning, have you wearing time and time, again.

A black blazer – This is the most hard working piece in my wardrobe. I personally like a really oversized cut but this works just as a well in a more fitted style, or one with a cinched waist. I throw my blazer over jeans with slides in the summer for a day-time look that is elevated and effortless. At night, I swap the jeans out for a tailored pant. I sometimes keep the slides and wear a Tshirt to retain the effortless look but there is no reason you couldn’t add a shirt or a blouse for a more sophisticated approach. The blazer works over your clean line skirt just as well. If black isn’t for you but you want to keep within the true ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic, you are going to want to refrain from bold colours and stay within an earthy palette – it will last you longer! This trend isn’t about create a statement – it’s more of a mood!

A relaxed fit trouser – Again, another important piece where getting the right fit and cut is crucial to ensuring long time wearability. Stop by Cue, Zara, Forever New, Glassons and Commonry. I like mine in dark grey as I find it works well styled back with black and white basics. A thin belt will really elevate this piece – more on that below.

The power shirt – Simply put, a button down shirt. You can find these anywhere, but I like mine in a stiffer cotton to retain the structure and shape. Layer your shirt over your tank with some simple gold or silver jewellery, or if you are daring, double layer your shirt over another shirt, a great way to introduce some subtle colour. R.M. Williams do this very well. Ditch the tank and wear the shirt slightly unbuttoned and tucked into your skirt with some heels for an evening look. Tuck, Tie or Twist your shirt for a more stylised look!

If you are wondering what accessories you may need to complete the look? Here are my 4 suggestions.

The Statement Sunnies – A black cat eye will take you from day to night in a flash. The chicest option of them all. Head to sunglass hut on level 3.

The ‘IT’ bag – We are going bigger this season. No more micro bags! Head to Mocha or Mimco to find a carryall to last you all season long.

The Thin Belt – this is a non-negotiable when it comes to elevating your basic essentials. A thin belt in a beautiful durable leather will work with your denim, skirts, relaxed trousers. I have seen these in almost all of the retailers although Cue and Review have some great colours if you do want to inject some fun hues into your outfits.

The Ballet Flat (or a Loafer) – The most trendiest item of all this season is the ballet flat. Pair back with a sock for a more street-style approach. I found a silver option at Billini that was adorably chic.

Happy Shopping x