We all know that one person who makes luxury fashion look effortless. Whether you run into them at brunch, an office meeting, or a New Year’s Eve party, they look chic and put together. While it’s easy to attribute the elegance of their outfits to expensive designer labels, dressing luxury is about more than the price tag. It’s about making smart choices and investing in high-quality, timeless clothing. It’s also about knowing exactly how to style various pieces for a look that screams “expensive” regardless of the actual cost.
Follow the tips in this blog to learn how to curate a luxury fashion wardrobe and masterfully style your pieces for various occasions and settings.
Building a Luxury Fashion Wardrobe
Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither are luxury wardrobes. Building a collection of quality designer pieces that reflect your style takes time and effort. Here’s how to get started:
- Prioritize Quality Pieces: Less is more when it comes to luxury clothing. Instead of splurging on the latest collection, focus on high-quality basics you can wear for years. Some key pieces to own are a classic trench coat, a tailored mini blazer dress, and a little black dress.
- Neutral Colors, Soft Fabrics: Muted colors and soft, natural fabrics are the hallmarks of dressing luxury. Sticking to a neutral color palette will maximize your outfit options as they’re easy to mix & match. Look for bias-cut satins, plush wool & cashmere, and linen materials.
- Add Signature Accessories: Most people who dress designer on a budget invest in fashion accessories such as a classic Chanel bag or a Hermès scarf to elevate their outfits. Opt for stylish & functional accessories such as a Rolex or Cartier watch, sunglasses from brands like Celine or Tom Ford, Louboutin’s iconic Pigalle pumps, etc.
- Make a Statement: To make your outfits visually interesting, you’ll need to add a statement piece that truly catches the eye. It could be a blouse with puff sleeves, a faux croc-leather bag, or an accent color like cherry red.
Styling Your Luxury Fashion Pieces
Now that you have the foundation, it’s time to style your luxury pieces for different occasions. Remember that these are only general styling tips and you should always tweak them to fit your style!
For Casual Day Outs
Styling your luxury pieces for a casual day out is a breeze if you own some timeless basics such as a high-quality T-shirt or blouse, tailored trousers with a relaxed fit, and some chic, casual accessories like a cap or sunglasses.
One outfit combination to try is the fitted crop tee paired with straight-leg trousers or jeans and streetwear fashion sneakers. Complete the look with a structured sling bag, classic aviator sunglasses, bold hoop earrings, and a high-end watch. For a more dressier option, you can swap out the pants for a straight maxi skirt or a pleated mini skirt. Throw on a tailored blazer to take it to the next level.
These looks are perfect for brunch, shopping, running errands, or any other casual outing you can think of!
For Office or Business Settings
Classic luxury clothes from designers such as Armani or Stella McCartney are a guaranteed hit in the workplace. They look sophisticated and will make you feel confident throughout the day. Some essential pieces to own for an office setting are tailored suits, cotton shirts, silk blouses, structured tote bags, and sleek jewelry.
You can pair tailored trousers with a crisp white button-down shirt and spice it up with a blazer in a contrasting color, or go for a fully tailored suit paired with a silk blouse. Add a leather belt, a structured tote bag or shoulder bag, designer pumps or loafers and minimalist jewelry to complete the look.
For Special Occasions
Attending a formal event like a charity ball or a gala? Then, subtle glamor is what you should be going for. Think graceful gowns in A-line silhouettes, satin slip dresses, timeless outerwear, and a little black dress (LBD).
Floor-length maxi dresses paired with luxury heels and a statement clutch are perfect for upscale events. If the occasion is during cooler months, drape a faux fur wrap or coat over your shoulders, like a Dior or Burberry trench. Finish your looks with sparkling jewelry. Don’t be afraid to wear bold pieces like a diamond necklace or chandelier earrings from Van Cleef & Arpels or Cartier. However, make sure to keep it classy, not flashy!
Wrapping Up
Styling luxury pieces is all about finding the right balance between high-end items and understated pieces to create sophisticated looks that are reflective of your style. Remember that luxury fashion isn’t about the label or the price; it’s about quality, craftsmanship, and how you carry yourself. Wear it with confidence!
