7 Affordable Outfits That Are Giving Hushed Luxury

I've always believed that you can affordably curate a wardrobe that is both elevated and anti-trend. Of course, "quiet luxury” is nothing new, but I still find all that it stands for very appealing. In lieu of heavily branded pieces, this movement centres around an understated elegance that catches the eye without screaming for attention. Mixing timeless staples with high-quality, expensive-looking items is the secret to achieving this balance.

Think of a classic white button-down shirt paired with impeccably tailored trousers or a skirt, topped off with a structured blazer. It's a combination that never goes out of style and speaks fluently in sophistication. But something that can take it to the next level is a well-chosen accessory, like a sleek leather handbag, gold jewellery and perhaps a pair of chic sandals or slingback heels.

These are the accoutrements that can raise your outfits to fashionable new heights. Don’t think you need to scrimp on quality to achieve this affordably—the high street is packed full of pieces that tap into this style moment, so you can get your quiet-luxury fix without breaking the bank.

Affordable quiet luxury outfits are all about thoughtful curation, finding those perfect items that seamlessly blend together to create a look you can (and will!) wear over and over again. I’ve assembled seven such outfits for you below, along with high-street shopping suggestions along the way.

1. Waistcoat + Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: Double up on your tailoring with a chic (not to mention, easy) waistcoat and wide-leg trousers pairing. Sticking to a black and white colour palette is another surefire way to tap into quiet luxury. 

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2. Midi Dress + Simple Accessories

Style Notes: Simple dresses are at the heart of many a quiet-luxury outfit. Right now, I'm seeing lots of dresses that combine a jersey top with a cotton skirt on the market. 

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3. Trench Coat + Leather Trousers

Style Notes: Every Brit fashion person knows that a trench coat should never be far from your reach. Pair yours with leather trousers and a basic tee for low-key luxury. 

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4. Suiting + Basket Bag

Style Notes: Is there anything more premium looking than a suit? If so I'd love to hear it. White and ecru tones look especially expensive; layer in a relaxed bag to make it feel more day-to-day. 

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5. Co-ords + Matching Accessories

Style Notes: On the subject of co-ords, look for skirt-and-top sets to give you another easy outfit solution that you can throw on at whim. For even more quiet-luxury kudos, match the colour of your shoes to that of your clothes—it'll instantly pull your look together. 

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6. Blazer + Jeans

Style Notes: For every day, what could be cooler than a boxy blazer, distressed jeans and a racer vest? Just add large gold earrings and an even larger tote. 

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7. Shirt + Skirt

Style Notes: A white shirt is integral to any quiet-luxury wardrobe, and although this piece pairs effortlessly with trousers and jeans, I'd argue it look even chicer styled with skirts. 

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Next Up: I Just Built an Expensive-Looking Capsule Wardrobe Out of Under-£60 Items