The Secret to Making Timeless Minimalist Outfits Look Elevated, According to Stylists and Designers

Understated Elegance Is the New Quiet Luxury—How Kendall Hailey and Sofias Stylist Master the LessIsMore Approach
Photo: Backgrid

At its core, minimalist dressing—or, dare I say it, the notion of “quiet luxury” or “old money aesthetic”—embraces the simplicities of fashion. Think: the subtle appeal of a nonchalant T-shirt tucked into a pair of easy-going trousers. While the overarching theme sounds simple in theory, there are a few rules that can make or break an outfit.

Ever wondered how Kendall Jenner manages to turn a no-frills dress into an understated work of art, or how Sofia Richie switched up her style with a pared-back approach and came out on top? Well, we chatted with the stylists of both It girls, and we solicited advice from some of our favorite designers as well. Together the fashion experts reveal the do’s and don’ts of mastering the art of quiet luxury dressing, below.

Every Detail Matters

Understated Elegance Is the New Quiet Luxury—How Kendall Hailey and Sofias Stylist Master the LessIsMore Approach
Photo: Gotham

“I think people miss the mark on quiet luxury when they forget it’s the full package,” says Dani Michelle, who styles Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and more. “It’s not just the clothing, it’s the accessories too, it’s the entire message.” Take a look at some of her work, and you’ll see that not a single detail is ever overlooked. Something as simple as a pair of elevated loafers or minimalist sunglasses can bring the outfit to life.

“I’ve always loved the understated elegance of quiet luxury—if you know, you know,” adds Michelle. “There’s sophistication and confidence in the non-label fashions, which is undeniable by its quality and cut.”

Shop Michelle’s favorite understated brands.

Ami Paris

De Coeur T-shirt

Ami Paris

straight-fit trousers

The Row

Berth maxi skirt

The Row

gathered eel leather loafers

Toteme

belted tote

Toteme

the ovals sunglasses

Jil Sander

belted cotton vest

Jil Sander

leather point-toe flats

Invest Wisely

“When the pieces in your closet are simple and chic, it makes it easier to wear them on repeat, and everything can be easily styled with each other,” says Cass Dimicco, designer and founder of Aureum Collective. “It makes the entire process of figuring out what to wear in the morning much easier. I have my go-to outfit formulas that I know work for me, and it just makes life easier. I can wear the same piece multiple times in a week without getting sick of it because it’s understated.”

How does Dimicco keep those simple pieces feeling fresh each day? “It’s all about investing in well-made accessories,” says Dimicco “When your outfits are simple, accessories are the finishing touch to add interest and take your look to the next level. I like to have a bit more fun choosing my jewelry, belts, and handbags. One of my best tips is to choose anything with hardware wisely. This is where spending a bit more can make a big difference. Accessories should be pieces that you have for seasons to come and are worn countless times so they are worth the investment.”

Shop Dimicco’s outfit-boosting jewels.

Amira double-band ring

Nova wavy circle ring

Subtraction Addition

Understated Elegance Is the New Quiet Luxury—How Kendall Hailey and Sofias Stylist Master the LessIsMore Approach
Photo: @sofiarichiegrainge
Understated Elegance Is the New Quiet Luxury—How Kendall Hailey and Sofias Stylist Master the LessIsMore Approach
Photo: @sofiarichiegrainge

Liat Baruch, who styles Sofia Richie, says it’s important to not overdo it. “I see too many people who pile on the gold jewelry, flashy bags, etcetera with what otherwise would be a great minimalist look,” she says. “Keep it simple! Every outfit does not need a gold earring, a long necklace, unnecessary rings, or an It bag. A good practice is to subtract from looks rather than add.”

When in doubt, stick to the essentials. “I believe that less is more, and I don’t love overly revealing looks,” says Baruch. “I try to keep things simple and classic and leave the rest to the imagination. I have my go to basics like a simple white T-shirt, a crisp button-down, and high-waisted jeans that I like to mix with more contemporary pieces.”

Shop Baruch’s favorite quiet luxury brands.

Khaite

Kal shirt dress

Khaite

August leather shoulder bag

Khaite

Charlene denim midiskirt

The Row

Ginza two-tone platform flip flops

The Row

Half Moon leather shoulder bag

The Row

Delphine knit pants

Proenza Schouler White Label

Twin striped canvas tote

Proenza Schouler

draped strapless top

St. Agni

deconstructed mini dress

St. Agni

twill midi skirt

Proenza Schouler

Glove leather ballerina flats

St. Agni

5mm macramé leather loafers

Comfort + Craftsmanship = Sartorial Success

“I’m always guided by what I feel comfortable in,” says Gabriella Periera, co-founder and designer of the timeless luxury ready-to-wear label Beare Park. “When I’m conscious of what I’m wearing, I’ll have a bad day. I tend to gravitate toward relaxed tailoring, elegant silhouettes, and neutral colors. Always simple, androgynous, and classic.”

Periera advises to take a closer look at how items are made. “I love classic and sophisticated pieces with hero craftsmanship,” says Periera. “We are incredibly lucky to work with such talented artisans in Australia, as well as some of the oldest and finest mills throughout the world. All have a profound understanding and appreciation for true craftsmanship. It is something that need not be promoted loudly, but rather felt quietly when wearing each piece.”

Shop Periera’ minimalist ready-to-wear designs.

Beare Park

layered shirt

Beare Park

wool straight-leg pants

Beare Park

silk-satin shirt

Beare Park

pleated wool maxi skirt

Beare Park

pleated cotton-poplin maxi shirt dress

Beare Park

paneled silk-faille mini dress