*All products featured on *Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.
Quiet luxury is rooted in understated wardrobe heroes: Think luxury shoes devoid of any logos and unrecognizable (but impeccably tailored) shirts. But then there’s what some are calling rich-mom energy, which seems to borrow some principles from quiet luxury and fuse them with power-dressing vibes emitted by a don’t-mess-with-me matriarch.
This trend is anchored in the same pared-back elements, but those classic wardrobe staples are elevated with a not-so-quiet accessory—in most cases an in-your-face, noticeably luxurious handbag. But no ludicrously capacious, logo-allover bags here; bags of the rich-mom-energy ilk are a bit more demure and—more importantly—functional, enabling busy moms to carry all the essentials while on the go. More defining features of rich-mom energy? Oodles of fine jewelry for every day, luxury watches looped around the wrist (that might be clutching keys, a coffee, and other mom essentials), and designer denim.
Take Gisele Bündchen’s latest casual outfit, for example. The supermodel knows the power of white separates, even if it is something as simple as jeans and a T-shirt. She made the winning combo even better by swinging a jumbo Saint Laurent bag stamped with the iconic YSL logo over her shoulders. The queen of understated elegance, Angelina Jolie, is also a fan of the label’s luxe bags.
Of course, a plethora of bags are grabbing the attention of our favorite chic moms, from Totême’s T-lock purse to the coveted Hermès. Below, see exactly what they’re carrying and wearing to master rich-mom energy.
The Essentials
- The Must-Have Jean: Khaite Danielle jeans, $520
- The Everyday Bag: Métier Incognito Cabas large suede tote, $2,450
- The Sleek Loafer: Gucci Jordaan loafer, $920
- The Staple Earrings: Bottega Veneta gold drop earrings, $1,350
- The Cool Trench: Other Stories relaxed trench coat, $239
Gisele Bündchen
As you can see, neutrals are core to mastering the look. Doubling up on bright whites like Bündchen is a fail-proof way to step out as a sartorial success. And don’t forget the investment bag that will complete the look.
Katie Holmes
Classic jeans turn into a work of art with an exceptionally cool blazer. We like The Row’s tailored jackets, which will never go out of style. Finish the outfit with polished shoes and a handbag that’s not too big nor too small—like Totême’s beloved design.
Angelina Jolie
Never underestimate the power of an all-black look. As Jolie often demonstrates, the beauty is in the details—like luxe bags and classic sunglasses.
Jasmine Tookes
Details are of the utmost importance. If you’re reaching for an oversized sweater, give it a half tuck à la Tookes. And look for trousers with a crisp pleat for heightened effect. Of course, a Birkin will be the cherry on top of any outfit.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Sweaters come to life with statement gold jewels. Follow Paltrow’s lead and reach for chunky chains and an oversized suede tote.
Jennifer Lopez
It’s almost impossible to go wrong with monochrome, and Jennifer Lopez recently cosigned the go-to palette of the moment. Dubbed “latte dressing,” the name of the game is smoothly pairing varying shades of beige (or coffee). To further elevate the look, add sleek cargo trousers for texture, chunky gold hoops for subtle shine, and a tote in a shade that continues the color theme.
Jennifer Lawerence
In the fall, a trench coat quickly becomes both an essential piece for getting out the door in a hurry, and for effortlessly polishing up even a white T-shirt. Taking inspiration from Jennifer Lawrence, one of The Row’s biggest celeb fans, the now-iconic Margaux tote from the hushed New York brand and a cashmere sweater draped neatly around your shoulders will round off the casual ensemble.
Elsa Hosk
Elsa Hosk’s take on rich-mom energy involves opting for a trend-forward leather puffer, a statement belt, earrings, and a preppy loafer for an end result that’s relaxed enough for errands, but stylish enough to warrant compliments.
Emma Roberts
Emma Roberts’s pregnancy style reminds us of one of our favorite outfit combos: dresses with blazers. A structured blazer paired with a luxe cashmere tank dress is both easy and sleek, and a sharp tote with just-flashy-enough hardware tops off the outfit without the need for much else.