Quiet luxury: the secret to chic style – and how to achieve it

Let’s be frank: I love a Gucci logo plastered across a bag as much as the next person. But there’s something undeniably chic about a person who exudes an expensive aura – not ‘rich,’ precisely. It’s a different beast entirely.

The art of subdued elegance

It’s the impeccably manicured hand, the skin that glows with effortless health, the shirts that practically float off the hanger – 100% cotton, pressed to perfection. This isn’t ostentation; it’s ‘quiet luxury,’ and it’s a far more compelling aesthetic. But the true key? An exquisitely crafted perfume. Not one that screams for attention, but whispers of confidence and discernment.

These scents don’t demand to be noticed. They’re subtly layered, a complex interplay of vanilla, bergamot, musk, pink pepper, or jasmine – a harmonious blend that unfolds gracefully on the skin. They’re not about brute force; they’re about an understated sophistication. They demand a moment’s consideration, a quiet appreciation.

Editor’s picks: the fragrances that define the look

Let’s talk about the olfactory foundation. Here’s a curated selection of scents that capture this ethos, sourced from some of the most discerning editors:

1. Miu miu miutine eau de parfum – now 14% off (£89.25) at john lewis

Why we love it: Don’t mistake this bottle for a youthful fling. It’s playful, yes, but undeniably grown-up. The scent mirrors the campaign – light, fresh, and utterly modern. Notes: Strawberry, vanilla, gardenia, brown sugar.

2. Merit retrospect™ l'extrait de parfum – £79 at sephora

Why we love it: Merit Retrospect doesn’t announce itself. It simply is. It smells like incredibly well-cared-for skin – the kind that hints at a life of measured pleasures. Notes: Bergamot, pear, aldehydes, jasmine, rose, orris, violet, vanilla, musk.

3. Jo malone orange blossom cologne – £122 at jo malone

Why we love it: Let’s be clear: this isn’t your average citrus bomb. It’s underpinned by a surprising floral depth, a signature scent of the Queen herself. Notes: Clementine flower, white lilac, orris wood.

4. Chanel jersey les exclusifs de chanel eau de parfum – £405 at chanel

Why we love it: Chanel’s often associated with grand gestures. Jersey, however, is a quiet rebellion – a fragrance that speaks volumes without shouting. It’s an insider’s secret, favored by those who appreciate the finer details. Notes: Lavender, vanilla, white musk, tonka bean, rose.

5. Le labo thé noir 29 eau de parfum – £172 at john lewis

Why we love it: It smells like a hotel lobby – that hushed, luxurious space where you instinctively feel pampered. A smooth, sexy scent. Notes: Fig, bergamot, cedar, vetiver, musk, tobacco.

6. Fugazzi vanilla haze eau de parfum – £95 at fugazzifragrances.com

Why we love it: Coconut milk, almond, vanilla, tonka, and créme brulee—it smells decadent, but doesn’t actually taste like dessert. Just a warm, enveloping hug. Notes: Mandarin, coconut milk, almond, hazelnut, vanilla, tonka bean, jasmine, créme brulee, white amber, sweet musk.

7. Ex nihilo devil tender eau de parfum – £260 at liberty london

Why we love it: Devil Tender smells like a dewy, secret garden. It’s not overtly tropical or floral—just perfectly polished. It’s the scent of someone who appreciates understated elegance. Notes: Pink grapefruit, pink pepper, peach, rose water, sandalwood, suede accord.

The summation: it’s not about the price tag

Ultimately, ‘quiet luxury’ isn’t about throwing money at a problem. It’s about the details, the quality, the subtle choices that speak volumes. It’s a rejection of the vulgar display of wealth, a preference for enduring elegance. And, frankly, it’s a far more interesting aesthetic.