Cover On Quiet Luxury: White Jil Sander bag spotted at the haute couture fall/winter 2024/2025 of Paris Fashion Week (Photo by Christian Vierig for Getty Images))
On Quiet Luxury: White Jil Sander bag spotted at the haute couture fall/winter 2024/2025 of Paris Fashion Week (Photo by Christian Vierig for Getty Images))
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On the topic of ‘quiet luxury’, Tatler Asia’s Most Stylish 2023 listers, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Kathy Yap-Huang, and Kifu Augousti, share their style opinions on balancing good taste and self-expression
In the fast-paced fashion world, quiet luxury maintains its appeal. This trend is marked by understated pieces made with craftsmanship, ensuring their longevity. This trend arose in 2023 when ostentatious displays of wealth became less popular. People started to prefer more inconspicuous items.
The underlying philosophy of this trend is anchored on confidence and discernment. Confidence comes from infusing one’s outfits with self-assured elegance. One does not have to prove the quality of one’s outfits. The materials and muted colour schemes speak for themselves.
Those partaking in the quiet luxury trend also patronise certain brands, such as The Row, Loro Piana, and Jil Sander. The result is an effortlessly chic presentation that grounds an on-the-go lifestyle.
In case you missed it: How to spot a Crazy Rich Asian by their purses
Above Princess Diana in the 'Revenge Dress' (Photo: Tim Graham / Getty Images)
Princess Diana in the 'Revenge Dress' (Photo: Tim Graham / Getty Images)
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Princess Diana, one of the most photographed women in history, is a pioneer of quiet luxury. In 1994, she was pictured in the black Revenge Dress by Christina Stambolian. The photos taken at the Serpentine Gallery marked her first public appearance after her divorce from then-Prince Charles and signalled a step towards freedom in her styling decisions.
Above Princess Diana holding the Lady Dior bag in 1995 (Photo: Lionel Cherruault for Sipa Press)
Princess Diana holding the Lady Dior bag in 1995 (Photo: Lionel Cherruault for Sipa Press)
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In 1995, she wore a Dior handbag while in Argentina. The bag’s sleek silhouette and geometric patterning elevated her outfit. Afterwards, the brand renamed the Chou Chou bag to ‘Lady Dior’ after her.
It was clear that Princess Diana was never wearing brands solely for their logos. She displayed her unique style, turning each piece into a cohesive element that led to a masterpiece.
In case you missed it: 27 of our favourite looks by Princess Diana
In the contemporary age, quiet luxury has also permeated Manila’s social scene. Here, three ladies from Tatler Asia’s Most Stylish 2023 list share their thoughts on the quiet luxury trend and the use of logos in one’s outfits.
Above Rissa Mananquil Trillo for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
Rissa Mananquil Trillo for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
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For model, beauty columnist, and entrepreneur Rissa Mananquil Trillo, “Logos can become excessive when they overwhelm an outfit, turning it into an advertisement rather than a fashion statement. True elegance never screams; it should only whisper.” For her, the priority is to breathe new life into timeless pieces creatively. Trillo believes “real luxury lies in focusing on quality, craftsmanship, and personal style, rather than conspicuous branding.”
Above Kathy Yap Huang for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
Kathy Yap Huang for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
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Other AMS honourees have a different perspective. “My daily aesthetic is minimal, so I don’t wear anything with logos,” said businesswoman and sports enthusiast Kathy Yap-Huang. “It's difficult to say what is in good and bad taste. Someone somewhere will dislike what you’re wearing, while others may love it. So at the end of the day, wear what makes you happy.”
Above Kifu Augousti for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
Kifu Augousti for Asia's Most Stylish 2023
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Designer Kifu Augousti echoes Huang’s sentiments. “Your clothing and accessory choice should not be because of a brand name, logo, or whether it’s trendy. If you love it, wear it. If sporting something with a logo makes you feel good, then own it and do it!”
Above all, fashion is a personal decision that reflects one’s unique traits and values. The three awardees shed light on different facets of the quiet luxury trend and on using brand logos to showcase one’s style. But they all advocate for thoughtfulness and conviction in one’s choices. Historical figures and modern celebrities can be integral to one’s style journey. However, one’s style sensibilities can only improve when one layers a distinctive twist over those sparks of inspiration.
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About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
