Sometimes, when you’ve got it you really don’t have to flaunt it. This is the idea behind the newest trend sneaking up on the fashion world — stealth wealth. The idea is the super-rich do not need to dress themselves in trendy pieces with logos everywhere to let people know they can afford to do so, instead they dress in even more absurdly expensive plain pieces that are basically unrecognizable to the average person in passing.
As overconsumption and logo-mania have taken the fashion world by storm, carrying a designer bag or looking on trend no longer appears wealthy, in fact, you look about as basic as can be. These groups want to differentiate themselves and make a statement — one that only others in their world could even begin to understand. Stealth wealth is about ditching the bright colors, cheap fabrics and baggy low-rise pants for classic, tailored silhouettes and fabrics such as cashmere and satin in neutral tones.
Gweynth Paltrow’s Courtroom Outfits
Paltrow’s outfits for her latest trial are a lesson in luxury. While her style is classic and perfectly understated, some of her looks retail for about $25,000 all in.
“Succession” Style
Fashion experts believe the popular television show “Succession” was the catalyst behind the resurgence of the stealth wealth trend. The uber wealthy character don the most plain clothing, but for a hefty price tag — their favorite black hats retail for almost $600 from Loro Piana.
Kendall Jenner’s Casual Coachella
Kendall’s “anti-Coachella” look emphasizes how the super rich are trying to separate themselves from influencers and new celebs that have risen to popularity through TikTok and other social media. Her plain black tank and trousers from St. Agni are set to release this summer and her strappy sandals are from The Row, a stealth wealth staple. In a world where everyone tries to stand out with fringe and crochet, Kendall Jenner shows she stands out all on her own.
While some speculate this change in trend has to do with the economy, others view it as a tale as old as time. Those with generational wealth pride themselves on being “old money” versus the gaudy “new money” crowd we know today, and many of these groups stem from the WASP-y, Protestant communities on the East Coast. This type of culture has always veered towards a more classic, minimalistic look and now other celebrities and TV shows are just showcasing that.
Tweet us @VALLEYmag to let us know what you think of the latest stealth wealth trend! Do you think it will last?
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