Since the beginning of time, quiet luxury has been a status symbol. Its muted colors, subtle elegance and lack of logos have made it a popular choice.
A shift has begun.
America’s wealthy billionaires are adopting an increasingly bold and expressive style, which could signal the end of a long-dominant fashion trend.
The New York Fashion Week of 2014 provided a peek into this changing landscape.
The attendees seemed to have broken free of the “quiet” luxury, with more vibrant prints and luxurious fabrics. Fur pieces were also seen on the runways from designers such as Michael Kors Coach and Carolina Herrera.
The change in tastes of consumers suggests that they are becoming more individualistic and rejecting the homogeneous aesthetics which once defined wealth.
The rise of public-facing executives: CEOs at the forefront
The shift in preferences of consumers reflects a larger trend involving America’s corporate elite and billionaires, who have been increasingly coming out from the shadows.
This year’s presidential inaugural was a prime example, as tech leaders such as Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos were in attendance, but also prominently seated in front of chief staffers for the president-elect.
The level of public visibility that this titan of industry has achieved is unprecedented. It suggests a willingness to interact with the general public, and play a larger role in cultural conversations.
Lauren Sanchez, Jeff Bezos’ wife, also made a fashion statement by wearing a pantsuit that was low-cut with a bralette in white peeking through.
From hoodie, to a high-flying personality: The evolution of the Tech Titan
Many CEOs used to lead from the background, keeping their company’s interests in mind.
This is no longer a popular model.
Fashion is a major area where billionaires express their individuality.
Formerly known as unassuming tech CEOs who wore hoodies, they have now become public figures.
Zuckerberg is often seen with MMA fighters and hosts livestreams for online users. He also lobbyed at the US Capitol.
Bezos is photographed with his stylish wife in an edgier look, while he lounges aboard his megayacht. He also solicits input from the public on which actors to cast for his films.
Musk is not one to hide from the limelight. He has appeared in front of President Trump at press conferences, holding a chainsaw during a conservative event, and even performing at Dave Chappelle’s comedy show.
It is a stark contrast with figures such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates.
Both were pioneers and billionaires in their industries. However, neither sought out personal attention. Instead they used public appearances primarily to market their products.
Luxury redefined: Expression over Inconspicuousness
The shift in wealth reflects the broader changes taking place within corporate America as well amongst America’s richest individuals.
The rich are expressing themselves more and more boldly as “quiet” luxury fades.
The next generation of consumers who are accustomed to luxury is now here. Chandler Mount, the founder of Affluent consumer research company, said that this 18-34-year-old group constantly redefines luxury because they’re its primary purchasers.
The clothes they wear should be more expressive. What they wear should reveal something about their personalities.
What is the end of hidden wealth?
Quiet Luxury was initially a response to fast fashion and flashy brands. It became a way of expressing wealth in a stealthy manner.
The pendulum has swung the other way, and people are now trying to be noticed.
Simbarashe Cha, a fashion writer and photographer who attended this year’s New York Fashion Week in New York City, observed that the tides are changing for “quiet Luxury”.
The wealthy, in an age of individuality and expression, are choosing bolder choices to reflect their personalities and values.
The post Quiet Luxury: Has bold statement dethroned stealth? This post may change as the updates unfold
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