Lately, I’ve been jokingly saying that I’m in my “quiet luxury era.” Maybe it’s a reflection of the season of life I’m in, a cultural zeitgeist, or simply my desire to enjoy life surrounded by elements that make me feel elevated and put together. Yet, I also want to stay budget-conscious and practice conscious consumerism. This got me thinking: Is it possible to embrace a quiet luxury lifestyle no matter where you are financially? Here are a few ideas that got me thinking. 

What Does Quiet Luxury Mean to Me?

To me, quiet luxury is about understated elegance and sophistication without the need for overt displays of wealth. It’s about curating a life filled with quality, mindfulness, and timelessness. It’s not necessarily about spending a fortune, but rather about appreciating and investing in what truly enhances your well-being and environment.

Attitude of Quiet Luxury

The attitude of quiet luxury starts with a mindset. It’s about valuing experiences and items that bring genuine joy and fulfillment. Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You to Be Rich, encourages envisioning your dream life and focusing on what truly matters to you. This involves prioritizing elements that align with your values and aspirations, rather than chasing after fleeting trends or material excess.

Enjoying and Focusing on What I Love

Quiet luxury also involves enjoying the things you love and focusing on what genuinely enriches your life. For instance, if you love a beautifully crafted journal, investing in one that you’ll use daily can feel luxurious without breaking the bank. The key is to focus on items and experiences that align with your personal taste and values.

Think About What “Luxurious” Items I Want

Consider what items you truly want to live with. Luxury doesn’t always have to be expensive; it can be found in simple pleasures and thoughtfully chosen possessions. For example, a well-made pair of shoes or a beautifully designed coffee mug can add a touch of elegance to your everyday routine. Secondhand and vintage shopping is a fantastic way to discover high-quality items at a fraction of the original cost. Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Facebook Marketplace offer unique finds that can add a touch of sophistication to your life. These pieces often carry their own stories and can be a more sustainable choice than buying new. 

Connect to Conscious Consumerism

Embracing quiet luxury is closely connected to conscious consumerism. This means being mindful of the environmental and social impacts of your purchases. Opting for sustainable brands, supporting local artisans, and choosing high-quality, long-lasting products align with both quiet luxury and responsible living. According to Sustainable Living Guide, making eco-friendly choices and supporting brands with ethical practices can help you enjoy luxury while being kind to the planet.

Go Beyond the label

One of the most attainable ways the “quiet luxury movement” I’ve seen exhibited in fashion has been a focus on elevated basics. This means moving beyond the label to less visible branding. In this sense, if the label and branding isn’t a consideration, then it’s actually a wonderful way to think about what attainable elevated style looks like in a more affordable way. 

Life Your Life

In the words of TI and Rihanna, “Live your life, instead of chasing the paper.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of quiet luxury. It’s about living fully and authentically, enjoying the simple and refined pleasures of life. Instead of chasing after material wealth or societal expectations, I try to focus on what makes one feel like the luxurious goddess (or however you identify) they are. It’s about savoring life’s moments and celebrating the understated elegance that resonates.

Embracing quiet luxury on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By adopting an attitude of elegance, focusing on what you love, and connecting with conscious consumerism, I can create a life of refined sophistication without succumbing to overconsumption or financial strain. Elevate your life by choosing quality over quantity and appreciating the beauty in simplicity. Not to mention, I’m living my dream life.

Being in my “quiet luxury” is not just about what I have, but how I live and enjoy the moments that truly matter. Living a life with grace, savoring every elegant detail and mindful choice. What are some ways you are living into your “quiet luxury era”?