I’m a fashion expert and there’s a couple of tricks to looking super wealthy – and why Peacocks is your must go-to shop
BUY high, look low-key is the motto for the stealth wealth trend that has taken the fashion world by storm.
Making waves on social media, the hashtag #stealthwealth has had more than 4.8million views on TikTok as people seek tips on how to achieve a luxe look.
And it’s no surprise the trend is having its moment.
When Gwyneth Paltrow’s ski crash trial made news last month, the 50-year-old wellness guru’s wardrobe was as much a talking point as the courtroom drama itself.
Neutral tones, power heels, classic silhouettes and minimal jewellery, actress Gwynnie’s look screamed old money, power and class.
Plus with the fourth and final season of drama Succession currently airing on Sky Atlantic and Now, we’ve got one last chance to look in awe at Shiv Roy in her smart suits, roll necks and minimalist colour palette.
While Shiv is a fictional character — brought to life by actress Sarah Snook — she and Gwyneth are both able to buy clothing without thinking about the price tag.
Which isn’t a luxury everyone can afford.
So how can you hop on board this trend and dress like a millionaire without the bank balance to back it up? Instagram influencer Melissa Abbott runs @backofthewardrobe70 and knows a thing or two about it.
Melissa is mum to India, 25, Poppy, 22, Romily, 19, and Lottie, 18. She lives in Harrogate, North Yorks with partner Richard, 55, and has more than 100,000 followers.
She says: “I’m a part-time teacher and I have always loved fashion, but with a big family I have had to budget with my wardrobe.
“I’m now 52, but still want value for money. Cost per wear is important, so I mix the high street with the odd designer buy.
“There are plenty of excellent quality options on the high street, so my advice is to stick to classic pieces like a white T-shirt.
“Primark men’s are excellent as they have a better silhouette than women’s. This gives a more structured fit rather than hugging your body.
“A trench coat is also a great option — I recommend Peacocks, which has one available for £42.
“Straight-leg jeans from Marks & Spencer are also a fave of mine, and can cost as little as £22.50.”
So once you’ve got the basics, how do you go about styling yourself?
Ruching up sleeves on a blazer or trench can add an extra dimension to your look.
Melissa says: “Amazon sells sleeve bands for as little as £3.99, which are great at stopping your sleeves from constantly dropping down.
“A white T-shirt and black blazer looks way more luxe with a statement belt tied on top of the blazer.
“And don’t forget about your hair and make-up — as we get older it’s easy to get stuck in a rut.
“But adding some lipstick and making your hair look sleek will instantly uplift any look.
“Plus, accessories are important to elevate a look so gold jewellery and a belt can do wonders. H&M always does a similar look to any new designs from luxury brands. But ultimately keeping it simple is key.
“The worst mistake people make is wearing too many logos. They can have the opposite effect and don’t give off an understated wealthy look.”
As well as creams, beiges and browns, look for green tones such as khaki, olive and pistachio, plus burgundy hues for added richness.
Other celebrities that ooze this look include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley — the 35-year-old model often posts shots on Instagram showcasing her classic minimalist style and neutral colour palette.
Actress Jennifer Aniston is often spotted wearing a cashmere jumper, with a simple gold necklace.
And TV presenter Rochelle Humes is known for creating luxe-style looks with clean colours, sharp tailoring and expensive-looking knitwear.
Melissa started her Instagram account in 2017 after chatting to like-minded women about style on Facebook groups.
She says: “It took some courage for me to make my Instagram public, but there aren’t enough women of my age or everyday lifestyle represented in fashion, so I wanted to show you can still look and feel great whatever your age or budget.
Melissa’s Instagram showcases her love of classic shapes, colours and patterns, and mixes in brands from all over the high street to achieve her wealthy look on a budget.
She says: “Women often tell me they’ve lost their sense of self after having a family or a change in life.
“They’re not happy with how they look, but don’t know what to do to change that.
“I’ve had lots of feedback that followers have found they’ve discovered how to dress and plan their wardrobe through my account, and that you don’t need a huge budget to look good and feel great.
“I just want to carry on helping women to feel better about themselves.
“It gives me joy being told I’ve helped someone gain their confidence again.”
Look a million dollars with wise buys
