Why Neutral Colours Have Become Synonymous With Luxury Fashion

With the rise of quiet luxury fashion in recent years, thanks in part to HBO’s Succession, which helped spotlight how billionaires dress without trying too hard, more and more people have been gravitating toward unpretentious, minimalist style. This is also true when it comes to picking the right colour.

What were once seen as bold, powerful palettes have now been replaced by neutral tones that exude understated elegance and timeless sophistication. These soft yet powerful neutral wardrobes are nothing new, as they’ve long been a go-to for the ultra-rich elite. But the post-pandemic fashion climate, from the runways of Zegna to the street styles icons like Hailey Bieber, clearly signals that softer tones are here to stay.

But, here’s the catch: how exactly do you style your wardrobe to match this refined aura? Which colours actually say what? We’re here to help break down the power of neutral palettes and why they’ve taken over the world of luxury fashion.

The short answer is yes, they do. Neutral colours not only complement a wide range of complexions, but also evoke a sense of calm and confidence. Above all, they represent elegance and discretion.

While the classic neutral colours include black, white, brown, and grey, we’ve seen an evolution in recent years with new favourites emerging, such as beige, soft greys, and creamy ivories. We've also noticed a rising interest in soft caramel and cinnamon brown. But one thing remains the same: neutral tones are timeless and evergreen.

For instance, the colour beige — often described as a pale sandy fawn, a greyish tan, or a light greyish-yellowish brown — symbolises soft elegance and chic luxury. There’s a reason it’s frequently used in designer pieces as well. Alessandro Sartori, artistic director of Ermenegildo Zegna, explained it perfectly to The New York Times: “The ultrawealthy don’t want to show off, and beige colours are good in that sense… This class of people is super discreet and doesn’t want to be seen.”

The designer went on to add that people with class and power don’t seek attention, and instead opt for neutral colours that don’t provoke a strong reaction. At the same time, the look still needs to be stylish.

Neutral hues like soft brown and classy white are also visually appealing, as they convey the essence of quiet luxury fashion — refined, understated, and intentional. Designers often favour these colours because they allow the craftsmanship, tailoring, and fabric quality to speak for themselves without relying on loud statements or trends.

We’ve seen how effortlessly Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner manage to look like a million bucks, dressed in a range of neutral tones. But how do they do it? The secret lies in combining subtle colour variations with rich textures, smart layering, and a sharp focus on accessories — no detail is ever overlooked.

For instance, if you’re in favour of dressing in all-white but aren’t sure if you’ve pulled it off, try adding texture to elevate the look. Think linen, silk, and cotton — mix and match these fabrics to create a refined, calm, and collected vibe. Want some contrast? opt for black or tan accessories like handbags, belts, or sunglasses to add some depth without taking away from the clean aesthetic.

Strong layering can also instantly elevate your minimalist look. Take Hailey Bieber, for example — she once stepped out in a simple black T-shirt paired with a soft brown belted skirt. The standout piece, however, was her oversized creamy tan coat, which perfectly captured the essence of quiet luxury. She completed the outfit with black loafers and a mini  Ferragamo bag , striking the right balance between effortless and refined.

Explore our MAYFEYR luxury pieces and discover your go-to neutral essentials today!