For the past five years, HBO’s “Succession” has been a hit with viewers, praised for its witty banter, complex familial relationships, and understated fashion. The show has given way to a fashion phenomenon known as “stealth wealth,” which emphasizes a minimalist approach to fashion while still exuding quality and attention to detail.
This fashion trend has been around for decades, but “Succession” has brought it to the forefront. Fans of the show have taken to noticing the nondescript clothing that characters wear, such as cashmere sweaters, neutral-colored suits, and blank baseball caps. The clothing is typically from luxury brands like Loro Piana, Brunello Cucinelli, Tom Ford, Paul Stuart, and Ralph Lauren.
The “stealth wealth” trend is an extension of previous minimalist fashion trends like ‘90s minimalism or the normcore of the 2010s. However, it is unique in its emphasis on quality and discretion. The clothing may appear ambiguous or difficult to identify, but it is typically made from high-quality materials and crafted with care.
Jonathan Schwartz, the assistant costume designer on “Succession,” stated that rather than following what media moguls like Rupert Murdoch, Sumner Redstone, and Jeff Bezos wear, the costumes are tailored to fit the characters and their backgrounds. The clothing reflects where the characters would typically shop, which could include high-end stores like Loro Piana, Tom Ford, or Gucci.
The show’s characters have had little style evolution over the four seasons, besides Kendall Roy (played by Jeremy Strong). Schwartz noted that the character’s style has evolved to reflect changes in his character. Starting as a corporate-type, he wears more casual leather and suede jackets and streetwear sneakers from high-end brands.
Despite the show’s characters’ tendencies towards discreet fashion, it has sparked interest in certain luxury items featured in the show. Accessories like Loro Piana’s baseball cap and white-soled shoes have soared in popularity, selling out at retail after “Succession” characters wear them.
Viewers of the show have become eager to “find the label,” and the Burberry Title Vintage Check Tote Bag is a prime example. After a character wore the bag in the show’s fourth season premiere, searches for the bag on Google skyrocketed.
The “stealth wealth” trend may appeal to the masses because of its aspirational qualities. It reflects a shift towards paring down wardrobes and investing in better quality pieces, a trend that has been seen during the pandemic.
Overall, “Succession” has become a prime example of the “stealth wealth” fashion phenomenon, a minimalist yet high-quality approach to fashion. While the clothing may seem nondescript and ambiguous, it is typically made from high-end materials and reflects attention to detail.
