For the past five years, HBO’s “Succession” has been a fan favorite for its sharp wit, dysfunctional family dynamics, and iconic minimalist fashion. The show’s emphasis on understated, high-quality clothing has helped popularize the “stealth wealth” fashion trend, which has been around long before the show debuted.
“Stealth wealth” is all about quality and discretion. It’s not about flashy logos or attention-grabbing designs, but rather a polished, sophisticated look that is recognizable only to those in the fashion industry. It’s an extension of previous minimalist fashion trends like ‘90s minimalism or the normcore of the 2010s.
The characters of “Succession” reflect this trend perfectly. Throughout the show’s four seasons, fans have come to expect the characters to be dressed in nondescript clothing, such as blank baseball caps, cashmere sweaters, and neutral-colored suits. For superfans of the show, trying to determine the brand behind the styles has become a fun and challenging game.
“We did our research of the Rupert Murdochs, Sumner Redstones, and Jeff Bezoses of the world,” said Jonathan Schwartz, the assistant costume designer on “Succession.” “We don’t follow necessarily what they are wearing. We follow who the character is and where they would shop. It fits into this overall theme of billionaires because they’re definitely going to those high-priced stores, but it’s really the character that dictates the types of clothing they would wear.”
The show’s characters and their evolving styles are a reflection of the changes in their personalities. For example, Kendall Roy’s character has had the biggest style evolution, starting off the show in corporate-style suits and evolving to more casual, yet pricey leather and suede jackets and streetwear sneakers, all from luxury brands like Loro Piana, Tom Ford, and Gucci.
While the show’s costumes and “stealth wealth” have appealed to the masses for their aspirational quality, they are also aligned with current fashion trends. “Stealth wealth” can be seen as an extension of the pandemic-influenced fashion trend of paring down wardrobes and investing in better quality pieces.
“It’s aspirational because they’re wearing Loro Piana sweaters that most of us might not be able to afford,” said Fashion Institute of Technology professor Cathleen Sheehan. “There’s something interesting about that, that it feels like a shift from ‘look at me’ fashion to look a little closer.”
Overall, the fashion in “Succession” is a reflection of the characters’ personalities, their status as billionaires, and current fashion trends. The show’s popularity has helped fuel demand for certain luxury items, and while it may not be accessible to everyone, there’s something about the show’s aesthetic that resonates with viewers. It’s a reminder that fashion is not just about following the latest trends, but also about personal style, quality, and sophistication.
