A Personal Starting Point

Just a few weeks ago, my wife and I welcomed our second child — a beautiful baby boy. Now we have both a son and a daughter, and our little house (that we’ve spent the last few years renovating) feels more full than ever. Between diaper changes, laundry piles, and toddler energy, the idea of quiet luxury may seem like a far-off dream.

But as I sit on our Amanda Lilholt-designed couch, latte marble coffee table catching the morning light, I realize that quiet luxury isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention. And with kids, intention is everything.

What Is Quiet Luxury, Really?

You’ve seen the look: soft cashmere knits, perfectly worn-in linen, rich textures in muted palettes — but without logos, flash, or trend-chasing. It’s less about what you wear or own, and more about how you carry yourself.

Quiet luxury whispers. It doesn’t need to shout.

This style philosophy is perfect for adults who’ve grown tired of loud trends. But when kids enter the picture, the common assumption is that style takes a back seat to practicality. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t have to.

Bringing Quiet Luxury Into Parenthood

Here’s what I’ve discovered lately:

Fabric matters more than ever. When you’re holding a newborn or chasing a toddler, comfort is key. But comfort doesn’t have to mean sweatpants. A soft knit polo in a natural tone or a beautifully made pair of relaxed trousers can elevate your whole look — even with spit-up on your shoulder.
Colors calm the chaos. Our house is full of neutral, earthy tones. Not just because I love that mid-century palette, but because it helps me feel less overwhelmed. Dressing in that same palette — oatmeal, olive, navy, terracotta — gives me the same grounding effect.
Tailoring works with toddlers. A well-cut jacket thrown over a simple tee looks just as good at the playground as it does at dinner. And structured pieces don’t need to be stuffy — especially in softer, breathable fabrics.

It’s Not About Expensive Clothes

Quiet luxury has become associated with wealth — maybe because the rich are very good at looking like they’re not trying. But you don’t need to spend a fortune. In fact, some of my favorite pieces have come from vintage shops, secondhand stores, or even hand-me-downs from stylish friends.

If anything, having kids just sharpens your eye. You start looking for the right things — not just more things.

Why It Works for Dads Too

This second round of fatherhood has changed how I think about clothing. I’m less interested in looking cool for other people, and more focused on how I feel. And quiet luxury — soft, durable, confident — is kind of the parenting vibe I want to lean into.

When you look like someone who has it together (even when you don’t), it can go a long way.

Final Thoughts

Quiet luxury isn’t a style reserved for child-free minimalists or magazine spreads. It’s an ethos — one that fits surprisingly well into everyday dad (and mom) life.

Because what’s more luxurious than being present, feeling good, and still looking like yourself?