In a world filled with ostentatious displays and clamorous extravagance, there exists a rare breed of luxury that whispers its elegance rather than boasting it aloud, and that we call ‘quiet luxury’. Walking through the streets of Geneva in Switzerland, one can attest to the finest examples of it. It is the realm of quiet luxury, where refinement and sophistication are found in the subtlest of details. Quiet luxury is marked by an understated charm, a sense of effortless grace that captivates without overwhelming. It is a sanctuary from the raucousness of trends and the constant need for attention.
Within the realm of quiet luxury, timepieces emerge as veritable masterpieces. Every tick and every sweep of the hand resonates with an ethereal elegance as if careful whispers echoing through time. These timepieces are not adorned with flashy gemstones or exaggerated designs. Instead, they embody understated sophistication —timeless designs, exquisite craftsmanship, and attention to the minutest details.
Each watch is a testament to the ingenuity of its creators and the discerning taste of its wearer, conveying a sense of quiet confidence that speaks volumes without words. Wearing a Vacheron Constantin timepiece honors the brand’s tagline: ‘One of Not Many’. Quiet luxury is reserved for those who are in the know and can say “If you know you know.”
In the realm of quiet luxury, fashion transcends trends to embrace enduring style. Subtle textures, delicate fabrics, and meticulous tailoring intertwine to create garments that are as pleasing to the touch as they are pleasing to the eye. They wrap around the body in gentle embraces, exuding a sense of effortless allure. The absence of logos —or extremely small logos— and ostentatious branding allows the wearer to shine in their own right, emphasizing the individual's intrinsic beauty and refined taste.
In a world that often equates luxury with opulence and excess, quiet luxury stands apart, an oasis for those seeking refuge from the noise and the chaos. It is a testament to the power of understatement, where true luxury lies not in the noise it makes, but in the profound impact it quietly imparts upon those who understand its language. So, let us celebrate the delicate symphony of quiet luxury, for it is in its whisper that its true allure is revealed. In an age of loudness, it is a soothing balm for the overwhelmed soul, an invitation to pause, reflect, and appreciate the sheer elegance that emerges when grandeur is stripped bare.
The Loro Piana Open Walk Chukka Boots are the best example of quiet luxury and the grail shoe for discerning watch collectors in Geneva and all over the world. The last time I was in Geneva, I lost track of how many pairs of Open Walks I saw in the streets —and at Watches & Wonders 2023— in almost every color available but mostly in Chocolate, Navy Blue, Sandstone —pictured here—, and Cucunci —olive green.
Meticulously handcrafted in Italy with the finest attention to detail, showcasing the brand's unwavering dedication to excellence, the Open Walk Chukka Boots are made of suede with a light water-repellent and stain-resistant treatment. These boots exude a luxurious charm that effortlessly elevates any gentleman's wardrobe whether you are in a pair of jeans or a pair of cashmere/wool trousers. The rubber soles are not white nor beige with some translucency making it one of the most distinctive features when recognizing these shoes from afar. And just like with watches, wearing these boots sets you apart from the rest. Wearing these shoes makes you part of a rare breed of connoisseurs who buy things for their craftsmanship and not for others to recognize. As my mother used to say: “you can’t buy class, you’re breastfed with it.”
Their silhouette strikes the perfect balance between casual and refined, ensuring they seamlessly adapt to a range of occasions. The lack of laces and the use of a patented opening with elastic hidden under the tongue provides a contemporary touch but also guarantees maximum comfort throughout the day. As for durability, the Napa-calfskin interior lining and cushioned insole provide unparalleled support, making these shoes a reliable choice for everyday wear and what we wearers like to refer to as the most comfortable shoes on the planet.
Embodying the essence of sophistication, the ultra-small and discreetly placed Loro Piana logo on the back of the right shoe serves as a subtle reminder of the brand's prestigious heritage.
From bustling city streets to serene outdoor adventures, the Loro Piana Open Walk Chukka Boots effortlessly exude timeless style and undeniable elegance, and this right here is why Geneva’s elite and discerning watch collectors love to wear these shoes.
Sticker Price $1,095 USD —Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time not included. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here and for Loro Piana here.
