IYKYK: 9 Understated Brands That Are Defining the Anti-Trend Aesthetic

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_; @monikh; @camillecharriere)

After seasons of pendulum-swinging extremes, the fashion world is hitting refresh and entering its anti-trend era. While it's not the death of trends per se, this rising aesthetic is underscoring the importance (and staying power) of clean lines and modern tailoring. In other words, it's a decisive shift towards minimalist dressing and away from OTT viral pieces.

More and more celebrities and fashion people are tapping into this pared-back look and just like the hush-hush tones of the quiet-luxury aesthetic, anti-trend style equally hinges on silhouettes and items that don't scream, but rather whisper. In fact, it all comes down to a few minimalist clothing brands they all seem to wear. These "in the know" labels are behind some of the most noteworthy anti-trend ensembles right now, from the linen skirt set Sofia Richie wore during her wedding weekend in France to the '90s mini dress in Kendall Jenner's latest model-off-duty outfit.

Ahead, discover the nine minimalist clothing brands that are peak "if you know, you know". If you similarly like to line your closet with versatile neutrals and sleek staples, I guarantee you'll find some items here to add to your shopping cart for the season ahead.

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

Sublimely clean lines and an undertone of '90s tailoring are what Australian brand St. Agni is known for. It's no wonder Kendall Jenner is a loyal fan of its slinky minidresses and low-slung trousers.

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(Image credit: Backgrid)

On Kendall Jenner: St. Agni Vas Knit Mini Dress ($269); Bottega Veneta Andiamo Small Leather Tote Bag ($4500); Gucci shoes and sunglasses

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(Image credit: @monikh)

I was surprised to learn that Dragon Diffusion founder Craig Wright launched his accessory label in 1985 and not in the 2020s because the handwoven totes have undoubtedly sprung onto the scene recently thanks to a new generation of noteworthy fans, including Jeanne Damas and Elizabeth Olsen. The brand fuses traditional weaving techniques with modern, elegant shapes, and fashion people are carrying the bags everywhere, from the city to the beach.

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

If the elevated summer style of Sofia Richie Grainge is speaking to you right now, then chances are you've probably typed "Posse linen set" into Google and perused the Aussie label's selection of chic and understated staples. If you did, you'd find a trove of maxi-skirt sets and linen tailoring that is just begging to become the backbone of your summer wardrobe this year and well beyond.

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(Image credit: @sofiarichiegrainge)

On Sofia Richie: Posse Emma Linen Vest ($210) and Emma Linen Skirt ($249); The Row sandals; Chanel bag and scarf

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

If, like me, you follow a certain subset of fashion people who have minimal style, you've definitely gotten the idea that everyone and their mother is wearing an Attersee vest right now. The nipped-waist style features a high neck and covered buttons and comes in a range of natural linens and luxe velvets. It's the definition of an "if you know, you know" piece, but don't miss the rest of the brand's equally delightful offering.

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Cool girls wear HommeGirls, and that's a fact. Dedicated to the women who shop in the men's section, the magazine/clothing brand is where you'll find expertly tailored menswear staples like crisp shirting, matching boxer shorts, and logo-trimmed trousers.

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(Image credit: @elizagracehuber)

Dissh is not only a fan favorite among Who What Wear editors, but it also garners excitement every single time I mention it to someone. Clearly, the affordable yet high-quality classics are resonating with everyone.

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(Image credit: @styledsara)

Australians are masters of the quiet-luxury aesthetic, so it's no wonder this list is filled with them. Another mainstay of this style is SIR, and the brand's lace-trimmed slip dresses and elevated resortwear are always on my wish list.

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

This subset of fashion people can often be found wearing shoes from the likes of The Row and Khaite, but emerging label A.Emery is earning a coveted spot in their sandal rotations.

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(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

If I could build an entire wardrobe from a single brand, it would undoubtedly be from Danish label By Malene Birger. The contemporary brand is home to a trove of sleek silhouettes and modern, elevated staples that go far beyond seasons.

Next: The 12 Editor-Approved Trends I'm Wearing Until Further Notice

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.