‘White Lotus’ redefines luxury resort style 

For fans of The White Lotus, it’s no surprise that fashion has become a central point of conversation, aside from the show’s biting social commentary and buzzing conspiracy theories.

Across its three seasons, The White Lotus has become a showcase of resort fashion. Costume designer Alex Bovaird uses wardrobe choices to subtly reflect each character’s personality.

When watching The White Lotus, it effortlessly aligns with the rising trend in fashion of “quiet luxury”. Many of us are probably familiar with the loud logos and flashy ensembles that typically define mainstream “luxury.” However, a new trend has emerged that places more emphasis on craftsmanship, subtlety, and authenticity. We’re talking about silhouettes that are impeccably tailored, high-quality fabrics, a myriad of textures, playful patterns and a color palette that speaks volumes without the need for attention-grabbing logos.

The wardrobes of The White Lotus characters embody a duality: some individuals arrive in put-together ensembles—coupled with statement accessories and designer brand displays—while others opt for understated resort wear, hinting at a sign of comfort and an unbothered kind of elegance. It’s this tension that makes the show’s fashion so watchable: who’s performing wealth, and who’s simply living in it?

Interestingly, it’s these muted pieces that exude the most appeal. In one sense, they feel timeless, the kind of garments that could be reworn on multiple trips without feeling passé (linen). This subtle style shows confidence—there’s no need to flaunt status when quality speaks for itself.

Quiet luxury, after all, is still a form of exclusivity.  While it may reject flashy branding, it still requires access to a certain level of taste, tailoring, and privilege. It’s an aesthetic that says, “I don’t need to prove anything.”

Courtesy of HBO

Chelsea and Rick standing outside.

Within The White Lotus, you see both ends of the spectrum played out in wardrobes: from the first episode of season 3 upon arrival at the resort when the groups of guests introduce themselves to the famous Sritala–owner of the resort (played by Lek Patravadi). Arriving off the boat, Chelsea is dressed in a cut out crochet halter dress with stylish detailing and Rick in a patterned shirt and cargos, which speaks to how his character develops throughout the entire season. Chelsea, who has a vibrant personality and a free -spirited gem, always rocks her bohemian looks that fans have obsessed over.

Courtesy of HBO

Chelsea at the resort pool in a red bikini.

Her new friend, Chloe (played by Charlotte Le Bon ), whom she meets at the resort bar, appears in a slick back, dressed in an eye-catching multi-patterned look. This polka dot bodysuit and zebra mini skirt look, custom-made by Jacquemus, is just the beginning of Chloe’s unreal wardrobe. From her statement beach cover-ups and night looks, she never fails to impress her viewers with her fashion sense. 

Courtesy of HBO

Chloe on Gary’s boat in a pink dress.

Then there’s the trio of Kate (played by Leslie Bibb), Jaclyn Lemon (played by Michelle Monaghan) and Laurie (played by Carrie Coon) who offer insight into wardrobes of patterns, bold colors and accessories. 

Jaclyn is a prime example of loud luxury:  always a hint of designer on display—a Gucci hat for a beach day or the presence of Valentino- asserting her status as the “famous one” of the group. In every scene she is giving this elevated look of a wealthy individual. 

Courtesy of HBO

Jaclyn Lemon, Kate, and Laurie standing outside having a conversation.

Laurie would be an example of quiet luxury. She seems to have the least curated outfits but still appears put together throughout. Luxury pieces from brands like Zimmerman and Loewe are among her wardrobe—only presented in a more practical, minimalist way. 

Kate, who always stands out with her blonde bob and statement pieces, puts her together without any misses throughout the entire season. She’s the medium between quiet and loud luxury, maintaining a subtle sense of luxury present in her outfits. 

Courtesy of HBO

Jaclyn Lemon, Kate, and Laurie outside.

And, of course, we can’t forget the Ratliffs. Victoria Ratliff (played by Parker Posey) is vacationing with her panicked husband Timothy Ratliff (Jason Isaacs) and 3 kids: Saxon (played by Patrick Schwarzenegger) a finance bro in polos, Piper (played by Sarah Catherine Hook) the spiritually curious middle child and Lochlan (played by Sam Nivola) youngest sibling always in printed shirts.

Courtesy of HBO

The Ratliff family outside.

Victoria Ratliff brings class in a matriarchal way— her looks are compiled of patterned caftans, structured cover-ups, and oversized sunglasses that conceal more than just her eyes. Her caftans are what stand out the most in her wardrobe, consistently appearing with multi-patterned looks and bold color palettes.

Courtesy of HBO

Timothy & Victoria Ratliff walking outside under an umbrella.

Belinda’s style gravitates toward quiet luxury through an elegant selection of garments embodying a relaxed, vacation-ready aesthetic.  Her kaftans, kimonos, and floaty dresses, often covered in vibrant colors and tropical prints, bring to her a chic resort wear look. 

Courtesy of HBO

Belinda standing outside with a green kimono.

Sritala (played by Lek Patravadi), the glamorous owner of the resort, is the epitome of loud luxury. Her high status and recognition in Thailand aligns with her bold looks as she champions maximalism through her accessories marking a statement. 

Courtesy of HBO

Sritala, The White Lotus Resort Owner standing outside.

For those looking to channel the White Lotus aesthetic for their next holiday, consider selecting a few core garments that exude subtle sophistication. Rather than gearing toward bold, flashy logos, allow texture and materials to speak for themselves. A white linen shirt or a refined silk slip dress can elevate your resort attire more effectively than any screaming logo ever could.

Ultimately, quiet luxury isn’t a rejection of style; it’s a shift towards a sense of restraint and authenticity. The White Lotus reminds us that wealth—and, more importantly, the appearance of wealth—can be a performance.