how to style
Written By Katie Mander
Let’s talk about a trend that's taking the fashion world by storm: the Mob Wife Aesthetic. Now, if you're picturing the lavish, bold styles of Carmela Soprano or the fierce ladies from "Mob Wives," then you're on the right track. This trend is a fabulous blend of '90s glamor, early 2010s luxury, and a touch of that unmistakable Italian-American flair that we've come to adore and associate with the iconic mob wives of the media.
A Little History Lesson
The Mob Wife Aesthetic isn't just a flash in the fashion pan; it's a rich narrative woven through decades of cinematic and television history. Inspired by the opulent and sometimes audacious styles of mob wives from shows like "The Sopranos" and reality series "Mob Wives," this trend harks back to a time of conspicuous wealth, maximalist fashion, and the unapologetic embrace of luxury. It's a nod to the women who stand strong, dripping in confidence (and jewels), showcasing the sophisticated edge of those who've mastered the art of power dressing.
The Antithesis of Quiet Luxury
We’ve seen and heard a lot about the quiet luxury phenomenon. And while that is still going strong and will always be in style, this new mob wife aesthetic is pretty much the complete 180-degree turn from quiet lux. Think of the pendulum swinging from one side to the other. That is precisely what is happening with these opposing aesthetics. They both speak to aspirational wealth; however, their approaches are quite different. One is neither good nor bad, just different. Honing in on which one speaks to you will help make it feel more wearable.
The Elements of Mob Wife Chic
Fur Coats
A fur coat in the mob wife’s wardrobe transcends mere outerwear; it's a mantle of royalty. Imagine the plush feel of faux or real fur against your skin, enveloping you in warmth and undeniable luxury. These coats, whether full-length for dramatic entrances or trimmed for a subtler statement, are not just about keeping the cold at bay; they're about surrounding yourself with tactile opulence that's visually stunning and emotionally comforting. Fur coats represent the pinnacle of glamor, perfect for making any ordinary day feel like a scene from a lavish drama.
Personally, I’ve been having a fabulous time wearing a vintage fur I inherited from my mother-in-law. I love the history that accompanies a vintage fur - in this case, a story about my father-in-law winning at the craps table and buying this fur jacket. And even if there isn’t a direct connection, there is always a history with vintage pieces. The bonus is that it is a sustainable luxury, usually at a great price.
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Black Leather
The epitome of edgy sophistication. Black leather pieces—be it the sleek jacket that hugs your shoulders, the pants that sculpt your form, or the gloves that grace your hands—speak a language of strength and rebellion. This material is transformative, turning the simple act of dressing into an assertion of independence and fierce individuality. In the mob wife aesthetic, black leather is the armor adorned for battles in boardrooms or flirtations at the bar, versatile yet visceral in its appeal.
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Heavy Jewelry
Adorning oneself in heavy, gold jewelry within this aesthetic is akin to donning one's medals of honor. Chunky necklaces rest against your collarbone like chains of command, oversized rings adorn your fingers as seals of power, and statement earrings frame your face as symbols of status. This jewelry is not mere decoration; it's a manifestation of wealth, influence, and the unspoken language of luxury. Each piece tells a story, a history of victories, loves, and lives lived opulently.
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Animal Prints
The call of the wild is embodied in luxurious fabric. Animal prints in the mob wife aesthetic are not just patterns but declarations of boldness and beauty. Leopard spots, zebra stripes, and snake patterns are worn as symbols of power and primal elegance. Whether it's a silk blouse that moves as gracefully as you do or a statement coat that wraps you in untamed majesty, animal prints are essential to capturing the fearless essence of the mob wife style.
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Bigger Sunglasses
No mob wife ensemble is complete without a pair of oversized, statement-making sunglasses. They're not just about shielding your eyes from the paparazzi flashes or the glaring sun; they're a fortress of mystery and allure. Bigger sunglasses encapsulate the essence of the mob wife aesthetic – they're bold and dramatic and add an instant touch of mystery and glamor to any look. Whether you're making a grocery run or stepping out for a glamorous event, these sunglasses are your allies in adding that final touch of mystique and power to your outfit.
Add one of these elements, or add them all, depending on how “mobby” you’re feeling.
Confidence and Attitude
At the heart of the mob wife aesthetic is an indomitable spirit, a confidence that radiates from within and casts a spell over every garment worn. This style is for the woman who knows her worth and walks with a purpose. It's for the one who commands attention not just with her fashion choices but with her presence, her poise, and her power. The mob wife aesthetic is as much about the clothes as it is about the woman wearing them—bold, beautiful, and utterly unstoppable.
Together, these elements form the quintessential mob wife look – a testament to the power, confidence, and unapologetic style of women who command attention and respect in every room they enter.
How to Master the Mob Wife Look
Adopting the mob wife aesthetic doesn't mean you need to overhaul your entire wardrobe. Or necessarily incorporate all of the elements into your look. In fact, for many, it may be too over the top. The goal is to incorporate the aesthetic in a way that feels authentic yet fun to you.
We do not want to feel like we are going to a costume party as a mob wife. Rather, we want to add touches of the aesthetic to our looks. How much you add is entirely up to you. And only you will know when enough is enough.
Start with the basics: incorporate a statement animal print piece, perhaps a scarf or a blouse, into your outfit. Layer it with a luxurious fur coat or a sleek leather jacket for those cooler nights. Accessorize with bold, gold jewelry to highlight your ensemble, and most importantly, wear it all with the confidence of a queen who runs her domain.
Remember, darlings, the mob wife aesthetic is more than just a trend; it's a celebration of strength, sophistication, and the unabashed embrace of one's personal style. It's about owning your power, your decisions, and yes, your incredible fashion sense. So here's to us, embracing the bold, the luxurious, and the slightly dangerous side of fashion with open arms and an attitude to match. Let's show the world what it means to walk in the shoes of a mob wife, where every step is a statement and every outfit tells a story.
And with that, it's time to raid your closets (or maybe do a little shopping) and step into the glamorous world of mob wife chic. Who knows? You might just find that this bold and luxurious aesthetic is the perfect match for your own fierce and fabulous personality.
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Katie Mander
