Fast fashion has been on the mainstream for the last couple of decades and has greatly impacted on our planet economically as well as environmentally: the detrimental effects of cheap and toxic dyes leading to widespread water pollution, the staggering volumes of textile waste, the pervasive reliance on fossil fuel-based materials such as polyester, and the immense pressures faced by cotton farmers, among others. Amidst this tumultuous landscape, a compelling and much sustainable trend is emerging that challenges conventional norms and expectations: minimalism.
What is minimalist style?
You might have heard of the Marie Kondo method, or the idea “less is more”? If yes, then you might be familiar with the definition of minimalism, which involves removing the superfluous, retaining only those elements that genuinely offer value and bring joy. In the realm of fashion, minimalist style encompasses maintaining a small, curated collection of garments that align with your personal taste and elicit a sense of delight.
In a world driven by the constant urge to consume more, minimalism boldly suggests, “Hey! Have you ever considered having less?” Less debt, less clutter, less stress, and less hoarding. The result? Reduce stress shopping pattern, financial burden from overspending, and be mindful with your money. Wondering how to embark on this journey? Everything starts with organizing your wardrobe.
How to start your minimalist clothing style?
1. Cleaning Out Your Closet
Begin by assessing the contents of your current wardrobe. Take the time to sort and organize your apparel, categorizing items into three distinct groups: Donations, consignments, and clothes to keep.
When deciding what to keep, think about how often you wear an item and if it goes well with the staple pieces you want to buy in the future. Only keep the clothes you truly love and plan to wear often. Or like Marie Kondo always says: Does it spark joy?
Remember, you don’t have to get rid of something just because it’s from a fast fashion brand. Sustainable fashion is about wearing what you already have and keeping clothes out of landfills. Sometimes a little change, like hemming or remaking, can give your clothes a fresh look.
For gently worn clothes that you no longer wear, set them aside to sell online or at a consignment store in your area. The money you earn can be used to invest in higher-quality garments later on.
Create a donation pile for clothes you love but that don’t meet the standards for consignment. Donate them to local charities. If some clothes are damaged and can’t be worn, you can repurpose them as cleaning rags or find a textile donation center.
Most importantly, take the process slowly. You don’t have to get rid of all your clothes all at once, right away. Over the next year, gradually replace a few items with one or two quality pieces. This will make the process less overwhelming and painful while parting.
2. Explore Your Personal Style & Craft Distinctive Outfits
It’s important to feel confident and peaceful in the clothes we wear on a daily basis. When building a minimalist wardrobe, let go of fleeting fashion trends and instead focus on a style that is true to your individuality. A genuine and timeless wardrobe piece will let your personality shine through and make you feel truly yourself.
Ask yourself: What message do I want my clothes to convey about me? Which fabrics and cuts do I find most comfortable? What colors, patterns, and accessories enhance my true self and harmonize with my personality?
Consider creating a collage or gathering images of outfits and styles that resonate with you. You can also get through these notes when starting to create your own minimalist style fashion:
- No Ideal Number: There is no specific count of clothing items (or any items) that defines a minimalist wardrobe. It’s not about the quantity, but rather about finding what works for you.
- Fine-Tune Your Style: Minimalism is all about refining your personal style. The only rule is to let go of excess and embrace what truly resonates with you.
- Embrace Color and Versatility: Minimalism doesn’t have to be limited to monotonous tones. Feel free to infuse your wardrobe with vibrant colors and versatile items, allowing your style to shine. Vintage sweatshirts, tailored trousers or structured blazers,… are all perfect and commonly associated with the minimalism fashion style.
- Thoughtful Disposal: Instead of immediately sending your unwanted items to the landfill, consider more mindful options. Donate, sell, or gift them to someone who may find value in them.
- Empty Space Speaks Louder: Take joy in the open space that minimalism brings. Allow it to cultivate gratitude and tranquility within your mind and spirit.
3. Must-have minimalist outfit formulas that will glow you up
The key to minimalism is to focus on quality, versatility, and selecting pieces that truly resonate with your personal style. However, choosing minimalist style clothing that mixes & matches perfectly is not an easy task, but there’s still a way to make it an enjoyable process. Don’t miss these suggested outfit formulas that provide a foundation for creating effortless and timeless looks while minimizing clutter in your wardrobe:
- Classic White Shirt & Black Trousers: Pair a crisp white shirt with tailored black trousers for an effortlessly sophisticated and timeless look.
- Sweater & High-Waisted Jeans: Combine a cozy, neutral-colored sweatshirt from Meet Hank with high-waisted jeans for a comfortable yet stylish ensemble.
- Monochrome Ensemble: Experiment with monochromatic outfits by wearing different shades of a single color. For example, pair a light gray sweater with charcoal gray trousers and white sneakers for a sleek and coordinated appearance.
- Little Black Minimalist Style Dress & Minimal Accessories: Opt for a simple, well-fitted little black dress and accessorize with minimalistic jewelry and a sleek bag for an elegant and versatile outfit.
- White Tee & Midi Skirt: Create a chic and relaxed outfit by teaming a basic white t-shirt with a flowy midi skirt. Finish the look with minimalist sandals or sneakers.
- Oversized Knit & Leggings: Embrace a cozy and laid-back look with an oversized knit sweater and black leggings. Complete the outfit with ankle boots or sneakers.
Modern minimalist style – solution for modern life
“An authentic, timeless wardrobe will reflect your personality and make you feel most like yourself.”
In this fast-paced and cluttered world, modern minimalism seeks to streamline and declutter both our physical and mental spaces. It encourages us to let go of the excess, focusing only on the essential and meaningful. By adopting a minimalist style, we can truly free ourselves from over accumulating the unnecessary things in life.
Additionally, minimalism enables us to live intentionally, purposely, and a heightened awareness of what truly matters. In a world that often overwhelms us with choices and distractions, modern minimalism offers a refreshing and practical solution for modern life.
