With so much going on in the world today, more women are looking for ways to simplify and streamline their lives. From Marie Kondo to The Minimalists, we’re all learning more about minimalism and its benefits, becoming more appealing daily. If you’re well on your way to living a more meaningful life and are looking to save money and reduce decision fatigue through a more minimalist wardrobe but aren’t sure where to start, keep reading for all the essentials every woman needs.
Back to Basics
When you start wondering how to create a minimalist capsule wardrobe, you may think you must work towards an aesthetic devoid of color and fun, playful prints. While it’s true that a minimalist wardrobe is all about taking your closet down to the basics, there are no hard rules. Basics will be different from one woman to the next. Those are your basics if you know you feel confident and look your best in animal prints. Florals, houndstooth, plaids, nothing is off the table. But, pare down to the pieces that fit and flatter you most, from tops to bottoms and dresses.
Function and Fashion
Curating a minimalist wardrobe is about having items that can serve dual purposes. You don’t have to use your sense of fashion to still keep functioning. If you have neck, foot, or back issues, invest in shoes that support you. If you deal with more specific concerns, buy items that address them, like orthopedics, plantar fasciitis shoes, or shoes with lifts. When it comes to your wardrobe, be aware of what type of activities you’re involved in regularly and cater to those needs. While it’s fun to shop for fantasy self items, they’re a waste of money sitting in the recesses of your closet, never to be worn. Function and fashion can go hand in hand when you shop smart and with a minimalist mindset.
Quality Over Quantity, Always
Any fashionista knows that keeping up with the trends is fun, even if your look is more classic and less fast-fashion. When it comes to your minimalist wardrobe, opt for quality pieces that you can wear for a lifetime over fast, cheaply made pieces of lesser quality. If you want to stay relevant to trends, opt to do so with your accessories, makeup, and hairstyle. It’s not only more affordable, lessening the financial guilt of splurging on pieces that quickly become dated, but it also forces your creative hand when styling yourself. High-quality pieces you invest in will likely never go out of style and have the potential to last a lifetime.
Your LBD
We’ve all heard of the famed LBD (little black dress), but you don’t need to go little or go black. Your version of the LBD is a go-to outfit that you know fits and flatters you and is dress code appropriate for various occasions. No one enjoys shopping last minute for a funeral, a wedding party, or a sales meeting. Every woman needs her version of the LBD in her minimalist wardrobe, whether it’s a romper or a flattering black midi dress.
Trusty Jeans
Let’s face it; jeans are probably the most iconic piece of fashion history. Jeans have the magical ability to be dressed up or dressed down. Blue denim jeans can be worn in all four seasons and are universally flattering on everyone. While some women swear that the skinny jean trend is fading away, stick with it if that’s your favorite cut. If you are unsure which style is best for you, mid-wash straight-cut jeans are the most flattering on all body types. Investing in the highest quality denim you can afford is a great investment as jeans can easily last a lifetime with proper care and mending.
Every woman is different; there may be other items you consider essential while building your minimalist wardrobe. Leather handbags, a leather bomber, or a jean jacket are common essentials people include. No matter what else you need to add to the list, using the above-mentioned items as your starting point will help you curate a perfect minimalist wardrobe that will work all year long. As you declutter your closet, try selling items you no longer need for extra cash. If you need to trash an item, try locating a local textile recycling center as a more sustainable choice. Start to enjoy a minimalist wardrobe today and reap the benefits for a lifetime!
Images from DESIGN SCENE STYLE: Common Thread by Wojtek Wojtczak – See the full story here
