The 8 Beginner Tips for Minimalist Fashion
Minimalist style has been a rapidly growing fashion trend in recent years. It perhaps received fresh impetus when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global clothing supply chains and people looked to simplify their style for a more comfortable look.
Many people suddenly realized you can still look effortlessly fashionable without cramming your closet. Websites dedicated to minimalist fashion such as The Trending Man have seen accelerated growth over the past year.
Given that it goes contrary to fashion convention, a minimalist style can be challenging to pull off if you have never tried it before. Fortunately, it is not that difficult to get on the minimalist fashion train. At its core, it comes down to paying attention to the look, style, and message. Here are some valuable tips to kickstart your exciting journey to minimalist nirvana.
It’s All About the Layers
Layering is especially useful during the winter and the fall. During these colder months, you are constantly grappling with the question of what to wear to keep warm. Fortunately, you can get through the cold by simple layering.
For example, you can pair dark pants with a light, comfortable sweater and complete the look with a long trench coat. You will not be wearing too much but it will be more than enough to keep away the cold.
One Base Color
Choosing one, the base color is a nice way to launch a minimalist wardrobe. Add accent pieces such as shoes and jackets to increase your color diversity. However, having a single color palate is a convenient avenue for standing out, without wearing too many items or colors.
Texture
One of the risks of going with one base color – and perhaps the main reason people are reluctant to go minimalist – is the fear of monotony. This does not have to be the case though. The minimalist approach is about sophisticated simplicity as opposed to a bland, forgettable style. You can increase the diversity of your monochrome fashion by introducing a variety of textures.
When in Doubt, Watch It
A stylish and simplistic watch is the ideal complement to your minimalist theme. That being said, your choice of watch matters. It must be one that aligns with minimalist fashion. Get a simple, yet classy watch that can accentuate your look without necessarily breaking the bank. You could stock up on different straps and colors as long as you do not overdo it. As you shop for a watch, prioritize those produced with a sustainable approach.
Do Not Complicate
While a simple watch is an excellent accessory for a minimalist style, be careful not to add other items and complicate the look. If you’re wearing graphic tees, it is recommended not to add any accessories or layer them with a printed blazer or jacket. Too many accessories and flashy jewelry will throw off a minimalist look. Feel free to accessorize, but do not go overboard. You could inadvertently stray into the maximalist territory.
Dress It Up, Dress It Down
Minimalist style is inherently versatile. You can switch it up or down depending on occasion and lifestyle. The same pairing of jeans and tees can be just as suitable when on a relaxing mid-morning outing at the local park as it would be during an afternoon spent at home with family.
Such flexibility is another reason minimalist fashion is so powerful. You can make it what you want it to be -– something that is harder to do with conventional style.
Declutter the Closet
It is difficult to be minimalist if your wardrobe is overflowing with clothes. The more clothes you have in your closet, the harder you will find fashion decision-making. Declutter your closet and get rid of anything that is inconsistent with your new style.
Keep a few favorite pieces, then either store, donate, or discard the rest. Donating clothes to a charitable organization will also help relieve the sense of loss you may feel from letting go of pieces you were attached to.
Find Your Own Unique Look
Minimalist fashion is not a monolith, there are numerous possible styles. Ultimately, you have to identify a style that is uniquely yours and best matches your tastes. Going for multiple minimalist styles would negate the very theme you are hoping to achieve. Of course, there is no harm in venturing into uncharted waters once in a while.
Step-by-Step
Going minimalist is a process, not an event. Start by trying outlooks you deem relatively easy to pull off before you try experimenting with bolder or more permanent ones.