Bare Necessities: Minimalist Guide
Graphic by Grace Lougheed. Image via Pixie Market.
Since lockdown restrictions are limiting access to clothing stores and postal services have slowed, the new normal for fashion could be shifting toward minimalism: doing more with less.
For a long time, I struggled with the concept of minimalism simply because, in my head, minimalism was synonymous with bare. Fashion for me has always meant expressing myself through rare pieces or going through my mom’s wardrobe to transform one of her clothes into something more millennial-chic. The thought of showing up looking bare appalled me.
My idea of minimalism, however, was wrong, and if you’re just like me and don't know where to start, just keep reading.
The core essence of minimalism is being unapologetic while staying true to details that bring your look together seamlessly. Minimalism is not meant to bore you and is definitely not meant to break the bank.
I have a few tips that will hopefully inspire you to prioritize items in your shopping basket according to their timelessness. You might even show up to your first post-quarantine brunch effortlessly slaying.
Tip #1: A WHITE/NUDE TANK
One tip I will never not stress is having your basic white tank or bodysuit because it is easily the simplest foundation to build upon. The beauty of a tank top or bodysuit is that it is never out of your comfort zone and it is an investment that can work with any layered look.
You can make a tank go from chilling at home to a brunch with the girls in seven minutes (give or take) when it is paired with the right accessories. The ribbed knits from Zara and Urban Outfitters are affordable investments. While the Skims bodysuit is a bit on the pricier end, it is super comfortable. Plus, Skims is available in different colors for your nude palette.
Tip #2: THE WHITE DRESS
Whatever the season and whatever the reason, a white dress is a wardrobe must-have. She comes in clutch if you want to go all chic or very casual. Choosy’s Crosby St Dress and Jacquemus’ La Robe Valensole cotton midi dress gives a modern twist for when you want to look very feminine but still very sharp. Choosy’s Endless Summer Dress on the other hand is detailed to a T — the little simple embroidered patterns make a more subtle statement while being comfortable to wear.
Tip #3: THE SLIP DRESS
Image via Zara
Slip dresses are essential because when fitted right, your silhouette always helps you feel more empowered. They can be worn simply with a shoulder bag, paired with the right mini accessories and a faux leather blazer.
Tip #4: THE SHOULDER BAG
Life is too short to not buy that shoulder bag. I am a big advocate for shoulder bags simply because of how small yet compartmentalized they are, meaning you're able to take only essentials. A big bag sometimes steals all the attention for itself or masks a part of your outfit. A shoulder bag, on the other hand, doesn't weigh that much and can still be such an intrinsic aspect in bringing your look together.
Tip #5: THE STATEMENT SKIRT
Below-the-knee skirts are super comfortable, yet so underestimated. Once you have a statement skirt on, it essentially does the talking for your outfit. So, be careful not to draw attention away from the skirt. Pair a cream tank or draped top with this Christopher Esber Draped Wrap Midi Skirt, add a pair of ankle boots and sculptural jewels and head to your at-home dinner party with friends dressed up in your minimalist chic style to create some normalcy.
Tip #6: THE ACCESSORIES
Image via Pinterest
Accessories are so powerful because no matter how small they might seem, they make or break your outfit. These finishing touches come in the form of earrings, necklaces, rings, glasses, watches, bracelets and hair clips. I wouldn’t recommend a necklace if you're wearing something with a high neck and honestly that totally depends on you.
Black rectangular sunglasses are 100% a go-to especially when you just want to appear edgy! A hat is always fun because it is not really predictable. Let’s not forget hair clips and headbands. If you’re having a lazy day, you could easily slick it back in a center part or hold a side part with a hair clip. And don't forget: layer, layer, layer your necklaces. Depop is a great resource for cheap and sustainable personalized jewelry.
Tip #7: THE SHOE TRINITY: tennis shoes, boots, mules
I am not the biggest shoe girl so I usually decide my shoes based on how the rest of my outfit pans out. If you’re like me, just make sure you have a pair of tennis shoes like the Axel Arigatos, which are comfortable and can always neutralize your outfit. Ankle boots empower you once you take a walk in them. Mules always work well when you decide you want something soft but feminine to tie your outfit together. Whatever the occasion might be, even if you just want to quickly run to the grocery store, having these three would be lifesavers.
Tip #8: THE TRENCH COAT
The quintessential minimalist wardrobe includes a trench coat because it will never go out of style. Be it faux fur, latex or even a classic beige trench coat, rest assured that when you throw it on, your outfit will be elevated.
A trench coat is the one piece I would advocate being styled with a bigger bag and probably a center part wrapped up with a hair clip. This Abercrombie & Fitch coat is a statement piece which could be paired with big black glasses. The I.AM.GIA’s PVC trench coat has a fur detail that gives it a contemporary twist.
Hopefully these suggestions will inspire you to add these staples and build a capsule collection that will transcend even this COVID period. Remember, minimalism is more for your comfort and never has to be boring.