5 Key Pieces for Crafting a Minimalist Wardrobe

More than a mere buzzword, minimalism is a means towards a more meaningful life. This way of life encourages you to eliminate things that are unnecessary and stick to those that are essential. Because of this ethos, practicing minimalism can help us stay on the sustainable path, too — from lessening our purchases to making better decisions about what we get and keep. And the best place to start is with your wardrobe.

In today’s relentlessly trend-driven fashion industry, minimalism means resisting the urge to buy more just to keep up. It means making peace with our own unique fashion sense, and following the more important trend of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and discarded clothes that go to landfills. That said, the key to building a minimalist wardrobe is similar to those on our guide on ‘How to Buy Ethical Fashion’: buy less, buy second-hand, buy ethical, and buy smart. But as for what to buy or keep in your own wardrobe, here are the 5 key pieces you’ll need:

1. A Sleek Button-Down

A sleek button-down is a style staple that you simply can’t go wrong with, especially for your minimalist wardrobe. With its structured silhouette and classic design, it’s undeniably perfect for various occasions. For instance, you can wear one of these basic white shirts featured on Real Simple with a pair of jeans for a casual look. Or, you can also wear a powder blue button-down with a pencil skirt for a more refined outfit.

2. A Trusty Sweater

Sweaters can be paired with just about any bottom or even layered under coats and dresses. This makes sweaters one of the most practical pieces to have when crafting a minimalist wardrobe. And the best part is, the assortment of trusty sweaters by Woman Within highlights just how versatile this piece can be. From chunky knit tunics to classic pullovers, sweaters can let you inject your personal style into different outfit combinations on throughout the year. When choosing one, be sure to pick one that hits mid-hip to easily pair it with other pieces.

3.  A Classic Coat

When winter comes around and the temperatures drop, you’ll want to bundle yourself in a piece of outerwear to stay warm. And while there may be an array of different choices out there, a classic camel coat like this Ecoalf piece is the most suitable option for your minimalist wardrobe. This can be worn with practically any outfit, as its classic structure can make any outfit look put together.

4. Tailored Boyfriend Jeans

Since jeans come in all shapes and sizes, it’s easy to get confused when figuring out the pair that best works for your minimalist wardrobe. A tailored pair of boyfriend jeans such as these showcased on InStyle is a great option, as they have a relaxed fit that is flattering on most body types. The trick is to find some with a hem that is three inches above your ankle for that signature style.

5.  A Chic Pair of Mules

You can never go wrong with a pair of good shoes, especially if they’re versatile and sturdy enough to look effortlessly fresh and stylish no matter how many times you wear them. In this regard, mules like this tan pair from Madewell are a must-have for your minimalist wardrobe. Both its shade and shape can complement virtually any outfit, thanks to its chic yet casual nature.