Every day we make dozens of decisions, from picking a route (and sometimes even how quickly to track location with phone number so we do not get lost) to what to wear to an important meeting. In one case, technology helps, such as handy apps like Number Tracker that enable you to navigate, share your location, find the right people and feel safe. And in the other case, knowledge, insight, intuition, style and a sense of harmony come into play.
But can we simplify this process, making it as precise and calibrated as algorithms in a digital world? The answer is yes, if you think consciously about your closet. Minimalism in clothes is not just about reducing the number of things but a system that allows you to always look stylish while saving time, money and space. If you are tired of an overflowing closet but you often feel like you have nothing to wear, it’s time to learn the principles of a minimalist closet and assemble it from just 10 basic items.
Principles of a Minimalist Wardrobe
Before we get to the list of things to wear, you need to understand what makes a minimalist closet truly functional and comfortable. It is not just about reducing the number of clothes in your closet, but a well-thought-out system based on a number of principles:
- Quality, not quantity. Better one well-fitting premium cotton shirt than five low-quality shirts that lose their shape after a couple of washes. According to a Nielsen study, 66% of shoppers are willing to pay more for items that last longer.
- Versatility. Every item should go with most everything else. This reduces the time it takes to choose an outfit and helps avoid the “I have nothing to wear” situation.
- Relevance. Basic things do not go out of fashion. For example, a classic white shirt or trench coat remains relevant for decades.
- Color palette. Basic colors (black, white, gray, blue, beige) are easily combined and create an elegant, restrained style.
- Functionality. Clothes should fit your lifestyle. If you work in an office, business style will be a priority, and if you lead an active life – comfortable jeans and sneakers.
Once these principles are internalized, you can move on to the list of things itself.
Ten Things for Stylish Minimalism
So, any minimalist closet is built around thoughtful, quality pieces that are easy to combine with each other. To make it easier to choose, we’ve divided the basics into three key categories (you’ll find them below) that create the foundation for an elegant look and help you look confident in all situations.
- Outerwear and Strict Style
The versatile trench coat or the trench
The choice of outerwear depends on the climate, but a classic trench or wool coat can be considered a universal option. They look elegant and suit both business and casual styles. In colder climates, a good alternative will be a parka or a bomber. The main thing is to choose a neutral color (black, gray, dark blue, beige) and a laconic cut that will not go out of fashion.
Tip: Pay attention to the lining – it affects the comfort and durability of things, improves the fit of the product, preventing its deformation over time. Natural lining fabrics (e.g. viscose or silk) are more breathable, enabling the skin to breathe, while synthetics can create a “greenhouse” effect.
Classic attire
Even if your work does not require a strict dress code, one good suit is a must. It will help in situations when you need to look presentable: a job interview, a wedding, an important meeting. The best choice is a dark brown or gray suit, but dark blue is already a little outdated, besides, this color does not always suit everyone.
- Dark brown is versatile, suitable for both business style and evening events.
- Gray – softer and suitable for most occasions.
- Black – too formal, it is better left for solemn or mournful events.
By the way, did you know that according to a study by Business Insider, men in well-fitting suits are perceived as more successful and competent. So, a suit is a good investment in your style and a basic component of any minimalist closet.
Versatile pants
For everyday wear, chinos or classic wool pants are ideal. They are more comfortable than suit pants but look formal enough for work or a meeting.
Lifehack: Chinos can be worn with both T-shirts and shirts – they adapt to any style and always look appropriate.
- Casual Clothes
Dark jeans
Jeans are one of the most universal things in a man’s closet, but not all models are equally appropriate in a minimalist style. The best option – dark blue or black straight cut jeans without unnecessary decoration, scuffs or torn elements. This style looks neat and is suitable for both casual looks and more formal combinations, for example, with a shirt and jacket.
Tip: Good jeans made of thick denim last for years and only get better with age. Choose models made of 100% cotton or with a minimal addition of elastane – they hold their shape and do not stretch after a few wears. By the way, the service life of quality jeans is from 3 to 5 years, and regular care can extend this period twice.
Basic T-shirt
A white or black solid-colored T-shirt made of quality cotton is a real basis for an everyday closet. It can be worn on its own or used in layered looks, wearing it under a shirt, sweater or jacket.
When choosing a T-shirt one should pay attention not only to the color, but also to the density of the fabric. Too thin material quickly stretches and loses its shape, while dense cotton (about 180 g/m²) keeps its appearance longer and does not show through. The ideal T-shirt should cover the waistband of your jeans, but not be too long, and the sleeves should end at about mid-shoulder.
Classic shirt
It is the detail that makes even the simplest image stylish and neat. The best option for a minimalist closet is a white or blue shirt without unnecessary details (embroidery, contrasting inserts, bulky pockets).
Tip: Choose shirts made of 100% cotton – they breathe, keep fresh look longer and are comfortable to wear. Pay attention to the weaving of the fabric: poplin is a lighter and smoother option, while oxford fabric is dense and more casual.
Sweater or cardigan
A neutral wool sweater or cardigan is a basic element of the fall and winter closet. It does not only keep you warm in cool weather but also adds texture and coziness to the image. The best choice is models without unnecessary decoration, in calm colors (gray, dark blue, beige, black), which can be easily combined with jeans, pants and outerwear.
Lifehack: In choosing a sweater pay attention to the composition – the higher the content of wool (60% and above), the warmer and better quality thing.
- Shoes and Accessories
Classic shoes (oxfords, derbies, loafers)
The first pair of shoes in a minimalist closet are classic leather shoes. They are suitable for work, business meetings and formal events. Depending on your style and needs, you can choose one of three universal options oxfords (the most formal model with closed lacing, ideal for a suit); derbies (more versatile, they can be worn with classic pants and jeans); loafers (elegant option, suitable for both work and casual looks).
Lifehack: If you want your shoes to last longer, take care of them properly: use leather cream, store them in a dry place and wear them with shoe pads to keep their shape.
Casual shoes (chelsea or sneakers)
Your second pair of shoes should be comfortable and versatile, but still stylish. The best option for a minimalist closet are chelsea boots or minimalist leather sneakers to complete a casual look.
Lifehack: If you choose sneakers, give preference to leather models – they are more durable, do not lose their shape and are easy to clean. And chelsea boots made of suede are best worn in dry weather and treated with water-repellent spray.
One quality accessory
The right accessory can make the image complete and stylish, even if the rest of the clothes are as laconic as possible. In a minimalist closet, one accent is enough, which will harmoniously combine with shoes and clothes. It can be a leather belt, a wristwatch or a leather briefcase.
Lifehack: Choose an accessory in the same color scheme as the shoes – so the image will look more harmonious.
Style Without Questions
In a world where every second is worth its weight in gold, a minimalist closet is more than just a fashion concept, it is now a lifestyle strategy. Less stuff means more freedom, more confidence and more time to make the really important decisions, because now your style is about making the best choices.
