10 Minimalist Staples Every Fashion Person Should Own
Sometimes the words "minimal" and "boring" can get thrown around together. But in this editor’s opinion, they don’t have to be related. In fact, minimalist fashion can be just as cool and inspiring as more ornate looks.
The trick to making minimal outfits look elevated is following a few key rules. First, don’t be afraid of color. If you stick to streamlined silhouettes, bold solid colors like fuchsia and chartreuse can easily fit within a minimalist wardrobe. Next, fit is important. Something as simple as a white T-shirt can look surprisingly different depending on the cut. And lastly, choose just a few accessories. Adding one or two pieces—like simple toe-cap slingbacks or flat-top sunglasses—can add dimension to your outfit without feeling too overdone. Want to see how fashion girls are wearing minimal outfits?
Keep reading to see seven minimal outfit formulas fashion girls swear by and then shop pieces inspired by their looks.
Try wearing a suit in a solid color. Instead of black, try something like light pink or white, both of which feel very modern.
Banana Republic Classic-Fit Machine-Washable Italian Wool Blend Blazer ($200) and Ryan Slim Straight-Fit Machine-Washable Italian Wool Blend Pant ($98)
Pair a long lightweight dress with slingbacks for a casual look that's also office-appropriate.
Black shades are key to pulling off the minimalist look.
Minimal doesn't have to be boring. Choose bold colors like fuchsia to make a statement.
Use the crossbody strap or the geometric ring to carry this Chloé bag—you decide!
Go bold with strong colors.
Add streamlined accessories like wire-frame glasses and a bucket bag to a blouse and jeans.
A simple T-shirt can look elevated when paired with a skirt and mules. Stick to one color for a streamlined look.
Available in sizes 4 to 12. This slip skirt is great for the office.
Play with volume. An oversize button-down top paired with jeans adds dimension to a minimal outfit.
Available in sizes 38 to 39.Perfect to pair with straight-leg jeans.Next, read about the brand every French girl will be wearing this summer.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run
"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-Up
Sophisticated styling 101.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New York
Pared back yet never boring.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear
Ready in 10 minutes or less.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm Manifesting a Rich-Looking, Minimalistic Closet—25 Perfect Sale Picks From COS
Almost every pick is now under $100.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion People
There's something for everyone.
By Remy Farrell
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024
Denim devotees, unite.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RN
From cowboy hats to fringe accents.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua