Now more than ever, the fashion industry is defined by binary oppositions. On the other hand, there are maximalists who give it all up, many of whom exist only on Instagram feeds or are immortalized on the streets of fashion week. On the other hand, some fashionistas are rejecting the noise and fuss of clashing prints and over-accessorizing, instead adopting a more meditative approach to dressing. Yes, this is minimalism, but perhaps not as much as you know.
An aesthetic that has been smoldering beneath the surface of culture for decades, minimalism has bubbled up and made its presence known from time to time, but it never really disappeared completely. It has appeared in various forms. Think Coco Chanel's sporty separates, Calvin Klein's his '90s grayscale, Phoebe's Philo's austere post-financial crisis Celine style. This is one of his few fashion movements that has lasted through multiple generations.
(Image credit: courtesy of Jil Sander)
In recent seasons, it has become clear that simplicity is back in the spotlight, in no small part influenced by the designs of cult brands such as The Row, Jil Sander, Lemaire and Gabriella Hearst, who are at the forefront of Minimalism 2.0. . Add to this the fact that shoppers are looking to invest in products that last for budget, ethical and sustainable purposes, and it's a perfect opportunity for purists.
“As each season approaches, we spotlight six muses: fashion pioneers, warriors, free spirits, curators, romantics, and purists,” says fashion consultant and former buying director of MatchesFashion. explains Natalie Kingham. “Purists opt for minimalist styles with a sophisticated, functional edge. And this season, we've noticed a new mood of clean, monochromatic elegance on the runways. The back-to-basics approach reinforces what matters: clean pieces, modern staples that are the building blocks of the ultimate wardrobe.”
(Image credit: provided by Lemaire)
The emphasis on creating an effective and long-lasting basic backbone for your wardrobe has perhaps never been so prevalent in previous manifestations of minimalism. As sustainability becomes an increasingly pressing issue, people are looking for items that not only stand the test of time, but are also versatile enough to thrive in a variety of environments. And when it comes to design, 2024's contribution to the minimalist cause differs from the brooding simplicity of the '90s or the sharp-edged charm of Philo's first Celine (note the “e” accent) collection. . We may want our clothes to last a long time, but we also want them to have personality.
Minimalism now comes in many forms, including tonal outfits, draped silk dresses, voluminous tulle pieces, classic tops, and basic blazers. This is good news. It means we can all incorporate a little chic minimalism into our lives, even if we've never thought of it before.
(Image credit: Courtesy of Gabriela Hearst)
Need a little more inspiration? Keep scrolling to see which fashion insiders love minimalism as this year's muses. You can also shop for wardrobe staples.
1. Loose suits
Style Notes: Sylvie knows the power of a great suit. The relaxed fit adds an extra chic touch, and choosing neutral colors like navy, camel or black will ensure it remains a wardrobe hero for years to come.
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frankie shop
Bea oversized caddy blazer
It's a blazer that all of our editors would love to own (if they don't already own one).
2. Simple but fun tops
Style Notes: A good top never goes out of style. Pair it with jeans, leggings or wide-leg trousers and it's a versatile piece for your capsule wardrobe. Plus, you can easily dress it up or down by simply changing your shoes and accessories.
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Other stories
ribbed halterneck bustier top
A minimalist take on the party top.
3. Gold earrings
Style Notes: A sprinkling of gold jewelry instantly elevates a simple look. From simple hoops to embellished pairs to huggies and studs, the options are endless.
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Astrid & Miyu
Cosmic Starbold Huggies (Gold)
These will spoil any bad hair days you should have.
4. White shirt
Style Notes: I can go on for hours about how versatile white shirts are. Some of our favorite styles include wearing it over a roll neck, under a blazer, or with jeans and boots.
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Arket
Straight-cut poplin shirt
A staple addition to any well-rounded wardrobe.
5. Straight jeans
Style Notes: Sure, there are plenty of denim styles worth having in your wardrobe, but true minimalists know you can't go wrong with a classic straight leg.
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Agordo
+ Net Sustain 90's Pinch Waist Long High Rise Straight Leg Organic Jeans
Agold always makes the perfect straight jeans. Is it within your budget? Check out the arc.
6. Smart pants
Style Notes: Smart pants are versatile and work well with many other wardrobe heroes. From the office to dinner, weekend outings to drinking parties, we've got you covered.
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C.O.S.
Wide-leg tailored twill pants
They'll be just as reliable as jeans.
7. Racer front vest
Style Notes: Pair with jeans or pants for a fool-proof outfit. You can wear it all season just by layering it.
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This item is perfect for layering, regardless of the season.
8. Loose white dress
Style Notes: As Alexis proves, an oversized white dress can be your best friend. She pairs it with fisherman sandals, but you could also pair it with flip-flops, boots, or trainers.
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C.O.S.
collared midi shirt dress
It goes great with flat shoes, trainers, and sandals.
9. Striped jumper
Style Notes: Regular readers know we're obsessed with striped knitwear… Pair it with stirrup leggings and chunky loafers, like the Greeks, for a twist on a Parisian classic Please style it accordingly.
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Totem – INT
Signature Striped Turtleneck Light Sand
Striped jumpers never go out of style.
10. Split hem leggings
Style Notes: Another hero of the wardrobe is leggings. Dress it up with heels and a blazer or down with trainers and a knit. The choice is yours.
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alo yoga
high waist leggings
The small slit detail makes any leggings look 10 times more stylish.
11. Simple colors
Style Notes: Sunnies aren't just for summer. On a beautifully bright winter day, adding sunglasses to your cold-weather look is not only practical, but also chic.
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saint laurent eyewear
Mica cat-eye acetate sunglasses
Nothing beats Saint Laurent eyewear.
12. Knit dress
Style Notes: There are no limits to knit dresses. Want to wear her in winter? Add knee-high boots and a blazer. Will the temperature rise? Swap sandals and raffia accessories.
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H&M
boucle knit bodycon dress
This dress looks very stylish when paired with knee-high boots or sandals.
13. Basic black bag
Style Notes: We strongly believe that your favorite great black bag is a very wise investment. Choose your player from top-handle styles, crossbody bags, and shoulder bags.
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Bottega Veneta
Jodie Mini Knot Intrecciato Leather Tote
Bottega Veneta bags have been on our wishlist forever.
14. Cool jumpsuit
Style Notes: On days when you don't know how to dress, look for a jumpsuit. For more minimalist style points, go monochrome.
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Baugen
Tayla organic boiler suit
Layer a camel roll neck underneath this jumpsuit for an extra layer of comfort.
15. Relaxed black blazer
Style Notes: Ah, the plain black blazer. Will it ever disappoint us? The answer is no. It's always a firm favorite in our capsule wardrobe and can be paired with just about anything else on this list to create a winning outfit.
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Other stories
oversized blazer
Ideal throw-on. Wear it with everything from jeans to slip skirts.
16. Simple black loafers
Style Notes: This list wouldn't be complete without a great pair of loafers.
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gucci
gucci jordan leather loafers
Classic black loafers are currently the minimalist shoe of choice.
This story was originally published previously and has since been updated.