THE ART OF MINIMALISM IN FASHION: OR HOW TO FIND YOUR PERSONAL STYLE
We live in a fast-paced world. But away from the screens, there is still a space where peace and consistency can be cultivated: our home. And more specifically, our wardrobe. Since the artistic countercultures of the 18th century, people have sought ways to escape the noise
Thus, between the 20th and 21st centuries, a trend has emerged that reconnects us with what is essential: minimalism. Although fashion blogs and magazines often associate it with a specific aesthetic, true minimalism is about knowing thyself. Real minimalism is individual, the result of a journey of self-discovery.
Often, this concept of style is associated with a very clean and simple aesthetic. While this may be the style of some people, minimalism has more to do with space than aesthetics. Since the 90s, brands like Bottega Veneta, Jil Sander, and Max Mara have set a new tone with their collections: enduring, timeless, cohesive, and simple. These brands are often defined as minimalist, even though they may have entirely conceptual and highly creative pieces in their ranges.
According to Dieter Rams, a famous 20th-century product designer, a notion of minimalism and good design is as little design as possible. However, as fashion is a game of fabrics and proportions in relation to the human body, design is necessary, and minimalism does not always respond to a specific aesthetic. In fact, minimalism is a lifestyle, not a visual style.
Connect with your personal style
What clothes do you wear most often?
Which colours suit you best?
What colours do you like to wear?
Which fabrics do you find most comfortable?
And which ones can’t you stand?
Knowing the answers to these questions will open the door to your true style. The idea behind minimalist fashion is to have only pieces that resonate with you, that make you feel comfortable, and that you truly wear. Minimalist fashion invites us to reflect on what we really like. In the end, you’ll end up selecting garments that you can mix and match in multiple ways.
Real minimalism is individual, the result of a journey of self-discovery.
The selection of fabrics
To create a minimalist wardrobe, selecting fabrics is essential. High-quality, durable, and comfortable fabrics ensure that your pieces stand the test of time. This durability is reflected both in the garment and in its place in your wardrobe. Materials such as cotton, wool, silk, cashmere, and linen are essentials in any wardrobe, but especially in a minimalist one. They offer great versatility and look splendid over time. By choosing fabrics that breathe and have a pleasant texture, you will feel much more comfortable. The concept is more sustainable, also helping you to get to know yourself better.
Minimalism in fashion is similar to creating a capsule wardrobe, but instead of focusing on combining the same pieces in multiple ways, it seeks to reflect your authenticity and nurture your style criteria. The art of minimalist fashion is also about key pieces, like a structured coat, tailored trousers, neutral blouses, a couple of versatile dresses, and well-crafted shoes. The idea is to build your own selection criteria for pieces that belong in your wardrobe.
There is no magic number of pieces, as this will depend on our style. The goal is to optimise the functionality and style of each piece that enters our wardrobe.
Once we explore the principles of minimalism, we can talk about the brands known for this philosophy. The Row, Jil Sander, Bottega Veneta... These brands offer pieces designed to endure, both in quality and design.
Jil Sander
Known as the "Queen of Less," Jil Sander pioneered the creation of a uniform for women entering the labour market. In an era of maximalism, she was responsible for bringing minimalism to the runway. Her vision, with precise lines, neutral colours, functionality, and quality fabrics, laid the foundation for the minimalist style that flourished in the 90s.
Today, under the direction of Lucie and Luke Meier, Jil Sander clothing continues to be a reference point for minimalist fashion, with its visual simplicity and intellectual complexity. Its collections present a mix of architectural structures and serene elegance—sophistication without ostentation.
[...] true minimalism is about knowing thyself.
The Row
Founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, The Row is inspired by Savile Row’s tailoring heritage, characterised by an almost obsessive attention to detail and the quality of its materials. The Row clothing pieces, from coats to blouses and trousers, are known for their simple, functional design and a touch of discreet luxury.
With its handbags and accessories and its entire ready-to-wear line, the brand does not seek to capture immediate attention but rather presents garments that speak for themselves. Their inspiration, as seen on Instagram, mainly comes from the fine arts.
Toteme
Toteme was founded by Elin Kling and Karl Lindman in 2014. Today, it is a perfect example of minimalist fashion for the modern woman. The Swedish brand offers collections of timeless basics that adapt to any occasion. Its collections are cohesive and continuous, thanks to their versatility.
Toteme clothing represents pure Scandinavian style, which has gained prominence in recent years. With a palette of neutral colours and simple cuts, the brand creates pieces that combine easily with each other. Its clothing integrates seamlessly into your wardrobe. Toteme's vision promotes and encourages more conscious and sustainable consumption.
Bottega Veneta
Under the creative direction of Matthieu Blazy, Bottega Veneta clothing has experienced a revitalisation of its minimalism. Its intrecciato technique has elevated the brand’s historical presence. This craftsmanship is now a point of pride in its collections, taking the brand’s slogan, "When your initials are enough," a step further.
Bottega Veneta’s designs reflect a minimalist aesthetic with a twist: artisanal work that is the result of a history of constant innovation. Its new aesthetic line incorporates a touch of modernity adapted to contemporary life. Its pieces are ideal for those seeking luxury and functionality in a single garment, making each item an investment in style and quality.
Max Mara
Max Mara is one of the most recognised Italian brands in the world. In terms of minimalism, it is especially known for the luxury of its coats and garments. Its simple and sophisticated ranges combine elegance and practicality for everyday life.
One of its most famous pieces is the iconic Manuela coat in its ready-to-wear line. Other names, like the Pauline, Certo, and Valle, offer that same sophisticated aesthetic, designed to wrap around a woman’s silhouette and easily elevate any outfit worn underneath. The durability of its aesthetic, the quality of its pieces, and the brand’s sophistication make it both minimalist and functional.
Beyond fashion, minimalism is a way of life that invites us to get to know ourselves and focus on what is essential. It promotes a wardrobe with a balance between our personal style and lifestyle, designed to make it more functional and easier to manage.
Greater order and self-awareness can positively impact our personal well-being. Minimalism, reflected in seeking authenticity in simplicity, helps reduce stress and increases personal satisfaction by aligning our selections with our style.
