How to Style Minimalist Outfits: Tips and Ideas

Minimalist outfits have a simple philosophy: “Less is More.” However, the simpler it is, the trickier it is easy to pull off. When you are layering seven or eight different pieces and covering it with another nine accessories, it is easy to blend the ‘mismatched’ piece among the others. But when your entire outfit only has four pieces of clothing and accessories, you have to ensure that you select the right ones.

As we have previously discussed, minimalist fashion has a curated wardrobe of a similar colour palette with pieces you truly love and often wear. Minimalist aesthetic outfits usually feature neutrals and looser silhouettes. Most importantly, they are made of versatile pieces where you can pair everything you have with each other, and they still work. This kind of simplicity and practicality is at the heart of minimalist fashion.

 

The Minimalist Outfit Base:

There are some base things to keep in mind before you can start creating your own minimalist outfits. Here are some essential things that can help you with your minimalist aesthetic outfits:

1. Colour Palette: Minimalist outfits work the best with a subtle, neutral colour palette. Think white, black, navy, brown, ivory, beige, grey, and similar hues. When your entire wardrobe is made of earth tones like these, it will be easier for you to pair one with the other without worrying about clashing colours.

2. Loose Fit: The appeal of minimalist outfits lies in their fit. Minimalist pieces usually feature a looser fit that still flatters your body. Stay away from skin-tight pieces and baggy items that are big enough to drown you. And when in doubt, listen to Marilyn Monroe: ‘Your clothes should be tight enough to show you're a woman but loose enough to show you're a lady.’

3. Easy-to-Layer Pieces: When it comes to making your wardrobe wearable all year long, having easy-to-layer pieces is the key. A light cardigan can be useful on rainy summer days, slightly chilly days, or spring and autumn mornings. Armwear is another versatile accessory that can make for excellent layering. Alta 8 has various colours, styles, and textures to choose from that you can layer for extra warmth, sun protection, or an extra flair.

4. A Hero Piece: A hero piece or a statement piece is an item of clothing or accessory that your outfit revolves around. Have one piece in your outfit that is unique. Maybe it is your dangly earrings, your embroidered blazer, or your flared pants. Have only one item in your outfit that is a little extravagant, whether in terms of cut, silhouette, material, design, or colour. Then choose subtle pieces for the rest of your outfit. Let that hero piece be the star of your look and keep the rest simple.

 

Minimalist Outfit Ideas:

1. T-shirt Tucked into Jeans:

If you are looking for minimalist casual outfit ideas, it does not get better than a t-shirt tucked into a good pair of jeans. You can never go wrong with this combination! T-shirt and jeans is a versatile outfit that you can dress up with a pair of heels or dress down in a pair of sneakers. You can also always throw on any piece of outerwear with it, and it will still work.

2. Oversized Coat, Blouse, and Straight Pants:

This outfit is as perfect for a weekend get-away as it is for a day at the office! Depending on your choice of top, it can be as casual or as formal as you like. Materials like cashmere, silk, or satin also give off a luxurious vibe. This outfit also looks good in monochromatic tones!

3. Shirt with a Maxi Skirt:

This is another versatile outfit idea with a lot of potential. Tucking a silk top inside a leather skirt can make you look edgy, whereas a lace top with a floral skirt can give you a bohemian vibe. Play with textures and materials to better portray the look you are going for.

4. Shirt with a Dress:

Layer a t-shirt under a dress to portray the pinafore dress look. This also lets you add a new dimension to your outfit. Pairing a sheer mesh top under a dress is reliving the 90s, whereas a blouse with a bow coupled with a dress can give off a preppy, ivy league style. The choice is yours!

5. Blazer, T-shirt, and Jeans:

This is the ultimate effortless minimalist outfit. Pair a vintage blazer with a plain t-shirt and an excellent worn-out pair of jeans. Wear this combination with a loafer to go to the market or with a pair of pumps to go on a coffee date. This outfit is a sure hit!


Most importantly, have fun! Fashion is such a personal expression to everyone and you should feel free to dress in a way that you feel confident and comfortable in. We hope that this article gave you some insight into the minimalist style. Let us know if you would like to see some more minimalist outfit tips and ideas!