Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials: Navigating Timeless Style

Building a Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe … Kind of

It’s September as I write this post, and I always like to go through my closet this time of year. It probably reminds me of that back-to-school feeling of my youth, when I got new some outfits to sport and sorted out what no longer fit.

Autumn is also a great time to generally inspect knits, check the camelhair for moths, and give the closet a tidy-up. Not to mention weed out whatever items were on their last leg over the summer: an old tank top, Havianas that started falling apart, a well-worn and now rather tattered bikini.

Since starting Tidymalism back in 2021, I’ve been determined to downsize my wardrobe for however long it takes me. I may lean towards minimalism in the rest of my household, but fashion remains my weakness. While I never endeavoured to build a minimalist capsule wardrobe per se, I do admire the philosophy behind it.

I think creating a minimalist wardrobe goes beyond just owning fewer clothes though, and today I prefer a more thoughtful approach to fashion that focuses on top quality and cost-per-wear. Once you have some really good minimalist wardrobe essentials in your closet, they can honestly help simplify your daily routine and reduce a bit of decision fatigue each morning. Plus they just look polished and put-together.

What’s my working definition of a good minimalist wardrobe? One that consists of high-quality, versatile pieces which can be mixed and matched to create a range of outfits. These items are often classic in style and—you guessed it—that’s what makes them stay fashionable for many years.

Basic Principles of a Minimalist Wardrobe

The benefits of a curated wardrobe extend beyond just simplifying your closet; it can also lead to reduced stress, increased confidence, and a more sustainable approach to fashion.

Consider this: the average person wears only 20% of their wardrobe 80% of the time. By focusing on a carefully selected collection of minimalist wardrobe essentials, you have a better chance that every item in your closet serves an actual purpose and gets more regular use.

I’ve mostly been downsizing my closet past few years, but sometimes I do need to replace a garment. There are a few things I look out for when making new purchases.

Quality Over Quantity: Investing in Timeless Pieces

The foundation of a minimalist wardrobe is built on high-quality, well-made pieces that stand the test of time. While the initial investment may be higher, these items often prove more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and timeless appeal.

For example, a well-constructed coat might cost four figures, but it can last for decades with proper care. That makes the cost-per-wear significantly lower than cheaper alternatives which need frequent replacement.

Consider the following comparison:

As you can see, while the initial investment in a high-quality piece may seem steep, it can work out to be more economical over time.

Versatility: The Key to a Functional Minimalist Wardrobe

Each item in a minimalist wardrobe should ideally serve multiple purposes and be able to pair with various other pieces. This versatility allows you to create numerous outfits from a limited number of items.

For instance, a classic button-down white shirt can be worn with jeans for a casual look, paired with a blazer for a business setting, or dressed up with a skirt for an evening out:

1. Casual: white shirt + jeans + sneakers or loafers
2. Business: white shirt + tailored trousers + blazer + pumps or brogues
3. Evening: white shirt + pencil skirt + statement necklace + heels or boots
4. Weekend: white shirt (unbuttoned) over a tank top + shorts + sandals

One shirt, four very different outfits. I absolutely love white shirts!

Neutral Colour Palette: The Foundation of Minimalist Style

A neutral colour palette forms the backbone of most minimalist wardrobes. Colours like black, white, grey, navy, and beige are easy to mix and match, creating a cohesive look across your entire wardrobe. These colours also tend to be more timeless, so your wardrobe remains stylish year after year.

However, this doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be boring. You can add pops of colour through accessories or a few carefully chosen statement pieces. The key is to ensure that these colourful items still coordinate with your neutral base.

I love neon yellow for example, and you’d likely never find it in any capsule wardrobe colour palette. Yet it goes so well with all the neutrals and it’s so much fun.

• Base colours: Black, white, grey, navy
• Neutral accents: Beige, camel, olive
• Seasonal pops: Burgundy (autumn/winter), coral (spring/summer), trending colours

Essential Outerwear for Your Minimalist Wardrobe

Let’s jump back to the subject of outerwear for a moment because it’s usually a larger purchase. Plus, it can really make you look pulled together no matter what you have on underneath!

The Classic Trench Coat: A Versatile All-Season Staple

In my book at least, a well-fitted trench coat is such a great buy. This versatile piece can be worn in various weather conditions and styled for both casual and formal occasions. Opt for the best quality trench within your budget, in a neutral colour like beige or navy for maximum versatility.

The trench coat has a rich history, originally designed for British Army officers during World War I. Its functional design, including features like epaulettes, storm flaps, and a belt, has stood the test of time. Definitely a symbol of timeless style that you can wear for years to come.

When choosing a trench coat, consider the following:

1. Material: look for water-resistant fabrics like cotton gabardine or polyester blends.
2. Length: a classic trench typically falls well below the knee, but shorter versions like the Burberry car coat are available for a more modern look.
3. Colour: while beige is traditional, navy, olive or black can be equally versatile.
4. Details: pay attention to the quality of buttons, stitching, and lining.

The Camel Coat: Elevating Your Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials

A camel coat, particularly one from a reputable house like Max Mara, is an investment piece that can elevate any outfit. Its warm, neutral tone complements a variety of colours and can be worn over everything from jeans and a t-shirt to a formal dress.

The camel coat has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication since the early 20th century. Its enduring popularity is due to its versatility and amazing ability to complement pretty much every skin tone.

When investing in a camel coat, consider these factors:

1. Material: 100% camelhair or a camel-cashmere blend offers the best quality and warmth.
2. Cut: choose a style that flatters your body shape – options include straight, belted, or wrap styles.
3. Length: full-length coats offer maximum impact, but knee-length versions can be more practical for everyday wear.
4. Care: look for a coat that is lined – it will extend the life of the garment and make it easier to slip on and off.

The Blazer: From Office to Evening Elegance

At least one well-tailored blazer is a must-have in any wardrobe if you ask me. It can instantly polish a casual outfit or serve as a key piece in a work ensemble. Heck, it even looks cool thrown on over sweatpants on a Saturday morning when you take the dog out.

Choose a classic cut in a neutral colour for maximum versatility. Make sure it’s lined.

The blazer has its roots in British rowing clubs of the 19th century but has since become a staple of both men’s and women’s wear. Its ability to bridge the gap between formal and casual makes it a perfect all-rounder.

Things to be picky about when selecting a blazer:

1. Fit: you want the shoulders to lie flat, and the sleeves should end at your wrist bone.
2. Material: wool is traditional, but blends with a bit of stretch can offer more comfort.
3. Colour: black, navy, or grey are the most versatile options.
4. Style: single-breasted blazers are more versatile, while double-breasted styles offer a more formal look.

Tops and Shirts

Tops and bottoms: we all need ’em. Let’s start with the upper body first.

The Perfect White Shirt: A Minimalist Wardrobe Must-Have

I already sang a whole lot of praise above for the crisp white shirt. Apart from a good white t-shirt, it’s probably the most versatile item you can have in a minimalist wardrobe. My two cents: make sure you have at least one.

The white shirt has a long and storied history, evolving from a symbol of wealth and cleanliness in the 19th century to a wardrobe staple for all genders and social classes today.

You have a lot of options, in an equally wide array of price ranges. Some things to consider when picking out a good shirt:

1. Fabric: 100% cotton is breathable and easy to care for. Silk offers a luxurious drape but can be a pain to get dry cleaned. Avoid polyester. If you’re strapped for cash, Uniqlo or Amazon have well-cut, inexpensive cotton options.
2. Fit: look for a shirt that skims your body without being too tight or loose. Make sure the buttons lie flat when closed and you’re not “busting” out of the shirt.
3. Collar: a classic point collar is versatile, but you might also like a grandfather collar.

Sweaters and Cardigans for Layering

A cashmere, wool or mohair jumper and a versatile cardigan provide warmth and style throughout the cooler months. Here again, if you choose neutral colours that complement the rest of your wardrobe, you’ll get way more milage out of your knits.

Knitwear has been a staple of wardrobes for centuries, with the cardigan named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan, who popularised the style in the 19th century. Fun fact!

When selecting knitwear, keep these points in mind:

1. Material: cashmere is luxurious and warm, while merino wool offers durability and temperature regulation.
2. Style: V-necks are versatile, crew necks are casual, and turtlenecks offer warmth and sophistication. All of these styles work well with a variety of different outfits.
3. Weight: lightweight knits are great for layering; chunky knits make a statement or can double up in place of a jacket during seasonal transitions.

If you love jumpers like I do, be sure to check out my guide to storing knitwear for the full low-down on all the different types of knits to pick from!

Tank Tops and T-Shirts: Building Blocks for Everyday Outfits

Simple, well-fitted tank tops and t-shirts in neutral colours work great with so many outfits. Wear them on their own in warm weather or layered under other items for added warmth in the winter.

The white t-shirt, once designed as underwear for the U.S. Navy in 1913, has become THE wardrobe staple worldwide. Similarly, tank tops, named after the one-piece bathing suits worn in swimming tanks, have evolved into a versatile piece of clothing.

I tend to avoid the cheap tees on the high street these days. I was tired of them disintegrating after just two washes, so these days I also look at:

1. Fabric. I prefer 100% cotton because it’s breathable, but cotton-elastane blends give a nice stretch for larger busts and also retain their shape underneath a blazer.
2. Fit. If you’re only getting one pricey tee, look for a balance between fitted and relaxed for maximum versatility.
3. Neckline. Crew necks are classic, while V-necks can be flattering if you have a shorter neck.
4. Quality: Pay attention to the weight of the fabric and the quality of the stitching.

Bottoms

Let’s talk about trousers now. Even if you tend to wear skirts and dresses more frequently, there are three types of pants that I think should be in every woman’s closet.

Classic Denim: Jeans for Every Occasion

A pair of really good-fitting jeans is a staple in any wardrobe, minimalist or not. Some say to choose a classic style in a dark wash for maximum versatility but I say a light blue wash will serve you equally well all year round. Whichever colour you prefer, high-quality denim will last longer and maintain its shape better than cheaper alternatives.

Jeans have come a long way since their invention by Levi Strauss in 1873. Originally designed as durable workwear, they’re a common sight on every street in pretty much every country today.

You have an incredible range of cuts and washes to pick from these days, and pretty much every woman has her own personal preferences. Here again, if you’re on the market for a new pair there are a few things to consider if you want to get the best bang for your buck:

1. Fit: straight, bootcut or slim fits are timeless.
2. Wash: a dark, indigo wash can be easier to dress up and thus more versatile if you want to wear denim in e.g. a corporate setting.
3. Rise: everyone’s body is different but mid-rise jeans suit most body types and are pretty comfortable for all-day wear.
4. Fabric: you can either go the classic 501 route with 100% cotton or look for denim with a small percentage of elastane for comfort and shape retention. For baggy styles, I usually go with the former, but my straight jeans have 1% elastane which I find more flattering around the buttocks.

Leather Leggings: Adding Some Edge to Your Minimalist Style

I’m including leather leggings in this wardrobe checklist because they inject a touch of edginess to a minimalist closet, never go out of style, and are super versatile. They can be dressed up with heels and a blazer, worn casually with sneakers and an oversize hoodie, and look great with boots and chunky knits.

This is a pricier investment piece though, so choose wisely!

1. Material: real leather offers durability and a luxurious look, but if you’re vegan, there are high-quality faux leather options out there, too.
2. Fit: look for a pair that fits snugly when you try them on, because they are going to stretch a bit once you wear them in.
3. Waistband: make sure the elastic waistband is comfortable and has a smooth silhouette.
4. Care: follow care instructions carefully to maintain the leather’s appearance and longevity. Leather leggings cannot be machine washed! 

Tailored Trousers: Versatile Options for Work and Play

My third pick for classic bottoms (that sounds like a porn film, ha) is a pair of well-tailored trousers for both work and formal occasions. I’d go with a neutral colour here like black, navy, or grey for maximum versatility. If you’re getting a second pair, I’d go with checked or herringbone trousers.

Things to look out for when you’re in the dressing room:

1. Fit: you want the waistband to sit comfortably at your natural waist, and the hem should just graze the top of your shoes.
2. Fabric: wool or wool blends offer durability and a polished look, but they should be lined at least to the knee.
3. Style: straight-leg or slightly tapered styles are timeless and suit most body types. Personally, I prefer trousers with pockets.

Dresses and Skirts

You could really go bananas in this department, but if you’re trying to build a capsule wardrobe, it really comes down to two pieces here: the “LBD” and a good skirt.

The Timeless Little Black Dress

No minimalist wardrobe is complete without a little black dress. I opted for the iconic wrap dress from Diane von Furstenberg myself and think it’s a perfect example of a versatile piece that can be styled for various occasions from the office and date night to evening events.

There’s something for every conceivable taste out there!

1. Style: a simple, classic cut like a sheath or wrap dress offers the most versatility.
2. Length: knee-length is probably the most versatile for different occasions. If you’re just getting one dress, I would avoid minis and anything sleeveless.
3. Neckline: a V-neck or scoop neck flatters most busts.
4. Fabric: look for a material that doesn’t wrinkle easily for maximum wearability. Also take note if the dress will need dry cleaning or not.

Get a Versatile Skirt

A classic-cut skirt will add variety to your wardrobe. If you like wearing skirts, I’d get one of each: a classic pencil skirt for the office and more formal settings, and a versatile A-line skirt for everyday wear will cover most bases.

For a pencil skirt:

1. Fit: it should skim your curves without being obscenely tight.
2. Length: just below the knee is the most versatile length, but midi lengths look great on taller women, too.
3. Fabric: look for a fabric with a bit of stretch for comfort.

For an A-line skirt:

1. Length: midi-length is the most versatile in my opinion.
2. Fabric: a medium-weight fabric hangs well on your frame and can be worn in different seasons.
3. Colour: stick with a neutral that complements your wardrobe’s colour palette.

Footwear Essentials for Your Minimalist Wardrobe

We’re almost there! Let’s pivot to footwear, one of the funnest parts of getting dressed. 😃

Classic Pumps Elevate Any Outfit

A pair of classic pumps in a neutral colour like black or nude is a no-brainer. You can wear them with so many different types of outfits, and they always look classy.

It’s best to choose a comfortable heel height that you can wear for extended periods. I would always only buy leather, as it’s more durable, it breathes, and it moulds to your foot over time. For the toe box, a slightly pointed or almond toe is timeless and flattering.

Comfortable Flats

Ballerina flats and loafers provide comfort for everyday wear without sacrificing style. I would opt for loafers personally, but I know a lot of you are die-hard ballerina fans.

Either way, choose a high-quality pair with enough room in the toe box. Look for soft leather for maximum comfort. Good shoes will usually have a leather sole as well, which you’ll need to get protected at the cobbler’s. 

Boots for All Seasons

A pair of ankle boots can be worn year-round and pair well with both dresses and trousers. Choose a classic style in black or brown leather for maximum versatility, and look for a heel height of just 2-4cm for comfort.

You’ll want the shaft height to be just above the ankle bone, and a slightly rounded or almond toe box will never go out of style.

Classic Trainers

For casual wear, a pair of classic trainers is a must-have. Options like Golden Goose, Nike Air Force 1, or Adidas Stan Smith are both trendy and timeless. Stick with a low-top style for more versatility. Leather is more practical for year-round wear in colder climates.

I always go with black or white for trainers, but New Balance, for example, have some wonderful neutrals in their collection which I could see fitting in well with a minimal wardrobe.

The Finishing Touches for a Timeless Wardrobe

Let’s talk accessories. Less really is more here.

The Rolex Watch: A Timeless Investment Piece

I’m picking a Rolex for this minimalist wardrobe essentials list because I really do think it’s absolutely timeless, and it’s more than just a timepiece – it’s an heirloom-quality accessory that instantly lifts any outfit.

While the initial investment is steep, a Rolex is seriously durable and will last for generations with proper care. It also holds its value very well, which is good to know in case you ever need to sell it.

There are many models to choose from, but I would go with a Datejust or Oyster Perpetual. They’re just utterly classic. And gorgeous.

Stainless steel with solid gold works well with any jewellery you wear, and most models come in a 36mm to 41mm size range to suit different wrists.

Gold Hoops and Diamond Studs: Minimalist Jewellery Essentials

If I could only keep two pieces of jewellery, it would be my simple gold hoop earrings and diamond studs. They complement any outfit, work in both casual and formal settings, and just never get old.

For gold hoops, go with a 2–4cm diameter for the most versatility, with a thin to medium width. You also want them to be relatively lightweight.

For diamond studs, I’d opt for a round brilliant cut like the Elsa Peretti studs from Tiffany’s. They’re classy and sparkly. The carat weight is really up to your budget. You can’t go wrong here with a larger stud.

Belts, Scarves, and Bags: Functional Accessories for Your Capsule Wardrobe

Accessories like belts, scarves, and bags add interest to minimalist outfits. A high-quality leather belt, a silk scarf from Hermès, and a versatile handbag are all worthy investments. This is such a broad area with millions of different options, but if I could only have three things (not counting utilitarian stuff here like gloves for the winter etc.), I would pick these:

1. A medium-width belt in black or brown
2. A 90x90cm silk scarf that looks good with my wardrobe’s predominant colours
3. A good tote bag in a neutral colour that can be used for both work and leisure and is not too big and bulky in case it needs to go on date night, too

To me, these three accessories add the most personality and functionality to a minimalist wardrobe while maintaining its streamlined aesthetic.

Step-by-Step Through the Minimalist Wardrobe Checklist

Creating a minimalist wardrobe is a process. No one is saying you have to go out and buy everything new to create a capsule closet, and give all your old stuff to charity. No. What you can do though, is use this list to inform your future purchases when you need to replace something.

If you’re planning a closet declutter and find you’re fed up with the clothes you have, you could also proceed with a roadmap similar to this:

1. Assess your current wardrobe and lifestyle needs

   • Take inventory of what you already own
   • Consider your daily activities and the types of clothing they require
   • Identify gaps in your current wardrobe

2. Choose a colour palette

   • Select a base of neutral colours (e.g., black, white, navy, grey)
   • Add 1-2 accent colours that complement your skin tone and personal style
   • Ensure all colours in your palette work well together

3. Invest in high-quality, versatile pieces whenever you need something new

   • Start with the basics: a white shirt, well-fitting jeans, a blazer, etc.
   • Choose items that can be mixed and matched easily
   • Focus on quality items

4. Regularly review and edit your wardrobe

   • Remove items that no longer fit, are worn out, or don’t align with your style
   • Identify any new gaps or needs in your closet
   • Practise mindful shopping and only add new items if they add value to your wardrobe

Always choose pieces that you like, which reflect your personal style and lifestyle. Whatever your taste, by focusing on quality, versatility, and timeless style, you can create a wardrobe that serves you well for years to come.