Minimalism Doesn't Have to be Boring (or Exclusive)

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Whenever I see a new minimalism campaign, or a slow fashion collection, it always looks the same-A tan and white color scheme, a cotton t-shirt, linen shorts, and a blazer. Everything just has a lack of flavor. I think it creates this narrative pushed to the consumer that in order to have a sustainable wardrobe, or have a minimalistic lifestyle you must only wear or buy boring things. It's not minimalism that's inherently bad, but how it's being packaged and sold to the consumer

What is Minimalism?

Minimalism is simply the practice of having or favoring a simple style or approach

However this new wave of minimailism isn't just that. Modern minimalistic fashion is essentially another term for "quiet luxury". Quiet luxury (which we can have another conversation on), is about wearing clothes that subtly signal affluence. It says you have money-without saying it. While I have many more thoughts on quiet luxury, for now, I’ll just say this: today's version of "minimalistic" fashion pushes the idea that wearing plain beige and white outfits not only signifies a sustainable lifestyle but also makes you look wealthy. It undermines individuality, and reinforces elitism.

As I talked about in one of my previous blog post- fashion has meaning. It's not just the clothing you put on, it signifies who you are, what you stand for, it also carries with it history. In that blog post ("Rococo Revival"), I mentioned the history of the Rococo era, and how it is predicted to comeback in our fashion cycle soon. To me, this isn't just a cutesy little trend; it signals that we have a societal crisis on our hands. Currently we are living in a plutocratic-society that is run by the rich, for the rich.

So, connecting this to the rise of minimalism in fashion, while part of it is genuinely about promoting sustainability, it's not the only path to achieving it. This particular style that is being pushed showcases classism and elitism. It says "in order to look like one of us, you must dress like on of us".

A key example: the Kardashians. The switch they made from flashy clothes with logos, fitted leggings, curvy bodies, to wearing plain, and neutral outfits. This movement implies that you can't wear loud clothes, bold makeup, vibrant patterns, or bright colors. You must blend in. You must conform.

Another example, would be Hailey Bieber. I love her, but she's the perfect case study for this. So many of her followers are so obsessed with buying her brand-not necessarily because the products are groundbreaking or impossible to find elsewhere (which is debatable). But because they want her aesthetic/lifestyle. They want the "clean girl" look. But here's the problem: it's not just a vibe, it's money. The effortless, minimalistic beauty she embodies isn't just about a slicked-back bun and dewy skin-it's about wealth, access, and genetics. And yet, we have another celebrity profiting off consumers who are chasing a look that, at its core, isn't as easily attainable as it's made to seem.

This article may be a reach, but all aspects of society are interconnected. Fashion and culture influence each other more than people realize. Trends like this pave the way for oppressive thinking I have previously mentioned.

Minimalism to Me

Overall, minimalism-like sustainability-is about understanding who you are. It's about wearing clothes that express your inner character, personality, and beliefs. It's about dressing in garments that accentuate your body type and make you feel condident.

To me, minimalism signifies favoring a simple style approach, but not in the way many designers have taken it. For me, it primarily applies to silhouette. Invest in capsule wardrobe items. Garments with silhouettes that will transcend decades, and outlast fast fashion trends.

For example, blazers. Pick a silhouette that you like and that fits you best. There are many to choose from-pea coats, double-breasted, fitted styles. Purchase bottoms that you'll love forever, from a basic straight A-line skirt to a pair of wide-leg denim jeans. To me, living minimally is purchasing clothing or items that you, in particular, will use for a long time. It's buying things that fit your lifestyle and personality. Not buying things simply because they are in style, or a trend.

A minimalistic lifestyle doesn't have to be boring. You can wear those bright pink tights, and polka dot rain boots. You can wear that red beret, and teal nail polish. I think it's a huge lie-one that many consumers are falling for-that minimalism has to be shapeless and neutral. Minimalism is about being you. Purchasing things you like and using them for a long time before purchasing something else. Be yourself wear those bright colors, and patterns. Just be concious of your buying habits!

Remember, It's slow fashion, not boring fashion.