When thinking about minimalist dressing a lot of people think… boring. I’m here to change your mind, the strength of this trend (or lifestyle to some people) is that its understated but makes a big statement. The key to this trend is keeping looks simple, chic and easy. It’s the non-indulgent way of dressing; utilitarian and clean keep those words in mind when trying to embrace this style. Below are some designers that have adopted the minimalist philosophy but adapted it to their personal aesthetic. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you to make that wardrobe change!
Céline (Phoebe Philo)
Minimalist Style: Modern and Contemporary
The name to know if your a minimalist junkie is Phoebe Philo, formerly with Chloé she now heads Céline in the hope to reinvigorate the brand. Her clothes are something you would want to invest in as they are timeless, classic and chic with a modern edge. The lure of her clothing makes you want to change into something straight off her runway. Phoebe’s vision for the contemporary minimalist women was/is what many fashionistas are vying to be.
Stella McCartney
Minimalist Style: Sexy Androgynous
Not wanting to be another celebrities daughter, Stella McCartney has slowly carved her way into the fashion industry. Her seamless mix of androgyny and minimal with the feminine aesthetic gives her collections a sense of sexuality and power. She’s known for her sharp tailoring especially with tuxedo jackets that I feel are a must have for any woman taking the minimalist route. I personally love her design philosophy of not using fur and leather in any of her designs.
Chloé – Hanna MacGibbon
Minimalist Style: 70s Grown up Glam
After Phoebe Philo stepped down, Hannah MacGibbon had the huge task of taking over after her. Chloé was one of the first fashion houses to start the pret-a-porter movement back in the day, therefore they play a lot with easy separates but with a 70s air. Hannah having been part of the Philo years is now taking the house into a more relaxed bohemian approach to minimalist dressing. Even her past collections although stark, have had subtle 70s influences, making it the perfect option for those that want to embrace that era in a modern way.
Victoria Beckham
Minimalist Style: Ladylike and Chic
Victoria Beckham, yes I said it before and I’ll say it again, I really love her designs. I’m sure she has a team of pattern makers and fashion designers helping her, but since her first capsule collection she has grown in strength. Her collections are minimalist with a ladylike feel that is reminiscent of her own style sensibilities. If you thought that you should only wear grey,camel, white and black to look minimal, think again. Victoria has repeatedly used pops of colour in her collections, so play around with stark colour but make sure it’s kept simple and clean.
Michael Kors
Minimalist Style: Glamourous yet Simplistic
Michael Kors, a name you don’t often associate with the minimalist movement. His design philosophy is non-fuss investment clothing with emphasis on the glamourous. This year marks his 30 years in the fashion industry starting at the age of 19. His clothes appeals to the sweethearts as well as the vixens of hollywood, all because his clothing can be worn with anything and taken from day to night. His separates and evening wear are simplistic in silhouette but use incredibly high end fabrics like cashmere, silver fox etc. Making his minimalist approach extremely luxurious.
By Sue Castellino for MissMalini