For the longest time, I’ve been toying with the idea of creating a minimal wardrobe. About 2 1/2 years ago I started going through my closet more frequently and figuring out what I really wore often. After doing this I realized that I only wore about 50% of what was in my wardrobe. At this time I was big on thrifting, so the number of thrifted items packed in my closet was astronomical. Well, probably not that bad, but you get the picture.
It was then I realized it was time to cut back on my random thrifting trips and possibly give the whole minimal wardrobe thing a try. Before you read on, here’s my definition of minimalism, which is a combination of two definitions I stumble upon recently from Joshua Becker, Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus:
Minimalism – A lifestyle designed to inspire others to live their best lives while owning fewer possessions, as well as a tool that can help you achieve freedom. (i.e. financial freedom, freedom from fear, worry, overwhelm, etc.)
When hubs and I downsized to our new apartment, I already had the idea of a minimalist lifestyle in my mind. I knew I had to research a little more first; I don’t like to jump into things and change my routine without researching. Even after the research phase, I’m all about subtle changes here and there. So the whole downsizing decision kick-started my minimalism quest and I decided to start with my wardrobe. Below are 3 things I’ve realized during the process.
1. Minimizing your wardrobe doesn’t have to be drastic. | You don’t have to throw out or give away everything you own; it’s not that serious. This decision should work for your lifestyle, period. If your lifestyle calls for more than 9 pieces in your wardrobe, so be it. If you need 21 pieces to create a minimal wardrobe, great! It’s all up to you and no one should dictate how many items you should or should not have in your closet.
2. A minimalist wardrobe saves time AND money. | Deciding to create a minimal wardrobe saves time in the morning when getting dressed, as well as MONEY. Just think about the money you’ll save on clothing, shoes, and accessories when shopping. Deciding to “go minimal” takes time and careful planning, but in doing so you’re sure to have a couple coins left over in your bank account. Can’t beat that!
3. Minimalism doesn’t have to stop with your wardrobe. | If you decided to go this route as far as your wardrobe, why not try a full on minimalist lifestyle? Get rid of the clutter and unnecessary items in your closet, kitchen cabinets, bookshelf, bathroom, etc. Freeing up space in other areas of your home will help you feel more at ease. Once you have that down pat, you can even try the minimalism approach in other areas of your life too!
Minimal Wardrobe & Lifestyle Reference Links
So tell me, do you have a minimal wardrobe? Have you thought about living a minimalist lifestyle? Let me know!
All in all, I’m on a quest to continue living a God-centered, happy and simple life, while living with less. I’ll be sharing more of my thoughts and changes as I go through this process. If you have any tips, links or suggestions that may help, feel free to send them to me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!
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I just started trying a capsule wardrobe in the fall and have loved it. The clothing is simpler in design and I wear jewelry to liven it up. I’m loving it. There are so many clothes on my closet I don’t wear. Thanks for sharing with Small Victories Sunday Linkup. Pinned to our linkup board.
Tanya @ Mom’s Small Victories recently posted…Small Victories Sunday Linkup {93}
So glad to hear that you love it, Tanya! Inspires me to keep building mine. 🙂
One of my visions this year is to adopt a minimalist style. Not the same as a minimal wardrobe but it intersects a bit. While I’m still very much into prints, I want to try dressing in separates of 1-2 colors and then adding print as an accessory. Solange, is a great example (there’s a cut-out of her on my vision board rockin’ a great minimalist look). She gradually started veering towards minimalist style. It’s simple but it’s still stylish. That’s my main goal right now.
Good luck with this new challenge. I know you can get it done.
Thanks, Viv! And of course, leopard print is a neutral in my book so that will be included in my minimal wardrobe. Lol! Great example with Solange; she does minimal and stylish so well. You can do it! 😉
You go Whit! I wish I had the gumption to do this. I am a clothes and shoes hoarder but I’m gradually learning to let go and spend more wisely. Especially as I mature, I’ve learned what works for me and my lifestyle and what doesn’t. So, I’ve stopped purchasing the random items(such as a body hugging party dresses and cute mini skirts) realistically, when is the last time I’ve been to a party that has called for one of these items..lol! I do take the minimalist approach with my home decor for sure. A lot of clutter and things everywhere just overwhelms me…so I like my spaces..organized, clean,airy and open. Best wishes on your new journey and I wish you all the best with the process. XOXO
Style & Poise recently posted…Polka Dots Galore
It has been a struggle, for sure! Lol…especially since I’m such a fan of thrifting. But like you I like clean and open…and organized, spaces so I HAD to get rid of some things. I’ll still be shopping tho, believe that! Just with more intention 😉
I am so on-board with this! It started as a “Spring Cleaning” project and I’ve continued throughout our home. It feels so good to purge every room and closet! It’s unbelievable how much stuff we’ve collected over the past few years just by living in a larger space. We’re going back to basics and we’re so much happier for it.
My apologies for the delay in response, but I hope you were successful in Spring Cleaning! Wishing you a productive and stylish rest of the year…xo!