De Minimis

  Minimalism (min·i·mal·ism) – use of the fewest and barest essentials or elements, as in the arts, literature or design. In fashion, minimalism is a marriage of form and function wherein all the unnecessary is eliminated and only the essential stays. Defined by solid colors, crisp lines and zero embellishment, it’s seen a huge resurgence in the past few years, and proves as an almost direct contrast to the glaring colors, prints and patchwork denim disasters of the early 2000’s. However, minimalism is no mere trend: it’s a philosophy.

  There have always been those who worship at the minimalist alter designing for the runway. Helmut Lang, Comme Des Garcons and Issey Miyake are just a few examples of an almost obsessive dedication to  simplicity that truly sprouted in the 90’s but has only really blossomed in this era. In art, sculptors like Carl Andre reduced their work its utmost simplicity, working on the concept that perfection is attained, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing to take away (as mused by Saint-Exupéry). 3D Printed, laser cut, and ready for our next intergalactic voyage, minimalist clothing often mimics sculpture, and as within the art movement, refers to nothing but itself. 

  Minimalism goes beyond just what you wear, and floods into daily life. It eliminates choice, and by doing so, frees you of the burden of making that choice, letting you focus on what’s truly important. Imagine stripping your wardrobe down to 10 pieces of clothing, what would you choose? I can assure you it wouldn’t be the sequined sweater or the statement heel, but rather the white shirt and the black jean. For me, minimalism will never be a long-term possibility - I’m too prone to change to commit. Instead, I’ve always viewed it as a beginning, starting at the basics and building upon them to create something truly unique to you. That’s exactly what style should be - a personal statement and signature. 

Coat from H&M

Sweater from COS

Shirt from Topman

Jeans from H&M

Shoes from Asos