There is a reason why I start each new season with different variations of minimalist capsule wardrobes. 90s minimalist, edgy minimalist, and standard minimalist are the main ones, and sometimes I even do a cool or warm palette version.
This is because they tend to be my most popular posts. I *think* the reason behind that is minimalist wardrobes are very easy to relate to and imagine integrating into your own wardrobe.
They are like the stripped down versions of various styles and easy to adapt to fit your needs, because some of my style specific capsules can be too limiting for many to relate to.
What I try to do though, is to put together minimalist wardrobes that don’t fall into the generic cookie cutter trap.
Minimalism often gets a bad rap for being boring or overly simplistic, but in reality, a well-curated minimalist wardrobe can be anything but dull.
This is why I try to make you think of the potential of your wardrobe through a different lens. That minimalist doesn’t have to be completely devoid of colour or personality.
You can still embrace your neutrals and sprinkle in some colours or prints while maintaining the versatility and ease of what makes a minimalist wardrobe so appealing.
It’s not just about owning fewer items; it’s about intentionality and creating a cohesive, functional collection of clothing that still reflects your personality.
A 12 Piece Minimalist Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Turtleneck | Cuffed Jeans | Green Flats | Black Handbag | Coat | Brown Boots | Blue Sweater | Wrap Shirt | Black Mini Heels | Brown Handbag | Dress | Cardigan | Checkered Trousers | Earrings | Scarf | Grey Sweater | Faux Leather Trousers | Black Boots | Blue Bag | Socks | Sunglasses | Blue Button Up | Necklace | Grey Short Sleeve Sweatshirt | Sneakers
A Guide to Building a Non-Boring Minimalist Wardrobe
At the rate fall is going I am starting to feel like this winter might be really mild.
I live in an area that clears the streets and sidewalks of snow quickly so generally the only time I need to wear winter boots is if I am out in an active snowstorm, or it is very, very cold.
This means that I tend to wear my fall footwear in the winter season more often than not which is why this capsule doesn’t contain winter boots.
I often wear sneakers in the winter, and this pair of Adidas is the Japan model which is very comfortable. I have them in red and they are one of my favourite ways to add colour to my wardrobe.
Back to winter boots.
I consider winter boots to be one of those specialized pieces that I don’t usually include in capsules. There is a pair of winter boots in the hall closet if I need them, if I don’t they will stay there until next year.
They aren’t something that I replace each winter season.
Now that I have explained my reasonings, let’s get into it.
Embrace Your Personal Style
Minimalism doesn’t mean giving up on personal style, it’s about really nailing it down. Start by asking yourself what elements of fashion make you feel good and confident.
What pieces are you drawn to? What colours, fabrics, and silhouettes make you feel your best? You’ll start to see connections and themes within these things once you really start to analyze and pay attention.
Start with a Solid Foundation
The best wardrobes begin with a strong foundation of pieces that would work within any wardrobe. These are what we refer to as basics, but there are so many options for basics that are elevated and not so basic.
These will serve as the perfect canvas for more expressive pieces.
Play with Silhouettes and Fabrics
One of the best ways to keep minimalism interesting is by experimenting with different silhouettes and fabrics. Think oversized blazers paired with straight-leg jeans, cropped tops with high-waisted trousers, or slouchy sweaters with fitted skirts.
Add dimension with texture, like incorporating fabrics and knits such as wool, silk, linen, or leather to add visual interest.
For example, a silky blouse paired with tailored wool trousers, leather shoes, and a suede handbag.
Layering is key, not only does it add warmth but also depth to your outfits. Try layering a thin turtleneck under a blazer or an oversized sweater over a crisp white shirt for a chic, minimalist look.
Play with these to see what works best and feels natural to you.
These are examples of using different fabrics to build an outfit. In the first look, there is faux leather, chunky cable knit, suede, leather, and wool.
Even though the sweater and pants are similar colours, the different textures really build the look. I love a mix of grey and brown, it is very 90s Clavin Klein.
Originally I wanted to include these grey faux leather trousers because I recently tried them on (and bought them), but they sold out quickly on the US site. You can sign up for a notification if your size comes back in stock.
They skew large so if you are in between sizes, then size down.
In the second look, I have checkered wool pants, a cotton shirt, a knit sweater, a cashmere scarf, leather, and a croc embossed bag.
Even the silver earrings in both looks add to it.
Incorporate Some Colours
Minimalism doesn’t have to mean black, white, and grey only. Incorporating colours can add a touch of personality to your wardrobe while maintaining the minimalist vibe.
Opt for some accent colours that you genuinely love and that complement the rest of your wardrobe. I chose blue and green, but both are cool tone versions of those colours.
The coat has a more earthy undertone but to me chartreuse leans more neutral because it pairs well with most colours. It is like one of those colours that change from neutral to bold depending on how you wear it.
Those changing types of colours are my favourite because they are so versatile.
These two looks demonstrate adding colour subtly and overtly.
Look one is built from using variations of green and blue. The turtleneck is subtle, and the green coat helps to neutralize it. The shoes and the bag are brighter pops of colour.
In the second outfit, the use of colour is more in an accessory type of way.
Some blue socks, and a blue sweater that is meant to be tied around the shoulders or across the body to add both colour and the depth of layering. When it is cold out you can even use it as a scarf.
Add Accessories for Interest
Accessories are an underrated way to inject personality into a minimalist wardrobe, or any wardrobe for that matter.
They are an opportunity to play with trends, add some colour, or experiment with shapes and sizes while keeping the overall look clean and cohesive.
Be Selective with Trends
Minimalism doesn’t have to mean staying away from trends altogether. The key is to incorporate them thoughtfully, by choosing trends that align with your personal style and can be easily integrated into your existing wardrobe.
Add a Statement Piece
Even the most minimalist wardrobes can benefit from a standout, statement piece. This could be a bold coloured coat, a patterned skirt, an interesting pair of shoes, or a standout bag.
The idea is to have one or two pieces that reflect your personal style and make you feel excited to get dressed.
I just bought this cardigan.
It was a big splurge, and to buy it I sold some other pieces from my wardrobe that I no longer wear. This habit helps to maintain a smaller wardrobe and not allow pieces that no longer align with your style to take up room.
This cardigan is a statement piece. I love it and will wear it until it unravels on my body.
Everyone needs one standout piece.
When it comes down to it, having a minimalist style isn’t just about wearing basics, it’s about having a thoughtfully curated collection that makes you excited to get dressed.
The minimalist aesthetic doesn’t need to just focus on simplicity, it can also be a thoughtful expression of personal style that emphasizes quality, versatility, and intention.
It’s a shift in your mindset from just accumulating pieces to curating a cohesive collection that reflects who you are, without the clutter.
By embracing clean lines, varied textures, different silhouettes, and a bit of colour you can create a wardrobe that is truly functional.
I want you to remember that minimalism isn’t about deprivation; it’s about curating a collection with purpose.
Because once you start to choose each piece carefully, your wardrobe becomes a refined, authentic extension of you.
Minimalist Winter Outfit Ideas
Turtleneck | Cuffed Jeans | Green Flats | Black Handbag | Coat | Brown Boots | Blue Sweater | Wrap Shirt | Black Mini Heels | Brown Handbag | Dress | Cardigan | Checkered Trousers | Earrings | Scarf | Grey Sweater | Faux Leather Trousers | Black Boots | Blue Bag | Socks | Sunglasses | Blue Button Up | Necklace | Grey Short Sleeve Sweatshirt | Sneakers
You might also like:
A 12 Piece 90s Minimalist Winter Capsule Wardrobe
A 12 Piece Fall Capsule Wardrobe for Moms
A 12 Piece Eclectic Fall Capsule Wardrobe
A 12 Piece Fall Capsule Wardrobe on a Budget
A 12 Piece Minimalist Chic Fall Capsule Wardrobe
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