I went to the mall yesterday to drop off some Poshmark packages I sold and I noticed myself not wanting to go into most stores. I will usually do a quick walk through all my usual hits, plus more just to check things out.
No intent to buy, just to browse because I like to keep a lookout for new things that may catch my eye, or even just for some inspiration.
But I found myself actively avoiding these places.
The only one I actually walked through before heading back home was Simons because their men’s section has the best-dressed mannequins and I love to look at them.
It is that shift that is happening that I talked to you about several weeks ago, and while it felt mostly internal then, it is starting to manifest outwards now.
It’s interesting.
Fashion tends to reflect what is going on in the world and the world is in a really weird and bad place so we are seeing some shifts outwardly as well.
I *think* maybe I started to feel it back when I put together the elevated basics post back in June, because that is a similar idea to what this style reflects.
It is being coined eclectic minimalism in the fashion realm and it is also a term that is applied to interior design.
What is Eclectic Minimalism?
I actually really like the definition as is pertains to interior design because it really hits the nail on the head when talking about this dressing style.
In interior design, eclectic minimalism is a style that allows you to express your personality while keeping things simple and clutter-free.
I’m not sure that it needs a deeper explanation, but to expand upon it a bit:
Eclectic Minimalism in fashion refers to a style that blends the clean, streamlined aesthetic of minimalism with the playful, unexpected touches of eclecticism.
This approach allows for individuality and creativity while maintaining a sense of simplicity and balance.
It is all about maintaining minimalism at the core, but incorporating pieces that have different shapes, unique detailing, and unexpected or bold colour pairings.
Which will allow you to still retain your strong sense of style without falling into the cliche cookie-cutter minimalist wardrobe.
Eclectic Minimalist Spring Capsule Wardrobe: The Pieces
T-shirt | Blue Jeans | Zebra Print Clutch | Brown Boots | Vintage Trench | Striped Shirt | Faux Fur Scarf | Heels | Earrings | Wrap Sweater | Burgundy Flats | Burgundy Bag | Grey Jeans | Slip Dress | Cognac Ballet Flats | Cardigan | Blue Sweater | Black Trousers | Navy Tote | White Blouse | Belt | Hair Stick | Yellow Shirt | Sneakers | Sunglasses
How to Build an Eclectic Minimalist Wardrobe
This isn’t just applicable to the spring season, but straight across the board for any season.
And the most important thing that I want you to remember is to pick pieces based on intentions and feelings instead of a checklist.
Checklists make it formulaic, they also make it seem like after you find the required set of items on the list then you are set.
There is much more to it than that and you need to go piece by piece in a slow manner so you can truly determine whether something is suitable for your wardrobe.
You want to first start with a minimalist foundation.
- Focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and neutral or muted colour palettes.
- Quality fabrics, subtle textures, and timeless silhouettes.
- Avoids excessive layering or overly complicated designs.
Then we add in the eclectic touches:
- Add bold, quirky, or unexpected elements.
This might be a vibrant colour, a statement accessory, or a focus piece with an unconventional print or interesting texture.
Something like my favourite cardigan. It’s just plain fun.
A coat is also a great way to explore this. Taking a very minimal outfit and then wearing a statement coat over the top is easy and impactful.
I am always seeking out interesting outwear because I can be wearing the sloppiest outfit and once I place the coat over the top it just works.
It is like the miracle piece.
- It also mixes influences from various cultures, eras, or aesthetics in a subdued way.
Key Characteristics:
Balanced Contrast: The minimalist aspect provides cohesion, while the eclectic elements add personality and intrigue.
Focus on Details: A single standout item like an interesting bag, artistic jewellery, or weird footwear becomes the focal point.
Intentional Choices: Every piece feels deliberate and curated, avoiding the cluttered or chaotic vibe that can come with full eclecticism.
Which is fine if that is your style but if it isn’t, it can be overwhelming and you may shut down style-wise.
Layered Simplicity: Keep styling pared-down, but include unconventional pairings, like a sleek blazer with interesting sneakers or a monochrome outfit with colourful shoes or accessories.
Have Signature Pieces. Mine might be men’s vintage Levi’s, or graphic tees, or even older designer bags.
Try Interesting Colour Pairings: A little goes a long with just by adding a colour or pairing colours. You need to think outside the box with this.
Not all pops of colour need to be vibrant and bold. They can be subtle or muted but an interesting or unique paring.
For example, I have that cornflower blue sweater. Yes it as an interesting shape with the barrel sleeves, but I also like to pair it with other colours to make something more unique or bold.
My current favourite is this blue paired with burgundy. It gives the right amount of interest without being shocking or bold.
I think it is really important to keep your wardrobe small and well-curated. Keeping it small enough so that people can tell that you are rewearing your pieces, but you are doing so in creative new ways.
This is when you have reached the perfect place in your wardrobe.
I find that when people’s closets get so large that you see them wearing new items every day, there is always something missing in their style.
Sure they may always look good, but then so can anyone with the right amount of money.
You need to sit comfortably within your wardrobe and create and build new and unique outfits with pieces that you regularly wear.
If you are uncomfortable and uninspired rewearing something, your closet is reflective of your wallet size and not your style.
And this is not what we ever want.
Rewear, get creative, and inspire yourself.
Examples of Eclectic Minimalist Outfits
T-shirt | Blue Jeans | Zebra Print Clutch | Brown Boots | Vintage Trench | Striped Shirt | Faux Fur Scarf | Heels | Earrings | Wrap Sweater | Burgundy Flats | Burgundy Bag | Grey Jeans | Slip Dress | Cognac Ballet Flats | Cardigan | Blue Sweater | Black Trousers | Navy Tote | White Blouse | Belt | Hair Stick | Yellow Shirt | Sneakers | Sunglasses
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