Minimalist Dressing, 4 Ways

Published on: August 25, 2022

Photo courtesy of Matin

The appeal of minimalism lies in its simplicity. But pared-back doesn’t have to mean plain. We’ve pulled together four styling strategies to help you nail the less-is-more look—plus, all the very-best-quality black-and-white basics your closet could need.

LEAN INTO TEXTURE

Texture is the easiest lever to pull when you’re running low on styling inspiration. Whether you do a little (plissé button-up instead of classic shirting) or a lot (silk slacks, chunky vest, woven leather bag in hand), the end result is always chic.

ON MODELS: ST. AGNI SHIRT, goop, $257; MARIA MCMANUS PANTS, goop, $550

GO WIDE

You might already have a pair of wide-leg trousers hanging in your closet. But are they tailored to perfection with soft pleats that add movement to every step? Balance the proportions with a slim sweater or a streamlined bodysuit.

ON MODELS: ST. AGNI SHIRT, goop, $257; G. LABEL JOHNSON BODYSUIT, goop, $185; G. LABEL FAHN HIGH-WAISTED PLEATED PANTS, goop, $495

PLAY WITH JUXTAPOSITIONS

A double-breasted blazer and matching cigarette pants mean business, but the real KPI of a power suit is how well it dresses down. Offset the buttoned-up vibes with casual-leaning footwear, like clean white sneakers (à la Gwyneth) or chunky-strap sandals.

ON MODELS: MARIA MCMANUS BLAZER, goop, $1,090; MARIA MCMANUS PANTS, goop, $550; A EMERY SANDALS, goop, $190; MARIA MCMANUS SHIRT, goop, $480

COMMIT TO MONOCHROME

Dressing in the same hue head to toe will always look sleek. Case in point: a creamy, cropped workwear jacket and utility-minded mini or an inky-black tank and tube skirt.

ON MODELS: MARIA MCMANUS SHIRT, goop, $480; MARIA MCMANUS SKIRT, goop, $420; MATIN JACKET, goop, $589; MATIN MINISKIRT, goop, $470