Chances are, if you’ve scrolled through your Instagram feed for longer than a few minutes, you’ll have noticed two things. One, is that almost everyone seems to be on holiday right now, and two, is that there’s some sort of dress code or aesthetic that stands out.
What is minimalist style?
The minimal luxe vibe has been gathering steam for some time now, and while the look is by no means exciting, it’s certainly proved popular.
Think wide-leg trousers, a t-shirt, a smart blazer and simple trainers, all in neutral hues. Sounds boring, right? Well, that’s sort of the whole point. And I should know.
Why should I consider becoming a minimalist dresser?
It’s not that I don’t like prints or bright colours, in fact, I love both, just not necessarily in my own wardrobe. I find getting dressed so much easier with a slick, neutral wardrobe, and I also find I have fewer ‘outfit regret’ moments. You know the ones where you get to the end of the street and wish you hadn’t gone for wide-leg blush pink trousers and a clashing top as you feel too outre? Well those moments are few and far between when all of your wardrobe pieces blend together seamlessly.
How do I build a minimalist capsule wardrobe?
If you’re keen to join the club, the important things to note are fit and colour. Firstly, the fit should be pared-back – you won’t find an oversized ruffle, floaty frill or scalloped hem around here. Colour-wise, only neutrals will do. Oat, khaki, grey and white are the go-tos year-round, while black and tan are the perfect partners in the form of accessories.
Keen to join us? Here are the five ‘Instagram’ looks to know now:
The smart minimalist look
We can thank Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (who is arguably the fearless leader of the Instagram Minimal gang) for the rise of the smart legging: with splits or zips either at the front or to the side, and in a thicker material, these have been deemed slick enough for evenings and dressier looks. Black is the easiest to dress up, just make sure the leggings are the most casual element in the look.
Wear yours with an oversized blazer and a t-shirt, or a long silk blouse and heeled sandals. A stack of gold jewellery is a must, as is a mini leather top handle bag.
The minimalist ‘going out’ out outfit
For evening, texture clashes come into play. I’m a big fan of a silky top with jeans and suede heels, or a satin co-ord with leather sandals and a velvet clutch.
An easy silhouette to aim for is a simple t-shirt with an oversized blazer on top, and a silky bias cut skirt with mules. Chloe Jade Story has the look down pat: her evening look is just as flirty and chic as it is minimal, all thanks to texture clashes and fluid shapes.
The casual, everyday minimalist look
The late Princess Diana’s early 90s’ looks are the sole inspiration for this aesthetic: think cycling shorts or leggings with chunky sports socks, dad trainers and oversized sweatshirts.
It’s not a look for actual sports mind, but more for running speedy errands and wanting to look like you’ve made an effort. H&M is the winner on the high street for slogan sweats at a great price point, while New Balance’s 327 or 550 styles are currently in Instagram’s eye of affection.
The minimalist office outfit
Of course, the minimal luxe vibe is ideal for workwear: it’s smart, sleek and grown-up, so lends itself well to environments where you need to portray that.
Wide-leg or tapered trousers are perfect, offering a slouchy but smart shape that can be dressed up or dressed down. I love to half tuck a With Nothing Underneath shirt into the front of mine, and I’ll pair it with chunky leather sandals and gold earrings.
The casual look
For a lowkey brunch or lunch with friends, jeans are always a good idea. I’ve found a leather blazer (whether real or faux) elevates a denim and trainers look a treat without feeling overdone, and since you’ll be sat at a table, there’s no need to plump for heels. Nike Air Force 1’s are my staple as they’re a clean style and simple shape. Wear with loose-fit full-length jeans and a ton of gold jewellery.
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