Last year continued fashion's new leaning towards fun—dresses were splashed with bright colours and vivid prints, while accessories consisted largely of the faux fur and embellished variety. That doesn't mean, however, that minimalism is out—in fact, this year the pared-back mood is proving more palpable than ever.
Instead of shopping frivolously and buying into every trend that surfaces, countless influencers have put their wardrobes back to factory settings, vowing to only buy classic pieces that'll stand the test of time. The likes of Acne Studios and Jil Sander have long reigned in this remit, but thanks to a handful of high-street brands, minimal fashion that's affordable and holds up in the quality stakes is significantly easier to come by.
From COS, Arket and Weekday, keep scrolling to discover the best minimal shopping that'll make any exposed hanging rail look chic, from as little as £7.
COS
Maya Soul Paustian wears a pair of an oversized cotton shirt from COS layered over trousers.
Just add white sneakers and run out the door for the perfect work-appropriate summer look.
This bag is a really lovely way to try the pleats trend we're seeing in skirts this summer.
The square neckline, the crossover back and the think straps make this look so expensive.
A very un-boring reimagined button-down shirt. Look at those pockets!
This is a very timeless way to try out a bucket hat.
Related: The 12 Classiest Items You Can Ever Own
Classic and lightweight, all this skirt needs is a white tee and some simple shoes.
This pair of trousers is the chicest way to incorporate the green trend into your wardrobe this season.
Hair accessories are having a major moment, and a clip is the minimalist way try one.
Front tie! Back tie! Just think of the endless styling potential this tie-top holds.
These no-fuss statement earrings will to tie any look together, from casual to a night out.
Related: We Try Before You Buy: 9 of the Prettiest Wedding-Guest Outfits
ARKET
Brittany Bathgate wears a shirt and skirt from Arket.
The utility shirt is an easy way to try something structural but still look quite cool.
Strappy sandals are this season's must-have shoe, and these ones look both comfy and sleek.
S/S 2019 trends are all about being a bit of an explorer, but this jacket will be fab forever.
Acetate sunglasses are an integral part of any minimalist's uniform.
We've said it before and we'll say this again, we love this skirt.
Related: 11 Steps to Finding Your Personal Style and Sticking to It
You'll find countless occasions to wear this classic Oxford shirt.
The perfect cropped workwear jacket for spring. A pop of colour to keep your wardrobe fresh.
A pair of simple wide-leg white jeans is a spring season must.
Organic linen is a super-breathable fabric for light summer tees. This one comes in many colours.
A looser, less form-fitting version of the slip skirt? Genius.
Related: I'm a Minimalist—These Are All the Simple Shoe Styles I Own
WEEKDAY
Lizzy Hadfield wears a jacket and trousers from Weekday
This is a fabulously lightweight trench, and this colour makes it stand out.
This throw-on-and-go dress comes in a cute blue-and-white print too. Easy summer dressing, done.
Their simple shape and timeless cut make the pop of colour feel a bit more low key.
Classic hoops with a twist. These will go with anything.
This looks like a vintage designer piece, while the pale yellow hue is very on trend this season.
Weekday swimwear is quickly reaching cult status, and this recycled-material one-piece shows you why.
Related: Summer 2019 Fashion Trends: Looks You Need to Know
These organic cotton tees come in so many colours and have the perfect fit.
Minimalism is in the details too. Toss this in your hair, on your neck or around your ankle.
This is much sheerer on the person and is very '90s chic.
For those minimalists who want to try the outdoor athleisure trend this season.
Now, check out the 10 items that are taking over Instagram this January, including the most perfect pair of spring boots.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
-
This Nordstrom Rack Sale Has So Many Cool-Girl Essentials—These 25 Finds Are the StandoutsAn extra 20% off? Yes, please.
-
The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer LongSomething for every personal style.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
-
The 30 Items That Will Define Style in Summer 2025Gotta catch 'em all.
-
Linen Pants! Full Skirts! Long Shorts! Zara Has Every Single Chic Bottoms Trend—40 Picks That Are Worth Your AttentionGood luck picking just one.
-
27 Crochet Pieces From Zara, H&M, J.Crew, and More That Scream Cool GirlYou'll wear these on heavy rotation.
