Minimal Fashion Is My Game, and These Outfits Are My Playbook

"Less is more" is an ethos minimalists truly live by. Some of the simplest, most seemingly effortless outfits have proven to be more profound than the over-the-top frills and ruffles of others. (Don't get me wrong—I do love indulging in extravagant pieces from time to time). Just take a cue from some of our favorite designers like Catherine Holstein of Khaite, Jil Sander, and Phoebe Philo, who have established themselves as the leaders of pure minimalism when it comes to dressing.

As a minimalist myself, I find that I gravitate toward specific fashion pieces and outfits without even hesitating. There are certain outfits that simply just work without maximum effort, and I'm here for it. I do want to preface, however, that just because it's minimalistic does not mean it's boring—unique knit necklines, thoughtful cutout jumpsuits, and polka-dot printed frocks can still be done with a minimalist's flare.

While there are a plethora of minimalist wardrobe staples, the art of minimalism is found in the outfit pairings. Ahead, discover 15 outfits that are in my wardrobe playbook that are anything but boring.

Silk Midi Skirt + White T-Shirt + Square-Toe Booties

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye )

A minimalist's go-to skirt is the satin bias-cut midi. It can be styled with just about any other wardrobe basic. Pair the look with the perfect diamond huggies that you can wear all the time.

Unique Knit Neckline + Straight-Leg Denim

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(Image credit: @kerrypieri)

As I mentioned, just because I am a minimalist does not categorize me as boring. Update your sweater collection with new knit necklines that are unique yet polished. Complete this look with a cozy mule slip. 

Voluminous Dress + Chunky Booties

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(Image credit: @jaimeridge)

The volume of this puff-sleeve dress paired with a contrasting chunky boot is a minimalist's spring wardrobe dream.

Style Tip: Opt for a watch rather than stacks of bracelets for a minimal jewelry moment. 

Floral Set + Loafers + Tote

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(Image credit: @estellechemouny)

Surprise! Minimalists can wear prints too. Tone down this matching floral set with black accessories to complete the look. 

Blazer + Biker Shorts + Sandals

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(Image credit: @vbiancav)

Easily my go-to look for the season, this look has yet to fail me. The best part? I can swap in any blazer from my closet to create multiple looks. 

Muscle Tee + High-Rise Denim + Boots

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev )

Is it me, or is this outfit combo having a moment right now? It's all about the oversize white muscle tee tucked into a fitted high-waisted pair of jeans styled with knee-high boots. A simple three-piece look. 

Cropped Sweater + Silk Midi Skirt + Vibrant Sandals

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(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

Being a minimalist also doesn't mean you don't like color, you just don't wear a lot of colors.

Style Tip: introduce color by strategically placing it throughout your outfit (for instance, bright blue strappy sandals).

Pastel Suit + Mules

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(Image credit: @greceghanem )

I am borderline about to replace white with this light buttercream yellow. This season, I'm giving my suit collection a refresh by purchasing a suit in this shade. It's the ideal amount of color for me.

Jumpsuit + Strappy Sandals

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(Image credit: @thevicstyles)

When I'm feeling a bit fancier, I opt for a jumpsuit. But not just any jumpsuit—one with thoughtfully placed cutouts to make the look feel more elevated. 

Statement-Sleeve Blouse + Denim 

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(Image credit: @basicstouch)

I call this one my uniform. No matter the season, this outfit is easily #1 in my wardrobe playbook. 

Knit Dress + Belt 

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(Image credit: @anaasaber)

Tis the season of the knit dress. It's a versatile wardrobe piece without a doubt. Perhaps my go-to way of styling it as of late is with a Western-inspired belt and chunky boots.

Square-Neck Bodysuit + Trousers + Sandals

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

The effortlessness of this look is everything.

Style Tip: Update your beloved thong sandals to a soft leather style like these for a more polished look. 

Polka-Dot Frock + Mules

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Polka dots but make it minimalist. I find that oversize polka dots are my answer to this trendy print. To complete the look, style with simple accessories like black mules and black sunglasses.

Knit Cardigan Set + Trousers

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(Image credit: @em_tong )

We loved the Khaite cardigan set look when Katie Holmes stepped out in it, and since then we've been trying to re-create the look

Asymmetrical Top + Skinny Belt 

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(Image credit: @modedamour )

The subtly of this asymmetrical top paired with the skinny belt is the epitome of "less is more."

Freelance Editor