Minimalist Wardrobe Planning Archives

Create A Wardrobe Color Palette You’ll Love In Just 6 Easy Steps!

by M·style alley | Mon, Dec, 2023 | Capsule Wardrobe, Capsule Wardrobe Planning, Minimalist Wardrobe, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

Do you feel lost in the world of color? Are you unsure how to create a customized Wardrobe Color Palette and embrace its benefits? If so, it’s time to embark on a journey to curate a Wardrobe Color Palette that reflects your style, suits your personality, and makes getting dressed a joy.

This blog post will take you through 6 easy steps to create a Wardrobe Color Palette that not only simplifies your daily outfit decisions but also resonates with your style preferences. Say goodbye to the endless search for matching items, and say hello to a closet filled with colors that reflect YOU and your style personality. Let’s dive into the world of color and transform your wardrobe into a curated collection you’ll love!

What Is A Wardrobe Color Palette?

A Wardrobe Color Palette is a range of colors thoroughly chosen to complement and accompany one another, which are easy to mix and match to get various outfits. The colors are usually selected according to an individual’s Personal Style and fashion preferences.

What are the minimal wardrobe color palette benefits and why have one? #wardrobecolor #wardrobecolorpalette #howtotidywardrobe #wardrobecolorpalettebenefits #wardrobeplanning #creatingwardrobecolorpalette

What Are Wardrobe Color Palette Benefits?

Creating a Wardrobe Color Palette can offer several benefits, including:

Helps Organizing Closet

A harmonized Wardrobe Color Palette makes it easy to organize and keep our closets tidy and in order. We only need to sort out our clothing by color, and the wardrobe will instantly look more aesthetically pleasing and become easier to navigate.

Simplifies Outfit Choices

Selected colors in the Wardrobe Color Palette usually complement each other and work well together, making them easy to mix and match. This reduces decision fatigue and helps create numerous different outfits from a small number of pieces effortlessly.

Defines Personal Style

Creating a Wardrobe Color Palette helps us define our Personal Style as we can see colors, prints, and patterns we naturally gravitate towards, defining our style personalities.

Boosts Confidence

Knowing our Personal Style, that our wardrobe and outfits work, and that we feel and look great in them boosts confidence and self-esteem.

Simplifies Shopping

Knowing our Wardrobe Color Palette and Personal Style preferences makes shopping easier. Knowing precisely what we are looking for saves time and effort.

Reduces Shopping And Consumption

Knowing precisely what we are looking for means fostering mindful shopping. Mindful shopping means fewer mistakes and less waste. Since we buy the right items, we are more satisfied and wear them longer.

Saves Money

As our wardrobe turnover is lower and we shop with an agenda, we save all the money we’d spend on impulse buys.

Saves Space

Since we can create numerous outfits with harmonized colors, we don’t need to overcrowd our closets. Creating a Wardrobe Color Palette allows us to declutter and weed out random, unfitting colors from our wardrobe, saving space in our closets.

Allows Us To Travel Light

With a color-coordinated wardrobe, it is easy to pack for travel as we know everything will match, and we can create multiple outfits from a small collection of clothes.

How To Create A Wardrobe Color Palette You’ll Love?

Typically, Wardrobe Color Palettes are created of Base, Neutral, and Accent colors, later accompanied by Prints and Patterns and finishing up with a choice of Metallics:

Step 1: Choose Base Colors

Base Colors are what it sounds like. They are the base-primary colors for your wardrobe’s core pieces.
The most common tones for Base Colors are black, grey, or navy. Less common but also popular: brown, camel, or burgundy. The best way to identify your Base Colors is to look at your bottoms, coats, and shoes.

Step 2: Choose Neutral Colors

Neutral Colors, again… as it sounds, should not be attention-grabbing. They are non-competing, balancing tones to compliment your Base Colors. They are a backdrop for your Accent Colors and Prints. Popular choices for Neutrals are beige, khaki, or mocha for darker tones. The colors are usually versatile and timeless to go with your Base Colors.

Step 3: Choose Accent Colors

Accent Colors, Prints, and Patterns are all about fun and your Personal Style.
There is an endless variety of Accent Colors to choose from. Frequently, they are vibrant and full of character.

Accent Colors paired with Neutrals and Basics make our outfits more interesting. They can be bright and cheerful, such as orange, yellow, pink, blue, green, and any of their shades. But that doesn’t mean that Accent Colors must always be bright and vivid. Not everyone seeks attention-catching outcomes. They must only differ from Base and Neutral Colors to add more interest to your outfits.

choose accent colors, prints & patterns</p>
<p>#accentcolors<br />
#printsandpatterns

Step 4: Choose Prints & Patterns

Prints and Patterns are another perfect and unique way to express your Personal Style. However, Prints are not as easy to mix and match as solid colors. Therefore, it is essential to consider the colors you have chosen already and select Prints and Patterns that will look good together.

If you are creating a Wardrobe Color Palette for a Minimalist or a Capsule Wardrobe, I suggest choosing just a couple of Prints, but of course, the freedom is yours!

The Colors, so as Prints and Patterns, can also be fantastic ammunition to highlight or disguise particular body parts. Read more about it here.

Step 5: Choose Metallics

Did you know there is much more to it than choosing your favorite Metal/Metallic Colors? They not only have to be your favorite, but they’ll look even better on you if they suit your skin tone!

The most straightforward way to determine what Metallic suits you most is to look at your complexion. The general rule is that white gold, platinum, and silver are best for people with cool skin tones, and yellow, rose gold, copper, and brass suit people with warm skin tones.

You are in luck if you have a neutral skin tone, as any Metallic Colors will look good on you.

Metals are an essential part of our outfits. They complete the look, polish and add charm to our styles.

We wear Metals primarily as jewelry. But also, they can come to our outfits in various forms, such as hair accessories, handbags, shoes, and actual clothing. In clothing, they can come as buttons, buckles, or a whole piece of a shimmering or sequin outfit.

What are the wardrobe color palette benefits and why have one? #wardrobecolor #wardrobecolorpalette #howtotidywardrobe #wardrobecolorpalettebenefits #wardrobeplanning #creatingwardrobecolorpalette

Step 6: Finalize Your Wardrobe Color Palette

Add your Base, Neutral, and Accent Colors in one sheet, and add Prints, Patterns, and Metallics so you can visualize them all together.

Use your notes while reviewing your wardrobe or shopping for new additions.

Getting your wardrobe colors right is essential if you want a functional wardrobe, especially if you have a Minimalist or a Capsule Wardrobe.

The best way to determine customized wardrobe colors is to seek advice from professionals in person. However, I understand that personal stylist or color consultant services are not always accessible to everyone.

Therefore, I created the UNIQUE YOU Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook, which not only helps you create a customized Wardrobe Color Palette but also guides you through the process of aligning your wardrobe to your needs, defining Personal Style, learning about your Body Shape, recognizing unsuitable pieces in your wardrobe and decluttering them. Packed with step-by-step instructions, personalized worksheets, and real-life examples, the UNIQUE YOU Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook is your path to mindful wardrobe choices and a more intentional approach to fashion.

#Wardrobe Color Palette Workbook #WardrobeColorPalette Workbook

Investigating your existing wardrobe is the best way to learn which colors you naturally gravitate towards. The workbook thoroughly explains how to consider seasonality, notice color patterns in your closet, and create a color palette from the items you already have.

Its personalized fillable questionnaires, templates, and worksheets will allow you to make notes that you can print out and use for your convenience.

The UNIQUE YOU Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook is more than just a tool for creating a Wardrobe Color Palette. It is a comprehensive guide that will help you create an organized and functional wardrobe that will bring you peace, confidence, and joy in your daily life!

Get Your Copy Here

Furthermore, the workbook includes exclusive bonuses, two of which in particular are very helpful when working with wardrobe colors and styling pieces:

Bonus 1:

The Power of Wearing Colors & Their Meaning. Discover the meaning of colors, their use, combinations, and styling tips.

Bonus 3:

Tips on How to Mix & Match. Learn to create multiple outfits with a small collection of clothes. Real-life mix-and-match examples, plus formula included.

#Wardrobe Color Palette Workbook Bonuses #WardrobeColorPaletteWorkbookBonuses

So don’t wait any longer!

Grab Your Copy Now And Start Your Wardrobe Transformation Today!

Do you have a workbook already? Need help? Or have a story to share? Connect @mstylealley & #happywithless. I will be thrilled to hear from you!

A Forever Clutter-Free Minimalist Closet: 6 Tips For Sustainable Simplicity

by M·style alley | Mon, Nov, 2023 | Minimalist Wardrobe, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

The fashion industry is known for its ever-changing trends, causing many people to feel the need to update their wardrobes regularly and potentially accumulate clutter in their closets. So, after creating a Minimalist Wardrobe, you may wonder how to retain and maintain your Minimalist Closet clutter-free.

The good news is that Minimalist Closets are low maintenance and faff-free anyway. Keeping them exciting and stylish is easy as your Minimalist Wardrobe is created with your Personal Style preferences, aligned to your lifestyle and needs, and contains only the clothes you love and need. Therefore, you won’t want to change them as often.

Nonetheless, this article provides six easy tips to help you keep your Minimalist Closet clutter-free, timeless, and organized.

Adopt New Minimalist Closet Rules And Stick To Them

Despite the easy maintenance, there are several ways to keep your Minimalist Closet clutter-free. Below, you will find some straightforward and practical rules that can be applied to any Minimalist Closet, whether you have a Minimalist or a Capsule Wardrobe. As long as you follow these simple but effective rules, your Minimalist Closet will stay clutter-free effortlessly.

70%-30% Ratio Rule

Most commonly, Minimalist Wardrobes have items in them with a 70% to 30% ratio:

70% of clothing in a Minimalist Wardrobe is year-round items such as shirts, denim, layering, professional wear, versatile dresses, etc. The pieces that we can wear all year round.

30% of clothing is usually more seasonal or trendy pieces. These would be things like winter coats, or summer dresses, or shorts, depending on the season the Capsule Wardrobe is created for.

When you have a Minimalist Wardrobe, it is best to avoid trends. However, if you still want to add a few trendy pieces, try not to overdo it and exceed this ratio. If you keep adding something new for every season or event, the wardrobe will quickly return to an excessive burden. So, avoiding trends or excessive shopping is the best way to keep your Minimalist Closet clutter-free.

One In, One Out Rule

It is easy to clutter your closet again if you shop with no strategy.

Understandably, fashion tendencies change, and so does your style. You may not have the same clothing for the rest of your life. Even with timeless pieces, you may want to refresh and replace some things at some point.

The easiest way to keep Minimalist Closet clutter-free is to follow the popular rule “One In, One Out.” It is what it sounds like – you have your established Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe already, so shop only when you need or want to replace something. When adding a new piece in, take an old one out. So, the best is, before buying a new item, ask yourself:

Which item from the existing ones will I replace?
Does it go with my current wardrobe?
Will I wear a new item more than the old one?

Following the One In, One Out rule, you will keep your wardrobe fresh and stylish and have a variation of clothing without owning too much.

Reversed Hangers Rule

Another great way to help you keep your Minimalist Closet clutter-free is to hang your clothes on reversed hangers.

Hang all your hangers in the opposite way to the usual way you’d hang them.

Whatever you pick and wear, when putting it back, hang it back on the hanger facing the usual way. At the end of the season, check which hangers are still reversed (turned the unusual way). They are your clutter, as those items you haven’t touched or worn.

The items that are hung in the usual way stay in your wardrobe as you wear them. But it is probably time to say “goodbye” to things hanging on reversed hangers, as evidently, you haven’t worn them the whole season.

Keep Your Minimalist Closet Organized

An aesthetically pleasing wardrobe helps retain and maintain a Minimalist Closet that is clutter-free. Cleanliness and order help to overview your wardrobe easily, have a beautiful and functional space, and follow the rules above naturally.

Matching Hangers

Get the same nice-looking hangers for your wardrobe. They will help your Minimalist Closet look aesthetically pleasing and more organized.

Choose the color you prefer:

Organize Your Clothes

Instead of hanging your clothing randomly, organize your clothes by color, style, season, or any other criteria more applicable to you. This will help you to find things easier and enjoy the dressing-up process more. See some examples:

How to Organize Minimal Wardrobes #minimalwardrobes #minimalwardrobe #minimalistwardrobe #minimalistcapsulewardrobe

Get Storage For Loose Items

Get storage bins, drawers, or shelves for your shoes, accessories, underwear, or other loose items. Ensure the little storage matches your Minimalist Closet décor to make it aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable.

Make, Keep, And Follow Your Minimalist Wardrobe Notes

Make and keep notes for your Minimalist Closet. Make a checklist if you struggle to track what’s coming in and going out of your wardrobe. What are your wardrobe essentials? What is your Personal Style? Your dress code? How do they align with your lifestyle and needs? Notes will help you track your items and requirements for your lifestyle.

If you have created your Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe using the UNIQUE YOU Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook, you already have all the necessary notes. If you don’t have your workbook yet, grab your copy here:

Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook - get your copy here! #WardrobePlannerWorkbook #MinimalistWardrobePlannerWorkbook #WardrobePlanner #WardrobeWorkbook

This comprehensive, step-by-step, easy-to-follow guide covers all the topics that help you build a cohesive and functional Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe that will bring you joy, peace, and confidence in your daily life!

It is a tool you can refer to whenever you need to refresh your wardrobe or have a dilemma at the shopping mall.

Take Good Care Of Your Items

How to care for your clothes? #care for your clothes

Everything we have in our Minimalist Closets is purposely selected and are items we LOVE and care for. So it is sensible if we want them to last longer, we need to take good care of them. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your clothing:

Follow The Instructions

Not only read the instructions on how to take care of the item but also follow them. It is common – we forget to read labels and instructions on how to care before buying an item, or read a label and forget what it says before adding it to a washing machine.

Many of us don’t read the care instructions at all! I have done it so many times in the past! I did not read the instructions and machine-washed it when the label clearly said: “Hand wash only”. This ruined a garment, and I had to replace it. So:

Hand wash your delicates!

Clothes washed by hand will prevent possible damage in a washing machine and last longer. Especially items made of delicate silk, wool, cashmere, and merino wool… need extra care if they are dear to you. So make an extra effort to enjoy them for longer.

Wash By The Colors

How many of us had accidentally or sometimes lazily washed a white top with blue jeans and got a new color top?

Separate and wash clothing light with lights, dark with darks, or particular colors with similar tones.

It is simple to sort clothes by color. You can even use these laundry baskets with three compartments to help you separate clothes and simplify the process.

Treat Stains

Accidents happen… Save garments and treat stains. Wash them right away! Don’t leave your clothes in the washing basket unwashed for long. It will damage the material even more and will most likely become unfixable.

Avoid Dryers

Dryers are only damaging garments. Natural drying is so much more gentle and better for clothes. In many cases, when an item is air-dried, you don’t even need to iron it that much.

Iron With Care

Iron with care, and even better, invest in a good steamer! Steamers are fanatstic tools! They preserve clothes. Kill odors instead of sealing them to a material like iron. They remove creases quickly and even reduce allergens.

Use Dry Cleaners Service

Dry cleaning is one of the best options to take care of your garments. It removes tough stains with minor damage, preserves delicate fabrics, and improves the longevity of your clothing.

Make Friends With Your Local Tailor

Time passes, we change, and our styles and bodies change, too… instead of replacing your favorite clothes, check with your tailor if they could be mended. You will not only be able to enjoy your special items longer but will make your tailor happy, too. Supporting local businesses is a lovely thing to do.

Review Your Minimalist Closet Regularly

If you have been struggling to follow the rules above and your shopping has been more frequent than anticipated, review your wardrobe and detox it regularly.

I don’t shop much, but I still review my wardrobe twice a year. This is when I create my Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter Capsule Wardrobe.

Reviewing your Minimalist Closet regularly lets you keep track and know precisely what is in your wardrobe, helping you reduce shopping, maintain your closet, and keep it clutter-free.

Remember Why You Are Doing This

If you ever struggle or are about to give up on a Minimalist Wardrobe, remember why you are doing this and all the benefits that Minimalist Wardrobes bring to your life.

It brings us joy and confidence to have a functional and organized wardrobe, owning only the clothes we love to wear. This not only helps reduce waste on the planet but also creates fresh space in our closets and lives, making us more satisfied with our Personal Style and space. By achieving this, we are able to glow in other areas of life and focus on what truly matters.

Get in touch if you ever need help with your Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe. I will be thrilled to hear from you!

7 Biggest Misconceptions About Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe

by M·style alley | Tue, Oct, 2023 | Capsule Wardrobe, Capsule Wardrobe Planning, Minimalist Wardrobe, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

In a world saturated with trends and ever-changing fashion fads, a Minimalist Wardrobe concept has gained significant traction. The idea of cutting consumption and simplifying closets, choosing quality over quantity, and embracing a more intentional approach to fashion has captivated many. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about the concept, and it is often judged without even trying it.

So, let’s dispel common myths that might hinder your progress in creating a Minimalist Wardrobe.

Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe Is Too Expensive

You and only you can decide how expensive you want your Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe to be!

You can start with zero investment, and later, when it’s time to replace or upgrade items, you can decide how much you want to invest in your future purchases.

The idea is to save up the money you would spend on impulse buys and buy better quality items that suit your Mininamlist or Capsule Wardrobe most. Buy things that are timeless and will last forever. By maintaining a wardrobe this way, you would not be paying more than before, as good quality items will last longer, you will shop less, and save money in the long run.

The choice of investment is also a matter of personal preference: do you prefer big labels and want to spend more? Or take it easy by getting high-quality items from lesser-known brands. High quality does not necessarily mean designer brands.

Minimalist Wardrobes Are Only For Minimalists And The Minimalist Style

It depends on which minimalism we have in mind.

For example, are we discussing minimalism as consumption or a fashion style?
If we are talking about someone with a minimalist fashion style, it does not necessarily mean that a person is automatically minimalist in consumption. They may like the minimalist fashion style but are heavy on consumption.

And the opposite – minimalists in consumption can have any fashion style personality and have a very minimal collection of clothes. That’s why Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobes are for ANYONE and EVERYONE who would like to reduce consumption, no matter their personal style preferences.

You Only Must Have A Certain Number Of Items Coordinated By Strict Rules

It is common to have a specific number in mind while creating a Minimalist Wardrobe, but this is just a guide to help you minimize your item selection.

Putting a restricting number out there scares many people, and a particular set of pieces may only sometimes work for some…

If someone suggests a number, it doesn’t mean you have to stick with it. It may be a good starting point for finding your own number, but it is not necessary.

A Minimalist Wardrobe is for comfort, not for discomfort!

Example – My Capsule Wardrobe Of 33 Items For 3 Months

In the summer of 2021, I did a Project 333 challenge. I chose to wear 33 items for three months only because I wanted to challenge myself further. I didn’t have to do that, but it was fun, and I learned a lot about my wardrobe and personal style.

All guides online, M·style alley’s included, are suggestions to help you adjust and tailor your closet to YOUR needs and build a perfect Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe that suits YOU. So, if you prefer items to be numbered, find YOUR magic number. If not, you don’t have to count.

The main goal of creating a Minimalist Wardrobe is to simplify, save effort, time, money, have an organized and enjoyable space, and reduce consumption.

Minimalist Wardrobes Are Colorless And Boring

In my opinion, this is one of the biggest misconceptions.

Minimalist Wardrobes are often associated with a minimalist fashion style. I agree that having a Natural or Classic Minimalist Wardrobe is most common, but it doesn’t have to be the same way for you. Clean lines and neutral, light-colored patterns are individual preferences.

Minimalist Wardrobes can be created for any Style Personality, from very minimalistic to crazily bold and creative. Minimalist Wardrobe colors can be what you want them to be. So play with your favorite patterns and textures and create vivid outfits you fancy.

Also, let’s not forget that Minimalist Wardrobes are created from your favorite pieces, colors, and patterns! It allows you to get playful, experiment, think outside the box, style your favorite things differently – add makeup, style hair, and accessorize. How can this possibly be boring?

Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe perfectly aligned with your lifestyle and style personality is more enjoyable than having a wardrobe full of cheap, fast-fashion items that don’t mean anything and is the style of every other woman you see in the street.

Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe Means Wearing The Same Outfit Every Day

A certain number of clothes in your closet might sound limited in options. But believe me, even with ten pieces, you can create numerous outfits every day. The best is to have timeless and versatile pieces in your Minimalist Wardrobe so you can mix and match them easily.

Just shortlist some of your favorite clothing items and play with them. See the versatility as you switch pairings and match them with different accessories and jewelry. Soon enough, you’ll notice that there is such a wide variety of options to compose! Your colleagues, friends, and family will be impressed by how resourceful and creative you can be with your small collection of clothes!

You Can No Longer Shop Or Look Trendy When Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe

You can still shop! Only shopping for a Minimal Wardrobe is different. It is much more thoughtful and mindful – with an agenda. It is purposeful as you only shop when you want to replace or upgrade for whatever reason, whether a size change, style, color, or location move. You are no longer impulse buying or chasing the latest trends, which last a flash. Instead, you invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that will pay off with durability.

And you certainly can create a trendy look. If there is a modern piece you cannot live without, you can add it to your existing Minimalist Wardrobe and style it with your favorites.

Is This A New Trend? It Is Just Another Way Of Being Obsessive About Fashion

Maybe it is, but we all still have to dress, and it is not wrong to love fashion! We all have our loves and obsessions, but I see the Minimalist Wardrobe as one of the most sustainable ways to love fashion and run your wardrobe. It brings joy, teaches emotional attachment, strives for better quality, and reduces the impact on our environment.

Learn the Sad Truth from Best 5 Eye-Opening Books about Fast Fashion

How Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe Reduces The Impact On Our Environment?

We are increasingly talking about global warming, consumerism, and the impact of waste on our planet. From resource-intensive manufacturing processes to the vast amounts of waste generated… the fast fashion industry contributes significantly to environmental degradation.

Many of us are becoming conscious of our carbon footprint on the planet and striving to start a more sustainable lifestyle, so let’s explore how creating a Minimalist Wardrobe not only enhances personal well-being but also plays a crucial role in reducing our environmental impact and preventing “throwaway culture” from growing. Let’s learn what creating a Minimalist Wardrobe educates us to:

Declutter Closets And Be Mindful Of Future Purchases

A Minimalist Wardrobe is a minimal collection of timeless and versatile pieces carefully selected to accommodate your personal style, lifestyle, and needs throughout the year. Selected pieces are typically harmonized in color and personal style preferences. They are easy to mix and match to create outfits suitable for any occasion without owning an excessive amount of clothing. Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe involves decluttering the closet and being mindful of future purchases to maintain wardrobes minimal.

Reduce Consumption

When we maintain wardrobe collections minimally, we reduce our consumption. Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe encourages the purchase of high-quality, durable items that withstand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

The production of textiles, particularly cotton, is notorious for its water-intensive nature. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), “The water needed to produce a single cotton t-shirt requires an astonishing 713 gallons/ 2,700 liters of water. That’s enough to sustain one person for 900 days.“

By choosing classic, versatile pieces and favoring sustainable materials like organic cotton or hemp, we contribute to the conservation of water resources. Additionally, the energy required for manufacturing and transportation decreases as the demand for new clothing and trends diminishes, leading to a lower carbon footprint on the planet.

Buy Less, Waste Less

The fast fashion cycle perpetuates a culture of disposability, contributing to the mounting problem of textile waste. Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe disrupts this cycle by encouraging us to adopt a more thoughtful and intentional approach to our clothing choices. Owning fewer items in consequence means generating less waste over time.

Mindful Shopping And Ethical Practices

Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe fosters a shift from impulsive and trend-driven purchases to mindful and intentional shopping. This change in mindset often leads us to consider the ethical practices of fashion brands. Many minimalist enthusiasts prioritize companies that adhere to fair labor practices, use sustainable materials, and demonstrate transparency in their supply chain.

By supporting ethical fashion, we contribute to the demand for a more sustainable and socially responsible industry. This, in turn, puts pressure on conventional fashion brands to reconsider their practices and embrace environmentally friendly alternatives.

Longevity And Timeless Style

Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe means creating a wardrobe of classic, well-designed pieces that never go out of style rather than fleeting trends. This not only reduces the pressure on us to update our closets constantly but also contributes to a more sustainable industry.

Clothing items that are designed to last longer are usually made with durability in mind by using high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship. This not only extends the life of individual items but also reduces the overall demand for new clothing production. The concept of “slow fashion” and creating a Minimalist Wardrobe aligns with the principles of minimalism, encouraging us to savor and appreciate our clothing, nurturing a deeper connection with the items we own.

So, in a nutshell, creating a Minimalist Wardrobe is a powerful and practical way for us to reduce our environmental impact. By prioritizing quality over quantity, embracing timeless style, and supporting ethical fashion practices, we can help create a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry.

The environmental benefits of creating a Minimalist Wardrobe extend beyond personal choices, influencing broader trends and industry practices. As the environmental impact of fashion becomes more widely known, the minimalist movement provides hope that a mindful and intentional approach to fashion can exist in harmony with style, self-expression, and a dedication to the health of our planet.

Is Creating A Minimalist Wardrobe Lifestyle For You?

Is a minimalist wardrobe for you? Read the conclusion. #minimalistwardrobe #creatingaminimalistwardrobe #minimalistcapsulewardrobe #creatingaminimalistcapsulewardrobe #capsulewardrobe #creatingacapsulewardrobe

Here’s the hard truth: you can have a wardrobe full of clothes, but if they don’t suit you, your personality, lifestyle, or needs, there is no way that wardrobe will make you happy and work for you. Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe is all about decluttering and choosing the right things for you so that the right things bring joy and contentment.

And let me tell you something – we all have a Minimalist Wardrobe in our closets already! We may just have a lot of clutter around it. Some of us don’t realize it, but I know anyone who wears every item in their wardrobe, but I know many who have closets full of clothes and wear only a few things they like most. So, creating a Minimalist Wardrobe is almost the same, except you simplify: you remove items from your closet you don’t wear, create more space, and make it all more straightforward.

Ask yourself:

Do you want to have a wardrobe that is spacious, organized, efficient, and easy to use?
Do you want to dress quickly every morning and be able to compose hundreds of outfits from a small collection of your clothes?

If you say “yes”, then you have your answer.

If your goal is to dress well without spending too much time and money and have your focus set on more important things in life, creating a Minimalist Wardrobe is the solution for you! Especially if Fashion is not one of your things and you find styling overwhelming.

Having a Minimalist Wardrobe means having a good day, every day, as every day you get to wear your favorite clothes!

A Minimalist Wardrobe is a highly efficient closet customized to your lifestyle, convenience, and needs. It helps many people in this fast-paced world.

Furthermore, it is common to see people enjoy Minimalist Wardrobe so much that they apply the same decluttering and maintaining minimal principle to all other aspects of their lives, leaning towards minimalism in general.

Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe allows us to be more environmentally conscious. It is one of the best ways to create a more sustainable wardrobe. While we may not be able to invest in pieces from the highest ethical brands, we can reduce consumption by living the Minimalist Wardrobe lifestyle.

And sometimes, limitation helps our creativity sparkle, have fun, take it easy, and enjoy our lives more. Creating a Minimalist Wardrobe definitely has been the right choice for me. I hope it’s one for you too!

Ready To Try A Minimalist Wardrobe And Transform Your Closet?

Dive into the life-changing experience with the UNIQUE YOU Minimalist Wardrobe Planner Workbook. (Re)discover your Style, create a Wardrobe Color Palette, and build a Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe that reflects YOU! Packed with step-by-step instructions, personalized worksheets, and real-life examples, this worksheet is your path to mindful wardrobe choices and a more intentional approach to fashion.

Wardrobe Planner Workbook #Wardrobe Planner Workbook #WardrobePlannerWorkbook

Get Your Copy Here

Level Up Your Style: The Ultimate Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist!

by M·style alley | Mon, Sep, 2023 | Minimalist Wardrobe, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to level up your style with a Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist! Whether you’re a fashion guru or just looking to simplify your closet, this checklist of essential items will have you looking effortlessly stylish in no time. Say goodbye to the days of endless outfit choices and hello to a curated collection of must-haves that will make getting dressed a breeze. Get ready to embrace simplicity because we’re about to dive headfirst into the world of minimalist fashion. Let’s get started!

The Philosophy of Minimalism in Fashion

Minimalism is a lifestyle that champions simplicity, functionality, and intentionality. When applied to fashion, it means carefully selecting clothing items that serve a purpose, match your Personal Style, and stand the test of time. By adopting this approach, you can reduce clutter, save money, and reduce your environmental footprint.

The Benefits of Using Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist

Using a Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist offers numerous benefits for those looking to simplify their clothing choices and create a more intentional and efficient wardrobe. Here are the key advantages:

Clarity & Focus

A Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist provides a clear and structured approach to curating your wardrobe. It helps you identify the essential items you need, preventing impulse purchases and keeping unnecessary things.

Easier Decision-Making

By having a Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist, you know exactly what you want and precisely what you need for your wardrobe. You have clarity on what to look for, so you spend less time deciding and potentially making mistakes.

Saves Money & Improves Quality

When you avoid mistakes, it costs you less. Also, by focusing on items in the Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist and investing in quality pieces, you can reduce overall clothing expenses. Quality items may have a higher upfront cost but tend to last longer, ultimately saving you money in the long run and improving the quality of your wardrobe.

Reduces Clutter & Waste

The Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist helps you maintain an organized and clutter-free wardrobe. Following the checklist and improving the quality of your closet, buying less random stuff reduces clutter. Choosing well-made pieces that stand the test of time leads to fewer wardrobe replacements and less waste.

Enhances Your Personal Style & Increases Confidence

While the checklist provides a foundation, you can still infuse and choose essentials of YOUR Personal Style. You’re not limited to the list but can use it as a starting point for customization. Customization allows you to develop a cohesive and signature style.

Clarity on your Style Personality helps you choose clothing items that work well together, creating a more polished and put-together look. Knowing that your wardrobe is filled with things you love and that make you look and feel good can boost your confidence and self-esteem.

A Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist Makes a Great Packing List

No more time wasting on thinking, ‘What should I take to…?’ Go through the checklist while packing and only necessary items according to the weather and location. You already know that you can create various outfits from a smaller selection of clothing.

Things to Focus On While Creating YOUR Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist

Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials #MinimalistWardrobeEssentialschecklist

Personal Style & Color Palette

If suggestions on the wardrobe essentials checklist are not your style and colors, tailor your minimalist wardrobe to your own taste! Express yourself through unique combinations and choose the style and colors that reflect YOU! Just make sure that your choices mix and match effortlessly and create a cohesive wardrobe.

Body Shape

Make sure you choose items and clothing designs that compliment and flatter your body shape. What is suitable for one is not necessarily suitable for another. If you are not sure what your body shape is learn more here.

Timeless Staples

Choose essentials that have enduring style and remain fashionable across various seasons and fashion trends. Pieces that withstand the test of time in terms of both design and durability.

Versatility & Functionality

Prioritize comfort and practicality. Opt for versatile items. Build a wardrobe with pieces that can be mixed and matched easily and create multiple outfits with fewer items.

Choose clothes suitable for various occasions and could be easily adapted to different styles and trends in case you want to pair them with a new on-off addition.

Signature Pieces

Don’t be afraid to add your character. Your signature that’s what makes your wardrobe unique and interesting! Add statement pieces to elevate your outfits.

Invest in timeless accessories to experiment with scarves, belts, and jewelry.

Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials #MinimalistWardrobeEssentials

Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist

Looking at the suggestions below, create your own Minimalist Wardrobe Essentials Checklist that suits YOUR style, YOUR lifestyle, and YOUR needs!

Tops:

Classic T-Shirts (Neutral Colors)
Long Sleeve T-Shirt (Neutral Colors)
Patterned or Graphic Top
White Button-Down Shirt
Striped or Solid-Colored Long-Sleeve Shirt
White Blouse

Bottoms:

Dark Wash Jeans (fit depending on your body shape)
Light Wash Jeans (fit depending on your body shape)
Smart Trousers
Maxi Skirt
Tailored Shorts (for warmer seasons)

Layers:

Boyfriends Shirt
Light Knit Sweater
Warmer Knit Sweater
Sweatshirt
Hoodie
Blazer

Dresses & Jumpsuits:

Versatile Dress or/and Jumpsuit

Outerwear:

Denim Jacket
Biker Jacket
Parka
Transitional Jacket
Rain Jacket/Coat
Trench Coat
Wool Coat

Footwear:

Woven Mules
Sandals or Espadrilles (for warmer seasons)
Comfortable Flats
White Sneakers (for every day)
Smart Sneakers
Loafers or Oxfords
Quality Heels (Neutral Color)
Ankle or Knee Boots

Accessories:

Crossbody Bag
Canvas Tote Bag
Handbag/ Rucksack
Travel Rucksack
Sunglasses (versatile style)
Scarf or Shawl (neutral color or versatile pattern)
Belt
Watch
Jewelry (e.g., stud earrings, simple necklace)

Homewear or Other:

And, of course, you have your undergarments, sleepwear, bathwear, homewear, loungewear, athleticwear, occasionwear, beachwear, swimwear, etc.

Remember, this checklist serves as a starting point for building a Minimalist Wardrobe. You can adjust it to suit your Personal Style, climate, and lifestyle.

The ultimate goal is to have a curated selection of items that work well together and cover all your daily needs, reducing clutter and promoting a simplified, intentional, and efficient approach to fashion.

How To Dress Pear Body Shape And Flatter Your Figure

by M·style alley | Fri, Apr, 2023 | Body Shape, Capsule Wardrobe Planning, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

The Pear body shape is also called a triangle or ‘A’ shaped body type.

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Pear Body Shape Characteristics

Disproportionate body shape
Small bust and shoulders
Fuller bottom, hips, and thighs
Well-defined and small waist

You likely have a Pear Body Shape if your hips and thighs are wider than your bust and shoulders.

Since the upper and lower parts are disproportioned, pear body shape women often look to balance it out.

Pear body shape women often seek to narrow and disguise the lower part of the body. Typically, the thighs and bottom being wider than the top half of the body is an area of concern.

If you have this body type and are willing to create a more proportioned shape, aim to create the illusion that you have a broader bust and shoulders and narrower hips and thighs.

Clothes That Flatter A Pear Body Shape The Most

Underwear & Shapewear

To create the illusion of a broader upper body part, the best is to create a volume using a good push-up bra to lift a bust and invest in a good bum-tightening shapewear to tighten it.

Tops

To create interest in the upper part of the body and add volume to proportionate it with the bottom, it is best to wear tops with lots of detail, such as extended embellishments, eye-catching prints, patterns, and bright color tops. They will add fullness to the top and flatter pear body shape most.

Wide necklines, boatneck, or off-the-shoulder styles are perfect for broadening the top body part for a pear body shape.

Big collars, exaggerated bows, and pockets above the waistline are an excellent way to draw attention to the top. Embellishments such as ruffles, ribbons, lace trims, and anything that catches the eye to the top are great ways to add volume to the bust and shoulders.

Choose fuller tops at the top and fitter at the waistline. A fitted and tight waist will create a beautiful hourglass figure if the upper and lower body parts are balanced.

However, the best is to choose tops that end no lower than at the hipline, as it will only accentuate the hips’ width.

Tops that finish at the core or cropped tops are the best to flatter a pear body shape.

Trousers

It is best to style the lower body part with the opposite approach to the upper to achieve a more proportioned shape. So, keep the bottom part with very minimal detail. Muted, darker colors, no attention-grabbing details or embellishments, etc. Anything with enrichments at the hipline will only widen it, so be careful with side pockets, bows, and other enhancements.

It is best to avoid fitted, slim-fit, skinny designs unless you are willing to accentuate the curvy hips and bottom.

Choosing straight or wide-leg trouser designs is best to flatter pear body shape. Plain, flat-fronted, mid or high-waist pieces will help define the waist.

Skirts

Flattering skirts for pear body shape are fitted at the waistline but relaxed from the broadest part of the hip. Fabrics from the hipline will fall beautifully and disguise curvy hips and bottoms.

Choosing fitted styles will emphasize a curvy hipline and bottom if that’s a look you are going for.

Otherwise, an A-line knee or between-the-knee and mid-calf skirt would be the best choice to balance the proportions for a pear body shape.

Dresses

The best designs are that draw attention to the upper body and slender waist and conceal the lower part of the body.

The perfect choice for a pear body shape is a dress like A-line, X-line, or wrap dress. Fitted at the top and waist and loose at the bottom, these designs show a beautiful upper body and disguise broader hips.

To draw attention to the top, the best is to choose dresses with interest from the waist and above. Again, anything busy with embellishments, exaggerated sleeves, and shoulders will work well.

Jackets & Coats

Again, the main task here is to add volume to the top half of the body and slimmer the bottom half. So anything with wide lapels, gathered shoulders, puffed sleeves, and embroidered embellishments will be good to achieve that.

For example, a wider shoulder cropped jacket will create the illusion of a broader bust and shoulders while leaving a slender waist visible to show off a beautiful figure.

Double-breasted coats with inflated shoulders define the waistline and proportion the silhouette.

So, coats and jackets with a high neckline, wider collars, exaggerated shoulders, pockets at the bustline, belts, and defined waistlines are all to go for! Just ensure that the ones you choose don’t have big side pockets or end at the hipline, as they will inflate the bottom part you are trying to trim.

The best coat length is right under the hips and mid-thigh.

So, to summarise, the A-line, princess, trench, and coachmen coats are excellent choices for a pear body shape.

Colors, Prints & Patterns

To flatter pear body shape most, wear bright colors, eye-catching prints, patterns on the upper body, and muted and dark colors for the bottom.

Longer and darker coats and jackets will help you look slimmer.

Wardrobe Color Palette In 6 Easy Steps

What Is Style Personality, Why Care, And How Do You Determine It?

Footwear

Footwear depends on legs. The best is to choose minimal, simple, less detailed designs if the legs are heavier.

A pointed shoe with a straight heel, the same color as the outfit, is the best way to elongate the legs.

Chunky heels and wedges providing height and balance could work well too.

Accessories

Pear-shaped women can go crazy on accessories! Anything that creates volume and noise at the neck is excellent. So, any shiny, blingy, bulky, bold, and colorful necklaces will work well. Same with scarves – choosing patterns, prints, and lively colors that add character and interest to the top of the body will look good.

Best To Avoid For A Pear Body Shape

Keep away from straight, baggy, boxy, shapeless clothing as they hide the beautiful waist and will make you look heavy and shapeless.

Avoid wearing bright colors, bold prints, and patterns (especially horizontal lines) on the lower part of the body. They will add fullness and draw all the attention to the hips’ widest point. It is the same for any extra details or embellishments, such as pockets, peplum, and ruffles that add volume to your lower body.

It is best to avoid low-waisted trousers and slim-fit, tight, skinny designs if the aim is to disguise curves.

It is best to avoid tops, layers, jackets, and coats ending at the hip, as they only accentuate curves.

Regardless of your body type, remember every shape has its best and less than the best features. No matter what best features one has, we all are beautiful!

Understanding your body shape and choosing clothing that flatters YOUR figure will make you look great, but the most important thing is to wear attire that makes you FEEL good and accentuates YOUR best features.

Celebrities With Pear Body Shape

Visit M·style alley’s Pinterest board to see Pear Body Shape examples:

Pear body shape examples #Pear body shape examples #Pear body shape

Ready To Transform Your Wardrobe?

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How To Dress Strawberry Body Shape And Flatter Your Figure

by M·style alley | Thu, Apr, 2023 | Body Shape, Capsule Wardrobe Planning, Minimalist Wardrobe Planning

The Strawberry body shape is also called an Inverted Triangle, V-shaped, or athletic body type.

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Strawberry Body Shape Characteristics

Disproportionate body shape
Wide bust and shoulders, and smaller hips and bottom
Slight or no waist
Slim, curve-absent hips
Slim, slender legs

If you have broad shoulders and a larger bust, and your hips are narrower than your shoulders, you likely have a Strawberry Body Shape.

Since the upper and lower parts are disproportioned, strawberry body-shaped women often look to balance it out. Typically, the bust and shoulders being wider than the hips and bottom half of the body are an area of concern.

If you have a strawberry body shape and are willing to create a more proportioned figure, aim to create the illusion that you have a smaller bust and shoulders and broader hips and thighs.

Clothes That Flatter A Strawberry Body Shape The Most

Underwear & Shapewear

As a strawberry body shape has a smaller or no waist, it is a good idea to separate the bust from the waist area. So, investment in a perfect fit and a good push-up bra is a great decision!

Tops

As the goal is to balance the upper body with the lower body part, it is best to choose designs that soften the bust and shoulders. So, anything bulky and heavy on the top may not be a good idea.

It is best to wear light fabrics and dress the upper body with clean, no-fuss designs. Neat around the bust and shoulders, V, U, or scooped necklines are the best choices to flatter the strawberry body shape. Empire and wrap-top designs help define the waistline if they are not too heavy and busy with a print or embellishments. But if you don’t have a waist, it is best to stay away from wrap and belted designs and not to emphasize the lack of it.

If you like shirts, make sure they play down with the upper body and do not have rich detail on a top, such as pockets on the bust, embellishments on the shoulder, etc. Conversely, choosing something that brings more volume to the hipline – low pockets, layering on the hips, etc is best.

Trousers

As the goal is to create a waist and emphasize the lower body, the best trousers designs are that elongate and define the core and add curves to the hips and bum. To achieve that, the best is to choose low-rise trouser designs. They elongate the area between the waist and bustline.

Strawberry body-shaped women are lucky to have such a wide variety of designs for trousers that add volume to the lower part of the body. Designs with rich detail, pockets, prints, and embellishments are great. Great choices also are wide-legged, flared, harem, boot-cut, combat, turn-ups, palazzo… you name it! Any design that adds volume, curve, and interest to the lower part of the body is a great choice.

If you prefer slimmer designs, choose trousers in lighter, brighter colors. Trousers with lighter, brighter colors, prints, and patterns add volume around the hip area.

Skirts

Skirt designs for strawberry body-shaped women are similar to trousers. The goal is the same – to proportionate body shape, and therefore, the principle of styling is the same.

The best option is to choose skirts that add volume to the hip area to create the illusion of broader hips and balance with wider shoulders. Low-waisted skirts will elongate the core, and designs that have a lot of detailing or flare from the hips add volume and width to the hip area. Therefore, designs like A-line, bias-cut, or tulip are the best.

Horizontal lines, bright colors, patterns, pockets, and embellishments widen the hips nicely.

Dresses

Again, the best options for a strawberry body shape in a dress are the ones that minimize the upper body and emphasize the lower body. Structured dress designs such as shift dresses or A-line work well.

Just as with tops, the best is to choose dresses that are neat around the bust and shoulders with V, U, or scooped necklines. Carefully selected wrap and belted dresses could also be an excellent option to define the waist.

Anything fluid and flared from the waist or hips will look great.

If a dress is two-colored, the best is to choose darker tones for the top and lighter ones for the bottom. It will balance broader shoulders and smaller hips as in fashion: darker colors minimize, lighter colors emphasize.

Jackets & Coats

Coats for a strawberry body shape should add volume around the hips and create a waist.

As with tops and dresses, it is best to stay neat and clean on the upper body half. So the best is to look for coats and jackets with little detail on the top.

The best options for jackets and coats are A-line, belted, fluid, flared at the bottom, and single-breasted with a button under the bust. Pockets and all other embellishments should go at the hipline or below.

Coats and jackets shouldn’t end lower than the hipline. Otherwise, they will hide beautiful legs and could look too large.

Colors, Prints & Patterns

To de-emphasize the upper part of the body, the best is to choose darker colors.

Choosing light, bright colors, prints, and patterns is best to emphasize the bottom part of the body. The horizontal stripes, colorful prints, and patterns work best to add interest to the bottom and broaden the hipline.

Here is more about Wardrobe Color Palette and Personal Style:

Wardrobe Color Palette In 6 Easy Steps

What Is Style Personality, Why Care, And How Do You Determine It?

Footwear

As strawberry body-shaped women typically have slim and long legs, many footwear designs suit them. However, as the top part of the body is broader, it is best not to be too minimal on footwear as it only can emphasize the disproportion. The best is to go for chunkier choices to balance it out.

Accessories

Unfortunately, accessories for strawberry body shapes have to be minimal as larger and bulkier choices will add heaviness to the already heavy top area. So, choose no scarves or any other embellishments that add bulk to the top area.

Best To Avoid For A Strawberry Body Shape

Avoid bright colors, prints & patterns, wide necklines, horizontal stripes, and any other heavy detailing and embellishment on the top of the body. It is best to avoid anything that adds volume to the bust and shoulders that only increases the disproportion of the strawberry body shape.

Avoid cropped tops, shirts, and jacket designs that end at the waistline or skinny and tight trousers and skirts as they emphasize imbalance.

With coats & jackets, avoid bulkiness on the bust and shoulders: oversized lapels, collars, inflated shoulders, epaulets, and double-breasted buttoning are not a good option if you try to balance your strawberry body shape.

Regardless of your body type, remember every shape has its best and less than the best features. No matter what best features one has, we all are beautiful!

Celebrities With Strawberry Body Shape

Visit M·style alley’s Pinterest board to see Strawberry Body Shape examples:

Strawberry body shape examples #Strawberry body shape examples #Strawberry body shape

Ready To Transform Your Wardrobe?

Get Your Copy Here

Start transforming your wardrobe today!

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