Minimalism in The Year 2021: A Guide

Are you stuck in the ‘closet full of clothes, but nothing to wear’ rut? We might know why. The mind, much like your wardrobe-needs a thorough revamp from time to time. If feelings of overwhelm, stress and worry gobble you up when thinking about spring cleaning, make a mental note of why. In the last few years, we’ve all become hoarders and let’s face it- most buying choices we make are on a silly whim. Do you love everything you own? Will you love it in a few years? If your answer was no to both, you, like us all at some level, are running like clockwork without deliberation. 

Often misinterpreted, ‘Minimalism’ throws up an avalanche of obscure definitions in our minds. All it really means though, is “to rid yourself of life’s excess in favour of focusing on what’s important- so you can find happiness, fulfilment and freedom”. Too preachy? What it definitely doesn’t mean is that you can’t love to shop. If clothes lift you up (not just momentarily!) or home décor is a great love- something you associate with making wholesome memories with the family, then you’re collecting value. If a dress got you through a final interview years ago, or you can see the handbag you bought with your first pay cheque passed on as an heirloom, cherish it well.
Feeling inspired? Watch ‘The Minimalists: Less Is Now’ and ‘Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things’ to be blown away by a bunch of cool people waking up from their slumber and escaping consumerism determined to live life, and we mean really live it.

‘Project 333’ is a minimalist fashion challenge for everyone with a wardrobe. It’s an invitation to dress with 33 items or less for 3 months, including shoes, outerwear and accessories- but it’s so much more in reality. It’s a clutter-free, sustainable and exciting opportunity to break away from the puppeteers and stop the ‘add to cart’ motion we’re addicted to (buh-bye, ‘Social Dilemma’). 

Ready? We’re giving you a head start.

Dig into your closet and begin with a few simple prompts from seasoned Minimalists, who tried and thrived:

• If you walked into a store today, would you buy from your selection? You need to like what you are required to repeat.
• Is it versatile enough? If you can’t think of three wide-ranging looks  off the top of your head, it doesn’t make the cut. Nobody said commitment was easy!
• What do you not like about the pieces outside of the 33? While shopping for new pieces to complete your capsule, this question is as imperative as interesting. You’ll probably be able to define your style better, avoiding wasteful tendencies that may have gone unnoticed.
• What does your calendar look like? A three month timespan is fairly predictable in most of our lives. 
  
• Have you worn it in the past year? You know what to do if your answer is no.
  
• Do you leave home everyday? It’s tempting to get swayed by fashion-forward looks that match your Instagram, but don’t forget to add enough basics to layer and lounge in. The post-pandemic world is dictating new norms, and comfort will always triumph.

Spark creativity with some unusual pairings and start a truly grateful guilt-free new chapter. Let’s undo the damage and choose quality and longevity for a healthier planet and a healthier you. We’ve got cracking on ours, will you? 

Scroll along for our minimalist’s starter kit from Refash -  

The White Shirt

The Jack of All Trades Pants

The Roll Out of Bed Skirt