Build a Minimalist Uniform Wardrobe Based On Your Personal Style
It recently dawned on me that I very much have a uniform. Trust me, this wasn’t something I planned on having happen. As someone who used to struggle with a shopping addiction, the idea of every simplifying my wardrobe or owning less was a ridiculous idea. However, I have come to terms with the fact that I am someone who has officially created a uniform without even knowing it. And honestly, I think more people are ready to hop on board. If you’re hoping to build a more uniform style minimalist wardrobe, here are 5 steps to get you started.
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Find what you gravitate toward
If you are anything like me, there is a good chance that you already have certain items that you tend to gravitate toward.
Maybe it’s a certain shirt, color, or a specific brand. The odds are, that there are already items in your wardrobe that stand out to you as “favorites.” These are the key pieces to pay attention to when it comes to building your minimalist uniform.
Don’t get distracted
Often times we might see or admire someone else’s clothing choices so we purchase something similar. Maybe we buy things just because there is a sale on them. However, without fail, there are clothing items we continue to love no matter what.
Be sure to put your focus on these items rather than getting sucked in with new trends or someone else’s style.
Let go of obligation
You might have struggled with over-spending or the occasional shopping spree which has left you with a closet (or maybe more) filled with clothing.
Whether it is spoken or not, sometimes a silent bond is made with these items. We feel guilty for not wearing them and insist that we will make good use out of them someday. When you get to a point where you feel guilt or obligation to your clothing, it’s important to be aware of the deeper problem you are facing.
Often times people will declutter their closet with the desire to own less, however, without having knocked out the underlying issues, you will no doubt continue to accumulate clutter.
Out of sight, out of mind
One of the best methods for letting go of items that you feel guilty getting rid of is to simply put them in a capsule wardrobe. By doing this you can keep certain unworn items out of your sight and out of your mind for a while.
Take the time to notice whether or not you miss any of the items. Then, after a designated amount of time (3 months or so), see if you can remember anything that is in the capsule. If not, I would encourage you to donate the bin or pass it along to a friend.
Choose what feels comfortable
Naturally, you want to feel comfortable in your minimalist uniform. That’s why it is so important to build a wardrobe that you absolutely love.
If you are hanging onto items that no longer fit, or maybe make your butt look good but always squeeze your waistline, it’s time to part ways.
Building a healthy, minimalist wardrobe is all about choosing the things that bring you the most joy (yes, I’m whipping out the KonMari talk) and chances are things that don’t fit right are only making you feel bad about yourself.
Ask yourself these two questions when deciding on comfortable minimalist uniform pieces:
- Do I like the way this feels?
- Do I feel good about myself when I wear it?
Making sure you are comfortable and the clothes you wear give you an added boost of self esteem are two things to ensure that you have selected good pieces for your closet.
Quality always
If you are in the habit of always shopping, there is a good chance that you haven’t been too concerned with always choosing quality items.
As you work to build your wardrobe, allow yourself to invest in high-quality pieces that will enhance your wardrobe and last a longer time.
For example, it is much better to spend $60 on a workout tank top that you know you will wear for years (because it is your favorite style and is well-made) versus hanging onto 5 tank tops that were on sale but are poorly made and don’t fit well. Here are my favorite workout tanks!
Decide on base pieces
You will get so much more use out of your minimalist uniform if you land on a few base pieces that you can build on. For example, jeans, tank tops, and good shoes.
Here are some ideas on building the base pieces of your wardrobe:
Pants – Purchase only your favorite brand and style. Select a variety of colors and variations. This way you always feel comfortable and look good, yet have a variety to wear with different outfits.
Shirts – Stick with high-quality undershirts. Stock up on basic colors like black, white and nude.
Shoes – Have staple shoes for different types of outfits. (Things like tennis shoes, dressy and casual.) Get different colors or variations in these items as well so you are able to easily mix and match.
Create multiple uniforms
Now you might not go many places, but there is a good chance that you will need between 2-3 minimalist uniforms. They could fall under certain categories like:
- Gym wear
- The office
- Going out
- Around the house
- Dressy
Even though you may only wear things from 1 or 2 of these areas the most, it’s good to always be prepared to dress yourself for any occassion.
Don’t forget rare occasions
Personally, I would always scramble to find something funeral appropriate whenever the time came. Now, I keep black dressy pants in my closet at all times and a few nice tops just to be prepared.
What did I miss?
Have you found handy ways to find or maintain a minimalist uniform or wardrobe? If so, take a moment to share in the comments!
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