No prints. No colors (except for navy). No fun. Of course, that's not the case for self-described minimalists, but to women who like a little bit of oooh! in their outfits, minimalism can seem like a fancy word for "boring." Not so fast: Minimalism has a Monet effect, in that it might look simple at first glance, but there's a world of things to examine upon closer inspection. From clever cuts to lovely construction, minimal fashion doesn't give it all away immediately, which — pro tip — makes minimal fashion people some of the most low-key awesome people to strike up a conversation with.
If you don't have a dinner party full of women dressed in sculptural black cotton-poplin tops and Japanese trousers coming up, this slideshow should give you enough material to lift from. Ahead, how five women do new minimalism.
The fabrics here are familiar: shirting material, denim, and supple leather. But the shapes really make this an outfit that goes beyond your typical brunch look.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
This baggy-but-fitted long-length trouser is the minimalist girl's Holy Grail pant shape. Pair it with a simple top that has one showboat element, like extra-long sleeves or a daring neckline.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
Every woman probably owns a little black dress. But the exact cut and drape of this midi-dress make it feel as spectacular as a gown. Plus, this is a testament to the importance of a perfect pair of black booties.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
The first three things you need in your minimal wardrobe are 1) a great lightweight coat, 2) a great black handbag, and 3) a great pair of walking sandals. This outfit has them all.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
It's all about the shape here. These aren't your average Hanes and white 501s. The white T-shirt and cotton trousers have the perfect amount of stiffness and volume. And the killer white bag and black slides do more for this outfit than a stack of jewelry and accessories ever could.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
And Now, Something For The Corporate Women