According to Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, minimalism is a tool to rid yourself of life’s excess in favour of focusing on what’s important. Perhaps something worth considering in our “new normal”?
The world we live in has changed dramatically. A global pandemic, increased environmental concerns, growing awareness of inequality, a surge in online presence and a change in the landscape of the workplace, has fuelled a growing phenomenon and international trend over the last year. Keeping things simple, whether it be in home decor, fashion or simply decluttering our lives, less is more is most certainly getting our attention.
The minimalist movement is more prolific now than ever before. Here are a few simple ways to streamline all aspects of your life to achieve this clean, “back to basics” lifestyle.
The Minimalists: Less is Now
Minimalism is the thing that gets us past the things so we can make room for life’s most important things, which actually aren’t things at all.
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus have helped over 20 million people live meaningful lives with less through their website, books, podcast, and Netflix films. They have built a movement out of minimalism and share how it’s never too late to start over with less, and why simplifying can lead us to more fulfilling, happier lives.
“Minimalism is the active intention of paring down so you can focus on what matters in life,” explains Matt D’Avella, documentary director. It is not only about decluttering stuff, but also our old mind patterns that no longer serve us. It allows us to make more conscious choices and encourages the search for happiness – not through things but through life itself. Taking things slower and finding inner peace in the stillness, while focusing on life’s most important “things” like health, relationships, passion, growth, and contribution.
Home Decor
Since the 1960s, minimalism has had a fundamental impact on art and pop culture. However, beyond fine art, minimalism as an aesthetic has taken hold of the interior design world, moving away from unnecessary embellishments and embracing clean lines, neutral colour palettes and multi-functional decor pieces.
How to create a luxurious minimal design:
- Make use of a limited colour palette of neutral or light colours, and add pops of colour with greenery, art pieces or textured wallpaper.
- Don’t be afraid to have some empty space, providing a clutter free environment.
- Make use of multi-functional furniture – such as an ottoman – which can serve as both a coffee table and storage space for remotes and other items.
- Your decor should serve a purpose. We all have pieces we love, make it functional and help remove the clutter.
- Furniture should have clean lines and include simple decor objects. The emphasis should be on quality rather than quantity.
Fashion
Whether or not you are a true minimalist, there are many minimalist fashion trends that work as bases for any wardrobe. The simplicity of clean lines, simple shapes, a muted neutral palette, wardrobe basics and a pared-back approach to style is all the fashion inspiration you need for winter 2021.
The capsule wardrobe trends for summer 2021:
- Whether you are working from home or in the office, a relaxed WFH (work from home) look will ensure you are on-trend this winter. Pair tailored trousers with a basic T-shirt or an oversized shirt with leggings, along with some comfortable footwear like a pair of Birkenstocks or trainers.
- Designers have taken the loungewear of 2020 and made it chic for 2021.
- Give basic a twist. Be sure to add some simple layering, with a jersey over your shoulders or a tailored jacket, to finish off the simple but stylish look.
- For evening, the classical LBD (Little Black Dress) is back, but then again, did it ever go out of fashion?
If you are looking for inspiration, here are few minimalist style icons: Victoria Beckham; Jane Fonda; Diane Keaton; Gwyneth Paltrow; Audrey Hepburn.
“We’re now dressing for safety, sustainability, and functionality” – DR DAWNN KAREN, FASHION PSYCHOLOGIST