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7 Minimalist Outfits to Try (with Pieces You Already Own)

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It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but a minimalist wardrobe is all about simplicity. Think classic, streamlined silhouettes; a few neutral colors; and fewer pieces overall. In addition to saving you time and money, it takes up less space in your closet and you'll always look put-together and stylish. So, you want to test the minimalist approach without having to invest in a ton of new clothes? That’s possible! Just start by recreating these seven outfit combinations using pieces you probably already own.  

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woman wearing jeans and a blazer
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T-shirt + Blazer + Jeans

The combination of jeans, a simple tee and a blazer works for approximately a million different situations, and is basic enough that you can re-wear it (with a fresh tee and a rotating cast of accessories) pretty much all week long.

Get the look: BP. T-shirt ($10); Something Navy blazer ($71); Re/Done jeans ($250)

woman wearing a shirtdress and trenchcoat
jeremy moeller/getty images

Shirtdress + Trench Coat

A classic trench is a year-round workhorse for your wardrobe. During fall, toss yours over a crisp white shirtdress, and finish off the look with any type of footwear—from a pair of snake-print boots to white sneakers.

Get the look: Alex Mill shirtdress ($93); London Fog trench coat ($120)

woman wearing chambray shirt and black pants
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Button-down + Black Trousers

This look is pretty hard to mess up, regardless of your figure or budget. Just make sure to hem or cuff your pants to show a bit of ankle. (It’ll look more polished, modern and flattering.) Plus, feel free to play with the color or print of your button down; you don’t have to stick to basic white for this outfit to be minimalist-approved.

Get the look: J.Crew button-down ($78); Trina Turk trousers ($198)

woman wearing jeans a turtleneck and jean jacket
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Jeans + Turtleneck + Jean Jacket

Canadian tuxedo, but make it fancy. Denim on denim is one of our go-tos, and we’re especially into this dressed-up take on the outfit. The turtleneck and pointy-toe heels add a touch of polish, but you could certainly swap in loafers and a tee for a more casual look.

Get the look: Levi's jeans ($98); Maison Jules turtleneck ($17); Levi's jean jacket ($98)

puff sleeve sweater
EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

Sweater + A-line Skirt

Equal parts cozy and polished, this sweater and skirt combo gets bonus points for nailing proportions. Tucked into a high-waist skirt, a bulkier knit transforms into a super figure-flattering top.

Get the look: Free People sweater ($108); Rachel Roy Collection skirt ($89)

woman wearing a button down and white jeans
claudio lavenia/getty images

Button-down + White Jeans

We firmly believe that white jeans can be worn 365 days a year. Think of this getup as a slight upgrade to your jeans and a T-shirt uniform. Contrast the relaxed slouch of an oversize button-down-and-mom-jean silhouette with a feminine, pointy flat.

Get the look: Frank & Eileen button-down ($238); Madewell jeans ($98)

straw hat 1 august style ideas
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

White T-shirt + Pencil Skirt

A pencil skirt paired with a perfectly pressed button-down can feel a little fussy. (Also, who actually has time to iron?) Swap out the blouse for a relaxed tee and the resulting look is refined and (almost) effortless.

Get the look: Universal Standard T-shirt ($50); Diane von Furstenberg pencil skirt ($248)



sarah stiefvater

Wellness Director

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  • Has worked in lifestyle media for 11 years