Minimalist work fashion

CEBU, Philippines - Much has been said about going minimalist with work attire. Naturally, when bling-bling in the wardrobe is kept to the minimum, there is little to keep watch on and the wearer’s focus is more likely to be on the job at hand. And, well, the wearer will have better freedom of movement, too.  But minimalism, in this sense, does not mean total absence of fashion – it simply means that fashion is intentionally subdued. After all, one comes to the office to do work and not purposely to flaunt one’s fashion savvy. 

Another advantage of minimalist dressing is being spared of the anxiety created by consumerist lifestyle, where one tries to carry the latest styles. Those who practice minimalism in their attires say that it also takes the clutter away – whether in their closets or in their lives. Now they only give attention and space to the most useful items.

But how minimal is minimal? Judy Robinson, at the website www.classycareergirl.com, explains the philosophy behind minimalism: Simplify everything! She adds that it’s a lifestyle choice as well as an aesthetic taste.

Anything whose only value is as a distraction is sent away or removed. By keeping less, Robinson continues, one gains more spare time for oneself, a cleared living space, a less occupied mind, a spiritual understanding associated with desires, and reduced stress levels. 

It means buying less and saving more. With women, instead of buying clothes, shoes and makeup every season, what they save may be used for more essential experiences like, for example, traveling. Again, it’s liberating to keep one’s fashion style to the bare essentials.

Minimalist fashion is all about the idea of less being more, Robinson points out. It may not be about chasing the top trend of the day, but it’s something that is here to stay, she says. And minimalist style goes incredibly well with office fashion. 

Its focus on clean cut, staple silhouettes that are striking yet non-distracting can make the wearer stand out and not be lost in the dress. Robinson cites that this style not only makes the wearer look modern, sensible, and like a sharp person, but it also shows that she does not follow the herd in their race to procure the newest flashy trend.

Minimalist fashion focuses on basic design and neutral and pale palettes, according to Robinson. And this fashion philosophy can be very well applied to one’s work wardrobe. To start this new approach to fashion, Robinson suggests the following:

Adopt a more neutral palette. Instead, play around with fabrics. You can mix your silk blouse with your boyfriend’s leather jacket and some casual jogger pants. Pastel, in contrast, is a minimalist style winner always.

Avoid flashy colors and bold prints. As a way to express your playfulness, experiment with accessories like caps, scarfs, vests and socks. Add your own touch of unique taste.

Play with cuts. Experiment with different cuts and silhouettes so that you are never boring and always stylish. Shapes which are unique create a mysterious curiosity that loud colors and shiny things can never equal.  An old oversized structured jacket with flowy pants is one good idea.

Simple accessories and shoes. Carry a simple staple handbag with comfy sandals to make a casual and minimalist-style statement.

Use understated clean-cut jewelry. Metallic accessories add class to a block design in neutral colors for a modern touch. It’s important to find items that are subtle and streamlined, and yet visually striking enough to make a statement when worn in combinations and stacks.

(FREEMAN)