How Styling Inspired Me To Become a Minimalist

People always ask me how I manage to control myself from buying all of the beautiful items I see on a daily basis. Funny enough, before I started styling I had more clothes than I do now. I was constantly tempted to shop, and I believed that money would buy me everything I wanted, and that would make me feel safe, satisfied, accomplished and therefore happy. Well, let me tell you something – it doesn't.

It took me a few years working with clients who "have it all" to understand that the secret to great style and satisfaction has nothing to do with quantity, and everything to do with quality. And when I say quality, I don't necessarily mean quality of the items – but the quality of your choices.

Having too many choices is actually more detrimental than having a defined few. It's called The Paradox of Choice in psychology, and there is a book about it that I highly recommend reading. Having too many options actually requires more effort when making decisions, which leads you to feel overwhelmed, lost and consequently empty.

The more meaningless things you have, the more disconnected you are to yourself and what truly matters to you.

Typically clients with the most clothes and undefined budgets are the ones that experience higher levels of confusion and dissatisfaction with what they own. They have so much stuff, yet they feel like they don't have anything and are lost when it's time to get dressed. Closets filled with clothes, oftentimes new and unworn. These tend to be unloved items, and unloved items get in the way of you clearly seeing what you enjoy.

The irony is that while the root feeling is emptiness and dissatisfaction, people often think the solution is to buy more in attempts to fill this imaginary void. My approach to breaking this vicious unfulfilling shopping cycle is to focus on buying the right staple items, and to slowly transition my clients into a versatile capsule closet that provides them with less items however endless styling options.

Throughout the past 8 years styling, I've noticed myself become increasingly drawn to a minimalist lifestyle. My current closet fits into a couple of pieces of luggages, and that makes me feel free, and freedom makes me feel light and practical. Everything I own serves a purpose, and can be worn multiple times and in a variety of ways.

So, you are probably wondering where to start. Here are my recommendations.

Top 10 staple items to start your capsule closet:

Oversized Shirts

This works with basically everything. Wear it open with a tank underneath, or buttoned up and tucked in. Don't forget to roll the sleeves to create shape!

Ribbed Tank Tops

Wear them as an underlayer or solo if you want to show more skin. Go for neutral colors like black, white and nude. Remember to tuck them in and style them with high waisted jeans or trousers.

Cashmere Sweaters

A classic. I like mine a little oversized and boyish (I sometimes buy from the men's collection). Crewnecks look more modern, but if you have a large bust opt for a deep v neckline.

Blazer

A key piece that can dress up any look. Wear it to work, or out for dinner. I like a structured shoulder and a boxy fit to make it look cool (you don't want it to look like a serious corporate work suit).

Outerwear

Trench coat, denim or leather jacket. Pick an option that best suits your style. These timeless outerwear pieces will take you across different seasons with just the right balance between classic and edgy. I like mine slightly oversized.

Black Trousers

A staple that can be dressed up or down basically for any occasion. Go for the shape that works best for your body type. I'm currently into high waisted wide leg trousers and a classic straight leg.

Vintage Style Jeans

Go for raw denim and solid washes (it looks more chic versus stretchy / washed jeans). You can't go wrong with a classic slightly cropped straight leg. I always have a black, white and vintage blue option in my closet.

Simple Black Leather Shoes

Black boots, sandals, mules or pumps. They go with everything. I like a kitten heel that can be worn day to night and provides just the right amount of height to elevate any look. Keep it simple, keep it clean.

Black Bag

Pick a style that can be worn day and night. Mini bags are hot right now and are the most comfortable to carry around. I'm loving mini top handle and shoulder bags.

Gold Accessories

Go for white gold or yellow gold – whatever suits you best. Gold hoops, ear cuffs and a chain necklace are everyday staples you can't go wrong with.

Let me know what are your favorite capsule closet items!

XX
Ale Kertzer