How To Create The Perfect Minimalist Wardrobe If You Don’t Know Where To Start, By A Stylish Expert

In this week's edition of Fashion Girl Problems, our column devoted to solving your style-related quandaries, Marisa Martins, digital creator and founder of Businesses of Colour, explains how to do pared-back elegance that’s still interesting.

Develop your own version of a uniform

My style is oversized, minimal and elegant. For me, it’s the silhouette and details that elevate pieces. A simpler palette puts more emphasis on quality cuts, materials and fit. It’s the craftsmanship that I’m drawn to. With time, I started to pay less attention to trends and really hone in on what I like. Years of doing that has allowed me to build a wardrobe of pieces I want to keep forever. My ‘uniform’ often consists of tailored pieces, oversized cuts and neutral tones that I can mix and match effortlessly.

Find your minimalist influence

My inspiration is Kendall Jenner (she has a polished take on minimalism), Zoë Kravitz (effortless and understated style, blending masculine and feminine elements) and Taylor Russell (she always looks sleek and structured). I also get inspiration from pinning looks on Pinterest, flipping through magazines and watching the Net-A-Porter presentations and styling sessions, especially with its fashion director, Kay Barron.

Manage your wardrobe with apps

I used to be really organised in real life, but I found that having my wardrobe too structured made things messier because I didn’t always have time to put everything back in its designated place. The Indyx app is a total gamechanger. It’s like a digital wardrobe that lets me catalogue everything I own, plan outfits and spot any gaps so I can shop more intentionally. It really helps me stay aligned with my personal style and avoid impulse buys.

Offset your outfit with a perfectly pared-back handbag

Loewe’s Puzzle Edge shoulder bag is sculptural, timeless and versatile.

The Row’s Idaho black canvas bag delivers understated luxury with great craftsmanship.

Hunting Season’s raffia tote with leather trims is a refined take on a summer classic.

Arket’s curved suede bag features clean lines, a beautiful suede texture and a shape that pairs well with everything.

Go minimalist for your next wedding-guest outfit

I gravitate toward well-cut dresses in timeless silhouettes, styled with minimal accessories and clean lines. Esse Studios always has stunning options, while Ninety Percent offers elevated simplicity. Its Romy Long Sleeve Draped Dress is a favourite. I bring it out any chance I get.

Spend money on the holy trinity of minimalism

Investment should go into outerwear, footwear and tailoring. These pieces define the structure of an outfit. On the high street, meanwhile, you can find great basics like T-shirts, knitwear and denim. My go-to brands are La Collection, Rohè, Khaite (high end); Leset, Soeur, Studio Nicholson (mid); and COS, Amomento (high street).

Simplify your shoedrobe

If I could only have three pairs of shoes: 
Maison Margiela Tabis – to elevate any look with a unique, yet classic edge.

GH Bass penny loafers – a timeless, everyday staple that goes with everything.

Tkees slippers – I live in these in summer.

Creating interest while remaining minimal

I play with textures and silhouettes. A structured blazer over a flowing dress or a chunky knit with sleek trousers create dimension while staying minimalist.