minimalism: noun min·i·mal·ism
\ˈmi-nə-mə-ˌli-zəm\
1: a style or technique (as in music, literature, or design) that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity – Merriam Webster Dictionary
Minimalism is the most simple and pure form of any thing. The essence of something – without anything additional. It is the absence of excess. But how does that interpret into lifestyle?
Some interpret minimal fashion as a constricted wardrobe of monochrome ensembles. Black, white, beige, simple. Hangers should be 2” apart with plenty of empty space since “minimalism” seems often translated as having less. Each piece should have minimal adornments and detailing, and must be of the most straightforward nature. T-shirts, tanks, jeans. The aura should be stark, neat, empty.
I have a much different perspective. Indeed, those descriptive characteristics above are part of a minimalist lifestyle – but it goes much deeper than that. It’s less about the rules, and more about the experience and aesthetic of each piece, item, and choices. It’s not about have less, it’s having only those things which have a purpose. The difference? Imagine someone who works from home, is fairly introverted, and rarely leaves the house. The essentials they need would be quite little. For that person a minimal wardrobe would likely be filled with extra space, and items would be that of a most simple nature.
Now imagine someone who travels frequently. Their hobbies include camping, running, fine dining, and other activities that require a different set of tools or essentials. Their closet may be filled to overflowing, but does this mean they cannot be a part of the minimalism lifestyle? Hardly seems fair… People often get stuck on a number. A minimalist should have 5 shirts, 3 jeans, 2 shoes, 1 coffee mug, etc. Instead, I find the definition more adaptive to people’s unique lifestyles. A runner needs shoes, athletic wear and a water bottle. Camping requires an onslaught of equipment in order to eat, sleep and carry on. Reducing so far that one doesn’t have the essentials needed to maintain their lifestyle is a self-created prison, not minimalism.
Instead, minimalism is meant to be simple, free and burden-less. If cutting back so far you actually create a more extreme burden, is it truly minimalism? Perhaps, perhaps not. I think it could mean a great many things, but the principle to follow most closely is: if you don’t need it, clear your closet and your mind from everything that is non-essential. It’s a wonderful experience to open space for a less-is-more lifestyle. Purchase pieces sparingly – as you need them, as they serve a purpose. Live a life with meaning, and disregard those things which do not matter. Be happy, and have only those things which make you so.
Minimalism is freedom. Freedom from those things which weigh us down, take up space, and serve no purpose. It’s reducing to those things that truly matter and have a positive impact on your lifestyle. It’s not clothes, coffee mugs, and a checklist of what you may not have. It’s internal, a mental state of mind, and a simple lifestyle consisted of only those things which you need. And that – is a truly beautiful thing.
Very inspiring thoughts about minimalism, I enjoyed reading it!
thank you beautiful! can’t wait to catch up with you
Kristina, your words are so poetic, beautiful write up. I agreed with your statement of how sometimes the desire of wanting to become a minimalist can at times make you feel restrain, in-prisoned. It’s refreshing to read that you also side with the idea on how there shouldn’t be just black and white, but also some room for grey, (no pun-intended) specially for someone with an active multidimensional lifestyle.
Priscilla
http://thestylishflaneuse.com/
it’s so hard! haha at least I tell myself this approach counts ;)
I battle with some of the point you make about minimalism often. Like how many pairs of shoes should I own. I need a dress shoe, boots and sneakers. Can I get a shoe to do double duty?
Do I need workout outfits and biking outfits? Do I have to look like a biker when I am biking or will my workout gear do?
I am trying to own just five tops and five bottoms in total as a yearly wardrobe ;-(
I admire you for being able to weed it down that far! Good work.
First of all, beautiful images! And what a refreshing point of view on minimalism. We are new to minimalism and it particularly came upon us by brute force as we are preparing to become full time RV’ers at the end of the summer http://www.thetalelighttrekkers.com
Thanks for reminding me that it’s not about the numbers and creating stress by not having what we need; it’s about reducing stress by ridding ourselves of what we don’t need! :)
Exactly. It’s not about what you don’t have or what you get rid of. It’s about what you keep ;-)
thanks so much for taking the time to read… Your adventure sounds sooo amazing I want to do it!
I totally agree with this definition of minimalism you shared, you have a beautiful way with words!
https://shesjustlikeheaven.wordpress.com/
thanks so much for reading babe happy weekend
Amazing post – this was a very refreshing view on minimalism.
Thank you Amanda for taking the time to read!
Shots of elegance 💖
My photographer gets all the credit!
I enjoyed reading your perspective. We have similar, although slightly different definitions of minimalism. I look forward to reading more of your work in the future!
https://minmylife.org/2016/10/01/minimalist-vision/
Thank you! Looking forward to staying connected.
love this post!
http://www.bluelabelsboutique.com
http://www.fashionnotfear.wordpress.com
thank you so much for your kind words
Wow these photos are stunning, love the editing!
thank you Adriana! the setting is all the beauty 🙌🏼
Really interesting points here and I love your style of writing! It was lovely to read more into how minimalism can doesn’t have to be less of anything but more in value 😌 x
thank you so much for taking the time to read and happy new year!
Loved this :). Also, your photos are absolutely gorgeous ♡
thanks so much Emilie!
Loved this post, it was beautifully written. And I agree, I think it’s not necessarily about getting rid of everything so as to have nothing. It’s about having in our lives, the things which we need, and as you say, serve purpose.
such a thoughtful comment thank you so much. here’s to a new year full of what matters
What a beautiful post! <3
thanks so much babe!
Great post! I am looking to start living a more simple lifestyle and this helps understand minimalism a lot better.
thank you so much, best wishes to you and for the weekend!
This is the type of minimalism that my wife and I subscribe to. I enjoyed your post and your perspective
thanks so much Austin! happy Friday
LOVE this post and the photos!
thanks so much beautiful!
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Hey, lets collaborate?
gjseth.org
Minimalism is “a mental state of mind”. I couldn’t agree more with that ;)
Minimalism is “a mental state of mind”, I couldn’t agree more ;)
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