I have many reasons for keeping a minimalist wardrobe and for embracing a minimalist lifestyle. I move frequently and haven’t stayed in one place for more than eight months in a long time, so owning fewer clothes makes packing and unpacking much easier. Minimalist living fits my situation perfectly.
I also live in a 400 sq. ft. house, which naturally means limited closet space. On top of that, I’m working to pay off $20,000 in debt, so spending less on clothing frees up money to put toward repayment. For guidance on boosting income to help with debt, I explore ways to make extra money and prioritize those earnings for debt repayment.
That said, I do enjoy shopping. In university I didn’t spend much on clothes because money was tight, and now that I have a steady paycheck the temptation to upgrade, replace, and spend is strong. Online shopping is my weakness — I can search for the perfect pair of jeans, hunt for free shipping, and build wish lists from the comfort of my couch.
To keep that urge in check, I maintain a minimalist wardrobe. Whether your goal is a minimalist travel wardrobe, a French-inspired capsule wardrobe, or a chic, pared-down collection, it’s achievable. For most people living more simply often begins with their closet.
Here’s how I do it:
The “No Duplicate” Rule for My Minimalist Wardrobe
This rule is the essence of my minimalist approach. I dislike owning multiples of items that serve the same purpose. For example, I don’t own an eReader because I already use my laptop and smartphone for reading — the same logic applies to clothing. I don’t need two identical red scarves or more than one winter hat. When I do own multiples of an item, such as jeans, each pair has to offer a distinct feature, and I still keep the total number as low as possible.
The “Novel Purpose” Rule for My Minimalist Wardrobe
When I consider buying something, it must serve a clear purpose that my current wardrobe can’t handle. If I’m thinking about a fall jacket, it’s only because I genuinely lack appropriate options. If I can manage with lighter jackets and my heavy winter coat, I don’t buy an additional piece just because I like it.
The “Versatility” Rule for My Minimalist Wardrobe
I avoid items that only work for a single occasion. That’s why I don’t own a dress or outfit I would only wear a few times a year. Any new purchase must be something I can wear frequently and in multiple contexts; otherwise it’s not worth the money.
The “Quality” Rule for My Minimalist Clothing Lifestyle
In university I often bought cheap clothing out of necessity and was frustrated when items fell apart after a wash. These days I invest a bit more in quality pieces that last longer, reducing the need to replace items frequently and ultimately saving money and space in my closet.
The “Seriously, Jordann?” Rule for Minimalist Living
Before I click “checkout,” I ask myself, “Seriously, do you need this?” Even if an item meets my other criteria, if I can’t honestly say I need it, I usually don’t buy it. Admittedly, I sometimes bend my rules for exceptional sales or items that are especially appealing, but overall these guidelines keep my wardrobe small, functional, easy to move, and easy on my finances.
By following these principles — avoiding duplicates, prioritizing unique purpose, choosing versatile and high-quality pieces, and pausing to ask whether a purchase is truly necessary — I maintain a minimalist wardrobe that supports my lifestyle and financial goals.