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    1. Fashion

    Your Guide to a Minimalist Wardrobe

    Start with these key pieces.

    Shelby Comroe's avatar
    By Shelby Comroe
    Published 22 January 2021 In How-to

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Back to Basics: How to Build a Minimalist Wardrobe
    (Image credit: Getty/Melodie Jeng)
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    Raise your hand if you had a Marie Kondo closet-purge moment at any point in the last six months. Yup, me too. If there's one thing to take from this dumpster fire of a year we just had, it's the idea of a stripped-back wardrobe. It's finally 2021, and as we ease back into getting dressed I suggest going back to the basics and leaving over-the-top fashion behind. Minimalism doesn't have to be boring or break the bank—it's all about purchasing classic items and elevated basics that will never go out of style. From splurge-worthy coats to affordable luxe sweaters, here are the pieces to get you started.

    1. A Classic Coat

    A Classic Coat

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    A classic trench coat is a wardrobe must-have. This iconic item is never going out of style.

    A Clasic Coat: Burberry

    Burberry The Kensington Heritage Trench Coat
    $2250.00 AT FARFETCH.COM

    A classic Burberry trench is worth the splurge. Buy it once and you'll wear it forever.

    2. A Crisp White Button-Down

    A Crisp White Button-Down

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    A white button-down can be worn in a million different ways. This simple yet chic item is a minimalist must-have.

    Latest Videos FromMarie Claire
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    A Crisp White Button-Down

    Gap Perfect Shirt in Poplin
    $34.99 AT GAP

    This blouse is the epitome of versatile. Wear it with jeans, layer it under sweaters, pair with a blazer—the options are truly endless.

    3. A Black Blazer 

    A Black Blazer

    (Image credit: Getty/Vanni Bassetti)

    Nothing screams minimal chic like an all-black look.

    A Black Blazer

    ZARA Buttoned Oversized Blazer
    $19.99 AT ZARA.COM

    A black blazer can serve as a base for all kinds of minimal chic outfits. Try this one in a oversized fit for a casual, cool look.

    4. A Black Turtleneck 

    A Black Turtleneck

    (Image credit: Getty/Pierre Suu)

    A black turtleneck bodysuit is a great layering piece come winter. Wear on its own with some black trousers or layer a classic blazer or trench on top.

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    A Black Turtleneck

    Wolford Colorado Thong Bodysuit
    $250.00 AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

    Wolford is known for their high-quality basics, like this turtleneck body suit.

    5. Tailored Trousers 

    Tailored Trousers

    (Image credit: Getty/Arnold Jerocki)

    A pair of great trousers aren't just for the boardroom. Dress them down with casual knits and t-shirts.

    Tailored Trousers

    Babaton High-Rise Cocoon Trouser
    $168.00 AT ARITZIA.COM

    Give these trousers a more casual feel by styling them with sneakers and a white t-shirt.

    6. A Simple Slip

    A Simple Slip

    (Image credit: Getty/Raimonda Kulikauskiene)

    A black slip dress is one of those pieces that will always come in handy. Dress it up with a pair of strappy sandals for a night out or layer a cozy knit on top and add a pair of boots for a daytime look.

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    A Simple Slip

    Cuyana Charmeuse Slip Dress
    $195.00 AT CUYANA.COM

    This Cuyana slip dress will take you from day to night with ease.

    7. The Perfect Pair of White Sneakers

    The Perfect Pair of White Sneakers

    (Image credit: Getty/Jeremy Moeller)

    A classic pair of white sneakers are comfortable, chic, and go with everything.

    The Perfect Pair of White Sneakers

    Veja Esplar Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
    $120.00 AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

    These simple sneakers will be the chic finishing touch on any look.

    8. A Classic Loafer

    A Classic Loafer

    (Image credit: Getty/Edward Berthelot)

    Add some prep to your step with a classic loafer.

    A Classic Loafer

    Tods Loafers in Leather
    $595.00 AT TODS.COM

    Another splurge-worthy item to add to your wishlist: A pair of Tods loafers. These classic shoes will never go out of style, making them worth every penny.

    9. An Easy-to-Wear Jumpsuit

    An Easy-to-Wear Jumpsuit

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    Jumpsuits are the perfect lazy-day hack—effortlessly chic.

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    An Easy-to-Wear Jumpsuit

    The Frankie Shop Linda Cargo Jumpsuit in Khaki Tan
    $225.00 AT THEFRANKIESHOP.COM

    This utilitarian-inspired Frankie Shop jumpsuit can be worn all year long. Layer a turtleneck underneath, throw a warm coat on top, and finish off with some boots for a winter time look. Pair with some strappy sandals and gold jewelry for an easy summertime outfit.

    10. An Easy Knit

    An Easy Knit

    (Image credit: Getty/Edward Berthelot)

    You truly can't go wrong with a classic knit sweater in a neutral color.

    An Easy Knit

    Uniqlo Women Extra Fine Merino Crew Neck Sweater
    $14.90 AT UNIQLO.COM

    Uniqlo is a great option for elevated basics that look expensive but won't break the bank.

    21. Good Ol' Blue Jeans

    Good Ol' Blue Jeans

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    This one is a given. Every girl needs a pair of classic blue jeans.

    Good Ol' Blue Jeans

    RE/DONE Stove Pipe High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
    $260.00 AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

    Investing in one pair of jeans that fit to perfection is a better option than having ten pairs that don't. That's the definition of minimalist dressing.

    22. A Knit Dress

    A Knit Dress

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    A knit dress is another super versatile piece. Wear it with a blazer and boots for a casual look, or some strappy sandals to dress things up.

    A Knit Dress

    REMAIN Birger Christensen Joy Ribbed-Knit Midi Dress
    $240.00 AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

    This dress is a flattering choice with its plunging v-neck and tightly ribbed fabric.

    23. An Everyday Bag

    An Everyday Bag

    (Image credit: Getty/Christian Vierig)

    A sleek black everyday bag is a must. Minimalists tend to shy away from flashy logos and crazy hardware.

    An Everyday Bag

    Prada Cleo Shoulder Bag
    $1990.00 AT PRADA.COM

    The Prada Cleo bag is a minimalist's dream. The sleek design and practical size make it the perfect everyday bag.

    24. A Touch of Gold 

    A Touch of Gold

    (Image credit: Kirstin Sinclair)

    Try some simple gold pieces to give your neutral wardrobe a little bit of shine.

    A Touch of Gold

    SIERRA La Gourmette
    $157.52 AT MISHODESIGNS.COM

    A gold chain necklace is the perfect way to elevate any simple look. It's sleek without being flashy.

    25. Boots Made For Walking

    Boots Made For Walking

    (Image credit: Getty/Claudio Lavenia)

    If you're ever looking for minimal style inspo, Christine Centenera has it down pat. Take this classic pair of black boots, for example.

    Boots Made For Walking

    Sam Edelman Samira Boots
    $59.06 AT SHOPBOP.COM

    A pair of black leather boots will always be a fall/winter must-have, regardless of the trends of the season.

    Shelby Comroe
    Shelby Comroe
    Social Links Navigation

    Shelby Comroe is the Credits Editor and Fashion Assistant at Marie Claire covering all things fashion and giving credit where credit is due. Check her out @shelbycomroe on Instagram if buying designer handbags is your idea of a retirement plan!

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