5 Must-Have Pieces for the Ultimate Minimalist Men’s Wardrobe

Minimalism took off in the 1950s, when simple, massive forms were used for sculptures and abstract shapes appeared in paintings and other visual works. The idea of “less is more” imbued this style, and it remains relevant today.

Now, this idea of minimalism has become a popular wardrobe trend. Instead of buying tons of different jackets, shirts, and pants, men style a few timeless pieces of clothing that all go together. Rather than waste time in the morning debating on what to wear, everything matches, so it takes seconds to decide.

While this seems like a simple concept, it requires thoughtful effort to build out a capsule style for men. If you’re interested, follow these tips to start your men’s minimalist wardrobe.

How to Start a Minimalist Wardrobe for Men

Hone In On Your Personal Style

First, take an inventory of the pieces in your closet that you love to wear. Set them all out on your bed and study them. What about these pieces makes you feel good in them? Do you prefer to dress casually or look more formal?

This will help you outline your personal style and pull items that you don’t wear. If you have clothes left in your closet or drawer because you never wear them, consider donating them so you have space to build out your wardrobe exclusively with pieces you’ll want to wear regularly. 

Select Pieces with Neutral Colors

While Ken certainly owned his looks in the Barbie movie, the average guy may not wear a tie-dye rollerblading outfit to work. Choose pieces in neutrals, such as black, brown, grey, navy, and beige. The majority of your closet should match, and that’s a lot easier to manage with neutrals.

This way, when you find that fantastic patterned jacket that you simply can’t live without, you’ll have a bedrock of neutral staples to elevate the statement piece.

Pick Easy Capsule Wardrobe Looks

A capsule wardrobe is designed to make life simpler, so build out staple outfits that are easily interchangeable with different pieces. For example, if you have a favorite pair of black jeans, purchase 4-5 simple t-shirts or dress shirts that go well with them. Then, you can have one or two jackets to change out, and you’ve got quality looks for a whole week of work.

Find Quality Staples for Your Minimalist Closet

Another plus to a minimalist closet is that it cuts down the need to go shopping. Instead of picking cheap pieces from a fast-fashion establishment, purchase quality staples made of sturdy fabrics that are built to last.

This doesn’t mean that you have to shop designer. Rather, shop at smaller brands that offer quality-made goods without the high markup. 

Men's Minimalist Wardrobe Necessities

To build out your men’s minimalist wardrobe necessities, stick to buying guides like the one below to build a core wardrobe for styling all outfits.

Guys Need Neutral Shades for Everyday

Every man needs a pair of sunglasses that works just as well on the beach or at an outdoor wedding. WMP Eyewear’s Wesley is a classic rectangular frame that comes in four neutral colors to add a finishing touch to every outfit. Plus, these polarized lenses block glare and feature 100% UV protection to prevent long-term eye damage.

Capsule Wardrobes Must Have T-Shirts

Choose a simple t-shirt made of organic cotton. Pact offers sustainably made staples at reasonable prices, including three-packs of crew neck and v-neck shirts. Made of 100% organic cotton at a fair-trade factory, these shirts are ideal for layering, making them the perfect addition to capsule wardrobes.

Minimalist Wardrobe Men Need Layers

Layering elevates any outfit, offering multiple textures to upgrade everyday looks. It also helps summer pieces last into winter simply by adding a sweater on top.

Look to brands like Everlane for meticulously-crafted sweaters in simple designs that add subtle style. Options including the No Sweat Cotton Sweater work great for anyone on a budget at under $100. If you have a bit more to spend, then go for the soft and lightweight Grade-A Cashmere Crew. 

In-Style Pants for a Minimalist Wardrobe

Purchasing well-made pants are critical for minimalist wardrobes since you’ll be wearing them the most often. Opt for a sturdy pair of well-made jeans if you dress casually for work, or go for a trendier look with a pair of plain neutral chinos. 

True Classic offers chinos with a 4-way stretch, perfect for any office job that spends some time on job sites as well. And if you’re looking for something that’s sustainably made from organic cotton, check out ISTO’s Men’s Chinos. Made in Portugal, these pants are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning that every component of the pants is harmless to human health.

Street Style Shoes That Go With Everything

Street-style shoes offer comfort and give dressed-up styles a more approachable look. For a higher-quality skater shoe, look at Cariuma’s Catiba Pro Low. These come with an excellent grip that’s popular among skaters and men looking for a comfortable everyday shoe that offers excellent support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Exactly Is a Minimalist Men’s Wardrobe, and How Is It Different From a Regular Wardrobe?

A minimalist men’s wardrobe means that every piece of clothing goes together. There can be a few exceptions, such as a patterned statement jacket or plaid flannel shirt, but ideally, every piece matches. With a regular wardrobe, pieces are not purchased with the consideration of how they may go together.

When shopping for minimalist wardrobes, the rule is that every piece you purchase can go with other items in your wardrobe to make at least three outfits.

Are These Minimalist Wardrobe Pieces Suitable for Various Occasions, From Casual to Formal Events?

Yes, you can purchase minimalist wardrobe pieces that make entire outfits suitable for casual to formal events. A cashmere sweater can be worn at a wedding if you add a button-up shirt and tie underneath it, but can also be worn on the weekend with a pair of jeans.

Think about shopping for a jacket: you could purchase a suit jacket that only works for weddings and formal events, or you could purchase a blazer that works for both weddings and work. 

What Are Some Tips for Decluttering My Current Wardrobe and Transitioning to a Minimalist Approach?

To declutter your current wardrobe, take out all the clothes in your closet that you’ve worn in the last three months. Consider donating anything that’s left folded in the drawers or hanging in your closet. Of course, you may need to keep a formal suit or outfit for a wedding that you may only wear once a year. However, free yourself of those old t-shirts that you haven’t worn since high school.