Minimalist Clothing Ideas for Insanely Easy Summer Outfits

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Lets face it, summer is hot and we don’t have time to mess around with complicated clothing options. We need minimal clothing from minimalist brands, that know how important less is more really is. Here are some minimalist clothing ideas for easy summer outfits you can throw on, and not think about.

The great thing about minimalist clothes is the simple ability to repeat outfits, mix and match, and create the simplest outfit combinations easily, because minimalist style clothing is the most versatile type of clothing you can buy. So if you’re looking to downsize your closet, simplify your wardrobe and morning routine (getting dressed can take ages) and repeat outfits like crazy then this post is for you!

Minimalist Clothing Ideas- The Basics

Basics are the foundation to any wardrobe, simple clothing can go a long way but the important thing to keep in mind is style, colour and detail. Minimalist clothing tends to have less detail and more simplicity. Details can go out of style quickly but a basic style t-shirt never will.

T-shirt + tank top + denim shorts + dress + jumpsuit

The perfect foundation to your wardrobe, these are the pieces you start with and build upon. Think a white tee and denim shorts and style it up with accessories of your choice. This is totally to preference but I would suggest going with a sneaker, pair of flip flops or espadrilles for a dressier look.

RELATED: The Best Denim Shorts For Your Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Minimalist Clothing Ideas- Accent Pieces

Once you have your basics add a few accent pieces into the mix to add interest. These pieces are typically appropriate for evening looks, a fancier occasion or just for when the mood strikes. Keeping in mind this minimal style, design and colours when adding these into your outfits.

Cardigan + sweater + light jacket + accessories

Yes summer is hot but the evenings are typically not super warm unless it’s really humid out. This means you’ll need to add a layering piece for drinks or dinner out, camping, cottage life etc. Adding layering clothes adds interest to the outfit while still keeping it simple. When it comes to accessories I like to stick with gold jewelry as it’s classic and well made.

RELATED: Favourite Gold Jewelry by Minimalist Jewelry Brand Mejuri

Where to Shop for Minimalist Clothing

Now that we have the foundation and interest pieces covered what brands carry minimalist clothing options that you should you shop?

  • Everlane
  • H&M basics
  • Madewell
  • Anthropologie
  • Uniqlo

Minimalist Fashion Brands

Minimalist fashion brands are brands who’s values and designs come from a genuine love for minimalism, sustainability, and living with less. Here are a few of the best minimalist fashion brands.

  • Encircled
  • Vetta Capsule
  • Organic Basics
  • Cuyana
  • Everlane
  • Frank and Oak
  • Eileen Fisher
  • ABLE
  • Tradlands

RELATED: Reviewing the London Capsule by Vetta Capsule

How Do I Dress in a Minimal Style?

Minimalist dressing can be adjusted according to your preferences, but the main premise behind the style is simple styles with minimal detailing. Think plain solid coloured tops paired with a solid wash denim or a simple structured dress. Minimalist style lends itself to fabric quality and versatility, rather than trends. This is easy because it makes your wardrobe easier to navigate.

If you’re looking for some insight into how to build your own work capsule wardrobe the article below will guide you, included is a free checklist you can download and save to your desktop or phone for reference.

Minimalist Summer Outfit Ideas

Here is a short roundup of minimalist summer outfit ideas using the same principles as outlined above and similar pieces as included in the graphics above to copy, or simply reference back to for inspiration when building or editing your own minimalist wardrobe.

minimalist clothing

Using basics again a simple white tank top with linen shorts do well on their own, pop on a pair of espadrille and a simple bag and the look is chic and minimalist.

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minimalist clothing

A simple colour blocked look with minimal detailing and attention to fabric and quality. Simple sandals, a watch and a bag add interest and that’s all you need.

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A classic black jumpsuit creates the perfect all in one look for summer. I always reach for pieces that are simple and make getting dressed easier, this style is it for me.

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minimalist clothing

This dress is so simple but statement. Perfect as a minimalist summer outfit, add simple accessories like a bag and sandals and the outfit comes alive.

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minimalist clothing

This is a great example of how to use simple basics and add an accent layering piece to add interest, pop on a pair of minimalist sneakers and you’ve got yourself a great daytime outfit.

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I hope this post gives you inspiration! If you’re looking to gain more clarity into how to build a wardrobe from scratch visit the other posts you might like section below this, or subscribe to the weekly newsletter for exclusive content meant to help you with your wardrobe.

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2 Comments

  1. 7.8.21
    Melissa said:

    These are such great tips! What I also love about a minimalist summer wardrobe is that a lot of those pieces can be worn year round! Love that you are also lifting up other creators — you embody community over competition, Emma! 😊

    • 7.8.21
      emmairenecavanagh said:

      Thanks for reading Melissa! You’re right, year round pieces are so valuable in a wardrobe and something we should consider when shopping.