7 Ways to Simplify your Style
My reason for doing this is simple: I want to get dressed without overthinking it, but still feel comfortable and like myself in what I’m wearing. Over time, I’ve slowly worked towards simplifying my wardrobe, and these are the things that have helped me most. I hope they might help you too if you’re feeling the same pull towards a simpler way of dressing.
1. Keep a small colour palette
I’ve found that keeping my wardrobe to around five colours makes everything so much easier. It takes away a lot of the decision fatigue in the morning. I’d recommend including a couple of neutrals—like denim blue, black, white or beige—so everything has something to sit with.
2. Stick with silhouettes you already love
I used to think I needed lots of variety, but actually I feel my best when I stick to shapes I already know work for me. For example, if I love cropped jeans in the summer, I’ll keep coming back to that shape and just change up fabrics or little details to keep things interesting.
3. Notice your patterns
This one took me a while to figure out, but it’s been really helpful. I try to pay attention to the patterns I naturally reach for and why. And just as importantly, I let go of the ones that don’t feel like me anymore, even if I used to like them. It makes everything feel more cohesive.
4. Don’t underestimate basics
Basics aren’t the most exciting part of a wardrobe, but they really are the foundation. When I’ve got good staples in place—from tops to trousers to shoes—everything else becomes easier. They quietly do most of the work.
5. Pay attention to the shops you naturally go back to
I’ve realised there are certain shops I keep returning to again and again, and that’s usually a sign they really suit my style and fit. It’s worth noticing this, because it gives you a really good starting point when you next need something. Especially if, like me, you have certain fit quirks!
6. Let go of what’s not working
This sounds obvious, but I think it’s the one that makes the biggest difference. Our wardrobes can get so cluttered with things that are “almost right.” When I clear those out, everything else suddenly feels easier to wear.
7. Alter things before replacing them
Before I get rid of something, I try to ask myself if it could be altered instead. If everything about it is right except one small thing—like a hem that’s a bit off—it’s often worth fixing. It’s usually cheaper than replacing it, better for the environment, and you end up with something that feels more “you” in the end.
These are the things that have made the biggest difference for me when it comes to getting dressed each day. It’s still a work in progress, and I don’t think it ever becomes completely “done,” but it feels a lot calmer and more intentional than it used to. If you’re in the middle of simplifying your own wardrobe, I hope some of this helps in a small way — even just as a reminder that it doesn’t have to be complicated to feel like you.