#trending: minimalism

min·i·mal·ism (n) - a style or technique (as in music, literature, or design) that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity

@landonnordeman

We’ve all heard the sayings  to “Color your world” or “Live life in color." But lately, it seems like living life without color is the new trend. Perhaps E.L. James predicted it first, with her controversial book Fifty Shades of Grey (coming to your local theater soon, for all you erotica fans). But in all seriousness, this minimalistic trend is effortless and timeless. It makes planning outfits easier, while making you look très chic. So set aside the flashy statement necklaces, neon tights, & colored cords, and pull out the black, white, and 50 shades of grey hidden deep inside your closet.

Balenciaga, 1967

In the past decade, the minimalist aesthetic has become more and more popular. But what does minimalist fashion truly entail? The first thought that comes to mind is "plain Jane" simple. While simplicity may be true to some degree, minimalist designs can be intricate in structure, and still look completely effortless on the outside, kind of like a magic trick. Minimalist designs go through a process called “rigorous reductivism”, reducing the design to its core, while maintaining structural and aesthetic values. Take this wedding dress designed by Cristobal Balenziaga in 1967, it may look complicated on the outside, but this complex artwork made of silk gazar is only held together by three seams.

Minimalist fashion, to me, is basically simplicity fused with meticulous design and thoughtful planning. Here are some pieces on and off the runway, as well as an outfit of my own that I personally fancy. There are definitely some things worth splurging on, and saving on --  that’s completely up to your budget. For example, investing in a well-crafted, wool coat will last long, and you can still be fashionable during the cold winters. For a plain white tee, it would be more sensible to spend at Gap, H&M, F21 or Zara, rather than buy Kanye’s “Hip Hop T-Shirt” for a steep price of $120. But hey, to each his own.

1. All Saint's City Monument Coat

2. Zara Plain Knit Poncho

3. Derek Lam Pre-Fall 2015

4. Zara Blazer, T-Shirt, & Jeans

Longchamp Les Planètes Tote

5. Brandy Melville Helen Top

Sometimes less really is more.