GREEN LIVING

Rethinking Minimalism Beyond the Aesthetic

By Hannah Timm

January 13, 2026

As a stylist, I often hear the word minimalism used to describe a specific look. In fashion, it typically refers to neutral color palettes, clean silhouettes, and a focus on simple, paired-back pieces. While that is all true, it feels incomplete. Minimalism isn’t only about how clothes look, it is also how we use them.

Right now, many people are attracted to the minimal look, but that doesn’t mean that always translates to the most sustainable option. Trends can be packaged as minimalist, creating a need to upgrade or replace are basics. The cycle often leads to impulse purchases, clothes that are barely worn, and ongoing overconsumption. 

Instead of treating minimalism as a fixed aesthetic to aspire to, I propose using it as a framework for dressing and shopping. Minimalism, when approaching with intention, can be a simple way of getting dressed, a way that works across all styles. When we focus less on achieving a certain look and more on choosing pieces thoughtfully that represent who we are, minimalism becomes less about uniformity and more about longevity. 

Dressing with intention doesn’t require a strict set of rules or a perfectly curated closet. At the core, it is about making thoughtful choices that reflect who you are and the life that you actually lead. That includes how you spend your day, what pieces you reach for the most, and what pieces consistently make you feel like the best version of yourself.

I often encourage my clients to start by observing their current wardrobes. Noticing what they love, in terms of fit, comfort, style, versatility, and color.

From there, you can fill in your gaps. You can think about what you need that will help getting dressed become easier. Because when clothing aligns with you and your style, it is only natural that it will get worn more, rather than chasing a specific trend. From there, it becomes easier to identify true gaps and invest in pieces that support everyday dressing. When clothing aligns with your life (and lifestyle), it’s only natural that it gets worn more. 

When we dress with intention, waste decreases as a natural byproduct. Thoughtful choices reduce impulse purchases, which are frequently driven by trend, sales, or the idea that any single item will fix a wardrobe. Instead of buying more, we begin to buy better… and less often. 

Intentional wardrobes are built around repeat wear. Pieces are chosen because they work across multiple outfits, seasons, and settings, making them more likely to stay in rotation. Clothing that feels great and aligns with your personal style tends to be cared for and kept longer.

Sustainability in fashion isn’t only about buying from the right brands. It’s also about changing our relationship with what we already own. When intention replaces aesthetics as the guiding principle, clothing becomes something we return to again and again, not something we constantly replace. Minimalism, in this sense, isn’t a look to achieve, but a practice of choosing with care.