My Minimal Closet in 2022

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A few months ago I started to clean out my closet. One thing led to another and a few months later I’m barely feeling like I’ve completed the task. It’s a good reminder that having a minimal closet is not a one-and-done project. It’s ongoing work as you make conscious decisions about your wardrobe. Today I’m sharing with you my minimal closet in 2022. As time goes on I know that it will evolve just as it has since I first started my minimal closet project in 2014.

Although my personal style has remained steady for the last few years, the last couple of years have really shed light on how vastly life can change and whether or not my wardrobe was ready for that. I know that I have a preference for things that are modern, monochrome or earth toned, minimal, and for the most part, timeless. I love fabrics with a luxe texture or feel and tend to gravitate toward items that are natural in composition. I love cotton, linen, wool, and silks. I have to buy something poly, I hope it’s made from recycled content.

Tops

Our seasons are always a little tricky. My tops need to be versatile enough to work with daily weather changes, seasons, and trends. I mostly work from home so I love a casual look, but sometimes I enjoy looking more polished so I prefer if my tops can be dressed up or down.

Everlane Washable Silk Cropped Cami
Size 0 in Black. I love the simple cut and limited seams on this silk camisole, and I love that it can be washed in the washing machine instead of dry cleaned. It is a cropped hem, but most of my bottoms are high waisted enough that I don’t worry about it.

Vintage Ribbed Relaxed Fit Tee
Men’s large in black. When my grandfather passed away the only items of his I really wanted was a couple of t-shirts from his closet. This was one of them. He’d wear it with jeans to something nicer, and I love to wear mine with denim as well. I’ve considered hemming it but fear it would take away from the sentiment. A french tuck does the trick for now. I found a similar

Similar: H&M Relaxed Fit Tee.

Everlane Poplin Short-Sleeve Box Shirt
Size Extra Small in Optic White. It’s always nice to have an elevated short sleeve option for warmer months. This one is easily paired with jeans and the more rigid poplin fabric makes sure that it travels well. I have also considered this style many times in a linen fabric for breathability.

Jasmine Chong Ronne Sheer Top
Size 2 in Black. This top is sheer made from sheer silk organza that feels heavenly on your skin. I love to wear it layered over a black camisole, silk bralette, or dress. I’ve even worn it layered under a sweater to add more interest to an outfit.

Everlane Boxy Oxford
Size Extra Small in White. There is almost nothing that goes farther in a capsule wardrobe than a nice plain white shirt. It’s so versatile and pairs with anything. This one is made from thicker organic cotton and is not sheer at all.

Everlane Linen Relaxed Shirt
Size 2 in Core. Much like a white shirt, a black shirt is a wardrobe staple. I love that this one is made from an easy, breathable fabric like linen. It also works as a swim coverup on the beach.

Jasmine Chong Land & Sea Winged Shirt
Size 4 in Black. Not only am I a huge fan of Jasmine, she’s a great friend of mine. This silky shirt feels like heaven and I feel like a goddess wearing it. It’s etherial in all the right ways and I haven’t seen anything else like it.

Similar: Also comes in Dove Grey.

Shaina Mote Aro Shirt
Size Extra Small in Onyx. This shirt is made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton poplin and definitely brings the drama without many wrinkles. I love to pair it with denim and white sneakers for a casual look or leather pants and heels for something more elevated.

Everlane Slim Cotton Longsleeve Crew
Size Medium in Washed Black / Bone Stripe. This casual shirt is comfortable to the max and pairs well with anything from denim to white shorts. The stripes make it feel more elevated than it actually is which is perfect for days I just want to be comfortable.

Everlane Square Mockneck Tee
Size Extra Small in Black. This shirt offers a hint of athletic-casual when paired with leggings and sneakers or looks more elevated when dressed up with mules and a skirt or pants.

Sweaters & Sweatshirts

*Ah, one area where my closet hasn’t changed. I do love my sweaters. I’m a sucker for cashmere and tend to stay away from wool because it doesn’t feel as good on my skin. I also love a good terry sweatshirt as a casual basic or to throw on over a dress with sneakers.

Everlane Cashmere Crew
Size Small in Canvas. This is one of my softest sweaters. I love how light and airy it feels so it can work perfect with shorts or as a winter layer. Plus, you can hand wash and lay flat to dry.

Cashmere Square Turtleneck
Size Small in Black. I absolutely love to wear this with denim or leather leggings, the mock neck elevates an already luxurious feeling this sweater gives off and the square cut makes it feel more modern.

Felted Merino Half-Zip Sweater
Size Small in Black. This sweater has a bit more weight to it with the texture but the half-zip makes it feel lighter and more casual. It works great paired with everything from bike shorts to denim and back again. I ordered one size up for a slightly oversized look.

Everlane Waffle Knit Tunic
Size Small in Charcoal. This tunic is thick and chunky in all the right ways. I love to wear it with leggings, tights, or even tucked up over a silky skirt. Sadly they don’t sell it any longer. You might be able to find one pre-loved.

Henrik Vibskov Sweatshirt
Size Small in Beige. An impulse buy during my trip to NYC in 2019. This sweater not only reminds me of my trip, it features fish swimming in opposite directions, a nod to my pisces sun sign and a strive to always find balance in life. I love its quirky nature. I haven’t seen anything similar but I bet you could easily make your own with some 4″ patches and a beige sweatshirt.

Dresses

I will always have a thing for a nice black dress. I just love it as a color, it is versatile and timeless. That said, my dresses are pretty diverse in style and I’ve even gone on one trip where I had 5 minutes to pack and the only items I packed were black dresses.

Everlane Japanese GoWeave Long Slip Dress
Size 0 in Black. This is my ultimate “little black dress”. It is my go-everywhere do-everything dress. The fabric is thick enough to not have to wear a bra, but not too thick to look cheap. It steams and irons easy and I love it.

Reformation Monique Linen Dress
Size Extra Small in Black. This dress runs pretty large and has oversized armholes. I love the lightness of the linen fabric and that it’s black so I don’t have to worry as much about it being sheer. I wore it on a recent trip to Mexico and it was wonderful both on the beach and at a nice dinner.

Similar: Shaina Mote Ferrara Dress.

Anine Bing Melanie Dress
Size Extra Small in Black. Versatile enough to wear with sneakers or heels, and packs easily without wrinkles! Sells out frequently, also available here, here, here, here, and here.

Shaina Mote Hyeres Dress
Size Extra Small in Onyx. When I wear this dress I feel like a princess and as a grown woman that seems totally fine by me, haha. It is very voluminous so I do prefer to wear it with minimal sandals or flats.

H&M Collared Dress
Size Small in Black. A real cave on my part, because I wouldn’t normally buy clothing here. I love the feel of the fabric and the oversized cut. It makes it easy to wear with sneakers or sandals and everywhere in between. One, and done.

Bottoms

This area of my closet is pretty simple and straightforward. A couple shorts, a few pants, a statement pant. I don’t love skirts.

Everlane Cotton Twill Short
Size 0 in Bone. These shorts are high-waisted which really means they’re really flattering. I love that they are not a denim material so they are easy to dress up or down and the color lends itself well to pairing with a nice camisole in summer or a light sweater for beach trips.

Reformation Amy Button Fly High Rise Jean Shorts
Size 25 in Shasta. A perfect fit, with a flattering high waist and button fly, and they don’t choke my thighs, ha! The denim holds it’s shape nicely and these are extremely similar to my old pair of Levi’s 501 high-rise denim shorts.

Everlane Utility Barrel Pant
Size 0 in Bone. These pants have a little give and are flexible on sizing. I size down for a more fitted look, while if you stay true to size you get a looser fit. They are slightly cropped with a high waist, a style I’ve been fond of lately.

Similar: Banana Republic Barrel Pant.

Everlane 90’s Cheeky Jean
Size 25 in Vintage Mid Blue. These jeans are very comfortable. The rise is high enough to be flattering but there is just enough room in other areas to move around without feeling restricted or frumpy.

Everlane Rigid Way-High Jean
Size 25, 29.5″ inseam in Vintage Light Wash. These have a high waist, button fly, and slightly cropped length on me which works well with all types of shoes. In winter I pair them with a dark sweater and ankle booties or sneakers, and in summer they are perfect with a camisole and sweater.

Way High Clean Front Skinny Jean
Size 25 in Black. These are the most flattering skinny jeans I own, they’re also now the only pair of skinnies that have survived any wardrobe downsizing. I love to wear them with a slightly oversized white button down.

Everlane Way-High Drape Pant
Size 0, 30″ inseam in Khaki/Black Gingham. These are the most flattering pants I own, hands down. The tailored waist is very defining and the wide and long length makes your legs appear miles long. I love how playful the gingham print is. These pants are very versatile, I love to wear them with a tank and sandals or a sweater and boots.

Similar: Reformation Oren Pant.

Everlane Dream Pant
Size XS in Black. A fitted style with a clean waistband and pull-on styling, these have boast the comfort of sweatpants with the look of a more tailored cousin. See how I wore them 4 different ways. I also love the black and white version for a fun play on a tuxedo look.

Aritzia Melania Pant Vegan Leather
Size 2, regular in Black. These pants are high rise and slightly cropped with a relaxed fit. Made from vegan leather with 4 pocket styling they are perfect to dress up or down. They have a good amount of stretch too without stretching out of shape.

Outerwear

My collection of jackets and coats has been steady for a few years now and in the last year I’ve finally found myself ready to let go of my trench coat. I don’t think it serves a function in my wardrobe any longer and my blazer can stand in when needed. I’ve also added in a vest and a statement rain coat.

Everlane Oversized Blazer
Size 2 in Black. I have had this blazer in my wardrobe for awhile and I love how I can wear this oversized fit casually with a tee or other top and denim without feeling too stuffy.

Similar: Everlane 80’s Blazer.

Everlane Renew Vest
Size extra small in Black. This vest works really well for my morning walks and the ever-changing weather here in the San Francisco Bay Area. It can be layered over almost any top or dress and the oversized cut of it makes it feel very modern.

Steven Alan Military Droptail Parka
Size S in Green. The fabric is lightweight, but not necessarily waterproof and the fit is quite oversized. If you ever come across this jacket I suggest you snatch it up, because it has been an off and on casual staple in my wardrobe during spring and fall. I purchased this almost 10 years ago and haven’t seen much similar in both fabric and design.

Similar: Renew Anorak by Everlane.

Rains Holographic Waterproof Rain Coat
Size Small/Medium in Silver. Awhile back I purchased the Ikea Frekvens, a silver raincoat that has been the focus of some of my photos. I loved it so much that I wanted an everyday upgrade. If you are simply looking to get the look, check sites like ebay or Poshmark because there are plenty of silver jackets there, though they may have outlived their water repellent-ness.

Black Leather Jacket
Size Small in Black. I’ve had this jacket for almost 10 years now and it still looks brand new. I love to pair it with boots or sneakers to give any outfit a little edge. My original jacket is from Victoria’s Secret and is no longer sold.

Cuyana Soft Wrap Coat
Size Extra Small in Black. This coat is incredibly soft and warm, though it is unlined so it is not wind-proof. I love to wear it with anything from a casual outfit with sneakers to a dressier night out.

Everlane Re:Down Sleeping Bag Puffer
Size Small in Black. I bought this larger so that it would fit over bulky sweaters. I’ve worn it in snowy below-zero conditions and it has kept me plenty warm though I would question whether or not it is very waterproof. It is my go-to for chilly days and feels like a cloud wrapped around you.

Shoes

Ahh shoes, my great weakness. I think a great shoe can serve such a wonderful place in a wardrobe, whether it’s to dress up an outfit or to simply be there for comfort. Please note that this does not include my running shoes as those are very specific and I only wear them for running and crosstraining.

TKEES Gemma Sandals
Size 8 in cocobutter. These sandals are so comfortable that I literally hiked up a 1000ft tall mountain wearing them (no, it wasn’t planned). They also look really nice with a nicer dress or casual with shorts. The neutral color of these pairs well with just about any color, although I prefer to style them with black or white.

Similar:

TKEES Mia Napa
Size 9 in sable. They’re very light and minimal. Easily pack flat so you don’t feel guilty if you bring an extra pair of shoes on your trip.

TKEES Dem Sandals
Size 8.5 in black. These sandals are surprisingly comfortable and despite wearing them nearly every day this summer, they show little to no sign of wear.

Alohas Cannes Heels
Size 8.5 in black. These are the perfect heels to dress up any outfit and look perfectly sleek and modern while doing it.

J. Crew Lanie Black Stacked Wood Heel Sandals
Size 8.5 in black. Purchased years ago on clearance for a mere $20 and I’ve never regretted it. For fancier times I replace the leather strap with a raw silk or chiffon tie. You might be able to find some on Poshmark.

Dear Frances Balla Mesh Ballet Slippers
Size 39 in black. These feel so delicate and airy on your feet that you almost forget they are there. Since they are so delicate I also am hesitant to wear them often. Time will tell.

Anine Bing Rooney Mules
Size 39 in Black. These shoes and I have been off to a bumpy start as they do seem to have a break-in period for me. To be completely transparent, they may not last in my wardrobe. Despite so many other reviews stating that they are comfortable, I didn’t find that to be true in one wear. Hopefully they’ll break in.

Everlane Modern Loafer
Size 8.5 in black. Something casual and comfortable. Pairs well with most of my wardrobe items, including cute socks.

On Running Roger Sneakers
Size 8.5 in white. These sneakers replaced my beloved Veja after many years of use. These sneakers are the perfect amount of casual cool, with a side of easy to keep clean. I’ve had them for awhile now and they’re my go-to when it comes to casual shoes.

Nike Waffle Crater Racer
Size 8.5 in black. These were a bit of a hard find, but I love the raw edge styling on them and recycled sole. They’re great paired with a dress for edgy street style, or in a casual outfit with denim or leggings.

Boss Boot
Size 8.5 in pebbled black. These boots are an absolute fall and winter (and sometimes summer in San Francisco) staple for me.

Similar: Margaux The Downtown Boot,

Dear Frances Tony Boot
Size 39 in contrast black.

Ilse Jacobsen Rub Rain Boot
Size 39, in black. These shoes are fuzzy lined and so cozy, especially when it’s wet out. I’ve also worn them in the snow and been absolutely fine.

Swimwear & Coverups

Living in California I love to be at the pool or beach, whether I’m home or away, so that often means this is a larger part of my closet. That said, I love all of my swim pieces and feel great in them which is what counts. Some can even serve well in multiple types of looks which is helpful in a minimal closet and when you travel light. Here are a few of my favorites:

Workout

Running is one of my top health priorities, so working out takes up a good deal of my time. My collection of workout clothing ranges from compression tights to high-impact sports bras and even special shoes made just for running on a rocky trail. I’m sharing a few of my favorites below:

Intimates

Without diving into every detail of my undergarments, I will say that I feel like the number is just right. My favorite brand to wear is Negative Underwear, and if you’re looking for soft basics Everlane also gets the job done well.

Loungewear

In the last couple of years I’ve learned that I love to lounge around the house, so my closet has grown a little in this sector. I will say that I do enjoy buying loungewear that I can also include in day-to-day outfits effortlessly.

Accessories

My accessories are well balanced. I’m not super into purses but I do have a few hats since it’s often sunny here. I promise they all get worn quite a bit, whether I’m traveling or at home. I am a creature of habit when it comes to purses, and I tend to wear the same pieces of jewelry day in and day out.

All together that brings my closet to 50 items, excluding workout, swim, lounge, intimates, and accessories, to 59 items. As always, there are probably some items I could let go of, like the dresses I’m not wearing right now, eek. Right now though, I’m happy with all of it and that will always matter more than any number.

What are your favorite items in your closet right now? What do you wish you could change?

Posted in Minimal Closet