How to Use Texture to Elevate a Minimalist Outfit
A simple trick to transform an outfit.
It’s no secret that I prefer more minimal clothing. Pieces in neutral colours: black, white, navy, brown, grey and khaki are my go-tos and timeless, classic shapes make up the backbone of my wardrobe. They’re easy to wear, I can create endless combinations with them and I’ve owned a lot of these items for years, so I know they’ll continue to last.
Which is all well and good but how do you keep an outfit made of up seemingly ‘simple’ pieces interesting? Especially if you’ve had those pieces for a long time. We all crave a little freshness, a little newness now and again to shake things up and prevent our outfits from feeling stale. My answer? Texture.
In an outfit of neutral tones, texture is where you can add a stylish spin. It’s how you can turn jeans and a jumper from a ‘run of the mill’ outfit to one that feels considered yet effortless. Add a ribbed knit to a pair of plain black trousers and voila, you’ve got a look with a bit more substance.
In essence, texture brings contrast to a look which will instantly stop it from looking flat. So next time you’re feeling a bit uninspired by an outfit, I’d say look at the pieces you’re wearing. Are they all made of the same fabrics and finishes? Switch one of those items out to something with a different feel - it’s amazing what a difference it can make.
Here’s what I mean in action…
The Multi-Textured Layers
An outfit of black boots, khaki trousers, a long black knitted dress, a dark grey jacket, a black coat and a black hat. All dark colours, all minimalist pieces in their own right. But together, this makes one of my favourite winter outfits - one that’s full of different shapes, lengths, and more importantly… textures.
The boots are leather, the trousers are cotton, the dress is knitted wool, the jacket is quilted down, the coat is cotton canvas and the hat is cashmere. Every surface is different to the eye - and different to the touch - turning a dark winter outfit into one that stands out.
The Quilted Cotton Jacket
I bought this jacket earlier this year and it’s been one of those pieces that’s seen me through every season. It’s 100% cotton and just the right amount of oversized that it fits over thick jumpers, as well as lightweight T-shirts. It’s also got this incredible diamond quilted detailing, which adds texture to every outfit I wear it with.
Take this look, for example. Cropped white cotton trousers, black boots and a chuck-everything-in bag. Nothing out of the ordinary. But add that quilted detail and suddenly I’ve got an outfit that I feel great in and look forward to wearing again and again.
The Ribbed Knit Jumper
