I’ve always been stuck somewhere between minimalism and maximalism…
Born with an innate appreciation for all things over the top, outlandish and showy, but with a desire to live as simply as possible, I’ve struggled over the years to find balance between these two aspects of my personality. It’s often said that a cluttered space is the sign of a cluttered mind, yet I find exactly the opposite to be (at times) equally true: a space clear of debris leaves room for the intangible clutter so many of us hold within ourselves. The layers of our Selves, of past and present, of goals and aspirations spilling forth and filling every nook and cranny. Our outward-facing clutter often serves as a distraction, a screen that’s all too easy to hide behind, but strip that away and what’s left? Who are you, really?
Over the past few months I’ve been searching. Peeling back the layers in an effort to just be, creating some breathing room — both in my space and in my mind. As the years pass, it’s imperative that we learn to lighten the load, lest the burdens that we carry become too heavy. This weekend, allow yourself to live simply and see how it affects you.
Get the look: Big on Comfort Sweater Jacket, Ladder Stitch Pullover, Basic Back Detail Tee, Lafayette Pleat Pant, Berkley Loafer Slip On, Horsehair Tassel Pendant, Lock Bangle, Nail Wraps in While Lines.
First, know who you are: Try an outfit with no pretense, in earthen colors inspired by the winter landscape. Allow your personality to be your main accessory, complimented only with a few well-chosen accouterments. Don’t hide. Just be who you really are.
Explore the unexpected: Simple doesn’t have to be boring. Instead of reaching for the glittery gold polish, try a minimal grey and white manicure. Or a dramatic cat-eye on an otherwise bare face. One simple statement can make an impressive impact.
Make something, and then give it away: An exercise in letting go, create a beautiful object for the sake of creating. Draw, paint, sculpt, write. When it is complete, part ways. Give it to someone you love… or a stranger. But don’t view it as a gift, instead learn how to let go, see how it effects you, think about that feeling in the context of your life and apply it in a larger sense.
Always, sometimes, never: How often do you use what you have? Sort it out, pare it down. Sometimes, always, never… make three piles and split it up accordingly.
Use what you love: Don’t save your most cherished accessories, clothes, or belongings for special occasions. Use them. Love them. Create opportunities to showcase these posessions. If you have a gorgeous set of vintage china, host a dinner party to show it off. Think about it, if you only wear your favorite holiday dress once a year, you’ll only wear it five times in the next five years… that’s 1,820 other missed opportunities.
More Weekend Snapshot posts from the BLDG 25 blog.
This is everything that I feel and I am so glad someone was able to put it into words. Sometimes my words fail me. But this is perfect.
This is just beautiful, and really is a great set of rules to follow. I like the idea, not being completely minimal in life, but indulging in all parts without going overboard. It’s interesting. I especially love some of the last few tips. Recently I’ve been trying to give away a lot more of what I don’t use. And wear/use more of what I love instead of looking at it longingly. Love this.
Perfect advice. I’m about to clean out and simplify my closet! Also, this outfit the girl is wearing is beautiful!
As always, a very nice outfit! How could it be different on this blog? I love the pastels and the calm colors. Especially the nails are fab! Love it.
Hugs, Thea / http://maedchenvommeer.blogspot.de
Lovely
Great tips and ideas. Love this post.
I am in love with her nail design.. so subtle and pretty.
xoxo Kennedy
Northern Indigo
That manicure is everything!!
Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com
Beautiful imagery paired with likeminded thoughts to the simple life.
Holly
http://hollyemeryphotography.blogspot.co.uk/
Love those nails! Some new nail inspiration that is still minimalist, which is a huge part of my own style. And check out my blog if you’re interested in more fashion, travels, and lots of food! :)
A beautiful post. Thank you.
Gypsy Plunder Vintage
Wonderful and inspiring.
I couldn’t agree more!
I struggle with the same thing, minimal is and maximalist…Great tips, and nicely written. http://korinsusanne.blogspot.no