If I created this blog [TheDailyParis] years ago, it’s also to talk about a topic I really love: minimalism. First of all, I’d like to lay the emphasis on the fact that I’m not yet a minimalist, but that’s the lifestyle I want to have.
Five years ago, I was a collector. I had various collections: clothes, jewels, shoes, makeup (especially nail lacquer). I had everything in huge quantities. It was insane. And I used to love sales! At 8AM, even before the opening of the shops, I was waiting in front of their doors. The conclusion was always the same: I walked out with big bags. And I was so happy about it! I was buying very cheap things, so I could have a lot for a few euros. But, let’s be honest, I didn’t need all of these things. I was working in the fashion world, I always wanted new clothes, and I always needed to add more and more to my outfits. What a mistake!
So, what happened?
The first time I realized this was when I moved out. I lived a few years in a small apartment in Paris (17 square meters, which is totally fine for this city). When I had to pack my belongings, and then had to get all my clothes out of the closet, I saw all what I owned. It was a huge mess. I found things I didn’t even remember owning. What a shame!
Just thinking I had to put all these stuff in my new apartment (a bit larger but still) made me realize I had to sort out. It was a small sorting. But that was great for a beginning.
A bit later, I heard about Marie Kondo’s book ‘The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up’. I bought it and read it in a blink of an eye. REVELATION. After reading the book, I massively sorted out all my belongings. From the kitchen to the bathroom, living room, closet, books,… EVERYTHING. And as Mrs Kondo promised, I was feeling better as I got rid of unnecessary things. It was as if a burden (that I didn’t even know existed) was lifted. So I continued to sort out. The main point is: it also changed my way of consuming. I didn’t want to sort out everything and start accumulating again right after. So, before buying anything, I firstly think if I really need it and secondly make sure I really really love the item.
And now?
Sort out my belongings and accepting to live with less helped me to define my style. My fashion is basic and casual. And that’s perfect to me. All my pieces of clothing are: white, black, grey, dark blue, beige or khaki. Almost no bright color. The truth is: colors always change, from seasons to new trends, meanwhile neutral colors are timeless. Moreover, I prefer to buy high-end items (or even luxury) because they last longer. I sold a lot of the items I owned, and reinvested the money I earned into luxury items (Céline bag, Gucci shoes…). These items enlighten my very classic outfits. I also do less shopping, and buy only when I need something (replace an old pair of jeans, or a damaged t-shirt for example). Moreover, when it’s sales time, I make a list of what I need. It helps me to stay focus and don’t buy unnecessary things, or buy trendy items I will get rid off in a few months because they are not trendy anymore. Of course, it doesn’t mean I don’t have original clothes. I have several in fact, but I buy only if I feel I need it in my closet. It’s important to find the right balance between enjoying buying new clothes and enjoying wearing the ones we already have. Because I know my style, everything is coordinated in my closet, so it’s super easy to dress up in the morning. This lifestyle may not suit everyone, but I’m way happier now.
What I want for the future.
I want to be able to get rid of all the left unnecessary things (like I still have 3 black blazers…), and as you could notice on the pictures, I still have quite a lot of things in my closet. I want to sell the items I don’t want anymore, and continue to replace with high-end and timeless products. It’s the beginning for me, so I want to learn more and more about minimalism. Being a ‘digital influencer’ doesn’t help, as I receive products to test and show online. But I’m trying to find the right balance.
And you? Do you have a minimalist way of life?
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