Minimalism in product design is a philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and elegance. It involves limiting details and colors, focusing on the user experience, and streamlining form and structure to create products that are simple, uncluttered, and easy to use. This approach can be applied to revamping websites, creating products, or crafting brand identities.
One of the key principles of minimalism in product design is the effective use of fonts, which can show the personality and that of the product. Minimalist products simplify interfaces by removing unnecessary content and features that do not support the user’s tasks. Streamlining form and structure is essential for achieving a clean and minimalist product appearance.
To apply the principles of minimalism in product design, it is essential to focus on essential functions, streamline form and structure, use high-quality materials, ensure durability and longevity, optimize user interaction, and create visual harmony by reducing clutter. To achieve this, it is important to organize items into categories, take an inventory of what you keep, and spend time each week taking care of a space.
Organizing hanging clothes so they rise to the right can help create a minimalist product. Minimalist design is characterized by clean lines, uncluttered layouts, and clear lines. By implementing these strategies, companies can create products that are both visually appealing and functional.
Incorporating minimalist strategies into their marketing plan can lead to success in the market. For example, limiting the number of items in a house to only allow items that are blue, cheese, or made of stainless steel can help create a more minimalist aesthetic. By incorporating these principles into your designs, you can create products that are both visually appealing and functional.
📹 10 Minimalist Rules That ACTUALLY Work (even if you’re not a minimalist 🤫)
I wouldn’t call myself a full-blown minimalist anymore (more minimalist-ish these days!), but these “rules” of minimalism are the …
What is minimalist techniques?
Minimalism is an art movement that emphasizes the idea that art should have its own reality and not be an imitation of another thing. It emerged in the late 1950s when artists like Frank Stella began to shift away from gestural art. The movement flourished in the 1960s and 1970s, with influential innovators like Carl Andre, Dan Flavin, Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt, Agnes Martin, and Robert Morris.
Minimalism is linked to conceptual art, which also flourished in the 1960s and 1970s. Both movements challenged existing structures for creating, disseminating, and viewing art, arguing that the importance given to the art object is misplaced and leads to a rigid and elitist art world that only the privileged few can afford to enjoy. The medium, material, and form of the work are the reality, and the viewer is only prompted to respond to what is in front of them.
Where do minimalists put their stuff?
To simplify a room, start by focusing on one room and using it as a center of calm. Start with furniture, removing the fewer pieces that can be eliminated without sacrificing comfort and livability. Choose simple, plain furniture with solid, subdued colors. Only consider the essentials, and remove any items that can be lived without. Strip the room down to its essentials, then add a few choice items beyond them later.
Clear floors, surfaces, and walls, except for furniture, to make everything look minimal-looking. Store everything you need out of sight, such as books or DVDs or CDs, in drawers and cabinets. Declutter storage areas and use simple artwork, such as paintings, drawings, or photos, framed with subdued, solid colors, to keep the room from being boring.
Simplify decorations, such as a vase of flowers or a small potted plant, to give a room a splash of energy. Plain window treatments, such as plain windows or solid colored curtains, or simple wooden blinds, are good choices. Avoid too much ornate stuff around windows, as this is clutter.
Place for everything, such as floor coverings, furniture, and other items, in a logical spot near where they are used. Aim for logical spots that are close to where the item is used to make things more efficient. Designate a spot for everything, and aim for logical spots that are close to where the thing is used.
After simplifying a room, sit back, relax, and enjoy it. This is the reward for your hard work and will make the room feel peaceful and satisfying.
In summary, simplifying a room involves starting with one room and focusing on the essentials. Clear floors, surfaces, walls, and furniture, and declutter storage areas to create a minimalist environment. Edit and eliminate what is unnecessary and find a place for everything, such as a blender, to make things more efficient. Enjoy the process and take a moment to relax and enjoy the result of your efforts.
What is the secret of minimalism?
Minimalism is a lifestyle choice that prioritizes the pursuit of happiness and enjoyment. It entails the elimination of superfluous items in order to prioritize the things that bring one joy. One of the lesser-known aspects of a minimalist lifestyle is that it can be challenging to maintain. The act of owning fewer material possessions can be challenging, but it is crucial to identify a balance that aligns with one’s lifestyle and contributes to a sense of well-being.
How to maintain minimalism?
To maintain minimalism in your home, follow these eight tips: 1) Buy less, 2) Use things up, 3) Give every item a home, 4) Go through things regularly, 5) Declutter as you go, 6) Have a capsule wardrobe, and 7) Be picky about the things you bring into your home. While the process of becoming a minimalist is simple, it’s important to remember that clutter can always creep back into our homes and lives, and constantly accumulating new items can make it more challenging to stay clutter-free.
How to be a minimalist with beauty products?
Skinimalism is a self-care method that involves simplifying your skincare routine by following a few steps: cleansing, using a toner for exfoliation, moisturizing, and applying sun protection. This approach not only benefits your skin but also makes your life easier. It may take some trial and error to find the best high-quality products for your skin type, but it is worth the effort. Skinimalism offers numerous benefits, including healthy dewy skin.
Excessive products can create confusion and alternate the metabolism of the skin, so selecting few products rich in ingredients requested by the skin is the best strategy. By following these steps, you can achieve a healthier, more effective skincare routine.
What culture has the best skin?
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, with Asian countries like Japan and China consuming a rich diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants from fruits and green tea. The diet is low in saturated and total fat, focusing on whole grains, breads, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and legumes. Westernized versions of Asian cuisine are not truly Asian and may not benefit skin appearance or overall health. Exercise is also essential for maintaining youthfulness, as Asian cultures are highly focused on walking and biking.
What is skincare minimalism?
Skin minimalism is a skincare trend that emphasizes using only the bare minimum of products that your skin needs, allowing it to be its natural, imperfect self. This approach helps your skin breathe, rest, and be itself, reducing the need for excessive skincare products. It also saves time and money by reducing the number of steps needed to apply each product, reducing the chances of skin irritation. Too many ingredients in a skincare product can cause skin to become sensitive, as certain acids and actives may not be best paired together.
This is particularly important for those with acne, rosacea, and eczema, as it helps prevent breakouts and ensures the skin remains healthy and hydrated. Overall, skin minimalism is a more honest skincare trend that encourages individuals to embrace their natural, imperfect skin and embrace its imperfections.
What is the 20 rule minimalist?
Over the past few years, the couple has been reducing their just-in-case possessions, ensuring they don’t pack anything just in case. They believe that any items we need can be replaced for less than $20 in less than 20 minutes from their current location. This theory has been proven to be true 100 times, with no replacements needed and no longer requiring more than $20 or going more than 20 minutes. This theory is likely applicable to all items and people, including the couple.
The couple hasn’t missed the hundreds of just-in-case items they’ve gotten rid of, and most didn’t need to be replaced. Getting rid of these items clears their minds, frees up space, and takes the weight off their shoulders.
What is the 20 20 rule in minimalism?
Over the past few years, the couple has been reducing their just-in-case possessions, ensuring they don’t pack anything just in case. They believe that any items we need can be replaced for less than $20 in less than 20 minutes from their current location. This theory has been proven to be true 100 times, with no replacements needed and no longer requiring more than $20 or going more than 20 minutes. This theory is likely applicable to all items and people, including the couple.
The couple hasn’t missed the hundreds of just-in-case items they’ve gotten rid of, and most didn’t need to be replaced. Getting rid of these items clears their minds, frees up space, and takes the weight off their shoulders.
What is the 30 30 rule for minimalists?
The 30/30 rule, as proposed by The Minimalists, is a concept that suggests that if an item costs more than $30, it may be worthwhile to attempt to live without it for 30 hours. Similarly, if an item costs more than $100, it may be beneficial to wait 30 days before making a decision regarding its purchase. This additional period is intended to assist in evaluating the item’s significance in one’s life.
What is the 90 90 rule for minimalism?
The 90/90 rule, as devised by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, represents a systematic approach to decluttering. It entails posing two questions about each object: first, whether it has been utilized within the past 90 days; and second, whether it is likely to be utilized within the next 90 days. This rule is particularly useful in instances where JavaScript is disabled or blocked by an extension.
📹 MINIMALISM Basics | 4 things you should KEEP as a minimalist
Today’s topic is one that doesn’t get talked about a lot, especially as it relates to minimalism… what you should KEEP! There are …
1. Buy Nice or Buy Twice 2. If its not a “HELL YES” then its a “No” 3. Declutter before Organization 4. If you don’t use it, you lose it 5. Wishlist and Wait 6. A place for everything 7. Don’t Buy a Problem 8. Have a “Why” before you Buy 9. The “Spark Joy” Rule 10. If you can’t buy it with cash, you can’t afford it
People may or may not agree with this. I used to work in high-end retail where my employee discount still wasn’t good enough… I would try on whatever I wanted, Then if I saw it on ebay months later and it was affordable for me I could reconsider getting it and know what size fit. One benefit of trying on everything you’re interested in helps you know what actually looks good and what doesn’t so you can stop daydreaming about an item and take it off your list of things. There have been plenty of times where I was so in love with something and then I tried it on and it did not work for me at all and I was so glad that I didn’t waste time or money on it.
Number 9 reminds me of the William Morris quote: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” I like this philosophy because some sentimental or decor items are not necessarily useful, but they are special and beautiful to me. And that means they are worth having. 💕
Your website has literally changed my life. This February, I came to terms with the fact that I was not only a shopping addict, but a full blown hoarder. I have worked tirelessly since then selling, rehoming, and donating to my local shelter. (And even throwing things away because honestly a lot of it was literal trash.) I just bought a house and I’ll be starting fresh in a new space with only things that I love and need, and it truly feels like I’m walking on air. Never again will I allow “stuff” to control me. I own it, it doesn’t own me. Thank you for your vids 🙂
I think it also depends what you are buying. My mom bought me a cheap t-shirt for what amounts to a little more than a dollar, closer to about one euro when I was a teenager. I wore that t-shirt regularly (think about 2 times a week regular) for about 8 years before it tore badly enough that I can’t wear it as a t-shirt (I plan to turn it into a tank ’cause I love it). You should judge the quality of what you’re buying rather than judge by the cost.
A rule I lived by this week was Before you buy, use what you have. I needed a notebook for a project, but went through my stationery basket and found a new, pretty good one. My eco bag broke. Instead of buying a cute one I saw in a shop, I looked in my gift pile (fun, small gifts I keep on hand) and found one. And now, I think I want a sleek, small knapsack with a water bottle holder. I might buy one, but for now, I’m using a knapsack that for some reason I never used. So far, it’s working well. Even though there’s no dedicated bottle pocket.
I think that at times the urge to shop comes from a general disatisfaction with yourself or with your life. Going shopping was a quick pick-me -up for me but it usually only lasted till I got home and realised I didn’t need what I bought and could have saved the money. I’ve slowly learnt that I actually get more of a buzz being out in nature so I’m now more likely to head for a forest or park etc than to the noisy shops. Even if you’re living inner-city you can go for a walk and take time to notice leaves on trees, the sun behind clouds… I come home feeling refreshed rather than exhausted 🙂
I always have Vivienne Westwoods “Buy Less, Choose Well, Make it Last” in my head whenever I find myself wanting anything. It definitely helps control any impulse I have for things that I may not necessarily need, but also, which I might not want for very long! I can’t have clutter in my closet or really anywhere in my house because it really distracts me from my work (i’m a poet), and it just helps me a lot to know what i truly WILL wear, and will love for a long time. So happy you have a membership level for your website now. Hope you get lots!!!!
Hey Christina, I know you’ve mentioned in previous articles that you don’t like wearing gold jewelry against your skin because you feel it blends in too much but I just gotta say how you styled your outfit in this article with the multiple gold necklaces looks so good on you, very chic and I love the color combo!
I’m shooting for minimal-ish as well. I have decluttered easily 80% of what I once owned, and like having empty spaces, but I also like having nice things around me and my rooms to feel cozy instead of bare. I’m a new empty nester and for the first time in my life have a place to myself. I am enjoying clearing out all of the stuff I have been waiting to let go of. My goal is to have a place that I could easily pack up in a weekend if I were to move and I am very close to getting there. =)
when I buy every day shoes I buy very good quality. If I buy cheap they lose too much support then my knees start hurting. I buy running shoes from a locally owned running store. The shoes last me almost a year. Spending about $150 for a year free from hip and knee pain is priceless. I also had bad bursitis in my hips that required injections and a lot of physical therapy. Then I read something and discovered a bad mattress and side sleeping can cause the problem. So I bought a good bed and the problem went away! spending $1200 on a bed saved thousands in medical bills
The buy nice or buy twice is a great rule. I think it works best for items that you know you like or use frequently. If it’s an item for a new hobby though, I like to buy the most affordable option first just to see if the habit or hobby sticks. Then when the behavioral change I’m trying to make is more permanent, then I start looking at more high end models/brands.
The one thing about clutter is that it stands in your way to do the things you want or need to do. You can’t cook with stuff all over your kitchen counters, so you spend time and energy on cleaning before you can cook. In the end you just look at the mess and order take-out instead, adding to the problem. This is why decluttering and actually thinking about why you need the item or if you use it often enough for it to be worth it is so important. Clutter is mentally exhausting even if we don’t think about it. Take one drawer at a time, one shelf at a time, it becomes less overwhealming that way.
I’ve been decluttering for years – there’s always more! I found a game changer for me was when we needed to clear out our loft space to have work done. There was so much up there which was water damaged and that wasn’t worth the effort of saving. In the end I discovered I only wanted a few keepsakes and the Christmas decorations (heavily pared back!) I bought some decent storage containers (a keep sake box for each of us, and x3 for Christmas decorations) which stack nicely. The items were lovingly cleaned up and now live within the house, are easily accessible and the loft is completely empty! My point is, starting with an area which isn’t as meaningful to you can help build those decluttering muscles. After all, we often chuck stuff we’re not too bothered about up in unseen areas.
All great 👍 tips! I try to be aware of the following in order to be more intentional: – My future self: Imagine how I will like or use the item in the future. Will it serve me in different areas or my life? Will I be annoyed by it or forget about it? Do I have something similar already? – What is the cost (beyond financial cost) of the item? Do I have the space at home or will I have to make space? Will this bring peace or annoyance in the future? I try to not get swayed by the merchandising or marketing of item and instead, how it fits in my life (like imaging how my life would be when house hunting and look beyond the home staging). – What is the opportunity cost? Less money for other things? More time, space, and/or money to maintain the item?
This summer I decided to declutter my summer shirts, my rules were: I would wear everything at least once before repeat wearing, anything that l took out and didn’t wear for whatever reason, ie: didn’t fit, needed repair, no longer was my style, uncomfortable etc… went straight to the donate bin (or trash). I got rid of a lot and feel so much better. I realized I was hanging on to items because I thought I should like it or I paid good money for it or I’ll wear it in a pinch….it’s so freeing to have that stuff gone!
If it’s a “Hell yes!” reasonably priced piece of basic clothing, I buy it in two colours. If the cut and fit and comfort are right then I know I’ll wear it often so I may as well have two good things. I’ve done it with jeans, trousers, T-shirts and knitwear in plain, neutral colours. That way you feel good and so you aren’t constantly looking for something new because you enjoy what you have.
I feel like minimalism is great up until the point when it actually makes your life more complicated instead of simplifying it. Like, let’s say there’s a task you need to do regularly but you won’t buy the tool that’s perfect for doing it quickly and efficiently, because that would mean owning one more object and you already have something you use for other things that could do the task. Sure. Except when this something does it badly and takes a lot more time. Then not getting the better tool defies the purpose of getting a simpler more streamlined life. Best to get that object that makes your life easier then, even if it means getting something with a somewhat overlapping functionality with something you already have.
The “HELL YES” and “spark joy” are ones I’ve been leaning more and more into. With clothes especially. I’m someone who spent their childhood into mid-twenties overweight and unhappy and obsessive about it. I hated how I looked. Once I lost weight I suddenly liked how I looked in clothes so I started buying any and everything. Over the last few years I’ve realized that just because it fits me, doesn’t mean I need to buy it. Now I only buy clothes that spark joy and it has made all the difference.
Beware: because of age (or pregnancy !) the form of your feet can change. It is quite the bummer, if you are used to having the same size for many years and are used to being able to wear the shoes that are 20 years old ! It would have been better to sell those shoes earlier – or wear the good ones more often.
I have adhd, so practicing with delaying gratification is always difficult for more, but so good for my mental health when I get better at it! Thank you for the great tips! It also helps me to replace the impulse buy with something else that gives me gratification, like talking to a friend, listening to music I love or playing a silly game that is easy to win :).
What helps me is saying yes to my passion for art materials but saying no in the majority of areas in my life. I do pay cash so debt is not involved and I purge my art materials from time to time by giving supplies to other artists. No space or place for items means no buy. I keep a donate bag always and that helps because when it fills, it is taken to a charity. My “no” in most areas of my life allows me to buy high quality art materials which spark my creativity and enrich my life. This is different for everyone but even I am always aware that my art materials have limits due to space. For example, I switched out my large easel for a table top easel due to space constraints. I say yes joyfully when I enrich my life with art creation.
Great article, Christina! I’m going to declutter more right now. 😊 The thing I do is have a separate bank account labeled “your name” or “Shopping/Gifts” and out of every paycheque put in an amount, 50 bucks, 100 bucks…whatever, and when you accumulate enough you can buy something like a Lily Silk blouse that you always wanted. Anyways, it works for me. Thanks for all the tips! 😊
#10. #10. #10. Credit card debt becomes financial enslavement for too many people. If you don’t have the cash, wait until you do. This whole article is a great compilation of things I’ve learned the hard way(s) over the years that unfortunately is not taught in school or college. Thanks for posting this Christina!
Instead of minimalism, I leaned into a curated kind of life where only the things I love are what I keep. And it works. It kinda borderline minimalism removing the suppression part. Example: I saw a cute bag. If I really like it so much, I buy it. Then, look at my other bags that I think doesnt make me feel wanting anymore and I replace that with the new cute bag. Either, put the bag on sale, gift to someone or donate. In the end, I get all things cute and fun for myself. Fulfilled of what my items look. Have practiced making smart choices as the buying process was tedious (lots of thinking if its already the best I can get and my unwated items thinking, if they really is worth it to be replaced) Key is not to be attached with things. Not be too sentimental. Challenge is there’s always cute items they sell in the market (but again since the buying part of your items needs a lot of consideration, overtime, you’ll be practiced to argue whenever you see cute stuff, that what you have already is the cutest) Urrrgggh. Buy what you love, thats the key!! Delay if needed. Or buy with option for returns in case after using it a bit of time you realize you dont like them. Curate. Dont keep what you dont love. You can apply this to people as well 😂
I’ve really gone through some downsizing (literally I lost 90 pds due to a health issue). Had to replace my wardrobe. Now I only buy quality, no fast fashion and something that can be used through multiple seasons with no or minimal alterations. I get old favourites altered, rather than donating, selling or trashing. I also search wide and low for deals on a specific item and don’t buy if it’s not on sale or discounted. I think about it for awhile before buying. It has to fit into my wardrobe somehow and be able to be used with multiple other looks. Makeup is the same. I never buy viral products and always wait at least 30 days until buying, after some real reviews come in and the viral has died. I’m also mindful of landfills and try to pass on or sell unwanted items. I find I not only save $ now, I have a cohesive wardrobe without a lot of multiples or low quality items. Dressing is easier and much less frustrating.
Similar to your wish list, I will put items I want in the (online) cart but then I will leave it. If I’m still thinking about the thing a week later, I will go back and reconsider it. And sometimes the company will email you a coupon to try to get you to come back and check out. So you’ve got to be strong enough to ignore that push until you are ready to buy.
Used the buy nice or buy twice concept this past month when getting a new bath mat. I splurged and got an Anthropologie bath mat, hoping it would let because I invested. However when I received it, it was extremely damaged. I returned it in store, and the associates told me there was honestly a good chance I’d receive another damaged one. So I saved my money and stress and bought one at target for 1/4 the orice
Wow! I’ve been like this probably the last 15 years, and no article has to this level of preciseness honed in on this exact mindset. x) I was gonna comment “especially this…”, but each point you bring up resonates with me. Buying nice instead of cheap, buying less by wishlisting and letting the time pass instead of buying straight away, being intentional with each space and where things go, I (sometimes to my detriment) shy away from “deals” and sales since I decided a long time ago they should never be the sole reason to purchase something. I’ve also never bought anything in parts or taken a loan to buy somthing (except my house and my cell phone). Despite this it has happened that I regret a purchase and that sucks, but it definitely keeps it to a minimum. 🙂
I was an overbuyer in my teens and early adult years, then I went abroad for 6 months in college and I had to live off on a very small budget in a more expensive country. That made me realize I don’t need the newest thing on the market. I also can’t call myself a minimalist, however, I have regular decluttering sessions every month. One month I would declutter my clothes, the other month my desk area, etc. I agree with especially the HELL, YES rule. I don’t buy any article that I have a sliver of doubt about. This minimalism thing is usually discussed in terms of clothing but in my experience, books and technology are the ones that have the potential to make me go broke. I have an excel list that has all the books in my bookcase, because I realized a couple of years ago that I forgot the books I bought and didn’t read yet. Now, I check my list to see if I have the book before buying. Also keeping the statistics of the books I read and haven’t read yet helps me keep my book buying to minimum. Technology is something I spend a lot of money on, because it is expensive. However, I check before buying an expensive gadget if I can afford it that month, and I prefer to buy quality brands that has the hardware that will last me years. My previous phone, I used for 5 years. My laptop, 8 years. Then I sell the old stuff online and get rid of them while earning some money.
I love “if it’s not a hell yes, then it’s a no”. I have so many things on my wishlist and they sit there for a while before I make a purchase, but actually trying things on and thinking about how it makes you feel wearing it can help with deciding if it’s a hell yes. I also learned recently that instead of shopping for your fantasy future self, you reflect on the past season and what you felt you actually needed, what it was that you didn’t have that you wished you did.
Retailer wish lists are the best thing ever – I often find myself deleting most of it once I’ve waited a week or two and am in a more rational mindset. “that’s not going to work through a Canadian winter – delete; that colour never looked good on you before, it’s not going to now; you have the exact opposite body shape to that model – it simply ain’t gonna be flattering” etc. Unfortunately I suspect retailers are wise to this as I’ve had two different shops all of a sudden stop offering a favourites option this summer. Too bad for them – without a favourites function I’m even more inclined to forget about that impulse urge.
I have developed quite a specific style, so whatever I buy has to fit into that style. Also, I must be able to ride my bycicle in it 🙂 On the other hand, I still have clothes and shoes that have been with me for many years. They key for decluttering is to not just look at things but actually put them on. Then ask yourself: “If I was trying this in a shop today, would I buy it again?” If you’re still unsure, wear the item for a day. Maybe you remember that it’s kind of uncomfortable and that’s why you never wear it – or you might end up saying “This is actually great, I will wear it more often again.”
I cannot physically declutter before organizing lmao, i have very low object permanence, and I like everything, so that means if I just look at something and ask if it brings me joy, or if it has a use, the answer is always going to be yes. I need to see how many socks I have, and then see if it’s a ridiculous amount, and then declutter the ones that bring me the LEAST joy lol
do a colour analysis and find your ideal colours and style. I can recommend Sarah (? Ryan) from Ireland (Style Coach) and also the ladies from Melbourne Australia. Colour Analysis Studio. Both have youtube websites. Insightful and they help you to SEE the difference (the client sessions of the Australians are exemplary – not only may view, you can see it in their subscription numbers, and the comment section).
The soles of unused shoes and boots can disintegrate. This is especially true for rubber soles (often used for quality shoes). The material is very good for the purpose but it has a shelf life. The shoe is meant to be worn, and the act of using it (compressing the sole) prevents the disintigration (or delays it). So if you have bought the good hiking boots and use them after years, they may fall apart (during the hike no less). There is no solution for that. If you have quality shoes that you do not wear for a long time it would be better to sell them off for a good price, at least they will serve another person. Another tip: if the shoes soles CAN be completely replaced that is great. However, that is not often the case. I know a family member with a pair of sturdy leather winter boots. I think he has worn them for ? 15 years. Both soles and one zipper had to be replaced. But cost per wear are very, very good, beats every cheap pair. At current purchasing prices that pair would maybe cost around 300 USD / Euro. It was not a fancy brand, so he paid for quality and for a more labour intense construction (that allows to replace the sole).
100% yes to everything! I’ve just tried a “spark joy” on my 5 yo daughter, and it works so pure! She hates to get rid of things. So I turned out full 4 baskets of toys on the floor, and I said to pick up only those toys she likes now and wants to play with now, and she barely picked up a third of ONE basket. Good luck! Glory to Ukraine!
I have 1 major rule for buying products/clothing.. I am never buying plastic/polyester when I buy a device it is always metal, when I buy clothing it is always 100% natural material, preferably woven etc 1. metal devices don’t break as easily, usually getting dents instead. 2. woven cotton or wool clothing can be fixed many many times without showing that they have been fixed in the past, maintaining a good appearance for longer
I feel thankful that in my country most people have the habit of using debit cards and very few people use credit cards and that too only to get a few big things maybe once or twice a year. Although banks are pushing hard for credit cards, people here do not like to be in debt esp middle class households.
#3 declutter before organizing. I was telling my wife for the past 12 years that she needs to declutter her boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff. She insisted that the solution was to instead buy more storage first, which would have meant just buying more crap to store her crap on/in. We recently separated and she is finally in the process of decluttering all of her crap….. aka moving out 😂
If you want to simplify your life, stop looking to the internet for rules on how to live right or search for cool quotes to manifest a fantasy existence. If you only search outwards, you’re never going to find yourself. Instead, live in a way that makes you feel honestly fulfilled, regardless of what you feel others might think of you.
One addendum to Buy Nice or Buy Twice though: I used to be the person who would spend days researching an item and buy the nicest thing I could afford, only to never use it – e.g. buying a good yoga mat when I just started yoga and didn’t end up liking yoga enough. So, for items that you already have an established need for, like a kettle, buy nice. For more exploratory things, especially in your early twenties, it’s okay to buy a starter item or better yet, borrow it from a friend, to get a feel first.
Hi Christina: thanks so much for actual actionable content as opposed to word salad blah blah blah! I really appreciate your efforts, integrity and I actually use MOST of if not all of these things. I do pay with cc for most things to get cash back but pay off in entirety at end of month. Thus article added a new phrase for me. Buy nice or buy twice!!!
Lots of great info here! One of the things I do to help with impulse shopping is I’ll open an Instagram ad in an external browser. Usually I’ll forget about the item, or if I really want it then I have to go look for it in a browser tab. One thing I do feel is useful for large item purchases is 12 months interest free or something along those lines. Of course doing research first, but sometimes it takes a long time to save money for a big purchase. I feel like that can be really helpful if used carefully.
Emphasis on the buy now pay later options! I feel like we live in a society where this is normalized. I’ve used it once and never used it again because it never made sense to me. I’ve always looked at it as trying to live a life you cannot afford. It’s best to live within your means and save up for whatever you are thinking about buying.
I like to add a “wishlist & wait” stage to decluttering, to ensure I’m being mindful at every stage of the process. Sometimes this is more literal: I put things I want to declutter aside, & leave them, until I’m ready to sell/donate them, then go through them & make doubly sure I am happy to part with them. Other times it just means giving them one last use, to ensure I’ve got all the use out of them I can/want to. – Clothes I make sure to try on again. This doesn’t always involve much literal “waiting”, since it’s pretty easy to see when something no longer fits or suits. However, to ensure I truly give every piece the thought it deserves, I try to only put on a few pieces at a time, in order to avoid the “ugh, not more things to try on” feeling that can happen if I’m getting rid of several things at once. I also try to keep them on for longer than a few minutes (unless they truly don’t fit/suit) to make sure I’m not just giving them a surface level assessment. – Books, DVDs, etc, I make sure to re-read/watch. There have been several times I have been planning to pass something on only to rediscover my love for it (& other times I’ve decided to re-read/watch something I thought I’d keep forever only to find it no longer sparks joy the way it once did). More often than not, I do still end up getting rid of the things I put aside, but making doubly, triply sure, means I don’t end up with regrets/plagued by what-ifs. I also sometimes discover that something I put aside because I no longer needed/wanted it for its original purpose, can be used for a different purpose that I have been thinking about buying something new for.
🎯 Key points for quick navigation: 00:00:12 💡 Many have explored minimalism to change spending habits and simplify life, but it can be challenging to sustain long term. 00:01:09 🌟 You don’t have to be a minimalist to benefit from minimalist rules; they can be useful for anyone looking to simplify their life. 00:02:07 🔍 “Buy nice or buy twice” encourages investing in quality to avoid frequent replacements and unnecessary expenses. 00:03:16 👍 Embrace the mindset: “If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no,” to avoid clutter and make room for what truly matters. 00:04:13 🧹 Declutter before organizing; a clear space often doesn’t require more organization tools, just less stuff. 00:05:06 📦 Regularly evaluate possessions to ensure they still bring joy, use, or value, maintaining a minimal and organized space. 00:06:03 🕒 Use a wishlist to delay impulse purchases, helping discern wants from needs and minimizing clutter. 00:07:26 📍 Maintain order by having a designated place for everything, reducing stress and helping you find items easily. 00:09:04 🤔 Think twice and avoid purchasing items that may create more issues than they solve, such as mismatched decor. 00:10:28 🎯 Have a clear reason for purchases; understanding the “why” can prevent unnecessary expenses and impulsive buying. 00:11:38 🎉 If an item doesn’t spark joy, it’s a sign to let it go; it’s important to keep only what genuinely brings happiness.
Not quite the same but i recently test drove a vintage truck, it was nice and a lot of fun and I almost bought it. But driving i got that “buying a problem” feeling. That feeling that the price im about to pay is only the beginning… Not that the truck was in bad shape but I just knew this was going to turn into repairs I couldn’t make, accessories I could afford, upgrades I couldn’t afford. Buying a problem is a very real thing
Basic principle is – You actually don’t need anything more than 4 good quality, good looking, comfortable, and making you happy (does NOT mean expensive brands) items of each basic type altogether, such that you buy once and last for years to come before you feel the need to buy anything new: 4 Formal shirts, 4 Formal trousers, 4 blazers, 4 Casual bottoms (mix of jeans, trousers, slacks), 4 Casual tops (mix of t-shirts, shirts, kurtas, kurtis), 4 Casual jackets, 4 shoes (2 formal + 2 casual), 4 bags (2 formal + 2 casual), 4 earrings, 4 neckpieces, 2 Watches – AND Done. You are all set for many years to come before having to buy anything new. You can just simply mix and match things according to the occasion.
OMG we have the same personality! Thanks for this article. I have tried very hard to save but I have recently tried to give myself a couple of days before a purchase to get rid of the impulse. As a child, I use to get very frustrated at my mother for buying cheap things instead of saving for what she wanted. A different generation I guess..
I have never liked online shopping for clothes. I usually bring a ton of items to the dressing room when thrifting and i usually end up leaving with nothing or 1-3 items. Ive gotten way better at not buying an item of clothing just because it’s off the clearance rack. My hoarder self in the past loved the clearance rack. I love if its not a hell yes its a no. Now i just need to stop buying physical books forever lol i don’t buy everything but a library card is the way to go. Love checking out Ebooks. My favorite i just need to stick to it now haha
I read something recently about how for some people (like those with ADHD maybe), the Marie Kondo “spark joy” rule might not always work that well for Reasons. i know for me personally, that one always seems to trips me up because I’m like, “my phone charging cable doesn’t spark joy but like, I need a phone charging cable and having a backup is also a good idea, but I obviously don’t need 10. But thanks to ADHD, I’m going to lose/misplace these 2 so it’s better to have multiples on hand…and now we’re back to having 10+ cables lying around.” So a different but related “spark joy” rule for decluttering is (according to what I read on like Instagram) is: “if this got poop/barf on it, would I just toss it or would I go through the trouble of cleaning it off and still keeping it?”
Is it really true that people go shopping without knowing what they’re going to buy? Do they REALLY buy things that they don’t want or need? Do they really buy things that they feel meh about? REALLY? Do they really buy it just because it’s on sale? I can’t imagine what that’s like. I guess I was a born simi-minimalist.
Great tips I try to follow most of them. Another one is putting money into the things I actually enjoy and not feel guilty about it. So I don’t waste money in clothes or shoes-which for me makes sense my job is primarily wfh. One thing that helped me slow down shopping is to focus on brands or styles that I really enjoy-helps to reduce guess work on something I may not like.
Ooh! My biggest rule is from Naja sierra on YouTube. Cost per wear/use. It’s a great rule to stop, think and literally work out how many times you will actually wear something. £160 shoes? 2 wears £80 per wear, 4 times £40 per wear…. £160 times £1 per wear and so on.. £1 per wear for some comfy durable shoes that can do the miles. Worth it…. I’ve learned that actually outdoor brands are best and most practical/durable for my part of the world. #4seasonsinoneday.
I learned just recently how much a good pair of shoes is worth to me. Sure, they can be expensive (especially my running shoes) but they really are an investment in comfort, health, and reliability. My Birkenstocks will be able to be repaired when they start to wear down, and I think that’s pretty great!
I don’t think much about it. I have used some of these techniques without thinking. I haven’t thought intentional;ly making them an important rule, but in the end, I have noticed that I haven’t ever broken them. To sum it up, there is this trend of going MINIMALISTIC that is just that. A trend. What we want is something that looks cool, attractive, simple and effortless. This we can already do by using some logic in our lives and trying to understand ourselves and our situation better. I do not believe in minimalistic or maximalistic. I just do what feels like. If my space feels cluttered, I even throw out things from a seemingly empty place, and sometimes ai am comfortable with the most cluttered deskspace. As long as the vibe sets up, I am good to go. Most important thing is to at least think about what vibes we get from our space (room, couch, desk, storage space, etc.)
A beautiful and inciteful presentation – thank you! As a creative and visual artist, I have a curiosity about unadorned walls. I find that my home is more complete and peaceful with a few (select and well-curated) works of art on my walls. I’m not talking Nagel posters, or Thomas Kincaid paintings, but paintings, photographs, textile art pieces etc. that are personally meaningful and often created by myself or someone I know. What are your thoughts, perceptions, and understanding about not placing anything on the walls of your home?
The buy nice or buy twice rule is a good rule across the board. However, I do think that there are a couple of time where that may not be the best. I personally had a situation where an item was not working for me or my lifestyle. I wanted to try out a different method with a similar item, but I was not sure if it was going to work. So, I bought a cheaper item before I bought the pricier one to make sure it works. This same rule would apply if you wanted to try something new, but you were not positive if it is the best route to go.
#11 – don’t buy yourself more work (i.e. dry-clean only or clothes you always have to iron, appliances that are difficult to clean, etc) think not only about money-cost when buying, but time-cost when using. I bought something to wash my dog’s paws after taking a walk, which sounded great. But the problem is now I have to wash my dog’s paws every time after a walk 🥲 and afterwards wash the thing itself 😂
As someone who doesn’t use buy now pay later services it has always baffled me why you’d go and buy stuff if you can’t afford it (excluding people who truly need that help because capitalism). Although I am a student living on student loans so I suppose my food and rent is funded by buy now pay later..
This is still a case to case basis. Rule 1: Not all has privilege but what if you really need something and end up buying the cheap ones? But I agree with this one. Buy quality items it will lasts. Rule 2 and 9: it’s the same right? What do you mean by sparkjoy? Does it mean you really really want it or need it? This how will the rule number 8 applies. The “why” Rule 3: I agree with this. This is also my problem. Declutter before organizing. Rule 4: This is right. I end up buying clothes that I didn’t had the chance to use it and then it doesn’t fit me anymore. Rule 5: I did this very effective a 100% I made a wishlist. Rule 6: storage is a must! Rule 7: correct! It’s gonna make it worst. Rule 10: What if you really need a phone? And you can’t afford it? You use card. Doesn’t mean I can’t afford it. I watched this… I almost questioned everything I bought and will be buying. 😅
After my 2nd Matt and Nat bag died recently I opted for a 2nd hand real leather replacement. Better for the environment than green washed vegan leather (which I embarrassingly learned way too late is just plastic) and arguably still as good for animal welfare with the bonus of being infinitely repairable. I’m pretty jazzed about it!
The main thing i learned from The Kon Marie Method was to declutter and organizer in categories but most importantly, a place FOR EVERYTHING. (It helps with organization, not overspending thus being more eco friendly, keeping a space tidy) Now when I’m in spaces that aren’t mine, i can immediately tell when people don’t have a place for things and it starts to affect me lol
I actually despise so called “organizing” articles on social media, especially the short form ones. The ones that feature fridge filling are probably the worst 😂. Who has 6 cases of gasy water taking up space in thier fridge??? Where’s all the actual food? You can never see anything that could make any meals, but there’s tons of drinks and snacks. It’s like a fridge for people on vacation 😂. It just gives me more anxiety. My mom asked me today if I ever felt like, “why do I have all this stuff in my cupbards?” And I was pretty proud of myself that I could answer, “No, I go through my cupboards often and get rid of stuff that’s old (out of date food or products) and anything I don’t use or want”. I also told her that it’s really important to throw out really old food in the freezer, because food only keeps in the freezer for 3 months. If it’s 6 months or older, it’s probably not only actually dangerous to eat, but also freezer burned and the texture will be super wierd and gross. So, it’s ok to waste the old food…because it’s better to toss it than end up in the ER!
Ok, so I have a few things to say on this. I have a 3 and 2 year old. Obviously baby things can be overwhelming, and I try not to clutter because we live in a 2 bedroom apartment in NYC. When my kids started to drink out of straw cups, I told my family that I was going to buy the kids Stanley’s because I own one and I really liked the design and how well made they are and the history. A lot of people think these cups are new, but I remember my father having one that my uncle gave him years and years ago. EVERYONE basically told me how I was spoiling my kids and how I shouldn’t fall into the hype of trends and blah blah blah. I really like my 1 stanley cup that I have. The 14oz ones that I wanted to get my kids are $20! Not a bad price!!! But I went to target and got an insulated cup, it was $16… after a month the sippy part started to collect mold. I tried to tear those cups apart!!!! It wouldn’t come out, so I left it in the cabinet and bought the kids a $10 plastic straw cup from target…. A week later I noticed that we couldn’t get to the bottom of the straw and that there was a black stain in it, so I put that in the cabinet. I purchased the kids $8 insulated ups with straws from target again, but it had such great reviews, I ended up buying 4 instead of 2. I loved them!!! Except, you can’t replace the straws! Sooooooo in order for you to get a good use out of it, you have to buy it over!!! 🤦🏾♀️ at the begging of summer this year I said “screw what everyone thinks of me!
Wow, really? All you need those rules to no clutter your living space? I am man who goes for clothes shoppig 2 or 3 times a year and only reason to do this to replace stuff that broke. Years ago I settled for exact ammount of clothing i need and never buy more, the same goes for accesories and tech goodies.
Speaking about the fact that the brain wants a dopamin rush from a good bargain, a thing that helps me when I see big red pricetags advertising SALE is to remember: it’s NOT that the company have lowered the price from “full price” (as they say) and that I’m “saving” money by buying on sale – instead, it’s that the company first overestimated the item’s market value and then had to lower it accordingly – thus, the “savings” made in relation to the “full price” are just manipulative marketing.
Just when I thought that minimalism is probably dead and gen z is going all in for maximalism they come up with a new trend that they call ‘under-consumption’ and now I kind of watch them re-invent minimalism as a response to being sick of being advertised at so aggressively all the time… comes full circle. add the #underconsumption to your articles and a whole new generation will finde value in these ‘rules’
When it comes to clothing, I habitually check the fiber contents. With my sensory issues I generally feel more comfortable and less sweaty in natural materials, and I try to buy more sustainably, so that became a goal higher than just getting a thing I like. So I love this sweater, but do I NEED a new sweater? I’m ADHD so it can be hard to see a difference between the two. So I check for fiber content. 80% acrylic? Nope, thank you! Works like a charm.
Girl, how did I not find your website all these years?!! 7 minutes into my first article from your website and it was feeling like someone had hacked into my brain and laying out all my principles, in a much better articulated way!! I have been always intentional and even passionate about organising my living space, and these are all the rules I had come up with myself after years of observing myself and refining! Now I have a article to go back to neatly lay out the principles of organised living… Wow, Love it!!! Can’t wait to dig more into your website!!!
Number 4 will lead to a lot of wasted money if you follow it to the letter. There are lots of things (e. g. tools) which you do not need often but you are absolutely lost when you need them and dont have them – probably because you followed rule 4 2 weeks ago. So you buy it again? Or throw your fire extinguisher out because you never use it? 😂
I’ve focused on being really intentional about shopping secondhand anytime I can, wearing things for as long as I can and mending them when I can. I use credit some, but almost exclusively for travel. I never go over 2k of debt, and I make sure I can at least pay over the minimum amount each month. I regularly pay the balance off as well. The if it’s not yes it’s a no has completely changed how I buy everything, and I’m working on declutterring and downsizing so it’s less of a hassle to maintain my things in the future. Thank you for always having great suggestions for how to live more intentionally and responsibly!
there often are exceptions to those rules tho imo. Like most of my work clothes spark a yaay in me, but in a way I do need something for the office and church. So sometimes its a yes even if the feeling says “meh”, stuff like that. Also I dont like heels (even kitten heels since they drive bad), if it were me, I would wear 1 pair of black sneakers around the whole year. But yeah, life..
from my childhood i love few things, when there a lot of things i feel uncomfortable and feel happy with few things, and just recently came to know about the minimalist life style (before that i never know the name or concept of that), i think if you forcing that on ypurself than i think it must be boring but if someone like me feel happy and comfortable with few things then its a best way of life, I keep donating a lot of things and that gives me so much pleasure also i love to gift new things to the people in need, but for myself i like few simple things to keep as per my need.
There is a certain store that has new bargains every week, some designer brands and good deals. That is where I have bought problems. I once bought a green tweed Chanel type jacket that was 2 sizes too big (I didn’t really know my size either). I eventually spent more money having it tailored than the cost of the jacket. Even then, it didn’t quite look right. So, great advice— don’t buy a problem (and maybe stay away from that store that encourages you to troll through a bunch of designer stuff that changes all the time but leads to regret).
2nd rule helps me a lot for years. I try to only buy clothes that are going to be my favourites and make me feel like I can’t wait to wear them. I also try to not buy clothes for future, like something I can wear if I lose weight or if I go to a specific event etc. Only buy things that you can use anytime you want.
I don’t necessarily agree with the first rule, but I don’t necessarily disagree with it, either. My rule is to buy the cheapest option that will suit my needs. This requires me to assess my needs (including whether there actually is a need), research all of the products that are able to fill that need, identify the most cost effective option, and then decide whether or not I feel it is worth the price. There is some nuance and guesswork to this. I don’t necessarily know how long a product will last, but I try to find things that will last at least as long as I need them (which isn’t always forever and/or isn’t always frequent.) I said “needs” but I really meant “wants.” A lot of times I can lower my wants to fit a lower price point, which is fine. And sometimes I can convince myself to bump up to a higher price point to fulfill some wants that I certainly don’t need, which is also fine as long as the cost/benefit works out.
I needed this. I bought a skirt recently that I am kicking myself over because none of the tops that I have work with it. So now I feel like to make it work, I have to go out and find a new top. Next it’ll be the shoes…🤦♀Even when I bought it (it was a panic buy because it was on sale and the last size), I already knew I was making a mistake. Whhhhyyyy???!!! 😭
These are great tips for buying smart in general, that also can be applied by thrifters, DYI enthusiasts, people living on budget or in small spaces etc. But it also sorta saddens me that basic tenants of minimalism, like respect for the materials and the process, or awareness of one’s relation with the environment and the search for natural beauty in simplicity; are kinda lost and diluted in to an aesthetic surface approache about “how to survive under neoliberalism”. Because minimalism in relation to zen and sintoism has some really beautiful underlying life philosophy.
i try to consume up an item first before i keep buying them. Just the daily stuff like food, toiletry etc. We tend to over stock things and unless i really know i use that brand, i may keep an extra stock. But it gives me reason to leave the house but also just get what i need and leave when i go grocery shopping.
This is so great!! I love that you really promote embracing what serves you from minimalism and not making it your entire being because I feel like our society is so hung up on the idea that if you like one thing, it has to fully engulf your life!! We’re not allowed to be multi faceted anymore!! Also, what style Levi’s are you wearing with the black shirt at around 3:30?
I’m a maximalist and I still vibe with all of those! I want A LOT of stuff I love, not a truckload of crap that drags my mood down with regret every time I look at it or use it. Collecting stuff just because it kinda fits your needs/esthetics will always bring down the overall quality of your collection, because the flaws will jump at you every time. Curation is just as important if not even more than acquisition.
A rule I live by: piece of clothing in, piece of clothing out. I have a big enough closet with plenty of clothes in it. I don’t need more. So when I want to buy something new, I have to get rid of something else. When I don’t want to do that, it’s a pretty good sign I shouldn’t be buying the item in the first place.
Thanks! I enjoy this more sustainable route to minimalist-ish. One of your points that really resonated with me was the use of wish lists. I have wish lists for any number of things that interest/intrigue me so I pop ’em on the relevant list and wait and wait. During the wait, I question myself as to the “why” and what role it would serve, I check to see what like it I already have and more often than not, I end up deleting it! The “hunt” is fun, “bagging” something less so. I also avoid credit like the plague.
In the past year or so I have been going through a “Amazon Dupe” phase. This has allowed me to buy more things, however this has not been overall positive. Now my closet feels jammed with items that were nice for a season but won’t last. It is time to get back to fewer, good quality items that are stylish for more than one season and maybe a splash of “Trendy Now” items. I literally printed out the rule list and hung it next to my computer. 🙂
Hi Christina, This is my first time perusal one of your articles, and I love your green jacket and overall style. I also have an iMac (M1) and a MacBook (MBA 15 M2), and I’ve been wondering if you’ve considered getting rid of one. I initially bought the iMac as my primary computer, but I later bought the MacBook Air for portability and convenience. However, I’ve found that I’m not using either as much as I thought I would. I mostly use the MacBook Air like an iPad, and I prefer the iMac for focused work. I’m curious to know how you use your iMac and MBP. Do you have specific tasks for each? Do you feel like having two devices is overkill? And which one do you prefer? Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I am almost a shopping addict and trying to cope with it rn, and I was a person that impulsive buy and then always wasting time for returning refunding changing the item etc. And just new for me that I am realizing I have wasted lots of energy money and time for it (all those years) so when I see the rule number 7 it is just the thing I am reminding myself recently, so I think number seven is golden rule 👍