SHOPPING: 90s Minimalism

In the world of men's fashion, trends come and go, but there are some styles that stand the test of time. One such enduring trend is 90s minimalism. Characterized by clean lines, simple silhouettes, and muted color palettes, this movement revolutionized menswear and continues to influence designers and fashion-conscious individuals today.

The 1990s marked a departure from the flamboyant and ostentatious styles of the preceding decades. Gone were the oversized shoulder pads and loud patterns of the 80s, replaced by a more understated and refined aesthetic. This shift towards minimalism was a reflection of the cultural climate of the time, with people seeking simplicity and authenticity in both fashion and lifestyle.

ISTO. Curduroy baseball cap - £49

Made with a classic and relaxed silhouette, this cap has a gently curved peak and a simple, discreet logo (very 90s)

Harry's of London Beck loafers - £575

A neatly styled penny loafer that works beautifully for weekdays and weekends. Beck comes with soft, smoothly finished pull-up calf leather uppers and solid, crepe style rubber soles for all-round unbeatable protection and grip.

Peregrine Ford 1/4 zip jumper

Reclaim the 1/4 zip from the finance bros and instead wear with smart denim and loafers for a 90s aesthetic that channels Patrick Bateman

Richard James wool hopsack blazer - £795

With a soft shoulder, slightly wider notch lapels, slanted flap pockets, two inside pockets, an inside ticket/smartphone pocket, a satin lining, a working buttonhole and flower loop and twin vents.

Reiss suede zip-through jacket - £898

Wear with a baseball cap and a plain white T shirt to keep on the DL when hiding from the paparazzi

Rowing Blazers x '47 Solid Yankees sweater - £215

A simple sweater, no frills and no fuss that bears all of the hallmarks of the 90s Minimalism trend

Sunspel classic white T-shirt - £90

All of your T-shirts need to be the same. This would be our choice.

Paige denim - £229.91

Channel a young Keanu Reeves with messy hair, light & tight denim and an espresso

DIOR Eyewear at MR PORTER - £540

The innovative design of Dior's 'Dior90 S1U' sunglasses means you can safely store them in your pocket, as they fold fully in half down the middle. Crafted in Italy, they're made from silver-tone metal and fitted with striking mirrored lenses.

One of the key features of 90s minimalism is its emphasis on functionality and practicality. Garments were designed with a focus on clean cuts and versatile pieces that could easily transition from day to night. Basic wardrobe staples such as crisp white shirts, tailored trousers, and classic denim jeans became the cornerstone of men's wardrobes, embodying the less-is-more ethos of the era.

Neutral color palettes dominated the minimalist landscape, with shades of black, white, gray, and beige reigning supreme. These subdued hues not only exuded sophistication but also allowed for effortless mixing and matching, enabling men to create polished looks with ease. The mantra of "less is more" extended to accessories as well, with minimalist watches, leather belts, and sleek sneakers complementing outfits without overpowering them.

Iconic designers like Calvin Klein, Helmut Lang, and Jil Sander were at the forefront of the 90s minimalist movement, shaping the landscape of menswear with their understated yet impactful designs. Calvin Klein, in particular, became synonymous with minimalist fashion, with his minimalist approach to design resonating with a generation of men seeking timeless elegance.

The influence of 90s minimalism can still be felt in contemporary menswear, with many designers drawing inspiration from this iconic era. Brands like COS, Acne Studios, and A.P.C. continue to champion clean lines and simplicity in their collections, catering to a modern audience that values both style and substance.

Today, incorporating elements of 90s minimalism into your wardrobe is as relevant as ever. Whether it's opting for a tailored suit in a neutral hue, investing in high-quality basics, or accessorizing with understated pieces, embracing the minimalist aesthetic allows men to make a statement without saying a word. It's about refining your style, focusing on quality over quantity, and letting the craftsmanship of each garment speak for itself.

In a world inundated with fleeting trends and fast fashion, 90s minimalism stands out as a beacon of enduring style. Its timeless appeal transcends passing fads, offering a blueprint for effortless elegance that will never go out of fashion. So why not embrace the simplicity and sophistication of 90s minimalism in your own wardrobe? After all, less truly is more.