The fashion industry has granted us some of the boldest names and suavest pieces over the last few years: Totême’s fringed scarf coat, The Frankie Shop Ripstop jacket and Khaite’s Scarlet cardigan are just a pinch of the crème de la crème offerings by fashion-forward brands. Contemporary brands from The Row to The Frankie Shop have spearheaded the design industry and their styles continue to forge longevity seasons on—whether that’s cold-weather favourites or svelte shaping for summer days.
Fashion can be daunting, with many trends bouncing around the ether, but when it comes to sartorial flair and the essence of personal style, refined dressing surpasses every trend. Minimalist brands are beloved by editors and fashion types worldwide, and whilst our dialects vary, there are some names that are universally appreciated. People are so enamoured with the pared-back aesthetic, that it has now become a reinforced style of dressing inherited by both minimalists and maximalists, albeit in different ways.
The value of functionality in fashion has never been more prevalent as we’re in a diligent era, where people value easy-to-wear uniforms without needing to sacrifice comfort or style. Contemporary brands continue to amass cult followings and customers are optimistic about making these fashion investments. They’ve also influenced the customer approach to acquirement, with many people now choosing to invest in quality garments over quantity.
Devoid of saturated hues and instead offering neutral palettes ranging from creamy ecru to dusty cocoas and sepia tones—there are styles and colourways made to slot seamlessly into existing wardrobes. With an amalgamation of billowy dresses comprising silk and crisp organic fibres, there are pieces to appease every texture profile and taste.
Keep on reading for the 11 minimalist brands to know in 2023—including some that may be new on your radar.
Founded by three siblings and built on the legacy of their great-grandmother, Dagmar, House of Dagmar launched in 2005, bringing with it a fresh take on functionality. The Scandinavian brand aims to bring us expert craftsmanship, with a streamlined curation of high-quality pieces to span decades of wear, irrespective of trends.
A textured top with an elegant bare shoulder design.
Although minimalism is best associated with understated silhouettes, as seen here, voluminous styles are also considered classic.
First came the scarf coat and for 2023 we quite appreciate being enveloped in woollen fabrications with a bohemian feel. Belt this wool cape at the waist for added definition.
Super cosy and chic – a piece you’ll pull every autumn.
The perfect ’90s style denim.
Although By Malene Birger was founded in 2003, the brand disrupted the fashion world in the latter of 2022 – introducing us to some famed garments and fuss-free textiles indicative of its bohemian essence. The fringed scarf and boucle dress are some of the notorious styles saturating our favourite creators Instagram feeds. The garments meet somewhere between modernist shaping and bohemian (boasting a slight lilt). From languid frocks to substantial knits, it’s the destination for classics with a spin.
One part chic, one part cosy, one part comfortable.
By Malene Birger also excels when it comes to tailoring.
A representation of the brand’s Scandinavian simplicity.
A classic style that will work hard in your wardrobe.
Look closely for the wide-cut sleeves – minimalists will appreciate these intentional details.
Like the jumper equivalent of being enveloped in a cuddle, so ideal for the frosty UK weather.
Camille Perry and Holly Wright’s brand came to our attention in 2019. With a pedantic approach to clothing and an emphasis on pieces that celebrate the human form, it’s become a firm favourite for ‘dressing up’ among fashion lovers. Amongst their varied arsenal, you’ll find free-flowing fabrications and remixes of classic styles.
The intertwined fabrication make this so far from your average top.
It’s evident from first look that Tove takes particular interest in the cut and fit of each piece.
I can never resist this colour.
Tove shows its design prowess through immaculate drapery.
If you’re looking for a forever coat, then look no further.
When it comes to championing sustainability few brands do it like Ninety Percent. Their limited arsenal comprises wardrobe basics with a twist. In addition to the considered fabrications and sleek designs, they’re intentional about their environmental impact – reinvesting 90% of profit into community causes. If you’re looking to invest in forever pieces at sensible price points, you won’t be disappointed.
The handkerchief hem will add a playful movement with each step.
The ribbed details contour to add definition to your silhouette.
Ninety Percent does everything well, from the simplest tee to an evening dress.
A high-quality piece you’ll wear for years to come.
Button up shirts feature in our outfit builds all year round.
Founded as a seasonless brand, Raey delivers a timeless curation of fluid pieces. For 2023, their arsenal which usually consists of neutral colourways has expanded to include ochres and even print – all while in keeping with their transcendent approach to fashion.
I’ve fallen head over heels for this dress.
Raey’s coats are much loved by editors and fashion people alike.
If you need to play dress-up this gown is one to watch. With the boat neckline, cowl dip and fishtail hem, it’s a simple yet effective design.
I plan to follow the description and cocoon in this all autumn and winter.
We saw the resurgence of denim skirts at the tail end of 2022 and I think this throwback trend will earn permanent status.
You should also be away of Raey’s impeccable denim selection.
Hailed the new name to know by Net-A-Porter, and with a newly launched Liberty concession, Beare Park has made an instant impression on fashion types. For lovers of monochromatic looks and feminine shapes, Beare Park offers fluid, longline silhouettes, and tailored styles aplenty.
As for pinstripes, some styles are so good they’re always in style.
Elegant maxi skirts continue to dominate autumn and winter trends in 2023.
When minimalists want to stand out, they put focus on fabrics, like a slinky satin.
A white shirt is the ideal companion for everything from relaxed denim to sharp tailoring.
The slightly nipped waist gives the illusion of an hourglass silhouette.
Caes is an intentional brand with a moniker that relates purely to slow fashion. With an emphasis on transeasonal clothing, the styles consist of neutral pallets and refined shapes. Each piece is designed to fit seamlessly into a working wardrobe, and they emphasize the importance of durable fibres.
Autumn is all about great jackets, and this one will serve you every year.
An LBD with a scooped neckline can be worn during the day and night.
Caes takes a classic styles and adds a unique edge to set this top apart.
A midi skirt should be in everyone’s collection, no matter the aesthetic. It’s a piece everyone can put their stamp on.
For work, off-duty or evening, this jumpsuit can work for all occasions.
Founded in 2014 by Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, Totême is a brand that fundamentally champions wardrobe staples. They’ve produced some of the most iconic minimalist pieces to date. Their collection features opulent fabrications and pieces that are crafted to withstand time and transcend seasonal trends. Most popular are their outerwear and knitwear pieces. Their inspired take on modern styling has inspired many brands. I’m sure most of us will agree that Kling and Lindman succeed in their mission to corner the minimalist market.
Totême has amassed a serious cult following with many of the pieces selling out fast – case in point the Draped Fringed Wool-Blend Jacket. Now available in four colourways including this swoon-worthy contrast stitch version.
You can always trust Totême to produce a fanciful going-out top.
Totême gave the trench a modern lift with this pared-back shaping.
Understated, yet powerful – the sweater everyone is coveting seasons on.
I have a penchant for indie labels, so I was delighted to stumble across Black to Grey. The brand concept zeros in on a conceptual approach that aims to marry the earth’s organic properties with clothing of a similar ilk. Many of the pieces are also fashioned from recycled fabrics – emphasising the importance of circularity in the fashion industry.
Simple but so classic.
The organic texture and composition lend this a relaxed feel, as opposed to free-flowing trousers.
Pair this androgynous style trench coat with a midi dress for a match to behold.
Make this a fuss-free occasion top if you’re averse to bells and whistles.
I’m already planning out so many outfits that include this.
Inspired by French architecture, Chloé Harrouche set about encapsulating a theme of integrity and focus on the female form – with Paris as her muse. The Lou Lou Studios atelier is situated in the most aesthetic corner of Paris. Its repertoire highlights relaxed silhouettes with an off-duty feel. The compositions are worth a notable mention, too.
This relaxed style will skim your figure.
A mole colourway is a little more distinctive than beige – a good in-between hue for people who prefer sticking to subdued tones.
The deep cuffs and playful open neck set this sweater apart from all others.
The Parisian influence is evident through the delicate button details.
Camel cashmere is the backbone of minimalist style.
Leset is inspired by the notion of a ‘set’ uniform. It’s where at-home attire meets minimalism without needing to forgo a chic aesthetic. Lili Chemla’s styles centre on an easy-to-wear sentiment and hones in on uniform pieces that comprise luxe fabrications. Think the ultimate LBD and leggings to take you from day to date night.
From the collarless design to the crinkled satin texture, this is the most elevated blazer I’ve ever seen.
When considering the foundations of a great wardrobe, a great trench coat always features.
2023 is the year of fancy leggings.
If you’re looking for a change from the classic LBD, upgrade to a just-as-timeless grey slip.
Celebrate the cropped silhouette with high waisted bottoms.
Next Up: Black-Owned British Fashion and Beauty Brands to Support Now and Forever
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Promo image:
