A Minimalist Wardrobe Challenge for 2025
or, one jumpsuit to rule them all
ADHD is a weird thing. Routines that take decisions out of our hands are infinitely helpful but still, we crave novelty and change.
One of the areas of my life that feels this dichotomy most keenly is my wardrobe. I long for something streamlined that reduces decision fatigue but am also always looking for the next.best.thing. Every time I purchase something new for my wardrobe, I would get that little dopamine hit, utterly convinced that this thing will be the thing that pulled it all together.
Rinse. Repeat.
In 2023, my husband and I went to London. We always travel carry-on only, so my clothing choices were limited and despite the very variable weather and event requirements, I loved how little I had to choose from. During that trip, I had this idea: what if I had a very simple base—ideally, all black—and then had fun with layers and accessories? From summer of 2023 onward, I tried off and on to create that vibe to no avail.
In December, I heard a minimalist wardrobe content creator comment on the loveliness of dresses. “One and done,” is how they’re usually described. Love the idea… not so good at implementing it. I’ve tried, but I’m just not that into dresses.
But the jumpsuit? It felt possible if I could find the right one.
I tracked this one down over the break and received it shortly after the new year. Since I got it, I’ve done a few things as an experiment:
Tried it on with every layering piece in my closet
Tried it on with all of my shoes
Wore it doing yoga and going on walks
Wore it on the coldest day of the year, layered with fleece leggings, snow boots, and my parka
Washed and airdried it to see how it holds up
As I ticked things off my list of requirements, I started to feel like this could be the one. And so, I bought two more and initiated an experiment for the year.
For 2025, this jumpsuit, layered with cardigans, scarves, and jewelry, will be my daily outfit.
Okay, so what does that mean exactly?
I essentially divide my wardrobe into 4 categories:
Daily. What I wear when I’m not wearing something in the other 3 categories.
Exercise. What I wear when I’m doing yoga, going for walks, or working out.
Lounge. What I wear when I’m just lazing around my house.
Special occasion. A little more niche, but think things like weddings and funerals.
For 2025, the jumpsuit is the daily wearer.
So, what will I be “allowed” to buy?
Seasonal, secondhand layers that go with the jumpsuit (cardigans, blazers, jewelry, scarves, etc…).
Replacing things that wear out, get stained, etc…
Shoes. I have sensitive feet and having a good shoe wardrobe has been complicated for me. I’m hoping that having one go-to outfit will help with this, actually!
A few things that have been on my list for a while:
A nice, warm, winter coat. I have a super warm puffer parka thing, but it’s decidedly casual.
A new bathrobe and a pair of slippers. Mine are just on death’s door.
One or two nice dresses. We have a few weddings upcoming and my dress wardrobe could use some assistance.
I’m really hoping that having a one-and-done jumpsuit will satisfy the decision fatigue-reducing side of me and that the freedom to layer and accessorize (and thrift for new options!) will satisfy the novelty-seeking side of me.
In an attempt to hold myself accountable and measure my success, I’m planning on sharing updates every quarter with pictures and some of my thoughts and experiences. Expect an update toward the end of April/beginning of May!
Have you done something like this? Would you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!