2025: Moving Away from Maximalism

Embrace simplicity for clarity, sustainability, and meaningful living

The world has embraced maximalism for years and really ramped up its interest once the TikTok shop became a thing, revelling in the thrill of abundance – from overflowing closets to countertops brimming with beauty products.

But as we get past the first month of 2025, it’s time to reevaluate the mantra that “more is more.” Decluttering not only creates physical space but also fosters mental clarity, financial savings, and a more sustainable lifestyle. Here’s your guide to streamlining your wardrobe, shoes, accessories, makeup, and skincare routines to embrace a simpler, more intentional way of living.

Start with Your Clothes
Clothing is often the first frontier in the decluttering journey, and for good reason: closets are notorious for accumulating items we rarely wear.

1. The 80/20 Rule: Studies show we wear only 20 per cent of our clothing 80 per cent of the time. Start by identifying your go-to pieces and build your wardrobe around them.
2. One Year Test: If you haven’t worn an item in a year, it’s time to let it go. Seasonal clothes should be an exception, but even they should be reviewed annually.
3. Create a Capsule Wardrobe: Choose versatile, high-quality basics that mix and match easily. Think classic jeans, neutral tops, and a well-tailored blazer.
4. Donate or Sell: Pass on gently used clothing to local charities or sell them online. Platforms like Kiswa or Thrift for Good are great places to start.

Step 2: Pare Down Your Shoe Collection
Shoes are another area where excess can creep in, often driven by impulse purchases or trendy buys.

1. Comfort First: Prioritise shoes that fit well and serve multiple purposes. A sturdy pair of sneakers, versatile flats, classic heels, and reliable boots are a solid foundation.
2. Evaluate Condition: Toss or donate shoes that are worn beyond repair or haven’t been worn in the past two years.
3. Seasonal Rotation: Store out-of-season shoes in labeled bins to keep your current collection manageable.

Step 3: Streamline Accessories
Accessories can pile up quickly but decluttering them can have a big impact on your overall style.

1. Quality Over Quantity: Invest in a few timeless pieces, like a leather tote or a classic watch, instead of accumulating trendy items that quickly go out of style.
2. Declutter Jewellery: For jewellery, consider whether each piece complements your current wardrobe and personal style. Keep staples like stud earrings and minimalist necklaces.Nouran El-Marmari gives great advise on how to build a timeless jewellery box.
3. Organise Thoughtfully: Use small trays or jewellery organisers to keep accessories visible and tangle-free.

Step 4: Declutter Makeup and Skincare Products
The beauty industry thrives on novelty, but a streamlined routine is not only easier to manage but also better for your skin.

1. Check Expiry Dates: Makeup and skincare products have shelf lives. Toss anything that’s expired or smells off. No really, bin it.
2. Simplify Your Routine: Focus on multipurpose products, like tinted moisturisers with SPF or palettes that include multiple shades.
3. Adopt the “One In, One Out” Rule: For every new product you buy, commit to finishing or discarding an old one.
4. Organise by Function: Group items into categories—face, eyes, lips—and store them in clear containers for easy access.

Step 5: Make Decluttering a Habit
Decluttering isn’t a one-time task—it’s a lifestyle shift that requires regular maintenance.

1. The Weekly Sweep: Dedicate 15 minutes each week to tidying a specific area, whether it’s your closet, shoe rack, or vanity.
2. Mindful Shopping: Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Do I truly need this? Will I use it often?
3. Seasonal Reviews: At the start of each season, review your belongings and donate or discard anything that no longer serves you. Just as our bodies are prone to change, so are our personalities and tastes. You really don’t have to hang onto that shapeless jumper from uni.

Making 2025 the year of decluttering isn’t about deprivation – it’s about creating space for what truly matters. By letting go of excess, you’ll gain more freedom, clarity, and intention in your daily life. So, take it one step at a time, and remember: less isn’t just more; it’s better.