How to do minimalism, by the Kin designers

For many of us, minimalism is the holy grail of style. Since it launched, John Lewis & Partners’ in-house brand Kin has pursued it, championing a quiet simplicity, drawing influence from the pared-back aesthetic of Scandinavia and Japan.

Don't despair if lockdown means that your take on minimalism has been reduced to sporting loungewear on rotation – Kin’s head designer and Partner, Helen Prior, is here to inspire your new everyday ‘uniform’. ‘The key to minimal dressing is having a modular wardrobe of key pieces that are interchangeable and work seamlessly together,’ says Helen, who this season has overseen a collection that includes abstract print dresses and pastel-hued, oversized hoodies.

Embracing a minimal approach is a mindset in itself, advises Helen – it means purposefully overlooking trends in favour of pieces that are set to endure and transcend flash-in-the-pan moments. ‘The key to creating a refined “uniform” for yourself is about knowing your personal style and not having to think too hard about what to wear,’ she explains. ‘Silhouettes should feel flattering and comfortable and should reflect you, both your personal style and lifestyle, as opposed to reflecting what’s in now.’ 

But don’t take that as carte blanche to play things safe. ‘Minimalism should never be boring – you can create an unexpected silhouette, add texture or use colour cleverly,’ says Helen. Kin’s take on unexpected silhouettes comprises fluid coats and dresses with asymmetric hems and voluminous, trapeze-shaped knitwear. Colour and print should be your final ingredient. ‘I find the colour palette works best when you keep it refined to your core neutrals,’ Helen explains. ‘Add colour or print through one key piece like a coloured piece of knitwear, a printed top or dress, or even a piece of contrasting outerwear.’

Helen views each piece in her own wardrobe as being like a ‘reliable friend – I don’t need to over think it.’ She also thinks that the events of the past year have made us address what we consider to be valuable. ‘Investment pieces are no longer solely about cost, but about how important a part they play in our lives.’