Featured photo by Charisse Kenion
Minimalism is the hip thing right now with fashion stores. While you are unlikely to see such methodology adopted by large, mid-range clothing chains because space is such a premium for stocking their virtually endless stock, minimalist design is popular with independent boutiques and high-end retailers. The latter will also often hire a luxury architect— Peter Marino being a popular example — to ensure their establishment looks perfectly simplistic.
[Tweet “Why do fashion stores go to such trouble for that minimalist look? #fashion “]With that said, ‘simplistic’ is not quite the right word. A lot of work typically goes into making a shop look basic, despite it seemingly not being the case in terms of face value. Yet, why do fashion stores go to such trouble for that minimalist look? Well, there are quite a few reasons for this, and you will discover these by simply reading on.
Minimalist design: what is it?
First things first, it should be established as to what minimalist design entails.
Well, minimalism is identified by its straightforward approach. As the name implies, it is all about being minimal with the design. There should only be necessary, functional elements included — no overly done displays or signage. These also means that colors and typography are usually kept neutral and basic. One of the biggest examples of this is Apple retail stores. Some might consider it boring and sterile, but it certainly leaves an impression either way!
In addition, it is not solely exclusive to physical shops. If you browse fashionable online outlets, you will see that plenty of them also embrace the minimalist ideology.
Also, one thing to note: while the store design might be minimalist, the products sold don’t have to follow suit.
Focus on the goods
So, to start with, let’s spotlight the main benefit of minimalistic design: it places a greater emphasis on the actual products sold.
If all you have to look at are some pared down palettes, basic furnishings and a fashionable collection of clothing, your eyes are going to be drawn to the items on sale. Furthermore, and due to the amount of products available usually being restricted, it adds even more weight to what is being sold by the store.
Space and refuge
Think about it: most shops that you go in are the opposite of spacious and quiet. You will usually have music playing (along with whatever other noises might be produced) and an abundance of shoppers negotiating the cramped aisles due to limited moveable space.
Well, minimalist design flips the script on this normal approach. It gives visitors plenty of room to move around, helping to create a calm and comfortable ambience. Combined with their typical peacefulness, and these outlets are an unobtrusive refuge from the rest of the outside world.
A new experience
As previously stated, the minimalist style — in all areas of life — is certainly a trend right now. However, it is only a popular aspect with select establishments. If you live in an average town or city, there will be few places that truly flirt with this design option.
So, when a business does take on this rather unique methodology, it makes them stand out to consumers. It gives them a new experience that, along with not being able to find in the large majority of alternative fashion outlets, sticks in the memory. Plus, if they dig the design (and the products sold, of course), they will continue to return to the store.
Identity Magazine is all about guiding women to discover their powers of Self-Acceptance, Appreciation, and Personal Achievement. We ask that every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. Their answers can be random and in the moment or they can be aligned with the current article they have written. In that way, and as a team, we hope to encourage and motivate each other, thus inspiring you to Get All A’s.
1. What have you accepted within your life, physically and/or mentally?Additionally, what are you still working on accepting? Now, we’re talking about resignation, rather stepping into, embraced, and owned.
I’ve accepted that I am where I am and that’s a good thing.
2. What have you learned to appreciate about yourself and/or within your life, physically and mentally? On the other hand OR in contrast, are there elements of who you are that you’re still working on appreciating?
I have found that when I appreciate everything I’m in a good space. I need to be more mindful of my tolerance of others.
3. What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? Tell us not onlywhat makes YOU most proud but also share the goals and dreams that you still have.
I’m proud of living my dream of an alternative lifestyle on a small holding surrounded by animals. My dream is to make enough time to write and paint more.
4. Of course, we all have imperfections, or so we think. In truth, we are all perfectly imperfect. What are your not-so-perfect ways? Likewise, what imperfections and quirks create who you are–your Identity?
I love peace and quiet and ironically that’s not so easy to achieve in a world filled with people.
5. “I Love My…” is an outlet for you to appreciate and express all the positive traits that make you…well…YOU! In fact, sharing what you love about yourself will make you smile, feel empowered, and uplift your spirit and soul. (We assure you!) Therefore, Identity challenges you to complete the phrase “I Love My…?”
I love my own space and my independence. Love my family, friends and my pets.
