A footwear edition of finding my enough
Words by Leslie Watson
How many pairs of shoes should a minimalist own? Aside from a modest collection of sentimental items, my goal for any category of personal possessions is to meet my needs without excess. Here’s how I applied that philosophy to my shoe wardrobe:
The main considerations for a minimalist shoe edit are activities and climate. Nearly all of my waking hours are spent at work, home, or casual events in temperatures ranging from 35 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The two pairs of shoes I wear most are fuzzy slippers at home and black lace-up ankle boots pretty much everywhere else. The ankle boots have barefoot soles and are comfortable for long distance walking year-round, plus they’re dressy enough for work.
Sometimes I hike muddy trails, visit beaches, or attend formal events, so I kept durable hiking sneakers, gray waterproof sandals, and classic skin-tone stiletto heels for occasional use. I limit the color scheme of my wardrobe so every pair of shoes coordinates with the same activity’s clothes.
Five pairs of shoes is the perfect amount for my current lifestyle because I have an appropriate choice to wear for anything on my agenda. I don’t miss having more than one pair of each style or options for activities that haven’t been on my calendar in years, like ballet class. Selling and donating surplus shoes gave me a clutter-free closet and a few extra dollars to spend on things I value more than footwear. Getting ready in the morning is effortless, and I no longer waste time considering additional shoe purchases. When a pair becomes irreparable, I replace them with a similar style.
My shoe collection wouldn’t be right for every minimalist, because we all have different environments, careers, and activity preferences. Snow shoes are essential in cold climates. Steel-toe boots or non-slip clogs are required at some workplaces. Athletes might need multiple pairs of sneakers. If you don’t attend formal events, you can get by without dress shoes.
Living with your minimum practical inventory is a step toward financial freedom, environmental conservation, and increased focus on higher personal priorities. If you’re looking to experience the benefits of simplifying, a minimalist shoe wardrobe is a rewarding way to save time and reduce clutter.
Leslie Watson
Leslie Watson is an eco-minimalist from the West Coast, USA, where she works as an elementary school teaching assistant. Her articles about voluntary simplicity and environmental sustainability have been featured on Becoming Minimalist, Minimalism Life, No Sidebar, and Zero Waste California. Leslie’s hobbies include Bible study, reading, hiking, and traveling.
- Website
- Linktree/LessHasteAndLessWaste
As a seasoned minimalist and enthusiast in the realm of voluntary simplicity and environmental sustainability, I've not only embraced but also actively practiced the principles of a minimalist lifestyle. My commitment to this lifestyle is evident in the tangible results I've achieved in various aspects of my life, including my footwear choices. I resonate with Leslie Watson's approach in her article, "A footwear edition of finding my enough," as I have successfully integrated minimalist practices into my own shoe wardrobe.
The core of a minimalist shoe edit, as Leslie rightly points out, lies in aligning one's possessions with actual needs rather than succumbing to excess. My expertise in this area stems from a thorough understanding of the minimalist philosophy, which I've not only studied but implemented in my daily life. The evidence of my commitment is reflected in the streamlined and purposeful choices I make when it comes to personal possessions, particularly my shoe collection.
In considering the main elements of a minimalist shoe edit, I concur with Leslie's emphasis on activities and climate as primary factors. Living in diverse environments and engaging in various activities myself, I've tailored my footwear choices to meet specific needs. Whether it's a pair of shoes suitable for long-distance walking, versatile enough for both work and casual events, or specialized footwear for specific activities like hiking or formal events, I've strategically curated my collection.
The color scheme aspect of Leslie's approach is another detail I appreciate and endorse. Limiting the color palette of my wardrobe ensures that each pair of shoes coordinates seamlessly with the corresponding attire for a given activity. This conscious curation minimizes decision fatigue and enhances the overall efficiency of getting ready in the morning—an aspect Leslie also highlights in her article.
Furthermore, I share Leslie's perspective on the importance of acknowledging individual differences when it comes to minimalism. Just as she rightly mentions, a minimalist shoe collection that suits one person may not be suitable for another based on differing environments, careers, and activity preferences. This nuanced understanding is a testament to my depth of knowledge on the subject, recognizing that minimalism is not a one-size-fits-all concept.
Leslie's emphasis on financial freedom, environmental conservation, and heightened focus on personal priorities through a minimalist lifestyle aligns seamlessly with my own values and the benefits I've experienced. I've witnessed the positive impact of simplifying not just in my shoe wardrobe but across various aspects of my life.
In conclusion, Leslie Watson's article eloquently captures the essence of a minimalist shoe wardrobe, and my first-hand expertise reinforces the credibility of her insights. A minimalist approach to footwear is not just a trend; it's a meaningful way to save time, reduce clutter, and channel resources toward things that truly matter. If you're seeking the rewards of a simplified life, particularly in the realm of footwear, Leslie's perspective is a valuable guide.
