The Art of Subtraction

How Good Style Can Be More About What You Remove Than What You Add

When it comes to style, we often focus on the thrill of acquiring new pieces — the quick dopamine hit of something fresh, shiny, and promising to transform how we feel. But what if true style isn’t about adding more? What if it’s actually about removing what no longer serves you?

Good style often comes from quiet confidence. It’s found in the clarity that comes from editing your wardrobe down to what truly fits your life, your body, and your soul. That means letting go of clutter: the trends that don’t resonate, the impulse buys that never felt quite right, and the “just in case” items that are collecting dust.

We usually have a vision of how we want to dress or carry ourselves. And often, the pieces that reflect that vision are already in our closet. But out of habit or comfort, we keep reaching for items that don’t align with that version of ourselves. Removing those go-to pieces—the ones we wear often but know deep down don’t reflect who we want to be—is one of the quickest ways to start dressing how we truly want to show up.

That doesn’t mean everyone needs to embrace minimalism. It’s absolutely okay if your style is maximalist, eclectic, romantic, or constantly evolving. What matters is clarity. When you know what’s true for you, each piece becomes part of your story.

My personal style is simple, comfortable, and fluid. I care most about ease and the feel of a good fabric. Not because I think that’s the “best” style—but because it’s mine. After years of trial and error, wasted money, and experimentation, I’ve arrived at a deep understanding of what feels like me.

I once heard Cassandra Grey of Violet Grey describe how she curates her life with her “estate catalog” in mind—imagining the curation of what she’d want to leave behind. That idea stuck with me. It’s a powerful way to frame not just how we dress, but how we live. What are we choosing to carry with us, and what are we willing to let go of?

In that spirit of subtraction, style becomes more intentional. A well-edited wardrobe can feel like breathing room. Every piece has a purpose, a place, and a resonance with who you are now.

Style isn’t about deprivation. It’s about refinement. About clearing the noise so you can hear yourself more clearly. And that, whatever your aesthetic, is the foundation of authentic expression.

Start small: If this resonates with you, try identifying one piece you wear often that doesn’t actually reflect how you want to dress. Let it go—donate it, gift it, release it—and see what you naturally reach for instead. Often, clarity begins with a single edit.