Simplicity in Practice: The Einstein Method

So, this is sort of a Tidy Tip. That is, if your closet is the thing that’s out of control. You can get your closet under control and simplify your daily routine by using what I have termed the Einstein Method of dressing.  I call it this even though it sort of perpetuates the myth that Einstein wore exactly the same thing everyday. When Einstein’s wife Elsa was alive, she was in charge of his wardrobe, and often dressed him in immaculate suits and ties. After Elsa died in 1936, Einstein took to wearing what he wanted (and who could blame him). From then on, he was often spotted in very simple outfits and was known to be fond of soft, gray sweatshirts and sock-less tennis shoes or sandals.

Einstein had it going on.

Now, not all of us have the option of hanging out in our favorite sweats, but we can translate this idea of paring down into our own wardrobe. It may seem like a completely boring way to live, but after trying it for a while, I’ve found it completely refreshing. You cats might consider doing it just for one area of your wardrobe–for instance, your work clothes.

For my work palette, I’ve chosen black, gray, camel, white, and navy (only because these are my favorite colors). If you like hot pink, however, choose hot pink.  Be forewarned, though, not many things match hot pink. Except for maybe lime green.

So, with my palette selected, I can, at any point, throw pieces together without having to even consider whether they match. I no longer have that one shirt that only goes with that one skirt–and I don’t have to find a spot to store non-mixable pieces, either. No more standing in front of the closet for ages trying to decide what to wear. Morning routine–simplified! Also and added benefit: shopping–simplified! It’s so much easier to shop now that I’m not inundated by a ridiculous number of choices. I can easily zero in on that adorable gray sweater on the rack rather than the sparkly, sequin hot pants calling my name from the corner. If, however, the hot pants could be worn under my work clothes, well, then…maybe. I think we all need more sequined hot pants in our lives, don’t you?

Now, if your clothes are your method for expressing yourself, this may not be for you. You may really need those 500 pairs of shoes and 45 bags. If so, more power to you! For me, a simplified wardrobe is one fewer thing to think about. In this case, fewer choices equals less hassle. And, no…it’s really not boring at all. After all, don’t you end up wearing the same thing over and over anyway?

And, bonus! Since I don’t have to think about what to wear I can take all that extra brain power and put it into something more creative…like this post!

Until next time, KISS (that’s keep it simple, stupid)!

Author’s note: In all honesty, I’m also the creepy person in the grocery store who buys like 20 cans of green beans. I may, in fact, be insane. Or, brillllllllliant!!!!!