C’est la VIE: July/August 2016

A Minimalist Dream
Curated by the VIE Creative Team
Written by Suva Ang-Mendoza

Join in on VIE’s year of the minimalist and create a crisp, sleek, clutter-free lifestyle. Although this style is simple, it’s anything but boring! White, black, and metallic tones with pops of color, simple geometric shapes, and clean lines come together in a bold yet classically chic look. Take a look at some of our favorite minimalist design products and discover how this high-polished and sleek style really proves the theory that less is more.

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1. You’re a Gem!

Blue Agate Coasters
$34.95, earthboundtrading.com

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2. Hello, Sunshine!

Ray-Ban Round Fleck Sunglasses in Tortoise
$160, ray-ban.com

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3. XOXO

Brass Tic-Tac-Toe Set
$195, jonathanadler.com

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4. Comes in Handy

Louise et Cie ‘Fae’ Leather Satchel
$378, lordandtaylor.com

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5. Just Glow with It

Lumio Book Lamp

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6. Totes My Goats

GOAT Mug Original in Brown Faux Leather
$29.50, goat-story.com

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7. I Love Luc-ite!

Oscarine Lucite Bar Cart
$698, Anthropologie

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8. Cashing In

Ridge Titanium Gunmetal Wallet
$105, ridgewallet.com

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9. Around the Globe

Secondome MOD. GROUND Map Globe
$3,950, barneys.com

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10. Playing Around

Neon Chess Set
$795, jonathanadler.com

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Get the Look

These C’est la VIE items are must-haves and make perfect gifts for any modern minimalist. Here are some characteristics of the minimalist style to look for and implement, whether you’re searching for furnishings for the home or fashions for you!

Simplify

Sleek objects and simple shapes are essential to the minimal aesthetic. Minimalist items are usually compact and low-profile, giving off a sophisticated look with functionality. The drastic lack of design details is usually compensated for with bold lines to create interest.

The Right Angle

Clean, straight lines are one of the most influential characteristics of the minimalist style. Think geometric shapes, crisp angles, and clean surfaces. And we thought we’d never use our middle school geometry in real life!

Embrace Your Curves

Linear edges may be essential to the style, but we like to add in some curves to balance out the look.

Live in Color

Although the minimalist style revolves around simplicity, that doesn’t mean you have to use only black and white to be modern and chic. When choosing your color scheme, try choosing two crisp, contrasting colors—or similar hues if you want to go monochromatic—and add interest in your accents.

Warm Up

Minimalist designs have a reputation for feeling cold, so add some warmth to the look by choosing pieces for your home or closet that are warmer in color, or implement textures like leather, suede, knit, or fur. The possibilities are endless!

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