Life can be stressful, especially when you’re commuting in the city… Whilst urban living certainly offers plenty of exciting opportunities and interesting people, it also comes with an ever-present background noise that can be a little overwhelming. This is exactly why young professionals and students moving into full-time roles are gravitating towards a more minimalist approach – focusing on quality over quantity in everything from their outfits to their daily essentials.
Minimalism in Fashion
In short, minimalism is about removing what isn’t necessary so that you can focus on what really matters. Instead of constantly buying low-quality items that don’t last, the minimalist mindset encourages us to pick a few high-quality pieces that can handle anything life throws our way. This can be hard to put into practice, but one area in your life that can really benefit from a bit of this is your commute.
One brand that embodies these principles is Manhattan Portage, known for their reliable everyday messenger bags. They serve as a prime example of how minimalist design and practical functionality can come together to simplify your daily routine.
A Quick Recap of How Minimalism Started
Decades ago, art movements like the Bauhaus in Germany introduced the idea that design should be functional, clean, and focused on essentials. Minimalist artists began stripping away decorative elements to emphasize material and form.
These creatives were pioneers who understood that beauty often comes from clarity, structure, and well-chosen materials – no extra fuss. Fast forward to our hyper-digital age, and it’s easy to see why this philosophy still resonates: in a world of endless notifications and fleeting trends, calm and simplicity are more appealing than ever.
So, what do 1960s art movements have to do with your Monday morning commute? In short, quite a lot. The same minimalist principles that champion clean lines, function, and timeless materials can transform your daily grind into something more efficient – and more stylish.
One simple way to bring these ideas into your routine is by being intentional about the products you buy, especially those you rely on every day, such as your daily commuter bag.
Less Stuff = Less Stress
It’s worth being very conscious and intentional about what products you buy. After all, if you invest in something of decent quality, you’ll keep it for years – so it’s worth doing the extra research. For commuting, aim for a bag that checks both the function and form boxes. Sure, multiple pockets and compartments are handy for storing a laptop, headphones, and lunch, but consider how the bag looks, too. It’s tempting to go for a bold pattern, but that can clash with certain outfits. In true minimalist fashion, simple is more versatile. Choose a design in black, grey, or a single bold color, so that it pairs easily with nearly any outfit.
Will You Embrace Minimalism into your Commute?
Minimalism isn’t just about having less just for the sake of it – it’s about knowing what truly matters. When you strip away the clutter – in both your commute and your wardrobe – you make room for more meaningful experiences and a lifestyle that values longevity, efficiency, and genuine quality. And that’s something any busy city-dweller can appreciate.
