CONNECTING THROUGH CLOTHING

In a time where it feels as though our world is in a constant state of turmoil, it's easy to become overwhelmed, exhausted, and lose hope that our efforts are actually having an impact. I think all of us fighting for a better future have had moments of doubt, often left wondering, "Am I really making a difference?" "Does it even matter?" "For every one step I take forward, someone else may be taking ten steps back."

In the midst of it all, I've found comfort and reassurance in the incredible community of fellow bloggers, makers, and activists I've met through social media. It's amazing to think that with the simple click of a button, we can connect with people from all over the world who share similar values, and work together to reach a common goal.

One company that's helping to bring us closer together is Minimal Exposure, a small batch clothing studio based in Cape Town, South Africa. Run by husband and wife duo, Minimal Exposure creates handmade womenswear inspired by the need to feel comfortable while exploring and discovering the world, without compromising on effortless style. Each collection is created with intention, carefully considering how pieces could pair with one's existing wardrobe.

Rather than releasing "trendy" items, they slowly develop designs and produce each piece completely by hand, resulting in one-of-a-kind works of art that tell a story. By creating designs inspired by various cultures, Minimal Exposure also uncovers the similarities we all share as human beings.

“We aim to capture what it is that makes all of us so different yet showcase what brings us together. We are more alike than we think we are.”

— MINIMAL EXPOSURE

Minimal Exposure just launched the Musafir collection, which means "traveler." This new collection comprises of 7 versatile, interchangeable styles that make it easy to do more with less. To celebrate, they sent me the Nungwi Kimono to style for my travels. Constructed out of linen and rayon fibers, this kimono is the perfect "all season" piece. The rayon gives it a soft, beautiful drape, while the linen serves as a natural insulator, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

The Nungwi Kimono is the perfect travel companion, functioning as both a cozy blanket for long car rides and a light outer layer for exploring a new place. I took it for a spin on our recent outing to Sodus Point, New York, for a rather windy afternoon along Lake Ontario. To warm things up, I paired it with my go-to jumpsuit, a cozy beanie, booties, and thermal leggings (which I managed to keep hidden). When we got home, I changed into lounge clothes, and threw on the Nungwi Kimono for a cozy evening diving into a good book. I can already tell I'll be reaching for this simple piece quite a bit and am excited to experiment with it this fall and winter.