“Is this too much?” and Other Notes on Maximalism

Jan 5

By Nicole Le Mesurier

Maximalist fashion screams bold prints and bright and exuberant colours. Here, more is better and those who pull off this trend seem to rock it fearlessly. But perhaps for some, like myself, an internal dialogue threatens to judge it. Although I’ve always struggled to describe my style, one commonality that my outfits have are boldness and colour-coordination. I tend to style outfits based on how the colours look together, and am more concerned with print rather than form. However, modern trends, along with my time studying in Sweden, have given me a new-found appreciation for minimalist fashion. I find myself constantly asking my friends, “Is this outfit too much?” But what defines “too much”? Is it that it’s too much for the strangers walking past me? Or that I’m being too loud, taking up too much space? Style is so personal that in some ways, these concepts don’t have to exist.

What I love the most about maximalism is that it is completely expressive and there are no rules inhibiting you. Mixing colours and prints together makes the simple act of getting dressed in the morning something exciting. I see clothing as a personality, and maximalism really allows you to show snippets of your self, as there is a story behind each piece of clothing you choose to wear and a new depth to everything. There is this individuality that comes with it, and no look is the same. While minimalism is by no means boring, maximalism exudes fun and excitement. It’s eclectic and the best type of loud.

I can see why maximalism isn’t for everyone, as sometimes a look can come across as chaotic and messy. I’ve struggled myself with this issue, not knowing if what I’m wearing is stylish or simply makes me look as if I just rolled out of bed. Below are some of my notes on constructing your own maximalist look.