W RITTEN BY KATE TOCKE

Photos By Meg Rees

Out with the bore in with the more. Fashion allows us to freely express ourselves in any and every way we desire. Our style divides us into categories that define us by the aesthetic we feel fits us best. Trends come and go like the seasons; we are constantly on the edge of our seats waiting to see what is now considered the hottest. Clashing patterns, colors and objects make the trend which preaches the motto “more is more.” When it comes to putting together an outfit that fits this fashion, the stylist puts their main focus on creating an art piece. The whole idea of styling an outfit you think others would like is thrown out the window because a maximalist outfit is abstract and different. It portrays a look you would never expect and that’s what makes it so unique.

Maximalism is the style that has probably caught your eye many times before. In the past year or so we have seen the trend of maximalism take the place of minimalism in the matter of fashion. That trend focused on keeping the outfit to—you guessed it—a minimum, but maximalism is currently taking over with outrageous yet stylish looks. When you see someone rocking this aesthetic you will most likely observe a mix of camp patterns, such as an abundance of floral prints and extreme colors. To some it might seem like too much is going on within the outfit, but that is part of the whole idea, to create an art piece within the look.

You may find yourself asking the question: how can one incorporate this kind of chaotic style into an everyday outfit? The main components of this look are layering and the mix of prints and patterns that will catch anyone’s eye. Adding layers to a maximalist look is important as they will draw attention to many different points in the outfit. Colors are key when it comes to this craftsmanship. However, you don’t need bright colors in the look for it to be considered maximalism. You can create a piece that is strictly black and white while incorporating abstract patterns or accessories to give it that maximalist vibe. Bringing these fun elements to the look also brings a whole new perspective.

Along with fashion invoking a feeling of love or hate, it can also remind you of something. The mix of patterns and colors triggers a sense of nostalgia for many and puts maximalism in the category dubbed “kidcore.” Many influencers fall into that trend using nostalgia. @Tinyjewishgirl on TikTok is one of the best known online personalities who displays a maximalist, nostalgic look perfectly. Not only does she incorporate the basic building blocks of a maximalist defined outfit, but when it comes to accessorizing an outfit she does not play around. Whether it is an insane pair of chunky shoes or a jacket that has actual teddy bears attached to it, she doesn’t shy away from this trend. She also stimulates that sense of nostalgia with her jewelry. Most of the necklaces and rings she tends to style are ones that would be described as Pretty Pretty Princess jewelry. These pieces are colorful and transport you back to that specific time in your childhood of playing dress up and taking it very seriously.

Another maximalist fashionista is Sara Camposarcone. She truly defines maximalism and kidcore in her sublime outfits. On her TikTok and Instagram you will find her teaching viewers how to style an intense maximalist outfit while proudly showing off her artistic looks. Her accessories might transport you back to your childhood. Often, she is seen rocking earrings that resemble a certain object or food which gives off that kidcore vibe, such as large lettuce earrings or earrings with crocs on them. Sara is a professional when it comes to styling a nostalgic outfit.

She takes the aesthetic very seriously.

From hair to make up to nails, she makes sure every aspect of her look defines maximalism. You can find her rockin’ green or pink dyed hair and make up that included bright eye shadows and intense blush. She was recently seen at New York fashion week this year sporting this style, therefore proving to us that we can see maximalism anywhere.

Look for this style anywhere, from the streets of your hometown to the red carpet at the Grammys. Fashion is about expressing yourself through clothing and maximalism does that perfectly. Fashion is about being personal and confident. Fashion is subjective and you should wear whatever you feel looks the best. Some may call it bad taste or too much, but this style is simply an art form and will only keep getting bigger. Fashion should not be put in a box. For now, more is more.