Maximalism VS. Minimalism
More is more or less is more? That is the question, but what’s the answer? Well, it all depends on who you’re asking. Speaking as a non-biased onlooker, we have noticed that when it comes to design and fashion people usually fall within one category or the other, but which school of style reigns supreme? On one hand we have minimalism which strictly adheres to the idea of using only what one truly needs. Ridding ourselves of excess belongings, accessories and clothing and sticking to the basics allows us to focus on the things that really matter in life. Whereas maximalism is the exact opposite. Maximalism calls upon textures, colors and shapes to express what our subconscious mind wants to say. This school of design shouts from the rooftops, or in this case our bedroom walls and closet, and says, “this is me, and all of my interests!” The excess is all the better when you’re a maximalist.
Not sure which style is you? Looking to switch from an exuberant lifestyle to a more contained one? Or are you looking to go overkill with color and daring fabrics? We have a few beginner’s tips on how to make the transition from your comfort zone, whether it's minimalist or maximalist. We rounded up a few key points on how to make that change. To start, we want to emphasize that leading a minimalist lifestyle isn’t about purging your belongings, but rather eliminating the “noise” and clutter from your life. When it comes to fashion, minimalism really shows up in the color palette of your wardrobe. Neutral colors, clean lines and simple understated jewelry are your best friends. The French say that before you leave the house, you take a look in the mirror and remove one item from your outfit, this in a nutshell is a great rule of thumb when taking a minimalist approach when it concerns clothing. We know that fashion is cyclical, old trends become new again as years pass and we have a new resurgence of styles that we almost forgot about. In the 90s, it seemed like designers such as Calvin Klein and DKNY were the kings of minimalism, then the 2000s came in and out went the simple and elegant. In recent years, that underwhelming sense of simplicity has made its way back into the hearts of designers and the “less is more” mantra has returned.
Minimalism focuses on the essentials; pieces that all work together and can be interchanged to create an outfit that just “works” every time no matter the combination of pieces you pull from your closet. Sticking to basic tees, a couple of good jackets and sweaters as well as a couple pairs of bottoms like jeans and joggers and you’re set. Minimalists don’t fret over accessories like hats, scarves, and excessive jewelry but rather they focus on items that aren’t distracting and serve a purpose. Okay, minimalism is starting to sound very utilitarian and in a way it is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it, but perhaps it's not as fun if you were a maximalist. Maximalism, in a nutshell is the exact opposite of minimalism. Do you enjoy patterns, color and texture?
Are you drawn to bold accessories and clothing that make adventurous and daring statements? If you are, then you my friend are a student of the school of maximalism. Now, maximalists aren’t messy or even victims of clutter, but they are fascinated by constant change and diversity in their lifestyles. Our primary tip for a minimalist lifestyle is that more is more and it's never too much. Let your creative mind run free and lose the restrictions you previously held when it comes to putting together outfits and decorating. If a color or pattern speaks to you, then answer it with open arms and an open heart. Forget about rules that say matching is a must and run wild and fearless when adding accessories and color to your closet. Maximalism makes it possible to let your true character shine through and abandons restrictions that minimalists follow. Being a maximalist is about going big or not going out at all, because what’s the point if you can’t be your authentic expressive self?
The great thing about all of this? It’s never too late to change from maximalism to minimalism and back again. Hell, if the fashion industry can do it, so can we! And what’s even better is that both of these styles lie within each of us. Being human means we are full of contradictions and we can exercise and express each at any given moment on any day. If you’re feeling bright and bold then go for that boho skirt and tie-dye knit sweater. Feeling quiet and collected? Grab that muted gray tee and gray slack and call it a day. Whichever way you play it, follow your heart and create a vibe that expresses who you are to the world. So, which is it today? Minimalist or maximalist?
xo
SS
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