Maximalism: More is More!
Move over, minimalism—this season is all about bold, expressive, and abundant fashion! Maximalism encourages creativity, from vibrant prints and rich textures to layered accessories and statement details. It’s a celebration of more—more color, more pattern, and more personality.
Whether you’re mixing bold prints, upcycling with decorative patches, or stacking statement jewelry, this trend invites you to have fun with fashion. If you love making a statement, this trend is for you!
At Style School 2025, we explored how Maximalism looks different for each Type—and how you can make this trend work while staying true to your energy.
In this article, you’ll see each Dressing Your Truth Expert showcase three outfits per Type—first styled in a minimalist way, then transformed into a full maximalist expression. This side-by-side approach highlights how just one extra detail—a bold accessory, a pattern mix, or a pop of color—can completely elevate a look. It’s not about doing more for the sake of it—it’s about doing more with purpose.
Type 1 – Jaleah: Playful, Bright, and Expressive
“When I set out to embrace the maximalism trend, I didn’t buy anything new—I went straight to my closet. I started with simple, go-to pieces I already love and wear often. Then I challenged myself to think differently: What if I changed this neutral top out for a bolder colored shirt? What if I layered in a bright vest or added statement accessories I usually save for special occasions? Maximalism, for me, became about experimenting—mixing prints, adding color, and stacking layers—to create looks that felt expressive, energized, and uniquely mine. Each outfit became a chance to play and see just how far I could stretch my style while still feeling like me.”
Outfit #1
This look started with an easy base: a solid neutral top and denim. But I didn’t stop there. I reached for a darling yellow vest that had been waiting for the right moment, and it changed everything. The layered color and ruffles elevated the whole outfit—without feeling overdone. I also added a more playful sandal! A pop of color in the accessories finished it off and pulled the look together. This is my kind of maximalism: playful, expressive, and still completely me.
Outfit #2
This outfit is a great example of letting one piece lead the way. I started with the patterned pants—playful, high-energy, and just asking to be noticed. Instead of toning them down, I kept the momentum going by pairing them with a bright pink blouse and a contrasting white belt. The bold color + print + texture combo could have felt overwhelming, but because each piece works in harmony, it’s daring without trying too hard. Maximalism doesn’t have to mean chaos—it’s about creating intentional energy.
Outfit #3
This look is all about layering with purpose. I started with a basic navy skirt—simple, classic, and a true blank canvas. From there, I built in unexpected personality: a patterned tank, standout jewelry, and a colorful shoe that adds interest. Each layer brought something new to the table, turning a basic outfit into a curated expression of style. That’s the heart of maximalism—being willing to go a step further and let every piece say something.
Type 2 – Anne: Flow, Texture, and Harmonious Surprises
“I had so much fun creating these ‘maximalist’ outfits! I went into my closet, pulled out a few patterned pieces, and then challenged myself to take each look a little further. That’s really the heart of maximalism—more. More texture, more detail, more personality. Pushing myself to think outside the box led to combinations I never would have tried otherwise—and that’s exactly what Style School is all about: trying new things and discovering what you love.”
Outfit #1
I started with my wide-leg overalls—flowy and full of movement. Normally, I’d pair them with something simple. But embracing the “more is more” mindset, I swapped in a patterned top with gentle texture and a statement collar. Suddenly, the look felt elevated, unique, and still true to my Type 2 energy.
Outfit #2
This one features a bold patterned dress (yes, that’s a dress, not a skirt!) layered under a subtle striped top. The pattern mixing adds beautiful movement and visual interest, while the statement sleeves and tie bring in texture and shape. If you’re thinking it might be too much for a Type 2, take a closer look: the pattern in the dress is bold, yes—but it’s still in Type 2 tones, just deeper and slightly larger in scale. The soft stripe ties it all together, creating that gentle harmony we love.
Outfit #3
This final look was a playful experiment! The first version is soft, flowy, and relaxed—a classic Type 2 favorite. But then I asked myself, how can I add just a little more? Enter pink pants (more color!), a belt (more texture!), and a hat (more fun and flair!). I love both versions equally, but the maximalist one feels bold and fashion-forward while still aligned with my style.
Type 3 – Carol: Texture, Contrast, and Dynamic Intention
“When I first heard ‘Maximalism,’ I thought: finally, a trend that matches my energy! This isn’t about throwing on more just for the sake of it—it’s about choosing impactful pieces that tell a bold story. I looked for high texture, rich color, and strong pattern—then pushed myself to add one more unexpected element. It’s powerful, it’s expressive, and when done right, it moves with intention. That’s the magic of Maximalism for a Type 3.”
Outfit #1
Multiple textures, pattern and even patches are what create a maximalist look in this outfit. Rich textures include a corduroy blazer, denim jeans, a sheen blouse. With the swift bold pattern in the blouse, and the multiple patterns in the patches, this adds to a higher level of movement. Adding animal print loafers are my nod to my Type 3 rich and dynamic personality that my outfit supports.
Outfit #2
Animal print with stripes? I didn’t believe it myself until I tried it. Mixing these dynamic patterns actually worked when I added the rich texture of a well-worn denim jacket. My cow print earrings add more personality and movement, and with so much going on, I went with a simple blue pendant necklace and a pair of neutral brown platform sandals.
Outfit #3
Can a Type 3 add some bling to her outfit? If she is going for a maximalist look, yes, she can! Rich textures with the sequin addition to a neutral tan blazer, distressed jeans bring together this maximalist look. A simple neutral blouse in our wheat white that matches the simple lace-up casual tennis shoes are bookends to stabilize all that is going on with the jacket and jeans.
Type 4 – Kalista: Clean Lines, Strategic Drama, and Sophisticated Impact
“Maximalism for Type 4 is about precision with power. I didn’t want chaos—I wanted clarity with impact. I asked myself: how can I make this look bold and expressive, but still refined and clean? For me, it came down to strategic color use, distinct pattern, and confident structure. It’s not just more—it’s more on purpose.”
Outfit #1
A bold black-and-white floral dress makes a strong base, elevated with pink accessories and shiny sandals. Every detail is placed with intention—no clutter, just contrast and clarity. This look speaks volumes without losing structure.
Outfit #2
This high-contrast black-and-white striped top meets a saturated red skirt for an iconic Type 4 palette. Bold earrings and a red headband add vibrancy while staying polished. It’s precise, powerful, and still expressive.
Outfit #3
This third look lets color do the talking: emerald green pants meet a black floral top, paired with a silver collar necklace and detailed flats. Strong structure, minimal fuss, and maximum impact.
Style School Pro Tip
Create your own Maximalist vs. Minimalist comparison! Style a look both ways and observe how each version reflects different facets of your Type. It’s a fun way to stretch your creativity and develop confidence in bold expression.
Celebrate the Power of “More”
Maximalism isn’t about being loud—it’s about being more you. More pattern, more color, more movement, more expression. Whether that means adding one new accessory or restyling something familiar in a bold new way, let Style School 2025 inspire you to go just one step further.
We’ve shown you how “more” can still be completely true to your Type. Now we’d love to see what your maximalist looks like. Post a picture in our Lifestyle Facebook group.
