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How to find balance with Minimalism and Maximalism

How to find balance with Minimalism and Maximalism

Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Can they really work together?

Hello Fashion Friends - Hopefully you all had a lovely weekend! Here in Minneapolis we had magical weather. You know, the high 70’s with the golden sun pouring through the leaves, casting delicate dancing shadows across the ground, with just the right kind of breeze to keep you cool just when needed….. :-) Anyways, we’re here to talk about Fashion and Style, not the weather. So, let’s get straight to it. Is it possible to find equilibrium between the simplicity of less and the delight of more? Let's get into this….

In the Fashion Ring: Minimalism vs. Maximalism

Now, you know I love contrast when it comes to styling. So what better contrast is there to talk about than minimalism and maximalism. Two dramatically different style ideologies but each just as engaging. With each being at the different ends of the spectrum it seems unlikely you could ever find common ground. However, with two extremes teetering on their opposite ends of the scale you have balance. That is if they work together….wow, wouldn’t that solve a lot of problems.

Clarisse Meyer on Unsplash

Refreshing Minimalism

Imagine a breath of fresh air sweeping through a room. That's minimalism. It's about decluttering your wardrobe, allowing for subtlety to be the star, and the power of understatement. The minimalist isn't about being dull or mundane. Oh no my friend! It's a celebration of simplicity. It's about owning pieces that speak volumes in whispers, with clean lines, quiet colors, and an absence of excessive ornamentation.

Bold Maximalism

On the other end of the room we have Maximalism. Think of it as the fashion equivalent of a dazzling fireworks display. This style philosophy thrives on audacious colors, bold patterns, and opulence in every layer. Maximalism is a stage where everyone is invited to stand out and be seen. It's about saying, "I am here!" with unabashed self-expression.

Counterpoint Tango

Now, the million-dollar question: Can these two contrasting styles exist harmoniously?….of course! Just like most collaborations of opposites…..what do you think most marriages are! Fashion, like life, thrives on balance. Imagine a neatly tailored white shirt blooming with a vibrant, intricate skirt, or a pair of minimalist trousers accented with bold, statement accessories. This delightful tension sparks an exciting fashion dialogue that is both compelling and unique.

Is this the secret to your Signature Style?

The dance between less and more is a personal journey, and the dance floor is your wardrobe. I think for me, for a long time I thought I had to be one or the other. But I soon realized that with such defining commitment to one or the other…you lose who you are. I found that when I let both sides speak to each other, the conversation became more interesting. Now, in my style I’d say ironically my minimalist side usually speaks louder. But, she always leaves room for the maximalist side to bring in that creative voice.

Start by exploring your minimalist side. You may find your foundation in the timeless and simplistic with key pieces that whisper elegance. When you're ready, unleash your maximalist. Dazzle with vibrancy (or edge in my case), statement pieces, and unexpected pairings. The goal isn't to adhere strictly to one side, but to create your own conversation that tells a story about who you are through the diversity of fashion.

Nicolas Ladino Silva on Unsplash

The Unexpected Pairing

Minimalism and maximalism are not opposing forces; they can learn from each other. Minimalism teaches us the power of restraint, while maximalism infuses our style with energy and excitement. I never like restricting myself to one side because I fade into the expected. When I play within the range, you never know where you might find me….unexpected but always finding that balance.

Quick Tips: How to Blend Minimalism and Maximalism

Nicolas Ladino Silva on Unsplash

Start with a minimalistic base: I always suggest this for any style type because I feel like it starts you off with a blank canvas you can paint different pictures on depending on your mood.

Interchangeable statements: If you want flexibility in your maxi side, choose statement pieces you can interchange with different outfits. This way you get the most use out of it. So maybe it’s a bold printed blazer, yes! That can easily go with multiple different minimalistic based outfits.

Favorite Fashion Finds

A few things I am loving this week:

Hayley Menzies Cotton Jacquard Duster

She is a spendy one but I looove the quality and the statement these pieces make. This is a perfect example of a maximalist piece you can invest in that can be layered with your minimalist pieces.

Here is a Summer alternative

All Saints Aleida Linen Blend Leopard Print Blazer

She's a wild one but wild meets the sophisticated blazer. Along with that leopard print is timeless so you can invest in the maxi magic and know you can rock it for years to come.

Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women

She's here to inspire us.

Something That Inspired Me

"Fashion is like eating. You shouldn't stick with the same menu." - Kenzo Takada

This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of this issue, experiment and find your unique balance between minimalism and maximalism.

Your Weekly Homework

Identify your minimalist pieces and then your maximalist pieces. Try on an outfit with a maximalist base and minimalist layer. Then try on a minimalist base with a maximalist layer. See how making this contrast you can create even more diversity in your wardrobe.

Track I Am Enjoying

Shop for Quality

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