Some ensembles are classic with nothing screaming for attention, while others draw the eye in with a riot of color and pattern. The difference between minimalist and maximalist fashion is found in these extremes, and neither one is lesser for its perceived simplicity or extravagance.
Dressing minimally is all about the tailoring, quality of fabric and limited color palettes, whereas maximalism is characterized by the use of bright colors, patterns, multiple textures and accessories. Both approaches to dressing are undeniably stylish, but only if the individual elements seem to complement each other.
For people who want to achieve an understated look, it is all about picking the right pieces in an equally fitting size. Those who want to go all out, by contrast, should focus on choosing a color scheme or theme and developing a look around it. Eight outfits below are great examples of the minimalist and maximalist approaches to dressing, as well as a few combinations in which the two can be found in equal parts.
What Is Minimalist Fashion?
Minimalist fashion is about getting the most out of the least. Rather than relying on busy prints and lots of embellishment, minimalist style uses silhouette, fabric and proportion to make an outfit come to life.
Black, white, grey, navy, camel and cream are all popular choices, but minimalist doesn't mean that your wardrobe has to be neutered. A simple outfit in deep burgundy or forest green looks every good if the silhoutte and styling is kept simple.
A few things make the difference: clothes that fit properly, fabrics that hang well, a palette that is easy to mix and match, and accessories that are worn with some restraint.
When buying minimalist clothing that is of high quality, look past the tag. Look at how the fabric feels and flows, inspect the seams and hems, and make sure that you can move comfortably in the garment. Our guide to types of tops for women is a useful starting point for building everyday outfits.
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Minimalist Fashion Outfits That Look Expensive
1. The Ivory Tonal Column
Pin itThe look consists of a fine knit ivory top paired with ivory wide leg trousers in a slightly different fabric. Pale tan leather mules and thin silver ring complete the look.
Though the two items are the same color, the slight difference in fabric gives the outfit variety without clashing. Check the trousers in bright light before going out, as wrinkles and the see-through fabric will stand out on pale colors.
2. White Shirt, Black Trousers and Pointed Flats
Pin itA crisp white poplin shirt, black straight-leg pants, black point flats, and tiny gold studs will complete an everyday look in a perfect smart way.
As for the fit, the ratio is more important than the amount. One can try to push the cuffs up once and let the shirt hang loosely in the front, not tucking it all the way.
3. Camel Coat Over Grey Marl
Pin itI love this look! It's a really cool mix of casual and smart-chic. Wear a long camel coat over a grey marl crewneck and darker grey straight-leg jeans. Add white leather sneakers to finish off the look.
The three neutral shades are the perfect mix. The look is put together with the coat but still has that everyday cool factor with the jeans and white sneakers. Make sure the sneakers are kept clean and the coat is left open to show off the different layers.
4. Charcoal Knit Midi With a Gold Cuff
Pin itWear a fitted charcoal knit midi dress and tall, flat black leather boots with one wide gold cuff.
The dark silhouette is the primary focus, but the cuff is the perfect contrast without going overboard. Subtle earrings (or none at all) can complement a dress with various types of neckline.
For help comparing dress silhouettes, see our guide to types of dresses for women.
Maximalist Style: Four Outfits That Make a Statement
Maximalism dressing allows for self-expression but more color and accessories don't always add up to a better-looking outfit. Shared colors, repeated motifs or contrasting elements can all help to make an outfit with multiple eye-catching elements come together as a whole.
If retro-inspired dressing appeals to you, our retro chic style guide has more ideas for building an outfit around a strong aesthetic.
Pin it5. Clashing Prints in One Colour Family
Tuck a navy polka dot blouse into a red and navy striped midi skirt and finish the look with cherry-red kitten heels.
The two garments are using the same two colors but the fact that their print sizes are different makes the blouse and skirt complement each other. The small dots are a nice contrast to the wide stripes because they make details more distinct instead of fighting for attention in a busy design.
Keep your bag simple and focus on the combo of two prints. For more silhouette options, explore our guide to types of skirts for women.
6. Colour-Block Brights
Try fuchsia wide leg trousers with a fitted tangerine knit, a lilac satin bag, green drop earrings and metallic sandals.
It's a bold combination, but each piece plays a different role. The fitted knit balances the volume of the trousers, and the bag and earrings add the extra colour. Keeping the shapes of your clothes relatively simple lets the palette shine.
It's a good starting point if you love colour, but are yet to fall foul to the complexities of mixing prints.
7. Embroidered Jacket Over Dark Jeans
Wear a jewel-tone embroidered jacket worn over a plain white T-shirt, with dark jeans, tan ankle boots, and a pair of big earrings.
The jacket is what gives the entire look its personality. The white T-shirt and dark jeans provide a more ordinary foundation, allowing the embroidery to be worn throughout the day rather than saving it for a night out.
For more denim combinations, see our guide to what to wear with dark jeans.
8. Emerald Velvet With Mixed Accessories
Pin itAn emerald velvet midi dress forms the foundation of this look, accented by a printed silk scarf tied at the waist, chunky mixed-metal jewellery, patterned tights and metallic loafers.
Lots going on here, so take note of the ways in which the elements complement each other – the print of the scarf, the texture of the velvet and the sparkle of the jewellery. You can personalise this look in a number of ways by switching up the scarf or tights, while keeping the dress as your centrepiece.
For another take on statement footwear, explore our guide to how to wear loafers with jeans.
How to Mix Minimalist and Maximalist Styles
You don't need to pick only one aesthetic and go from there. The simple wardrobe can be a beautiful backdrop for your more expressive accessory, and your elaborately decorated outfit can need some help from a more conservative piece.
Start with something simple- Dark jeans and a basic top would do well with either a printed scarf, an embroidered jacket, or large earrings.
Repeat one color- Use a color from a patterned piece of clothing in either your shoes or bag, it can help tie the whole look together
Pick one place for the eye to settle- If you're wearing colorful pants, keep the top simple. If the embroidery on your jacket is taking center piece, let it do that.
Do a final check- Put on the whole outfit, and take off one accessory. Which looks better? Usually, the extra is what helps the outfit shine, but sometimes it just doesn't fit.
The Takeaway
Minimalist fashion and maximalist style are not really based on completely different rules. Both approaches need the confidence of knowing that your message has been conveyed.
A tonal outfit can look spectacular on you due to the balance of the parts. As for the over-accessorized, contrasting look, it can also be thought through a harmony of certain types or textures. All that is necessary for fashion is for the stylist to know where to start and where to take it from there.
So, if you like minimalist clothing, try experimenting with maximalist elements in your hair or makeup to highlight some important details. On the contrary, if you prefer an extravagant and bright look, try tying it all together with more minimalist elements to keep it fresh!
