One of the most consistent trends in recent years is, without a doubt, minimalism. Minimalism focuses on going back to the basics, and with the trend’s financial ease and Zen-like feel, it wasn’t a hard sell. However, in more recent fashion and design trends, it’s wild-child sister is making an appearance- maximalism. Here’s a rundown of both, and why one might be the better choice for you.
What’s the difference?
The basic styles of both minimalism and maximalism can pretty much be implied from the name- minimalism holds the idea that less is more, and maximalism believes more is better. But more specifically, minimalism and maximalism have different color pallets, inspirations, and signature pieces associated with them.
Minimalism is sleek, modest, and classy- in interior design, it displays modern decorum with a neutral color pallet- browns, whites, blacks, and grays- and an occasional pop of color. Minimalist fashion is usually purposefully simplistic, with one or two pieces with neutral colors- popular pieces are tailored jackets, wide-legged pants, and form-fitting tops or dresses. The style is modeled after the post-1950s abstract art scene, and the simplicity of the design is intended to exude a feeling of calmness and peace, and let the space speak for itself.
Maximalism is quite the opposite- it boasts bright, primary colors, and intends to fill any empty space with eclectic, bold décor. In fashion, outfits usually exaggerate a figure, with popular pieces such as huge jackets with a thick belt, bell bottoms, and every pattern imaginable. Maximalism takes inspiration from a few different periods in history and essentially puts pieces from different previous trends into one- ranging from the Victorian era to the 80s disco. The trend is appealing because it doesn’t care about sticking to a strict style, and allows for much more freedom of expression.
So, what’s better?
There are benefits to adopting both styles. Minimalism is all about having order and cleanliness in your style, and the simple nature of it requires someone to get rid of things they might not need. If you have trouble with buying too much and never using it (and we’ve all been there), or need a little more organization in your life, maybe give minimalism a shot.
In a dorm room, go with more neutral bedding and decor, and add small pops of color, like plants or fairy lights. Maximalism, however, allows someone to display anything that they find interesting in a room or an outfit, without fear of ruining an aesthetic (because that is the aesthetic). Pieces of décor or clothing don’t necessarily have to “match”, so for those who have trouble sticking to one style, consider maximalism.
To add maximalism in a dorm, go for a bold color or patterned bedding and add plants, posters, mirrors, etc. to your space. Extra throw pillows always add some spice, too.