Ask The Expert: How to go all out with your dressing, the maximalist fashion way

Maximalist fashion calls for playing around with colours and prints for a standout look. Photo: Maarimaia

Ask The Expert is a column where we get experts to answer questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

For this round, May Tan, founder of local brand Maarimaia, gives her advice on maximalist fashion – the trend championing the idea that more is indeed more.

Do you have any styling tips for someone to adopt the maximalist fashion trend without looking silly? – MJ, PJ

Maximalism is not just a style in my opinion, it’s an attitude.

First question to ask would probably be: “Is the maximalist trend your personal style?”

I think the idea is to dress as authentically as possible, and to embrace self expression to feel confident with the way you look.

The maximalist idea is to be daring, vibrant and unique, so if that’s the look you’re going for just go all out!

Clash prints, bold colours , buckloads of accessories, and have fun with heaps of playful patterns.

Say yes to layering, add exaggerated shapes, play with textures , and most importantly wear it with confidence.

How can I effectively match clashing prints or play with contrasting colours in a single outfit? – Cindy, Penang

Colour theory would suggest to look at complementing colours in the colour wheel – that is, colours that sit across each other on the colour wheel would be a good bet.

With prints, it gets a lot more creative and personal, as what looks good to me might not look good to you.

The key to mastering maximalism lies in balancing the patterns while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic – a bold pattern with a slightly more classic print, for example.

A floral print with a plaid, might seem over the top but there’s a lot of power in selecting two prints that don’t share much commonalities.

Pare it down with a neutral clothing item or accessories to anchor the look, like jeans or a cap.

May Tan, founder of local brand Maarimaia, says to not overthink maximalist fashion and just have fun with your dressing. Photos Maarimaia

Read more: Why you should treat your socks like handbags – as flags of personality

What are your thoughts on layering? How would I go about it in Malaysia, which is so hot all the time? – HZ, Bangsar

Think breathable and lightweight.

Go for materials that are light and breezy; cottons, silks, linen, chambray are few good choices.

Think skin coverage too. For example, you can layer a silk camisole over a tank top and jeans, accessorise with belts and layers of jewellery to tie in the look.

Layering need not be too heavy or complicated, as long as it’s styled as a total look.

I don’t like bright colours, and instead prefer black or grey clothes. How do I stand out with my outfits in this case? – Peggy, Ipoh

There are loads of ways to make monochromatic looks appear cool.

There is a difference between just wearing a black T-shirt and jeans, and styling black T-shirt and jeans .

An easy way would again be to accessorise, adding layers of jewellery and belts or hats.

I would think about the total look, down to the shoes and even the make up.

Throw in some different textures, denim paired with multiple sheer layers, or a silk contrasted with a voluminous skirt with boots.

Contrast in textures and shapes can create a very impactful look while still sticking to the same monochromatic colour family.

I’m a big supporter of sustainable fashion. Is there such a thing as a conscious maximalist? – Theresa, Klang

You can create a sustainable maximalist style through recycled fashion, one easy way is to raid your parents or grandparents closet for items that are vintage.

Another way would be to clothes swap, or shop in a thrift store.

Vintage clothes and accessories are perfect for the maximalist trend.

The fashion archives of the past can offer way more authentic shapes, textures and colours that you can utilise for layering or pulling together a look.

Can I have a maximalist capsule wardrobe? Isn’t maximalism the direct opposite of reducing the number of clothes you own? – Nurul, Kota Bahru

The idea of maximalist trend is not to maximise the number of clothes you have, but to maximise the looks that you put together to create an impactful impression.

It is about mixing and matching – so, invest in a few key items that you can put in rotation to create various looks.

The idea here is to experiment and enjoy the creative process of matching or clashing looks from the pieces of clothing in your wardrobe.

Layer differently or style your hair differently and you will have a total new look each time, even with the same pieces of clothing, but always think of the complete look from top to bottom so it is coherent.

Read more: Want a look where you can totally go wild? Check out the Harajuku style

Can I get advice on accessorising for a maximalist fashion look? What are the dos and don’ts? – Prima, PJ

The whole idea of maximalist fashion is self expression, so I would say the only “don’t” is to not accessorise.

Accessories in maximalist style is not just an afterthought, they are core and integral elements that enhances and pulls together the entire look.

No maximalist outfit is complete without some statement accessories; I personally like to contrast the accessories to the outfit .

Think heavy silver jewellery and some eccentric footwear with a feminine dress, or bows and dainty jewellery with a T-shirt and cargos outfit.

At the end of the day, maximalist trend is not really for the faint of heart, it’s for those who dare to be different, who embrace individuality and wants to show up in your most extravagant unapologetic self.

There are no rules, so just enjoy the whole creative process and have fun.

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