https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:58:36 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset/page/2#post-1729897 Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:31:52 +0000 Suz 1729897@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm a minimal maximalist. Mini-maxi?&nbsp;</p> <p>Anyway, what I mean is -- I tend to prefer clean lines. I don't dislike layers, per se -- for instance, I like to layer a jacket or pullover over a shirt, or a scarf over a pullover. But that's pretty much the extent of it, and that can only be done at certain times in the year. Too many visible layers, lots of jewellery, or even too hectic a pattern or too obvious a texture feels and looks "off" on me.&nbsp;</p> <p>And yet -- I <b>love</b> pattern mixing! Admittedly, my mixes are probably on the tame side -- stripes with florals or plaids or like colours with like. &nbsp;But it's still one way of going a bit more maximal. </p> <p>Another is drama. Aida already referred to this. Maybe the whole outfit is grey or navy but the collar is exaggerated, the shoes are pointy, the textures are varied.&nbsp;</p> <p>I like the jewellery advice, too. You don't need to pile it on if you make each piece chunky and give it importance.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset/page/2#post-1729888 Tue, 20 Sep 2016 23:13:01 +0000 Hitroy 1729888@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I prefer to change my look with bags and accessories. As I see a good luxury bag can turn any simple look to the trendy fashion side.<br />I have one Tiffany scarf that cost me a fortune. Even with 50% discount from&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.lxrco.com/">https://www.lxrco.com/</a>.<br />But when I wear it, I feel like a princess, and it can make any look </p> <p>better.</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset/page/2#post-1727568 Thu, 15 Sep 2016 16:36:24 +0000 tulle 1727568@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aida--Nothing so bad about it, and I used to think it would be fun, too.&nbsp; After all, I was an eccentric young lady!&nbsp; Now, though, in my mid-60s, as I see older women being patronized and generally not taken seriously, I find that preserving a bit of dignity has become more important to me. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727423 Thu, 15 Sep 2016 09:30:28 +0000 Style Fan 1727423@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not sure how the maximal trend will work for me.&nbsp; I am enjoying reading the suggestions on this thread.&nbsp; I like the look on others but I never seem to go that route.&nbsp; I may start wearing more jewellery.&nbsp; I pared down a few years ago.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727322 Thu, 15 Sep 2016 00:40:21 +0000 Alicewonderland 1727322@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm the same way, I have a hard time with layering and combinations, etc. Plus it doesn't work with my lifestyle and job. So pulling out the colorful scarves and jewelry will be as far as I go with the maximalism. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727270 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 22:24:17 +0000 Sal 1727270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love pattern and have a lot of it in my closet, I don't do a lot of pattern mixing though, only rarely. &nbsp;This is more how I get my maximal rather than layering...or a mix of textures.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727252 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 21:41:18 +0000 Aida 1727252@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mmmm I've always wondered what's so bad about being an eccentric old lady? Sounds fun. Pretty sure I'm headed that way </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727179 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 18:17:09 +0000 tulle 1727179@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You know, this topic was discussed in the Passage des Perles blog sometime ago, in reference to Jenna Lyons and her often un-matchy-to-the-extreme outfits.&nbsp; Some readers over 50 pointed out that, after a certain age, one wearing this sort of feverish color and pattern combo risks being taken for an eccentric old lady, or one whose eyesight is failing, anyway. Now that it's clear JL has anticipated a major trend, I plan to add a few (for me) slightly more maximal touches this season (mixed small prints, more fun jewelry, some colors just outside my comfort zone, bright accessories) but will stay clear of anything that could be called "hectic". </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727070 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 13:45:52 +0000 Sara L. 1727070@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is a great thread with some great advice.&nbsp; I'm not into layering either - I don't even usually add that "third" piece that's essential to so many fabbers.&nbsp; I do wear jewelry and scarves though to add some interest and pattern to my outfits.&nbsp; I'm not good at layers and generally don't like more than one color in an outfit so I'm not sure I'm going to be able to incorporate much maximalism into my style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727054 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 13:33:41 +0000 RobinF 1727054@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aida has some great suggestions. I'm not really into maximal either but I could see trying some of those. I will be really interested in seeing how some of you do the maximal thing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727042 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 13:08:25 +0000 Janet 1727042@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm not much into maximal or a lot of layering, but I will probably end up doing what Murph11 mentions above -- include a statement top or jacket with a lot of texture or pattern. Maybe pairing that with bolder footwear. Una, you have the advantage of being able to wear interesting leggings and pants, which gives you some more options. These days I run a bit warmer than I used to, so the idea of hectic layers makes me sweat. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727038 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 12:58:04 +0000 Murph11 1727038@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I even surprised myself how drawn I am to the TT maximal outfit (added below for reference). It's not really "me," but I'm interested in WHY I'm so taken w/ the jacket+pants combo. I also don't layer much, but will do a jacket, more for warmth and not as often as a completer-piece. Aida makes some great suggestions here! Maybe maximal stand-alone blouses are your solution. These appeal to me for their bold print, all-in-one pattern mixing, and texturing. Go BIG or go home! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1727026 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 12:03:35 +0000 Ledonna N. 1727026@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've been doing maximum for so long long it is like a second nature. </p> <p>I think there are many great examples here. </p> <p>With an added attached piece or bold and vibrant designs in one dress. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726996 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 10:19:10 +0000 Staysfit 1726996@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm another one who doesn't enjoy too many layers. I will pull on a topper for a/c, but most of the time it comes off if it's warm enough. I have tried various versions of pattern mixing. More recently I went bold, but I didn't like it. Even a subtle pattern mix is tough for me to stomach. The easiest way for me to manage a pattern mix is when my denim has a pattern. I have a pair of jeans with faded oval shaped polka dots. They pair well with patterned items. I think that's an example of my version of as maximal as I would get. I typically wear solids, so maybe adding some geometric patterns would be maximal. Another way to go maximal might be to add jewelry instead of layers or patterns. Bolder necklaces. Maybe larger earrings, although I don't like heavy earrings because they make my earlobes sag. Finally, bolder clothing details like exaggerated epaulettes on a simple garment could be another way. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726983 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 09:24:21 +0000 Anonymous 1726983@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think I am going to be able to do maximal looks. &nbsp;Too much going on. &nbsp;It would distress me. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726976 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 08:34:04 +0000 rachylou 1726976@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think Angie's word 'hectic' was good for a lot of this Fall's looks. There is maximal and there is 'hectic', that piling on of stuff. Clashing busy pattern that becomes harmonious works for me, but probably not double sweaters topped by a coat, belt, and lots of necklaces. I'm pretty sure I'd get tangled up. So I've been thinking 'ornamented pieces'...military braid, embroidery, texture (like Angie's blue AND black lace birthday dress), brocade, fancy buttons and to be sure, pattern.</p> <p>...is that what you just said? Lol </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726967 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 06:28:30 +0000 tulle 1726967@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I sigh over Pucci and Etro, too, though their large-scale patterns wouldn't really suit me, even if I could afford them. But Una, how about Diane Von Furstenberg?&nbsp; There are a bunch of her dresses, some in shapes and prints that would look great on you, on the Outnet site now, priced at around $200.&nbsp; Her "Alix" merino wool dress in black and red seemed especially comfortable, practical and dramatically patterned. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726966 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 06:06:46 +0000 catgirl 1726966@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ooh, Brooklyn I love it. The thing I am<br /> really after is some color... I always adore black and white patterns and default to them. Can't wait to see how you styled this! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726958 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 05:17:49 +0000 Brooklyn 1726958@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>AG, I also love Missoni, Etro and Pucci, and am constantly on the lookout for less spendy versions</p> <p>I recently got this jacket from H&amp;M. I thought you might like it. Still available on the US website but for some reason I cannot create a find. I have worn it and taken pics but&nbsp;have not had a chance to post them yet. I might try&nbsp;to&nbsp;later tonight. Possibly more geometric (and&nbsp;boho!) than&nbsp;you are looking for.</p> <p>Aida gives fantastic advice as usual.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726955 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 04:39:53 +0000 catgirl 1726955@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>AJ I don't think so - I've always loved maximal looks but finding the right cuts and prints remains a difficult task! I would like to find just one or two pieces to add in so I can be on board the trend...</p> <p>Aida, great suggestions, of course! Will see what I have in my closet for starters.... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726954 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 04:20:42 +0000 AJ 1726954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting...are you shifting away from UWP into a new style direction? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726901 Wed, 14 Sep 2016 01:32:07 +0000 Aida 1726901@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>For you to go more maximal, I'd say go for <i>bolder</i> overall. Don't mix your printed tops with plain pants, pick a color from the print and go with that (a crazy printed tunic with plain black pants is not particularly maximal). OR when you do tonal looks, go crazy with the textures involved -- don't wear all fine gauge or all chunky and be sure to get some shine in there.</p> <p>Also go for more <i>exaggeration</i>: Instead of bootcuts, opt for flares. If there's a cuff detail go for a larger more exaggerated one. Go for elephant wide legs if you're going wide. Skip the light embroidery and go for something more intricate and extensive. Things like that. Can be a bit tricky as petite but definitely doable!</p> <p>Mix hard and soft fabrics. Mix <i>lines</i> -- ruching, drape, crispness. And put them at interesting angles from each other. Asymmetrical always adds interest, you're good there.</p> <p>When you wear jewelry go big or go home! It can be simple, just bold (for example my "gold hoops" are a 3inch pair, and my "sparkly studs" are 2/3inch diameter. BIG.). Hardware always adds some extra maximal which you're already attracted to.</p> <p>Re prints, I think it takes a little extra time and work to seek out those types of printed pieces that appeal, unfortunately. Maybe ASOS or Shopbop or Yoox?</p> <p>EDIT: And of course items that are maximal on their own help too!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726810 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 20:37:46 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1726810@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>In the cooler season in particular, I think vibrant patterns and colors on coats and boots will let you wear simpler basics underneath. </p> <p>I love all those kinds of high end prints, too. I wish I'd gotten some Mary Katrantzou x Adidas when that collaboration was out. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726756 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:36:03 +0000 unfrumped 1726756@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I understand.<br /> I think you've had some good building blocks in prints and colors.<br /> Skull prints, Galaxy designs, large buffalo checks would fit in, especially if you took it a step further and did not try to keep the rest of the outfit so" quiet" as is often done with bold prints.<br /> The other thing j try to keep in mind is that on the runway or photo shot, things often have to be exaggerated for impact, while IRL we're up close, a smaller touches such as a cuff, or boot hardware, or less aggressive pattern- mixing, stand out more-- particularly if your " context" ( work or social) is not inherently maximal. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726754 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:32:59 +0000 crazyone 1726754@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I feel you, Una. &nbsp;I do *some* layering, for warmth--generally a topper, blouse, and bottom or a topper+dress in fall/winter/spring, but I don't love lots of layering and don't pile on the jewelry. &nbsp;I do however love pieces that are maximalist by themselves, even though I'm quite minimalist when it comes to jewelry. &nbsp;I'm looking forward to doing some fun pattern mixing now that it's officially fashion forward </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726752 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:30:44 +0000 Elizabeth P 1726752@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Another one who totally "gets" wearing one piece of clothing at a time.&nbsp; I always feel a bit inauthentic (is that a word?) when I try to layer... it just doesn't feel right on me.&nbsp; I can handle a cardigan in the fall/winter, but am no good with anything more than that. I think this is why I like summer dressing so much, the pressure is off! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726750 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:23:38 +0000 Kaelyn 1726750@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've been thinking about this, too! I'm a minimal-ish-ist at heart. I like simple, I don't like anything fussy, I don't like feeling weighed down by my clothes, but with maximalist looks trending, I'm playing with the idea of trying some. My solution is to try pairing pieces together that I normally wouldn't that have more design details. That way I won't have to put on more layers than are comfortable, but the visual impact will still be maximal. I'm planning on trying my snakeskin jacket with a very detailed skirt I have (with a black top to keep it grounded), for example. They're two pieces I'd consider 'statement' pieces that normally I'd wear with simple things so they're the focus. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726748 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:19:57 +0000 LaPed 1726748@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oy, that's a really good question. I've been seeing a lot of mixed-media garments this season, like the KK top above. Mobile so not even going to try to add Finds right now. I have a feeling that will be easy to find, if you decide it's your cuppa.</p> <p>Also, I feel similarly about torso-constriction, so I've always done a lot of my layering on the bottom, using skirts, tights, leggings, legwarmers, boots, etc. I know you rock puffy skirts in the winter, but what about, say, a wool jacquard Skhoop skirt paired with textured tights and boots? With longer skirts, you could always do a bit of lace peeking out from under the hem. </p> <p>Long ago, I used to wear these black rayon gauchos underneath a sparkly striped fairy-tea dress (I can't think of any other way to describe it). The lengths were just right together, and it gave the dress a little bit of body and volume, and made it wearable into colder fall days. Wish I had a picture! I'll probably be sitting out maximalism this time around, I'm just too much a pragmatist these days, but I'm looking forward to seeing some WIWs from others...</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726741 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 18:08:07 +0000 catgirl 1726741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aida, you do this look really well. I am specifically looking for more stand-alone prints and patterns, the more outrageous the better. Everything I like turns out to be McQueen or Missoni or Milly or Etro or Pucci. I do love those bright graphic prints, not geometric but organic like florals or digitized nature photos. They rarely translate down to ordinary retail in a way I love! </p> <p>Plaid and chevron is a bit easier to find, but that just-right print? And in an item I can afford and wear? Do advise! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ways-to-do-maximal-looks-with-a-minimal-mindset#post-1726736 Tue, 13 Sep 2016 17:51:46 +0000 Aida 1726736@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>(Will reply more later, but Minimally Maximal is one of my style statements! I also don't like layering, though of course do it sometimes esp. since we need jackets often in our climate. Maximal can easily be added with variable amounts mixing color, print, metals, textures, and the play between garment lines.) </p>