Maximalism is making a comeback, and here is how to wear it right. For many of us, the idea of piling on patterns, colors, and textures can feel intimidating. It seems like a style reserved for the fashion elite or those with a fearless spirit. But as stylist Larissa Mills demonstrates, maximalist dressing is not about chaos. It is about intention, joy, and a few clever tricks that work at any age. Whether you are 25 or 65, these five maximalist styling tips can help you build outfits that feel vibrant, personal, and completely your own.
How Do You Mix Multiple Patterns Without Creating Chaos?
Mixing patterns is the cornerstone of maximalist dressing, but it can easily go wrong. When stripes, florals, and plaids clash, the result is visual noise. The secret lies in a single, simple rule. Larissa Mills explains that when you combine different prints, they must all share a similar colour wave. This creates a sense of rhythm and balance, even when the patterns themselves are very different.
Imagine a floral blouse with soft pinks, muted greens, and cream. Pair it with a striped skirt that also contains those same soft pinks and creams. The prints are distinct, but the colours connect them. The eye sees harmony, not conflict. This approach works because it turns the outfit into a cohesive piece of art. The patterns become intrigue through texture, but there is still a steady visual thread holding everything together.
For someone new to this technique, start small. Try a striped top with a polka dot scarf. Make sure both items share at least one colour. As you gain confidence, you can add a third pattern, like a plaid blazer. The key is to check your colours first. If they are in the same family, the patterns will almost always cooperate.
How Can the Color-Averse Add a Pop of Color?
Not everyone feels comfortable diving headfirst into a rainbow wardrobe. Some people genuinely prefer neutrals and quiet tones. But even the most dedicated minimalist can enjoy a small dose of colour. According to Larissa Mills, the easiest entry point is makeup. Red lips and red nails are a tiny addition, but they have an enormous visual impact. They act as a signature, a focal point that draws the eye without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul.
This approach is especially helpful for those who want to experiment with maximalist styling tips without buying new clothes. A bold lip colour can transform a simple white shirt and jeans into a statement look. Red nails add a pop of energy to a grey sweater or a black dress. It is a low-commitment, high-reward strategy.
Another simple trick is to use a small amount of colour in your layering. A bright polo shirt worn under a neutral blazer can provide a surprising flash of vibrancy. Even socks can do the trick. A pair of colourful socks peeking out from under tailored trousers adds personality without overwhelming the outfit. The idea is to start with the smallest possible addition and see how it feels. For the colour-averse, this is a safe and effective way to dip a toe into the maximalist pool.
What Do You Invest In for a Minimal Wardrobe?
Maximalism is often associated with having a lot of stuff. But Larissa Mills offers a different perspective. She believes that you can have a minimal wardrobe and still look maximalist, provided you invest in the right pieces. Her focus is on jewellery and bags. She explains that even with jeans and a simple tank top, great jewellery and a great bag make the outfit complete.
This is a powerful idea. It means you do not need a closet full of clothes to express a bold personal style. You need a few high-quality, eye-catching accessories. A chunky gold necklace, a stack of rings, or a sculptural handbag can carry the entire visual weight of an outfit. The rest of the clothing can be simple, even basic.
For Larissa, this strategy also makes practical sense. She is not a slave to labels. She buys what she likes, regardless of the designer, and she is happy when it is affordable. The key is to choose accessories that feel special and meaningful. A well-chosen piece of jewellery can be worn for decades. A quality bag can be the centrepiece of countless outfits. By directing your budget toward these items, you create a wardrobe that feels rich and expressive, even if the number of garments is small.
How Do You Refresh Old Clothes Without Buying New?
One of the most sustainable and creative aspects of maximalist dressing is the ability to refresh existing clothes. Larissa Mills demonstrates this by changing proportions. A sweater that used to hang loosely at the hips can feel completely new when you tuck it in and add a statement belt. This simple adjustment changes the silhouette and gives the outfit a current feel. She notes that proportion and general silhouettes are a way of staying on trend without purchasing anything new.
Belts are a versatile tool for this. A wide leather belt can cinch a cardigan or a dress, creating a defined waist. A chain belt can add a touch of glamour to high-waisted trousers. Even a fabric sash can transform the look of a simple top. The belt becomes both a functional and a decorative element.
Another technique involves layering outerwear. Larissa is a fan of wearing a denim jacket underneath another jacket, such as one made of wool, nylon, or even silk. This creates an unexpected contrast in textures and colours. The ruggedness of the denim peeks out from beneath a more refined coat, adding depth and visual interest. This trick works because it uses items you already own in a new way. You are not buying a new coat; you are simply wearing two coats together. It is a perfect example of how maximalist styling tips can be both creative and economical.
How Can You Dress for Joy Instead of Rules?
Perhaps the most liberating lesson from Larissa Mills is her decision to stop dressing for her body type. She found that strict rules about what flatters a particular shape felt limiting creatively. Instead, she focuses on what brings her joy. However, she is also practical. At 5 feet 4 inches tall, she knows that super long skirts and dresses can overwhelm her frame. She is careful with length, ensuring that the proportions feel intentional rather than accidental.
This balance between joy and practicality is the heart of maximalist styling. You can wear patterns, colours, and textures that make you happy, but you also need to consider how they work on your body. The goal is not to follow a rigid set of “dos and don’ts.” The goal is to create an outfit that feels like you, while also looking polished and put together.
Larissa also uses accessories in functional ways. She wears brooches not just for decoration, but to shorten a dress that is too long or to hold a scarf in place. This approach turns every piece into a tool for expression. Even her jewellery choices are seasonal. In winter, she prefers ring stacks and statement earrings. In summer, she switches to necklaces, which she loves on bare, tanned skin. This seasonal shift keeps her wardrobe feeling fresh and responsive to her environment.
For bras, she opts for strapless styles or bathing suit tops from Left On Friday, which work under a variety of necklines. This practical choice allows her to wear the clothes she loves without worrying about visible straps. It is a small detail, but it removes a common barrier to wearing bolder pieces.
The ultimate takeaway is that maximalist dressing is not about accumulating things. It is about using what you have with intention and creativity. By investing in key accessories, mixing patterns thoughtfully, adding colour in small doses, and refreshing old clothes through proportion changes, you can build a wardrobe that feels abundant and joyful at any age.
Larissa Mills bought her first Chanel scarf in Paris at age 19. That scarf, and others she has collected over the years, can be worn in many ways, channelling different eras from the 1950s to the 1980s. This long-term relationship with her clothes is a reminder that style is a journey, not a destination. It evolves with you. And with these maximalist styling tips, you can enjoy that journey at every stage of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can maximalist styling work for a small or petite frame?
Yes, but you need to be mindful of proportions. As Larissa Mills notes, being 5 feet 4 inches means she must be careful with long skirts and dresses. The key is to balance volume. If you wear a large, patterned top, pair it with a more fitted bottom. Use belts to define your waist. The goal is to create a clear silhouette so the patterns and layers do not overwhelm your frame.
What is the best way to start if I am a complete beginner with patterns?
Start with two patterns that share a dominant colour. For example, a navy striped shirt with a navy floral skirt. This creates an instant visual connection. As you get comfortable, add a third pattern, like a scarf or a bag, that also contains that same navy. The colour wave is your anchor. This method prevents chaos and builds your confidence step by step.
How do I avoid looking messy when layering multiple pieces?
Focus on texture and fit. When you layer, make sure each piece has a distinct texture or purpose. A denim jacket under a silk coat works because the materials contrast. Also, pay attention to fit. Tuck in sweaters, use belts to cinch, and choose well-fitted base layers. The layers should look intentional, not accidental. A good rule is to check your silhouette in a mirror before you leave the house.
