How to Incorporate Maximalism into Your Everyday Life
Maximalism isn’t just a fleeting design trend—it’s a full-blown celebration of life in all its glorious abundance. It’s a love letter to the bold, the bright, the layered, and the textured. But here’s the best part: maximalism isn’t just about color. It’s about a mindset, a way of embracing life with exuberance and creativity. Whether you love bold prints or prefer a more neutral palette, maximalism invites you to fill your world with shape, texture, and stories. So if you’re ready to bring a little more "extra" into your daily life, I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into the world of maximalism and see how to make it your own—from your wardrobe to your living space.
1. Start with Your Home: Create Spaces That Tell Your Story
Your home is your playground when it comes to maximalism. It’s all about curating spaces that feel like you, filled with layers of pattern, texture, and personal treasures. Whether you love vibrant color or prefer a more toned-down palette, the key is to let your space speak. Maximalism isn’t about clutter—it’s about curation. Each item should bring you joy and tell a piece of your story.
My Experience: After I moved into my Vancouver apartment, I knew I wanted a space that reflected my love of eclectic design. I mixed vintage finds with pieces I created myself, as well as thoughtfully curated investment pieces. But I didn’t stop at color—I played with textures, shapes, and layering rugs to create a space that feels alive and uniquely me.
Actionable Tip: Start small with a gallery wall! Whether you’re mixing bold artwork or pairing simple black-and-white photos in textured frames, the key is to create a visual story. Maximalism is about creating a space that invites conversation and feels like home.
2. Express Yourself Through Fashion: Mix and Match Boldly
Maximalist fashion is where things really get fun. Forget the rules that say “less is more”—it’s time to embrace “more is more”! Whether you’re drawn to bright colors or prefer to play with texture and layering in neutral tones, maximalism in fashion is all about self-expression. It’s about embracing the eclectic and unexpected, from contrasting prints to oversized accessories.
My Experience: I’ve always loved pairing the unexpected. I remember the first time I wore a floral print top with a leopard skirt—it felt playful and right. But maximalism isn’t just about color for me; it’s also about texture and form. I’ve mixed silky fabrics with chunky knits and thrown a structured jacket over a flowing dress, letting the textures speak for themselves. That’s the beauty of maximalism—it’s all about how it makes you feel!
Actionable Tip: Experiment with your wardrobe! If you’re into colors, mix contrasting prints or add a statement accessory. If neutrals are more your vibe, try layering different textures—like a cashmere sweater with leather pants or denim paired with silk. Maximalism can be as loud or as subtle as you want; it’s about how you mix and match.
3. Live Colorfully—or Not: Brighten Up Your Daily Routine
Maximalism isn’t just about filling your space with wild prints or colors (though that can be fun). It’s about making every part of your day feel abundant and intentional. Whether that means using bold, patterned dishes for meals or swapping your plain journal for one with embossed textures, it’s the little things that make life feel fuller and more joyful.
My Experience: I love a splash of color in my daily life, whether it’s starting the day with a playlist that gets me moving or sipping coffee from one of my favorite vibrant mugs. But I’ve found maximalist joy in simpler things too—like a gorgeous matte black journal with intricate, raised detailing on the cover. Maximalism can live in color, but it also thrives in texture, form, and shape.
Actionable Tip: Brighten up your daily routine by adding something extra. If you love bold colors, swap out your everyday items for something vibrant. If you’re more into minimal palettes, focus on incorporating textures—like a sleek leather notebook or textured ceramics. The key is to make your everyday moments feel a little more special.
4. Surround Yourself with What You Love: Curate Your Life
Maximalism is about living with intention, not excess. It’s about curating a life filled with things that bring you joy, whether that’s bold artwork, books you adore, or even the relationships you keep. It’s not about having more for the sake of it—it’s about filling your world with what makes you feel alive.
My Experience: I’ve always believed that maximalism isn’t just about what you have—it’s about why you have it. After a big life shift a few years back, I took stock of everything in my wardrobe and home. I got rid of the things that didn’t serve me anymore, keeping only what brought me joy and told a story. Now, each piece I own—from my eclectic jewelry to the books on my shelf—has meaning and intention behind it.
Actionable Tip: Take a look around your space. What truly brings you joy? Maximalism encourages you to keep only what resonates with you. Do a little audit and let go of what no longer fits. Replace it with items or experiences that inspire and uplift you.
5. Embrace Creativity: Let Your Imagination Run Wild
Maximalism is the perfect playground for creativity. Whether it’s in how you arrange a room, put together an outfit, or approach a project, the goal is to let your imagination soar. Don’t be afraid to break the mold and make something uniquely yours.
My Experience: Creativity is at the heart of everything I do—whether I’m sewing sequins onto a lampshade or dreaming up the next DIY project for my home. It’s about having the courage to be different, to create something that’s unapologetically you. Maximalism embraces the beauty of imperfection, allowing your quirks to shine through.
Actionable Tip: Set aside time each week for a creative activity. Rearrange a room, paint, or throw together an unexpected outfit. Let your imagination lead you, and don’t worry about getting it perfect—that’s not what maximalism is about!
Maximalism is more than just a design choice or fashion statement—it’s a way of living. It’s about embracing abundance, creativity, and joy in everything you do. And here’s the thing: maximalism doesn’t have to mean neon colors and wild prints (though I love those too!). It’s a state of mind that celebrates layers of texture, the beauty of form, and the joy of living fully. So, whether your maximalist heart beats for bold hues or sleek minimalism with unexpected details, know that it’s all about surrounding yourself with what you love.
Remember, maximalism is a movement—not just a trend! Shape, form, function, and texture all play a role in creating a life that feels rich and meaningful. So go ahead—embrace the extra, be bold in spirit, and curate a life that’s unapologetically you.