Favorite Looks: F/W '18-19 Trends -Monochromatic Maximalism

With the 80’s making their way back firmly to the front of fashion, we’ve seen the return of maximalism as a style theme. Too much of everything is suddenly a good thing :). The concept can be a bit daunting. Color, pattern, sparkle, metallic – how’s a gal to blend it all?  -because the success of maximalism really is all about the blend. I find it easiest to restrict my palette to a single color. It helps reduce the potential for getting overwhelmed and it helps to unite the look. That core of cohesiveness makes maximalism much more accessible – you don’t have to fear looking like you got mauled by Las Vegas :). Blue is a great shade to start because…blue jeans! But you can build your look around any solid color bottom that strikes your fancy. Next up: patterned shirt in a coordinating color. With the current chill in the air, I love flannel plaids, but stripes, dots, florals and checks all work. Top your look with a piece in the same color family. A bright blazer is usually my go-to, but a longline cardigan or duster will do nicely. Don’t worry if you’ve chosen a neutral like gray or beige as your single color – we’ll make it max in a minute ;). Accessories are the last crucial piece when giving maximalism a go and the rule generally is the more, the bigger, the brighter, the better! I like to use texture and material to help communicate the max vibe because it allows you to throw a neutral tone into the mix without diluting the maximalist vibes. Top your look with a metallic or jeweled belt, a coordinating statement necklace (yes, you can go for the earrings too! :) And/or a ring in the same color family. Complete the styling with fun footwear. Basic black leather is right out. Colored satin, coordinating patterns (hello leopard if you used beige :) and don’t forget about all-the-rage snake), embroidery or bedazzlement, glitter: it’s aaaaaallll on the table, so get crazy :). The fun side of maximalism is seeing how far you can get to the edge without sliding over into hot mess territory. This is the time to push the boundaries! - anchored by that over-arching color theme :). Happy maxing out, loves! (Isn’t it nice to max out something other than your credit card? :) Reason #268595 to love maximalsm!)