How To Do Maximalism as a Plus Sized Gal

Dressing as a maximalist without going to clown town can be tough. And if you’re plus size, you might be even more reluctant.

Mar 06, 2025

On my YouTube channel, I asked my community if they were interested in learning how to dress as a maximalist from the perspective of a personal stylist. I got a resounding yes! That makes me so happy because, even though I’m not a maximalist at all, it gives me a chance to flex my creative muscle.

One of the things I love most about maximalist style is how incredibly creative it is. It also requires a lot of confidence to pull off well. And because maximalism can be so extreme, it’s easy to get it wrong. In my video (linked below), I go over the principles of maximalism and share tips on how to do it well.

What Is Maximalist Style?

If you’re not familiar with maximalist fashion, it’s all about combining colors and patterns in an eclectic, bold, and expressive way. In my opinion, it’s one of the purest forms of self-expression—ostentatious, unapologetic, and full of personality. Maximalists are a breed of their own; you can’t be a shy violet and embrace maximalism because it takes confidence and a strong understanding of your personal style.

That said, maximalists can also be impulsive, which means some restraint is necessary.

How to Master Maximalist Style

Regardless of your style persona, a solid foundation of wardrobe staples is key. That doesn’t mean your staples have to be in neutrals (though I do recommend having black and white pieces to ground your wardrobe). Instead, focus on finding the right silhouettes—think T-shirts, button-downs, trousers, skirts, etc.—in whatever colors, solids, or patterns you love.

The Rule of 3 (or 5)

Before adding a new piece to your wardrobe, make sure you can style it in at least three (ideally five) different ways. This ensures versatility and helps you get the most out of your wardrobe.

Proportion Matters

Maximalism follows the "more is more" philosophy, but that can work against you if your outfit isn’t balanced. As a plus-size woman, I know that proportion is especially important—we want bold, not clownish. If you wear something oversized or voluminous, balance it with a more fitted piece.

Cohesion Is Key

It’s easy to pile on patterns and colors, but there has to be a method to the madness. Otherwise, the look can be overwhelming and, dare I say, a hot mess!

The Secret to Pattern Mixing

Pattern mixing can feel intimidating, but it’s actually simple when you follow one key rule: make sure the patterns share at least one common element. It could be a color, a shape, or even a texture. For example, if you’re wearing a geometric print in orange, make sure your second pattern also includes orange. This trick creates harmony within the look.

Understanding Color

Color is a deep subject, and even a basic understanding can transform the way you dress. I dive deeper into this in my video, so be sure to check it out!