Minimalism is all the rage and making the rounds on social media. And while this trend appears to have some serious staying power, its sister style, maximalism, has never gone away and is still just as hot as ever. So today we’re going to go over the basics and how you can get a look that is truly indulgent and impossible to ignore.
What Is It?
While minimalism is a look that is restrained, understated, and petite, maximalism is luxurious, vivid, and proudly visible. This means, for body jewelry, a lot of intricate, bold, and layered pieces. It is a diametrically opposed departure from things like “millennial grey” and “the clean girl aesthetic”. Instead, it is expressively colorful and unapologetically unique. (For the ultimate visual representation of maximalism, check out @mckennajbailey on TikTok!)
Core Elements
Layering is a must! Multiple pieces stacked together is an important element of this look. And don’t be afraid to mix materials and finishes. Matte with polished, rose gold with silver, it’s all beautiful and it’s all beautiful together. Also, don’t forget to add some large statement pieces as well such as oversized hoops, ornate barbells, dangly charms, or unique shapes. To keep this all from just looking like you robbed a flea market, make sure there is an overarching theme to your jewelry. Either the same motif, the same color scheme, something that ties it all together and keeps the look cohesive.
Styling For Ears
For a look of curated chaos, multiple hoops, studs, and cuffs are perfect. (Ear cuffs are a fabulous cheat to get this look without a lot of piercings!) And don’t forget to keep the shapes balanced. If one side has a lot of hoops, use a lot of studs on the other side.
Styling For Nose
A septum ring and nostril stud combo is a classic but also can be quite maximalist. If you have both nostrils pierced, you can connect them with a chain for a little extra. Chunky, intricate nose studs also will help give the right vibe and mixing metals will give added contrast to help pull this look together.
Styling For Belly Button
Dangle jewelry as well as gem clusters and multi-tier designs will add a maximalist touch to your navel. Another great tip is to rock a belly chain to really take this look to the next level. Also, keep in mind that a double mounted belly ring has double the charms for double the style.
Styling For Eyebrow/Lip/Etc.
These can be a bit trickier. The best thing to do is generally make one piercing the focal point with bold jewelry and use smaller jewelry for the rest. The line between styling these piercings and having them overwhelm your features is a fine one indeed so use a bit more restraint.
The main takeaway is that confidence is key when it comes to rocking a maximalist look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your look and break “the rules”. Maximalism is about self-expression, it’s not about perfection. Don’t worry about being “too much” – your piercings are a canvas, and your jewelry is the art. Art is subjective and people who tell you that you’re too much are just afraid that they aren’t enough. Happy piercing!
