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From colorful fanny packs and outrageous dad sneakers on the runway to animal prints and bold colors in interiors, the maximalist aesthetic has become big business.
By Sue Wadden
It’s not for everyone, that’s for sure. But for me, when big color, loud prints and outrageous accessories come together with intention, I love it. I love how the maximalist aesthetic refuses to be ignored — and calls into question the design ideals we otherwise hold dear.
Page through any design or fashion magazine today and you’ll see it: animal prints, fur-coated Birkenstocks, walls rich with saturated paint colors, embellished fanny packs and colorful prairie-style dresses … maybe all in the same photo.
More Is More
Fashion designers have been dropping so-called “ugly” here and there for years now, as if on a dare. Miuccia Prada started “ugly chic” in the 1990s. And check out Balenciaga’s more recent foam platform shoes … those are just plain wow! They push boundaries.
I’m seeing the “more is more” aesthetic play out for interior design in the form of layered floral prints, overstuffed furnishings and big, bold paint color. It’s a trend that’s a little tricky to execute — it’s not just about being gaudy or overblown just to be tacky. It takes some finesse.
Appreciating the Trend
No client wants to live in an overdesigned home. But many do want their interiors to interest and challenge. So it’s about adding unexpected pops of drama and a dash of zaniness to keep a space lively.
I think this idea is here to stay. If we’re talking about adding drama to a space and keeping it energized, that’s a tenet of good design. There’s also a part of the maximalist look that’s about historical references. Lots of clients today grew up in the “ugly” 1970s, so there’s even a sentimental component to this look.
For designers looking to explore this idea further and to begin working with a more maximalist color palette, you can start with our 2019 Colormix® Color Forecast. The Enthusiast palette is a great foundation for taking more risks. When in doubt, add more color — not less!
