The Rise of Maximalism
Alright, besties, let's chat. Remember when everyone and their dog was decluttering their closets, homes, and even their lives a la Marie Kondo? Yeah, me too. For a hot minute, the "less is more" philosophy had us tossing out half our wardrobe and embracing those neutral tones like they were going out of style (ironically). Enter 2023, the return of Maximalism.
"Color is disappearing from the world," warned TikTok creators, pointing to an almost eerie graphic from the Science Museum Group that depicted a swirling sea of gray consuming all that was bright and vibrant. This visualization was based on a study examining around 7,000 pictures of regular items from the museum's vault, dating from 1800 to 2020. The takeaway? “This rise in grey”—or rather, the diminishing spectrum of colors.
I'm not saying throw out your Scandi-inspired coffee table, but maximalism is ALL about embracing the excess. Think bold, vibrant colors, layers upon layers of textures, patterns that make your eyes double-take, and decor that's just...extra.
But why the switch? Well, after a couple of years of, you know, global pandemics and staying indoors, people are craving expression, joy, and a sprinkle (or a whole jar) of extravagance in their lives. We're living in a moment where people want their surroundings to feel something, rather than just be clean-lined and orderly. And guess who's leading the maximalist charge? Celebs like Harry Styles and Beyoncé with their unapologetically bold fashion statements. It's like the universe is shouting, "Go big or go home!"... from our homes.
Speaking of surroundings, let’s talk dining! Restaurants, once all about the sleek, minimalist vibes (think: monochrome plates, stark interiors, and minimal decor), are now diving headfirst into the world of maximalist ambiance. Gone are the days of sparse walls and hushed tones. It's all about vibrant wallpapers, mismatched antique chairs, quirky art pieces, and even fun, patterned dinnerware that makes every meal more than just a culinary experience. It’s an entire visual and sensory feast. And can I just say, I am here for it!
As with any trend, the key is balance. Dive into maximalism in ways that speak to you. Want to layer five different necklaces? Go for it! Dreaming of a room filled with vintage finds and souvenirs from your world travels? Now's the time. But remember, it's all about creating a space or look that feels authentic to you. Maximalism isn't just about clutter. It's about curated chaos. It's telling YOUR story with every piece you add.
