Students are always expressing their individual personalities in the fast-paced world of college living, where each day is something new and fun—often via clothes. Two contrasting style choices—maximalism and minimalism—have emerged and become super popular due to social media. Though each has its own charms, which one appeals to your inner style?
Minimalism: the simplistic vibe
Picture a closet where each item makes you happy. You could just close your eyes and grab something that would match with everything you own. That’s the idea of minimalism with the “less is more” philosophy! Consider pieces that are easy to mix and match and are neutral in color. An essential black dress for going out or that square neck urban outfitters top that just goes with everything.
Social media has made minimalist aesthetics popular by highlighting influencers who seem effortlessly put together. The “clean girl aesthetic” if you will. This term and trend embodies the chic, simple not over styled kind of girl. Students are encouraged by this trend to organize their closets and choose their clothes carefully. The media is filled with these minimalist looks, showing us how to look awesome with fewer clothes and less effort. I mean who wouldn’t desire fewer wash days and fewer clothes to shove into our closets!?
Maximalism: the bold and authentic
Maximalism, on the other hand, is a celebration of daring designs and the motto that “more is more”. Coming from being a maximalist myself, I can only describe it to be like a blank canvas ready to be painted. My choice in fashion and the ‘look’ I have crafted for myself is my personal art. Maximalist clothing lets you mix bright colors, fun patterns, and lots of accessories to create a unique look that stands out.
Imagine showing up to class in brightly colored knee-high sock and clunky sneakers, a colorful floral dress over a striped turtleneck. Ok maybe thats taking it to the MAX… but you’re making a statement with your attire, not simply just your clothes! Maximalism enables us to express our originality and creativity.
A lot of social media influencers also tend to showcase authentic outfits that resonate with Gen-Z students, constantly reminding them that fashion is all about having fun! Whether it’s rocking the low-rise jean look with a trendy belt or embracing the Y2K aesthetic seen on Pinterest or your TikTok, the key is to own your look and make it uniquely yours!
That said, maximalism sometimes gets put on pause when we call for comfort and simplicity instead. We all have those go-to outfits for when we’re rushing out the door for that 8 AM class. Finding that balance is essential!
Finding that fashion balance
So, how do you then mix these realms of fashion? Lots of college students like to combine minimalism with maximalism to create a customized look that fits their individual vibe.
For example, you could start with a simple black dress and then add some fun accessories, like colorful boots (wouldn’t we all love a pair of those FRYE boots right now) or cool jewelry. This way, your outfit stays interesting and shows off your unique personality.
The ideal place for showcasing these varied style looks is social media and Pinterest. By sharing your looks that stand out at a more maximalist level can encourage others to strike a balance between the comfort clothes and the more exciting wardrobe options. Is it not possible to have the best of both worlds?!
either way…own that look!
The most crucial thing is to stay true to your own style, regardless of whether you love the simple, clean girl look or if you are into channeling major “IT girl Pinterest” vibes. The time you have in college is the best and most ideal period to be trying new styles, expressing your individuality and experimenting with fashion. Remember that the goal of fashion is to have fun and embrace all those fun fabrics, bold colors, and killer pieces that scream YOU. So go ahead mix up that style, a little bit of both never hurt anyone!