For years now, the art of quiet luxury and “rich mom” aesthetics have swarmed social media and sidewalks alike. Characterized for using neutral color schemes and minimalist designs via satin slip skirts and sweatsuits that aren’t supposed to look like sweatsuits—this trend seems to be finally mellowing out—albeit begrudgeningly. For FW25, designers are bringing back maximalism and all its drama, color, and personality.
Consumers seem to be interested, and I, for one, am excited about it.
With the stock market flailing—and don’t even mention the current game of creative director musical chairs happening at several luxury brands—it’s safe to say consumers want to invest in luxury pieces that stand the test of time and help them make a statement through self-expression, i.e. maximalism. Whether it’s a coveted bag, a slingback heel, or doorknocker earrings—expensive fashion purchases need to enhance your wardrobe especially now.
The FW25 fashion season exemplified this notion.
This season’s Valentino collection featured bold colors and patterns through Alessandro Michele’s—the brand’s newly minted creative director—re-invented, bossy vision.
The collection sparks discussion about the Italian designer’s flamboyant use of color and grandiose style that showcase his heritage. Imagine rosy pink, asymmetrical mini-dresses, trimmed with a soft, ruffled hem, and a lace overlay that evokes the synergy of strawberry candies and tissues—but in the richest, most European-aunt way possible. And I must mention the tiered evening gowns and peplums for a vintage movie star bombshell vibe.
Yet how could one also forget Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent and his take on bright, seductive jewel tones and dramatic, structured shoulders? These slinky pencil skirts bridge office wear and evening elegance, perfectly embodying the current versatile business style, without feeling dated; instead, revitalizing classic designs.
Or what about Daniel Roseberry at Schiaparelli? His signature gilded accessories and sandals resembling human body parts and exudes the glamor and sophistication of the ‘80s. They have become a focal point for the brand and are the perfect conversation pieces—items like his will add a chunky jewelry element to a look, emitting an essence of maximalism.
Also, his billowing fur coats and succulently tailored suits from the recent FW25 collection show Roseberry’s affinity for exhibiting how luxurious fashion can truly appear and feel. Customers are after this—thrill and distinction in exchange for their doubloons.
Notably, on the southern front, brands are establishing themselves within this technique. For example, Jaell‚ known for crafting its corset jeans adorned by intricate draping and gathered legs and its adorable cropped blazer combo, crafts perfect ensembles for the doll looking to make a splash for spring. Furthermore, Joseph McRae, originally from North Carolina but relocated to New York City in 2023, has pioneered his lane of daring puffers and enticing prints that you literally have to add to your cart upon first glance. All in all, the south practically thrives on maximalism.
Simultaneously, several celebrities are pivoting or expressing their more natural maximalists selves. There’s Doechii, who is coming off one of the most insane fashion runs, specifically during fashion week, we’ve seen in a long time. She has worn decadent and impeccably tailored fits from Thom Browne, and she also wore a sunny yellow crystal-emblazoned long-sleeve gown by Valentino for the first-ever Le Grand Dîner de Louvre during Paris Fashion Week.
Yet, you can’t really talk about the phenomenon without saluting Doja Cat. The songstress, known for bending genres, has an articulate sense of style and doesn’t take herself too seriously, leading her to craft sartorial moments. This includes when she was a body-hugging cheetah-print gown with matching scarf at the 2025 Oscars and and when she performed in a dress dripping with crystals—seriously.
While leaning on the side of becoming a full-fledged maximalist can be scary, the anxiety is completely unnecessary. It’s all about being confident. For example, maximalism calls for the contrast, balance, and sometimes clashing of colors, and you can do it with a sense of brazen audacity that allows you to commit to the moment. Or, you could experiment with oversized, pronounced silhouettes: think blazers, puff sleeves, and wide-leg pants.
Further, you could incorporate stripes with florals, or leather and sequins for interesting combinations rooted in juxtaposition. Layering comes into perspective, and don’t forget about using the ‘80s and 2000s style codes as inspiration; those two decades are good for referencing. This fashion principle’s cohesion is in the eye of the beholder.
Fashion is a cyclical trend—we know this—I’m just saying that I need to see something besides neutral colors; something to keep our spirits positive. People want to have a good time getting dressed and be excited about their clothes again. And, honestly, being a lowkey maximalist could be the way to do it.
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