For the past decade, minimalism has ruled fashion, but that era is shifting. Maximalism is back, and Milan Fashion Week proves it with bold silhouettes, rich textures, and unapologetic extravagance. Presentations have taken a dramatic turn away from this restrained aesthetic, to turn towards a more expressive, opulent chic direction, embracing bold silhouettes, rich textures, and a return to statement-making fashion. Maximalism is the answer we needed to quiet luxury.

Maximalism returns: how Milan Fashion Week signals the end of minimalism

Minimalism, once revered for its quiet luxury and effortless sophistication, has started to feel stagnant to both designers and consumers. While brands like The Row, Jil Sander, and Bottega Veneta defined an era of sleek, pared-back fashion, the latest collections from Milan’s fashion week suggest that maximalism, drama, and opulence are making a strong comeback. This season, the runways were filled with vibrant colors, structured tailoring, extravagant details, and a sense of playful excessiveness that had been absent for… quite a while.

The return of maximalism

As noted in Vogue’s Milan Fashion Week coverage, designers showcased collections rich in bold prints, luxurious fabrics, and extravagant details. Versace’s show embraced opulent baroque motifs, flashy buckles, and striking animal prints. Dolce & Gabbana fused 1920s inspiration with grunge details and sensuality, merging classic elegance with modern edge. Even Jil Sander, traditionally a bastion of minimalism, introduced playful pops of color and unexpected details, creating a shift in their design philosophy.

One of the most striking examples of this transition was Dsquared2’s collection. Known for their daring aesthetic, the brand fully embraced maximalism with Western-inspired fringe, oversized outerwear, and bold animal prints. Diesel also made a powerful statement, incorporating denim scraps, striking contact lenses, and an immersive skate-park-inspired backdrop adorned with graffiti-covered fabrics. This rebellious, youthful energy perfectly encapsulates the essence of maximalism. These collections celebrated excess in a fresh and relevant way, proving that maximalism isn’t just a passing trend—it’s the fashion statement of the decade.

Maximalism in color: a palette of extravagance

The runways were dominated by jewel tones, fiery reds, electric blues, and neon greens, a stark contrast to the beige, black, and white palettes of the minimalist era. (ex Gucci’s latest rich purples and emerald greens, as well as Valentino’s vibrant pinks and lavish floral motifs). Accessories followed the movement, moving away from the delicate, barely-there pieces that defined the minimalist aesthetic. Oversized jewelry, statement belts, and bold handbags have re-emerged as focal points. 

Why the shift?

This movement toward chic extravagance isn’t happening in isolation. Post-pandemic fashion has been craving a sense of joy, escapism, and individuality. Consumers are looking for clothes that make them feel special rather than blend into the background. The rise of “quiet luxury” (popularized by brands like Loro Piana and Bottega Veneta) coexisted with an increasing demand for self-expression, leading designers to embrace a more vibrant and celebratory aesthetic. Social media has also played a role in this transformation. Statement pieces and eye-catching designs naturally thrive in the digital age, where visual impact often translates to engagement and virality. The resurgence of 2000s nostalgia, with its love for bold fashion, has further fueled the industry’s shift toward extravagant, maximalist designs.

Milan Fashion Week: a powerhouse of change

Milan Fashion Week has once again solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in the fashion industry. While Milanese style is often regarded as more conservative in comparison to the edgier aesthetics of London or the avant-garde allure of Paris, this season brought a refreshing energy and an undeniable sense of playfulness. Fashion is embracing a chic, expressive, and visually powerful aesthetic. The move away from minimalism is fueled by cultural optimism, digital influence, shifting luxury trends, and a renewed love for nostalgic fashion eras. While minimalism will likely remain in some form, the dominance of bold silhouettes, intricate detailing, and vibrant colors marks the beginning of a new, more expressive fashion cycle. 

^{Featured image: Vogue}