Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends.

Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends.

      In a recent interview on the Las Culturistas podcast, Lena Dunham expressed, “If I’m going to enjoy luxury, I want it to be noticeable.” For those unfamiliar, this podcast, hosted by Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, features a segment called “I don’t think so, honey!” where guests have one minute to voice a specific grievance regarding broader culture. Dunham eloquently argued against the concept of quiet luxury, questioning, “Since when did elegance mean wearing oatmeal, bone, beige, and tan?” This sentiment captures the essence of summer 2026. Over the past decade, brands like The Row, Khaite, Toteme, and COS have popularized the prominent aesthetic of quiet luxury. This trend embraces understated fashion characterized by a palette of various (yet quite alike) neutrals, sophisticated tailoring, quality jeans, and incredibly stylish leather accessories. However, one might wonder: where’s the excitement in that?

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics: Chanel) It’s not that these foundational wardrobe pieces have become “out,” but now more than ever, there’s a desire for vibrancy and color. We are craving a transformation in our mood. If any brand currently embodies this new spirit, it’s Chanel. Since Matthieu Blazy’s inaugural show for spring/summer 2026 last September, the fashion conversation has revolved around him. While his SS/26 collection was remarkable, the recent Cruise show is more relevant for high summer style. Set in Biarritz and featuring mermaids in the campaign, this collection paid tribute to the ocean. Certainly, drawing inspiration from the sea during summertime is not a novel approach, as other prominent houses have also celebrated nature. Dior incorporated lily pad and ladybird motifs, while Schiaparelli and Mugler used feathers to reference birds. These concepts were imaginative, but far from subtle. Moreover, our jewelry collections have never been so expressive. Expect beaded necklaces, door knocker earrings, and pendants featuring fish, shells, and combs! Fashion is not a strict formula, but the current vibe seems to indicate that more is more, with fashion enthusiasts opting to add rather than subtract. Read on for the maximalist trends that might even persuade the most dedicated minimalist to say goodbye to being ‘boring.’

      5 MAXIMALIST SUMMER TRENDS

      1. Colour Theory

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics) Style Notes: You may have heard this before, but let me reiterate: color is making a strong comeback this summer. While it’s common to assume color is always in for summertime, I’ve noticed that many—including myself and my friends—tend to reserve bold hues for special events like weddings, festivals, or exotic vacations. Not anymore! I encourage you to embrace everyday opportunities to experiment with new colors. A quick trip to the store deserves a splash of red, cobalt blue is perfect for waiting at the bus stop, and remember, chartreuse has replaced Brat green. Additionally, brace yourselves for the revival of Nu-rave neons, inspired by influencers like Addison Rae and Zara Larsson!

      You can’t go wrong with a lovely soft pink.

      Alaia

      Tong 75 Satin Wedge Sandals

      I told you, chartreuse is the new Brat green!

      Massimo Dutti

      Lightweight Cotton Jacket with Button Details

      A red jacket is the ultimate essential for transitional wear.

      With Nothing Underneath

      Sifnos Trousers: Fine Poplin, Cobalt Blue X Lucy Williams

      These will likely sell out quickly.

      2. Jewellery-maxxing

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics) Style Notes: When people hear “accessories,” they often think of handbags and leather goods, but that’s changing. While autumn/winter 2025 focused on brooches and pillbox hats, this summer we’re all about ‘jewellery-maxxing.’ We’re moving beyond simple hoop earrings and basic gold or silver pendants with the occasional pearl. Now, it’s all about beaded necklaces, sculptural designs, and nostalgic elements like spirals, shells, and flowers.

      COMPLETEDWORKS

      Beaded Calcite Necklace

      Free People

      Faraway Brooch

      Jennifer Behr

      Anarosa Embellished Floral Drop Earrings

      ROXANNE ASSOULIN

      The Bright by Nature Gold-Tone Stone and Enamel Necklace

      3. Prints Charming

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics) Style Notes: Polka dots were huge last year, and I wasn’t sure if they’d return for 2026, but they’re back—bolder than ever. Fashion editors often tout florals in spring as groundbreaking, but they’re particularly significant for S/S26. This season’s florals are not just dainty; expect them to be vibrant, tropical, and richly embroidered. We’ll also see plenty of gingham and checks (which I believe will gain even more traction next season), along with candy stripe trousers

Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends. Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends.

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Forget What Quiet Luxury Taught You: Achieving a Chic and Expensive Look Relies on These 5 Maximalist Trends.

Goodbye to minimalism!