Is Maximilism the 2025 hair trend we need? People are embracing a “more is more” aesthetic this year in everything from interior decor to fashion tips on social media feeds. Bold is in, bigger is better, and intricately styled looks are making a dramatic comeback. The Maximalist hair trend, a celebration of extravagance and creativity, has been gaining momentum as an exciting departure from simpler, natural ‘dos. This trend is all about volume, texture, layers, and creative accessorizing. If you're ready to “go big or go home” with your hair, here’s how to get started.
What Exactly Is Maximalist Hair?
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Maximalist hair is essentially the opposite of the minimalist hair trends that have been popular for the last few years. Whereas minimalist styles focus on simplicity, minimal product use, and effortless looks, maximalist hairstyles are intricate, textured, and unapologetically extravagant. It’s all about creating statement looks that are full of personality—think big curls, high buns, multiple braids, bold hair color, oversized bows, or anything that adds drama to your locks. The Maximalist movement invites you to experiment with different approaches to create something that screams uniquely you.
Embracing the Loudness: The Bigger, the Better
One of the defining features of maximalist hair is volume—whether it’s through curls, waves, or teased-up sections. The bigger the hair, the closer to the sky! You can add volume to your hair in several ways: by using curling irons and crimpers, getting a bouncier blowout at the salon, opting for voluminous styles like bouffants, or even using extensions to get that extra "oomph." And for curly hair, you can always add volume with our Freedom Shampoo, Conditioner, and Styling Cream.
Braids and Twists: A Maximalist Favorite
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Braids have been a staple of maximalist hair for a while, but now they’re about to get even more complex. Think braided updos with twists, fishtails intertwined with chunky sections, or even multiple braids stacked one over the other.
What's your hair type? If you have thick, long hair, instead of traditional thin braids, use thicker sections of hair to create a chunky fishtail braid. This creates a statement look with a lot of texture and volume. To make your braids even more dramatic, add accessories like beads, clips, or oversized scrunchies. Maximalist hair embraces the mix of textures and layers, so don’t shy away from adding multiple embellishments.
Another fun take on maximalist braids is the stacked braid look. This involves creating two or three smaller braids on top of each other for a chunky, layered effect. Better yet, add colorful touches to make it even more unique.
High Buns and Sleek Updos: Over-the-Top Elegance
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Maximalist hair isn’t limited to curls and braids—it's also about creating high-impact updos and buns that defy gravity. The beauty of maximalist buns lies in their complexity and size. From messy top knots to elegantly crafted French twists and chignons, maximalist updos let you play with height, volume, and your natural texture in a way that puts a modern twist on a classic style.
For a bold updo, start in the shower—use a system that gives you game-changing manageability and styling, like our Control Bundle: Shampoo & Conditioner. Then, apply a leave-in product to define and prevent frizz—for this, we love the Lock the Look styling cream infused with Murumuru butter that’s perfect to keep the shape of your spirals while giving them shine and softness Once you’ve got that extra lift, pull your hair into a high ponytail and twist it around into a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and leave a few loose strands around your face for a softer, more textured look.
The key for an oversized topknot is to leave some hair loose around the crown of your head before twisting it into the knot, creating a more natural but fuller style. Complete your look with an in-your-face hair accessory that’ll make the Maximalist Movement proud: a colorful, big headscarf wrapped around your ‘do.
Maximalist Hair Accessories: The Finishing Touch
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Maximalist hair isn’t just about the hair itself—it’s also about the accessories. This trend loves oversized hair clips, barrettes, and chains that take your hairstyle from good to jaw-dropping, even if it's a simple cut that you want to emphasize.
How to Incorporate Bold Hair Accessories?
Large, embellished clips in bold colors or metallic finishes are perfect for adding a statement piece to your hairstyle. These clips can hold back bangs and complement your face shape while adding a touch of luxury, while headbands with rhinestones or pearls are ideal for giving your hair an instant maximalist makeover. Pair one with loose waves or a sleek ponytail for a classic look that's effortlessly chic.
If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating hair chains or crystal strands woven into your braids or buns. If hairdos are too complex for you, go for oversized bows or ribbons, or an extra-large scarf, as we showed you before. Whatever look you’re going for, smooth your strands with a lightweight serum that coats each strand, providing a silky feeling while fighting dullness and frizz. Our Ready to Shine hair serum was designed for this purpose—it’s made with a blend of three natural oils that work together to nourish, hydrate, and protect your hair while delivering that extra shine and smoothness. After all, you can't be a maximilist without that perfect glow!
Maximalist hair has an ultimate goal: don't hold back! And you can interpret that in the way that best suits you. One example? Opera gloves appearing on recent red carpets ... very classy, very maximilist. The key to embracing this trend is to experiment with texture, volume, accessories, and even new hair colors until you find the style that speaks to your personality. There's no right or wrong way to do it—you can go all-in with towering curls or keep things a little more understated with a more polished look, layered braids, or a few bold clips. Just have fun and embrace the creativity that maximalism allows. In other words, go big or go home!
