Doing too Much
The phrase “You’re doing too much,” has been hurled towards those who unapologetically express themselves through extreme and creative outlets for years now. Whether it’s the pile of clothes decorating your bedroom floor or sporting an outfit with clashing patterns, embracing your individuality doesn’t make you “too much”. Instead, it presents the opportunity to revel in your singularity. We all should aspire to break free of simple, dull mediums of expression and gravitate towards bold and vibrant uniqueness.
Image Courtesy Simone Jones/@simoneslens
“You’re doing too much,” is a colloquial phrase commonly used towards people who exhibit actions perceived as over-the-top or exaggeratory. Some targeted with this saying could be wearing an outfit that does not conform to societal expectations or someone who tends to be outspoken about nuanced topics. Since when has it been “too much” to differentiate ourselves from the norm? Falling into the cogs of conformality only reiterates conventional means of expression and silences those who seek to disrupt it. Those who challenge the formulas of fashion and decor boldly proclaim individuality that propels society forward. We cannot wish to grow if we perpetuate slang that's purpose is to ridicule minds that think outside of the box. Alternatively, we should curate an environment that celebrates commitments of self-expression that are translated through style, home decor, or day-to-day decisions.
Image Courtesy Simone Jones/@simoneslens
In the words of fashion icon Iris Apfel, “More is more and less is a bore.” Maximalism is an aesthetic that is born from the concept of being more. There are no rules or limitations when centering your identity around being a maximalist. In a modern element of maximalism it is more than layering contrasting pieces, hanging up a poster with loud colors, or cluttering spaces with objects. It is a medium to channel creativity through to invent an environment where you can escape the minimalist tendencies of the world. These spaces often form into an extension of oneself where their desires, taste, and personality can be put on display. Embracing one’s chaos defies expectations of what expression should be and breathes life into a separation of societal conformality.
Image Courtesy Simone Jones/@simoneslens
The next instance you find yourself accused of doing “too much,” I leave you with this advice, do so much more. We draw inspiration from those who delve into the concept of what is acceptable and extract a new meaning. Strive to be one of those people. Exist within a maximalism lifestyle that empowers oneself and rejects societal pressure of compliance. Wear that piece lurking in your closet that “doesn’t go with anything,” exaggerate your makeup, or cover your room with trinkets you’ve collected. Every aspect of expression sets a foundation for representing yourself.
Image Courtesy Simone Jones/@simoneslens
Strike Out,
Emma Chambers
Digital Director: Madeline Aiken
Shoot leader: Sanya Lambe
Concept: Madeline Aiken + Sanya Lambe
Photography: Simone Jones
production: Shayla Brown + Emma Chambers
Styling: Violet Hood + Bree Schut + Mia Cadaret
Beauty: Sanya Lambe