Cream couches, white rugs, neutral color palettes—whether you’re on TikTok or Pinterest, overtly clean minimalist design aesthetics have reigned supreme for years now. But for many, this uber-simplistic style is not reflective of their genuine style or personality. If you’ve found that you are only partaking in this trend because it’s all you can find online or you’re scared that venturing into the world of maximalism will equate to a messier home, we have you covered. Keep reading for actionable steps to curate a space that reflects your personality.

What is maximalism, really?

In essence, maximalism is the antithesis of minimalism and is sometimes referred to as the aesthetic of excess. It largely fell out of favor among millennials, who have brought design concepts like “sad beige” to fruition. This was only exacerbated by the rise in popularity of Marie Kondo-esque techniques that encouraged decluttering. On its face, this is no big deal, but there is something to be said for the ways this infringes on creativity. Now as conversations centered on personal style grow, it’s the perfect time to dabble in the world of maximalism. Here’s how.

Start slow.

Whether you’re decorating a space from scratch or you’re looking to revamp an existing minimalist space, filling your space with items you truly love is the best way to avoid a cluttered atmosphere on your journey to embracing maximalism.

Since maximalism is largely characterized by excess, it can seem like rushing to get as much “stuff” as possible is the best way to procure a maximalist abode. False. If you want to accumulate this aesthetic in a manner that will grow with you as your style changes, it’s best to slowly collect pieces that resonate with you.

Remember you can be a maximalist while being organized.

One of the biggest misconceptions about maximalism is that it inherently leads to an over-accumulation of unnecessary items. But by organizing the items in a manner that flows with your chosen aesthetic, you will have more control over what occupies your space without sacrificing precious design space.

This can look like getting a dual-layered coffee table that shows off your extensive collection of coffee table books and vinyl records simultaneously. Gallery walls are also a great way to showcase photos that would otherwise be tucked away in a box in the back of your closet. After all, maximalism can and should be used as a vehicle to show more of your personality in your space.

Be intentional about the items you bring in.

Contrary to what many may think, maximalism is not a free-for-all in terms of home decor. In fact, maximalism actually requires a sterner eye when it comes to what you allow in your space. Being selective will ensure you are able to create a cohesive design layout rather than a confuddled hodgepodge of trinkets and items.

Examine your relationship with tidying.

There is an endless list of reasons why someone may struggle to keep their space clutter-free. Figuring out the root of your relationship with cleaning is the best way to work on forging a new bond with the practice of tidying. One aspect that has proved helpful for many is the concept of “small cleans,” which can eliminate the daunting feeling that can begin to fester once clutter begins to pile up.

Lean into community.

Our homes and decor styles are deeply personal to us, so it may seem counterintuitive to lean into the opinions of others when it comes to your maximalist space. But if this is your first foray into the world of maximalist design, joining online forums centered on maximalism as a design style can be a great way to bounce ideas off of others and source out practical tips and feedback.