If you haven’t accepted that, deep down, we all have at least a teensy bit of Carrie Bradshaw inside of us, then you need to meet Caroline Vazzana. Caroline isn’t just a fashion influencer; she’s an editor and style maven who is a walking billboard for meaningful maximalism. There’s nothing wrong with clean girl core or being addicted to the elegance of a white tee and jeans. But the power of expressing yourself at full volume is a freedom every Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda deserves to have at his or her fingertips.

Maximalism is the aesthetic where more is more; a look that’s layered, lush, and full of lively colors. If you’d love your closet to create looks like the ones that made Diana Ross, Elton John, or the cast of Clueless icons, but have no idea where to start, fanciful fashions don’t have to be out of reach.

“I always say that fashion, just like anything in life, takes practice. It’s like riding a bike. The more you do it, the better you will get!” Caroline told me during a quick break between New York Fashion Week shows.

It’s clear that Caroline’s love for clothes isn’t just on the runway, though. “When it comes to maximalism, I think the problem is that a lot of people don’t think it can be wearable, but that’s not the case,” she explained. “Bright, bold pieces can absolutely be everyday staples when styled the right way.”

I spoke to the polka-dot princess about how to nail “the secret sauce to maximalism” without entering clown territory.

How To Dress Like A Maximalist

Image Credit: Photo by Thomas Chimney; Courtesy of CAROLINE VAZZANA

Edited for clarity.

Betches: What are a couple of foolproof styling tips for any girlies trying to get into maximalism?

Caroline: Bright, bold pieces can absolutely be everyday staples when styled the right way. For me, my biggest tips to add a little fun to your wardrobe start with accessories. If you love neutrals but want to become a maximalist girlie, try adding a bright colored bag or shoe to start. I always find that starting with fun accessories is a bit less intimidating.

A lot of women are so conditioned to sticking to neutrals that they don’t even know where to begin.

It’s all about balance. For example, if you have a fabulous tulle top, when you’re first starting out, maybe don’t style it with a bold skirt. Instead, opt for a pair of jeans…that can easily balance out an over-the-top piece and make it feel more wearable for everyday life.

Let one piece be the focus. I often find myself styling a look around one piece. Rather than getting overwhelmed with a bunch of statement pieces, pick one item you’re really excited about and style your outfit entirely around that piece, and let it be the star of the look.

Image Credit: Photo by KATIE LOVELACE; Courtesy of CAROLINE VAZZANA

What is a piece of clothing or accessory that is an easy way to inject personality into your look? One that even the corporate baddies can take advantage of wearing at their nine-to-five.

A sequin purse or sparkly pair of heels are bright, bold accessories that are just so fun, but can absolutely be styled for the office. Think a black pant suit with a silver heel.

I love your style! Even in New York, you stand out. Was there ever a time when you were self-conscious about dressing so loudly?

Absolutely! When I was first starting out in my career, I actually worked in the fashion editorial world and was super intimidated to show my true style. If you can believe it, I actually went through a phase where I wore all black to try to fit in.

How did you overcome that?

I thankfully realized that just wasn’t me and that I truly feel my best and most like myself in a bright, bold look, so I decided to just go for it. Over time, my style has definitely changed and evolved until I finally found “my style.”

Image Credit: Photo by KATIE LOVELACE; Courtesy of CAROLINE VAZZANA

I love that you say “fashion should be fun.” How does maximalism and bold style allow you to have fun in your daily life?

Life can feel so serious at times, so why not make it more fun with a colorful dress or sequin blouse? Fashion lets me express myself and look my best, even on days when I might not be feeling my best. It’s almost like I’m putting on armor and becoming my best self. When I’m walking across a street in NYC in a fabulous, bold look, I feel like the main character in a movie, and what isn’t fun about that?

On that note, tell me about the inflatable dress. How do you source pieces like that?

Oh, I love this dress! It’s from this incredible designer called Tabbe Designs. I came across her account on Instagram and knew immediately that I needed to wear one of her pieces. I’m always online, scrolling and looking for cool emerging designers, and I was so excited to find this.

Where do you wear something so whimsical?

You know, where wouldn’t you wear this? Just kidding, this is definitely a bit more over the top compared to my everyday looks, but a very special piece calls for a very special occasion. You could wear this to a birthday party, to a night out with friends, or maybe even a brunch.

Who are your maximalist fashion icons that you keep going back to for outfit inspiration?

Some of my favorites are Iris Apfel, Jordan Roth, and Chloe King. All have impeccable taste and leave me endlessly inspired.

Image Credit: Photo by Olga Ginzburg; Courtesy of CAROLINE VAZZANA

How do you incorporate high/low consumption into creating your looks?

When it comes to styling a look, I truly never look at the label. I just see if something is interesting and speaks to me. I love vintage and thrift shopping; finding a unique vintage item is the best because then no one else will have the same look as you.

But I also love wearing a fabulous designer piece that just jumps out to me. The beauty of finding your own style is that you can truly shop anywhere.

Coco Chanel famously advised to take one thing off before you leave the house. Do you agree?

You know, I’ve heard this quote many times, and I think it honestly depends on the look, right? I mean, even I know when to draw the line and when one extra piece would just be too much. But at the same time, I also know when a look just needs a feather boa. It’s truly all about balance when it comes to maximalism.

How would you spin the saying to make it your own?

Always ask yourself, “Does this look need a boa?” A boa meaning, is it too much, or is it still not enough? Is it not quite there yet? Do we need a boa?!

Image Credit: Photo by KATIE LOVELACE; Courtesy of CAROLINE VAZZANA

What maximalist trends have you seen on the runway at NYFW that you want to recreate IRL or expect to see in stores next season?

Polka dots have been everywhere this NYFW. I’ve been seeing them on so many runways, but in cool, unexpected ways. Christian Siriano and Bach Mai both showed fabulous polka dot gowns that I cannot wait to wear.

But then at Area they had tinsel dresses and dresses made of ribbon, so fabulous, so fun, I can’t wait to get my hands on one!