In the year of maximalism, here's how you can embrace bold beauty statements
Let your makeup do the talking.
Minimalism had its moment—in fashion and beauty. We’ve basked in the glow of barely-there makeup; “clean girl” skin, faint blush, and a hint of mascara. But if 2025 has one message for us, it is: Forget subtle. Like the world of fashion, this season, maximalism has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s all about letting your makeup scream louder than your outfit.
It’s about celebrating the drama; be it electric lids, glittering cheekbones, or graphic liners sharp enough to cut glass. Maximalism isn’t just about bold colours—it’s an entire attitude shift. It’s about experimenting with shapes, mixing textures, and turning your face into a vibrant canvas. If you’re thinking, “This feels like a lot,” well, that’s the point. The trend is all about embracing the beauty of excess, with no rules or limits to hold you back.
The maximalist moodboard
Take Rowi Singh, a beauty artist who has made her mark with bigger, bolder, and more extravagant looks. For Singh, maximalism is where her creativity truly shines. She says, “Makeup will always be an outlet for my creativity; an opportunity to experiment and push boundaries with unique shapes and bold colours. Maximalist makeup is restraint-free. It’s the courage to push the limit of what’s aesthetic and what’s genuinely fun.”
Her signature face gems are a perfect example of maximalist magic. “Gems are an extension of my personality at this point, which led me to create my makeup accessories brand Embellish By Rowi,” Singh explains. “Bringing a 3D element to my looks creates dimension and elevates my makeup. There’s something very eye-catching about a little rhinestone or two! I love fusing elements of my Indian roots into my looks—pairing a bindi with a rhinestoned lid.”
The result? A stunning blend of art, culture, and drama. This playfulness and personal touch have become staples in maximalist beauty. It’s no longer about simply wearing makeup; it’s about creating a signature statement.
Bold, beautiful, and unapologetic
Maximalism isn’t just about eye-popping glam—it’s also about owning your unique look. Take a page out of Saikat Chakraborty’s book. As a national artist for MAC Cosmetics, Saikat has seen first-hand how maximalist makeup allows people to express themselves in a way that’s both fun and fierce. At Gaurav Gupta’s SS25 Paris Couture Collection, Across the Flame, Saikat and the MAC team brought the designer’s vision to life, using metallic pigments, rhinestones, and studs to elevate the looks into something extraordinary.
For Chakraborty, maximalism is a perfect fit for modern-day beauty: “Maximalism isn’t one-size-fits-all,” he shares. “It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and letting your personality shine through your makeup. Makeup can be as custom and unique as you are, allowing each person to express their individuality. That’s the beauty of maximalism, it’s not about fitting into one mold, but about bringing out what’s unique to you.”
Maximalist beauty is as much about the person as it is about the product. Whether you're channeling bold eyes or a statement lip, your makeup tells a unique story—your story. It’s all about showcasing individuality through artful design and high-impact colours.
The secret to perfecting maximalism
The secret to maximalism is in the art of balance and creative freedom. As celebrity makeup artist Namrata Soni puts it, “Maximalism encourages creativity, where makeup becomes a canvas to showcase personality and artistry in daring, playful ways. Think vivid colours, layered textures, and statement looks that truly scream, ‘Go big or go home!’”
But for those just dipping their toes into bold maximalism, Soni and Chakraborty have some key advice. “Start small and step out of your comfort zone bit by bit,” says Soni. “Try a graphic liner or experiment with a more colourful eyeshadow—just enough to make a statement without feeling out of place.” Chakraborty adds, “Makeup is all about experimenting and having fun! There's no right way to do it as long as you’re enjoying the process.”
It's about knowing what excites you. “Most people confuse simple with minimalism. Think of a simple liner, it isn’t minimalistic. All you need to do is add a little sparkle or a pop of colour to switch it up, from basic to maximal.” says Chakraborty .
Maximalism must-haves
Ready to take your beauty game up a notch? Here are the must-haves to nail that maximalist vibe this season.
MAC Cosmetics Dazzleshadow, ₹2,550
Simply Nam Magic Tinted Lip Oil, ₹899
Milk Cooling Water Jelly Tint, ₹3,200
This spring, it's time to embrace the excess and let your face be the canvas for creativity. Maximalism isn’t just a look, it’s a celebration of who you are. Go ahead, throw out the beauty rulebook, and take up space with your most colourful, extravagant, and bold beauty statements. After all, why blend in when you can stand out?
Lead image: Getty Images
Also read: Reviving India’s ancient fragrance heritage, one attar at a time
