Sustainable Maximalism with Sara Camposarcone
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Sara Camposarcone has the wardrobe of all our dreams. The fashion-loving Aquarius firmly believes it is possible to be a maximalist while still being sustainable. Camposarcone’s philosophy is “More is more, but only if it’s sourced ethically.” We sat down with the fashionista to discuss suitability, class, and her jewellery line.
Could you explain what the “sustainable maximalist” moniker means to you?
I think a lot of people assume being a maximalist results in overconsuming, to create a look that requires so many pieces being used/layered. I grew up thrift shopping, and to this day enjoy sustainable shopping so much more to create my own maximalist looks! Transitioning your wardrobe to a more maximalist style does not need to cost more- shopping secondhand is affordable and amazing for the environment. To me, it’s a lifestyle I choose to live, and I’m so glad I do!
What ways can those interested in sustainability start shopping more sustainable?
To start, thrifting is a perfect way to slowly work towards a more sustainable lifestyle. I always find the most unique, vintage, one of a kind pieces. I often wonder the story of the person who owned the piece before me. It’s as though I am wearing history- I love it! Shopping small is another great way to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Being a small business owner myself, I know how much this means to a small business, and many of the shops I’ve personally purchased from use deadstock vintage fabrics to create a whole new garment!
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I often see maximalism as distinctly working class - the ability to have more for less than having less items that are more expensive, for instance - what do you think of class arguments within the maximalism vs. minimalism debate?
I think there is both an expensive and inexpensive way to approach the minimalism vs. maximalism debate. Maximalism doesn’t always mean ‘more of something’, it can simply refer to pattern clashing or wearing bold, bright colors together in an outfit. The same goes for minimalism. Less is more doesn’t always refer to the quantity of clothing items one has, but can imply monochromatic looks or simplistic styling. Basically, I think there is always a ‘’cheaper” way to achieve your own unique personal style. Money doesn’t make an outfit stylish- it’s all about how you wear it.
How does seeing maximalism become a massive trend when it’s been your aesthetic for years feel?
It’s amazing! I receive dozens of messages daily from followers that are transitioning into a maximalist style of their own and it brings me the most joy. I always preach that fashion should be fun- whatever that may look like to you! Bright colors, bold prints, and multiple textures is what makes the gloomiest of days, especially after the past few years we’ve had, the brightest for me! I think people are desperate these days for any kind of serotonin boost you can get- and maximalism is the perfect way!
Where do you draw inspiration for your jewellery line? How did making your own store come about and was it always the goal?
I actually pull inspo for all my designs from things I love- one being the feeling of nostalgia! Many of my rings remind me of my childhood; gummy bears, sprinkles and all! I love matching my rings with my outfits, so there is a ring for every color of the rainbow! I started playing around with resin during Covid, when I found I had a lot of spare time on my hands. It was sort of a hobby at first, making jewelry just for myself. The positive feedback I got from my followers inspired me to create my own website, so I could share my fun, child-like jewelry with everyone! During the earlier months of Covid I think we all needed a bit of color to cheer up our days, and that’s what I wish for my jewelry line to bring to all!
“I think people are desperate these days for any kind of serotonin boost you can get- and maximalism is the perfect way!”
What advice would you give someone too scared to try something different with their style?
I would say to ease into it. Experimenting with your personal style takes time. Shopping secondhand/thrifting is a great way to play around with a bunch of different styles that you might not normally see every day. Another great way to try something new with the clothes you already own is wearing pieces in a completely different way than they are intended to be worn. I love wearing my bra on top of my shirt…its weird and edgy, yet so simple to achieve a whole different look! At the end of the day, you need to love and own your personal style, so trying new things, even if it’s scary, means growth. As cheesy as it sounds, you’ll never know what you might like until you try it.
Photography: Stella Gigliotti | Makeup: Myla Martin | Styling by Sara Camposarcone | Words: Gina Tonic and Halima Jibril
