5 Types of Statement Pieces for the Resolute Maximalist

The Edit

5 TYPES OF STATEMENT PIECES FOR THE RESOLUTE MAXIMALIST

Discover a bounty of bold and unconventional pieces to kick your favorite looks into high gear.

By Ntianu Obiora

May 10, 2022

The ubiquitous ‘statement piece’ has its feet firmly planted in the global style lexicon. These pieces pull an outfit together, defining your personal style, individuality, and willingness to take risks.

So, what is a statement piece? Well, it’s an item you wear that stands out from the crowd no matter the outfit combination. This Spring/Summer is going bolder than ever: think over-the-top separates, sculptural accessories and conversation-starting jewelry that sit firmly in the maximalist's line of sight. Sometimes polarizing, always dramatic, here’s our shoppable edit of statement pieces by type—each uniquely characterized by their approaches to big, brazen style. Wallflowers beware.

1.

Fancy Pants

Vibrant trousers can be tricky to pull off. While silhouettes range from a fringed wide-leg at IAMISIGO all the way through to a billowing palazzo at Andrea Iyamah, there’s no end to the array of prints, cuts, and colors that adorned the SS’22 runways. Orange Culture’s unisex Petal Waist Pants are a sumptuous take on the paper-bag waist, crafted from raw silk with precise tailoring in a brilliant emerald. Embodying the spirit of romanticism, these pants bring the right amount of drama. If you prefer something more eclectic, look to IAMISIGO’s Loop-Weave Pants made from a textural blend of hemp and cotton, sewn in a multicolored loop-weave for a flattering flared fit. Sticking with a similar palazzo silhouette, Andrea Iyamah’s Thema Pants show that simplicity can too exist within maximalism thanks to its pronounced skirted back.

2.

Maxi(mal) Skirts

Like a white t-shirt, a great-fitting pair of jeans or a versatile, lightweight jacket, a good skirt is a wardrobe essential. Spark joy with Viviers' Frivolous Frill Skirt, which successfully blends playfulness with undeniable craftsmanship. A lesson in movement, this ethereal maxi gives the illusion of floating, its cascading frills providing a requisite touch of drama. Perhaps you prefer a splash of color? In that case, up the ante with Cynthia Abila’s Okoroshi Skirt, a masterpiece in artisanal design that marries the traditional with modern artistry. Crafted using natural and organic Raffia into a tiered silhouette, this piece commands the attention of any room. We recommend opting for muted styling options such as a simple t-shirt or bodysuit. If a little monochrome action is just what you’ve been looking for, Studio 189’s Crossroads Mermaid Skirt, inspired by the “Freedom Quilts” created by enslaved Africans in America on their path to freedom, is a standout piece that’s infused with the storytelling and rich history of the brand’s heritage—and what could be a bigger statement than that?

3.

Sculptural Sandals

As the weather gets warmer, minimalism diminishes in favor of unorthodox, individual style. Prepare to reintroduce not only color but new silhouettes into your shoe collection and discover how a vibrant pair can make even your most simple closet essentials look brand new. Nkwo’s Hope Slides are upcyled from signature plaid ‘Ghana Must Go’ bags, a decision that taps into sustainable waste-reduction practices while invoking memory lane. Footwear designer Maliko takes a different route, championing the architectural silhouette with their made-to-order Isabel Sandals, crafted from leather and wood with a spherical heel that speaks to both unconventionality and whimsy. If a closed-toe sandal is what you feel, consider their Ayo Sandals. Crafted from supple painted leather, these classic slingback sandals are offset by an oversize round buckle and Maliko’s trademark wooden heel.

4.

Power bAGS

If there is one trend designers could agree upon for Spring, it’s the return of the maximal handbag. But, with more places to go and activities to be enjoyed, it’s time to celebrate a long-awaited public re-emergence with the swankiest of accessories. IAMISIGO’s hot pink Mini Raffia Bag is the embodiment of small but mighty. This intricately handmade bag takes tactility to new heights (or should we say sizes?) with long Raffia fibers at each side, and with every piece taking 3 weeks to make, it’s proof that good things indeed do take time. Looking for something that delivers confidence and luxury in spades? Look no further than the multicolored, top handle Ameena Mini from FemiHandbags, handcrafted from woven Aso-Oke cotton. And if you’re planning a staycation or getting ready to jet out of town, ZAAF’s Indica Weekender is ready to go. Handmade in Ethiopia by local communities, this full-grain leather holdall’s standout feature is it’s contrasting textile paneling.

5.

Unconventional Trinkets

Investing in show-stopping jewelry is not just about acquiring another pretty accessory, but a power move, as your conversation-starting piece will ensure you’re the main topic. Festoon your fingers with the ultimate OTT ring courtesy of Burundi-based label Margaux Wong, who specialize in repurposed pieces enriched with the history of their upcycled materials. Aptly named the Glorious Ring, this cow horn and brass creation provides some needed eclecticism to simple ensembles. Perhaps you prefer a pop of color, then look to Jiamini’s shoulder-grazing Yatta Earrings, crafted from blue and white glass beads that wink as they catch the light. With the right balance of beauty and form, these earrings lend an air of bold texture to your Spring outfits. Finally, the Matuu Spine Drop Necklace is a feat of design with its open choker and articulated pendant from the same designer but sporting an entirely different aesthetic. This high-impact vertebrae-inspired piece is a refreshingly complex creation that imbues its wearer with a comforting sense of strength thanks to its armor-like appearance.