Maximalist Sara Camposarcone is Breaking Fashion Rules (and Having All the Fun)

April 13, 2022
Sara Camposarcone

I’ve always been drawn to bright, bold colors and prints, but growing up, I never felt confident enough to wear them. My confidence has come a long way since then, and now I let the real “me” shine through. Standing out from a crowd isn’t a bad thing, in fact, it’s the beauty of being unique in my own way. 

I went to Catholic school and, unfortunately, had to wear the same uniform every day of the week. After high school, I was able to experiment with clothes more. I felt my current wardrobe wasn’t very me — it involved a lot of fast fashion and dark colors. 

I began shopping at local thrift shops in my area and found what I was missing out on. Instead of indulging in current fast fashion “trends,” thrift shopping allowed me to figure out what really appealed to me. Now, I look for pieces I know I’ll have for a long time and that bring me joy when I put them on. 

With spring in full force, I’ve been feeling seasonally inspired — and these are the looks I've been loving. 

Bold in Betsey

display: fullThis look is unhinged in every sense of the word, but I love it. I styled the Modal Sleep Top and Pant in the Teal Rose Fête print from the new Knix x Betsey Johnson Collection with a vintage petticoat, and lace bra overtop.

Some might think this looks absolutely ridiculous — and it might — but I feel fabulous. To dress it down a notch, I added a wicker basket bag and Adidas sandals. People also always ask if my glasses are prescription, and they are! I love using my poor eyesight as an excuse to tack on yet another accessory.

Pretty in Pink

display: fullThis outfit screams spring and is fully inspired by Julia Roberts’ salmon-pink suit in Pretty Woman. I’m obsessed with ties, so when my bestie sent me a pig tie she thrifted in NYC, I knew I had to style it immediately.

This darling quilted coat is handmade from By Sandy Creations, the sunnies are vintage YSL from the 70s, and my loafers are Dr. Martens. This look is on the simple side for me, but I still feel like it packs a punch.

Clowncore Couture

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Speaking of suits, clearly, I'm also obsessed with brightly colored pantsuits. I thrifted this one last year, along with this blue crinoline tutu, so I figured, why not wear them together.

Blue and green are my go-to colors at the moment and this crochet vest, collar, and balaclava just make sense together. Plus, they were made with so much love by one of my best friends. To finish off the look, my Intentionally Blank slime green loafers are a spring and summer staple. 

I think the “clowncore” trend is gaining popularity simply because it sparks joy! Wearing big collars, lots of ruffles, rainbow colored clothing, and bright, bold makeup are all things I relate to fun. Clowns remind me of childhood, and who doesn’t want to feel like a kid again?

Underwear as Outerwear

display: fullI had so much fun styling my favorite set from the Knix x Betsey Johnson Collection: the LuxeLift Pullover Bra and High Rise Essential Underwear in the Flutter By print. Overtop is a sheer vintage nightgown thrifted from a local antique market, a Moschino belt, Molly Goddard platform boots, a vintage beaded bag, Doll Chunk tooth earrings, and a 60s hat. 

The Gucci sunnies and red lip made me feel like a movie star in this outfit. I adore wearing sleepwear as daywear — especially when it’s as stunning as these pieces. It deserves to be seen!

My biggest style inspiration is old runway shows. I’m a sucker for vintage, and since fashion repeats itself, watching shows from the 80s and 90s is a great way to forecast the next hot trend. I also adore the heck out of fellow maximalist icon, Iris Apfel. I’m always blown away by her fearlessness in fashion.  

Sustainably Stylish

display: fullI recently styled this outfit for a photoshoot. The feature is all about sustainability in fashion, so I pulled my favorite sustainable designer pieces from my closet. The funny thing is, I’m actually wearing a full outfit of recycled vintage bedsheets. 

The dress is a mix of Minnie Mouse and Care Bears, handmade by Franklin Jay, and the Strawberry Shortcake jumper is from makmak. I paired this super fun look with Laser Kitten Croc earrings and Molly Goddard x UGG platforms. I love feeling nostalgic when I get dressed — I think 6 year old Sara would be so proud of this outfit. 

I love breaking fashion rules and pushing boundaries. Who says I can’t wear a pink trash bag as a dress? It’s fun to experiment with things we find in our homes, and it's totally environmentally friendly too. I love the idea of repurposing and giving new life to items that may otherwise be thrown out.

Sheets to Street Style

display: fullOn Fridays we wear pink — literally.  This look was inspired by my handmade Barbie collar, once again, made from vintage bedsheets. I paired it with a full fuchsia fit, including an 80s lace prom dress, pink pearls, and my best Gucci shades. 

I added a pop of blue with my Circus sandle heels and a pop of yellow with my Magic Society doll bag. Even though there’s a lot going on, it all works together. I love mixing textures, even if it’s within the same color palette. 

If people are talking about your outfit — whether they love or hate it — you must be doing something right. Give people something to talk about! Challenge the norms!

Sara Camposarcone is a sustainable maximalist, clowncore enthusiast, and stylist.