Hello! I’ve been lurking on this website for a bit but I really like the topic!! I’ve always known that our culture has always had that drive to make the most of everything but I didn’t know just all the ways it manifested. Anyway, I’m writing my ‘story’ or more so sharing my experience because as I kept reading I slowly realized that I have my OWN experience with Filipino maximalism that I want to share!

So, for context, I’m an emo, or a punk (don’t call me a poser!), and I’ve always really liked the styles that come with it, especially the studded bracelets and other cool jewelry that people in that scene wear. The problem is, they’re REALLY expensive if you want to buy them from brands like chrome hearts and stuff, and as I’m a freshman in university it’s hard to come up with money for those kinds of purchases. 

Anyways, something I realized is that my family, hoarders as I used to call them, have a tendency to save old nuts and bolts, and other metal bits from our old renovations! And in a way, I think that is its own form of maximalism too! But as I looked at all the metal bits, I slowly realized that they look a lot like the studs and hardware of the jewelry I really liked! So I bought some small chains and other jewelry supplies, and after a LOT of tinkering and online tutorials, I’ve made a few really cool bracelets that I wear almost every day! People at gigs even compliment my jewelry, and a few friends have even asked if they can commission me! And now whenever I look at my mom and dad’s collection of old hardware, I don’t just see them as junk, but as new bracelets, necklaces and rings, just waiting for the right time to shine.

I just wanted to share my experience with this because after reading through this website, I realized that I’m also practicing Filipino Maximalism! And I just want to say to anyone that has those things that they really want but can’t afford, you can always try making it yourself, and to never be afraid to try your hand at it 🙂 I hope my story inspires at least one person to craft something they want and make themselves happy.