Last month I started a series on unique personal style. Thus far we’ve discussed athleisure or sporty chic and androgynous style. I’m back after taking a short break from the series to share spring focused posts. Today we are going to delve into boho chic or bohemian style.
What is boho chic?
Boho chic or bohemian style is associated with home decor as well as fashion. This article will focus on the fashion aspect.
How you describe boho style depends largely on your perception and any preconceived notions you may have. Some may describe boho style as being associated with hippies and the style of the 60s and 70s. Some may find the style appealing but may not want the “hippy” association.
It’s easy to embrace this style without being a full fledged “hippie.” If you describe your style as artistic, romantic, non-comformist, natural or relaxed, your style may be boho chic. It’s also associated with a free-spirited way of life and the clothing you wear reflects this.
If you like to mix elements of bohemian style with more modern pieces, boho chic style is your style personality.
The Elements of Boho Chic
Natural materials
Cotton, linen, velvet, silk, leather, suede, and fur are the preferred fabrics for this style of fashion. Hand crocheted items like cardigans or kimonos are favored.
Colors
Earthy colors like beige, brown, earthy red, white, ochre, orange, and dark green are usually chosen for boho chic attire, but some might include romantic pinks and white. Blue coordinates well with these other colors.
Design elements
Fringe, tassels, embroidery, lace, and crochet are all often design elements of boho chic attire. Prints like paisely, patchwork, florals, ikat, and bold exotic prints will be used.
Layers, tiers, ruffles and loose fitting garments also make up the boho clothing aesthetic. Maxi dresses, maxi skirts, kimonos, and flowy peasant tops will be found in a boho lover’s closet. Distressed denim, cut off denim shorts or flare jeans will also make up a boho chic wardrobe.
Footwear will likely be cowboy boots, chunky heels and clogs, and sandals with embellishments or lace up features.
Accessories include long, layered necklaces featuring glass beads, wooden elements and statement pieces. Wide brimmed hats and interesting headbands or hair pieces are part of the boho fashion culture.
Boho Chic Outfit Ideas
Maxi dress +denim jacket+ cowboy boots + turquoise accessories
Pair up a bohemian inspired maxi dress with a denim jacket and cowboy boots. Not just any maxi dress will do. It needs to be long, flowy and have one of the aforementioned patterns and colors in it. A solid color knit maxi might a little boho-ish with the right accessories, but you really need to have more of the details to rock boho spring and summer dresses.
Image courtesy of Yvon/ Ibizabohogirl
If you want to learn all about boho style, head over to Ibizabohogirl. This beauty has the most amazing style! Let her be your boho chic style guide.
Kimono+tank top+denim shorts + cowboy boots
Kimonos are fun to wear no matter what your style. When you pair one up with denim shorts, a graphic tank top, cowboy boots and a wide brim hat, you’ve got a boho chic summer outfit.
Winter boho outfit- Suede coat+flare jeans+crochet beanie
In the winter time, keep up your boho style with a suede and fur trimmed coat. Utilize crochet hats and scarves for style and warmth. Necklaces may not be as noticeable under the layers of winter boho clothing, so accessorize with a fabulous fringe bag.
Boho fashion brands
Where do you shop for boho chic clothing?
Vintage and thrift clothing stores can be a gold mine. It won’t be hard to spot the pieces that fit your unique style personality if boho is your style. It’s a well defined style.
Free People is probably the first modern brand to come to mind. Free People began in the 70s and evolved into Urban Outfitters. Finally they split the two Free People is iconic boho. They keep true to their 70s roots with a modern spin. Shop their store or the brand at Nordstrom.
Anthropologie Some of their items are a little more conservative but they still offer many items that embody the boho clothing aesthetic. They are a great place for the boho lover to shop if you need to tamp down the style a little for work. They offer boho prints and elements minus some of the excessive oversized fit.
Reformation– With a sustainable mission that makes the price tag worth it, Reformation offers prints and styles that can easily fit into a boho closet. Based in Los Angeles, they offer free shipping and returns. They “make everything from low-impact materials, rescued deadstock fabrics, and repurposed vintage clothing.”
Show Me Your Mumu– Need a dress for a wedding with some bohemian flair? Head to Show Me Your Mumu. You’ll also find other pieces that easily fit into the boho style.
Lovestitch– From their website- “Lovestitch, a boho women’s clothing brand, is the destination for bohemian and feminine fashion featuring the latest trends and vintage inspired collections for women who live free through fashion, art, music, and travel.” Shop them direct or via retailers like Nordstrom Rack and Amazon.
Is this your style personality? Or do you like to experiment with it from time to time and incorporate small touches into your wardrobe?
