The Bohemian fashion craze started in the 1960s and never really left. Inspired by free-spirited Woodstock vibes, the Bohemian look has evolved into a style for people of all personalities, sizes, and ages. You don’t have to travel the U.S. in a camper van or live in an artist loft in Downtown L.A. to lean into your inner bohemian spirit. The flowy dresses, wide-brimmed hats, and whimsical jewelry are suitable for any lifestyle and nearly any occasion.
Curious about the bohemian look and want to test it out for yourself? Here are a few tips and tricks to get you on the right track.
Understand What Bohemian Style Actually Is
Although the whole idea behind the bohemian style is that anything goes, there is actually a certain method to the madness. Boho outfits are typically a mishmash of different styles: a floral wrap atop fringed cut-offs, made complete with leather booties, or a loose-fitting, paisley sundress with a hat and dangling statement earrings. Basically, if you feel you pushed two completely different styles together, you’ve probably reached boho status. Here are a few tried and true staples:
- Long, flowy maxi dresses
- Puffy (or balloon) sleeves
- Bell bottoms vs traditional straight-leg jeans
- Big accessories
- Anything crocheted
- A hat, or decorative headpiece
Patterns are typically all over the place. Florals, tropical or exotic animals, and chaotic designs are all on the table when it comes to boho fashion. Big, bold colors–along with beading or fringe—and you’ve got yourself a solid foundation on which to build your boho outfit.
Accessorizing Your Boho Outfit
There is a lot of freedom when it comes to dressing up your boho ensemble, but the main thing to remember is that bigger is better. Wide-brimmed hats are the most popular boho go-to, but they aren’t the only option. Consider other headpieces as well, like braided headbands, flower crowns, and scarves. Boho jewelry often consists of large, statement pieces like gold hoops or beaded bangles (lots of bangles, never just one!) Colorful, dangled earrings can definitely set a boho-vibe, and are the perfect addition if you decide to forgo a hat!
Depending on your destination, your best bet for shoes is either a pair of chunky boots or flat sandals. Both options look great with boho dresses.
If you are aiming for a more polished boho look, consider adding a leather or denim jacket atop a boho dress. Combine it with a chunky boot and a wide-brimmed hat, and you’ve got an effortless, perfectly chic bohemian outfit. But, if you want something even more casual, pair your dress with flat sandals and a scarf loosely wrapped around the neck.
Making the Boho Look Your Own
As we age, our size and style may change slightly, and the best way to deal with that is to simply lean into it. Boho fashion can be worn at any age or size! The important thing is to make it your own. Maybe you have a more refined style, but still want to tap into your inner bohemian. If that’s the case, balance your flowy dresses with a more put-together hairstyle, like a low bun or slicked back waves. Maybe you love dainty jewelry and can’t seem to get behind the large, statement pieces traditionally found in boho fashion. If that’s you, then wear your dainty pearls under your wide-brimmed hat! You literally cannot go wrong when it comes to the bohemian look. The possibilities for mixing and matching are endless. The whole idea behind boho fashion is that it’s open for interpretation. It’s about being free-spirited and wearing what feels right for you. Embrace the possibilities and let your inner bohemian take over.
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