Artistic, carefree and liberated, boho style is more than a fashion trend—it’s a way of life. Associated with late 60s and 70s fashion, modern-day boho style is inspired by these eras’ creative expression movements. Flowy dresses, embroidered details, earthy tones, fringe and flared silhouettes take the spotlight. With a momentous ideology and history, this style represents a culture all its own. So, where did it all begin? Let’s time warp to the past to learn more about the history of bohemian style.
A Bohemian Style History Lesson
The exact origins of women’s boho style and culture are broadly debated. The end of the French Revolution in 1799 brought poverty that struck writers, artists and creatives. They had no choice but to wear old, worn-out clothing that was far from fashionable. This evolved into a counterculture lifestyle that focused less on belongings and more on creative individualism.
Others debate that the original bohemians were the nomadic Romani people from Bohemia in the Czech Republic. The Romani people rejected mainstream lifestyles and rebelled against societal norms. No matter what the origin may be, one thing remains the same—being bohemian means living an unconventional lifestyle. This translates to modern day bohemian style with freedom of expression through clothing. Think effortless and relaxed silhouettes paired with casual accessories. The result? An overall artistic, creative mishmash of boho features.
What Is Boho Style in Women’s Fashion?
At its core, bohemian style is about being free—in mind, body and soul. It’s characterized by a laid-back, expressive essence. Free-spirited, women’s boho style has continuously evolved throughout the years, but the hype has remained strong. Unstructured silhouettes, natural fabrics and folk-inspired patterns are quintessential boho elements. The best part? Boho style is all about mixing these components with comfort. Comfy and stylish? It’s a win-win.
Boho Chic Style: An Updated Spin on the Boho Trend
Boho chic style is a modern take on the boho aesthetic that has become a global fashion phenomenon. It draws from various bohemian style influences, with a focus on a more sophisticated flair. A boho chic look typically combines bold bohemian details with simple, contemporary pieces. Wayfarer, hippie and 70s fashion trends contribute to this elevated boho style for women.
The term “boho chic” became famous when celebrities Nicole Richie and Sienna Miller began embracing one-of-a-kind boho looks circa 2005. Spotted on Y2K fashion icons, peasant-style dresses, floppy hats and slouchy boots became mainstream sensations. Mary-Kate Olsen made boho chic a household name with her penchant for voluminous maxi-dresses in the early 2000s. We can’t forget about the oversized shades that added dramatic flair.
Today, boho chic style has emerged with a new twenty-first-century bohemian era. Music festivals like Bonnaroo and Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, have revived the boho chic style movement. Concert goers take the spirited and nostalgic building blocks of bohemian fashion and adapt it to a current look. High-waisted denim shorts, crochet crop tops and body jewelry have become token festival essentials. You can thank celebrities Vanessa Hudgens and Selena Gomez.
Looking for a fresh way to modernize a bohemian look? Add a boho chic touch to 2021 spring women’s fashion trends. Blend boho aesthetics with throwback 70s styles, Cottagecore and Desert Daze for a modern bohemian style that is all your own.
70s Inspired Boho Chic Style
Boho style is often associated with women’s 70s hippie fashion. These groovy styles are making a serious comeback in today’s fashion era. Bestow a boho chic style to a 70s inspired look by donning a midi length prairie dress with trending puff sleeves. Embrace the inner flower child of your 70s hippie fashion dreams with flatform sandals and a woven crossbody bag. Be sure to wear a flower crown in your hair, and a few boho-inspired braids for extra vintage vibes.
Cottagecore Meets Boho Chic Style
Cottagecore is one of our favorite trends, and it’s easy to add a boho chic feel to this romantic aesthetic. Look for items with intricate crochet overlays and ethereal silhouettes for a charming combo of boho style and romantic cottagecore. A chunky knit cardigan perfectly complements a feminine smocked blouse in a micro floral print. A cornerstone of cottagecore and bohemian fashion is the use of natural materials. Search for sustainable brands to tap into the eco-friendly theme of both cottagecore and boho chic style.
Desert Daze: the Mod Version of Boho Chic
Modern day fashionistas have redefined boho chic style with the “Desert Daze” trend. Earthy tones like terracotta, ocean blue, mustard yellow and cool neutrals give a fresh spin on women’s boho style. The key to crushing this look is in the details. Reach for pieces that combine soft and structured materials. This will create an outfit with a balanced blend of textural features. Slouchy sweaters that showcase handcrafted details—intricate macrame-inspired patterns, poms and fringe offer a laid-back, boho feel. Contrast a delightful “Desert Daze” top with the structure of woven pants in a flared silhouette. Don’t forget to add a pair of white ankle boots. Now you’ll be stepping out in boho chic style.
Must-Have Items for Boho Style
So how do you nail today’s version of women’s bohemian style? It’s all about maximizing your wardrobe’s versatility and showcasing your eccentric personality. We’ve got you covered with a few must-have pieces to rock boho style like a pro.
Beautiful Boho Style Maxi-Dresses
There’s something about a boho style maxi-dress that we’ll always love. Perhaps it’s because it’s an effortlessly stylish all-in-one outfit. Or maybe it’s that they encourage us to twirl around. No matter the reason, a feminine maxi-dress is always a go-to for achieving that it-girl bohemian style. When in doubt, opt for a universally flattering wrap-style maxi dress in an ikat print. Slip into comfy slide sandals, add a woven handbag and do a spin in the mirror.
Wide-Leg Jumpsuits
Fuel your wanderlust this season in a wide-leg jumpsuit. To give this one-and-done style a boho twist, choose a wide-leg silhouette in a whimsical print. A smocked bodice helps to balance out the volume on the bottom half. Go for a bold yellow floral jumpsuit to unleash your adventurous side. Keep this boho style modern by layering on a jean jacket. Wondering what shoes to wear with a jumpsuit? Block heels, sporty sandals or sneakers keep you comfy as you jet-set off to another idyllic destination.
Slouchy Knit Cardigans and Sweaters
Add dimension to your boho style by layering on a cozy cardigan. For your next concert, wrap yourself in a chunky knit cardigan over a recycled band tee. A wide-brimmed hat gives this get-up extra rock-n-roll feels. For a look that feels decidedly boho, grab a slouchy sweater. Wear it off the shoulder with a lace bralette underneath. Finish with distressed mom jeans for a look that is oh so now. Don’t forget a pair of over the knee boots that will have you jamming to Dreams, by Fleetwood Mac.
Lightweight Open Front Layers
One of the easiest ways to update your boho style is to toss on a patterned open front woven. This effortlessly chic layering item instantly upgrades a simple black dress or casual outfit. Throw on a crochet open front woven over your swimsuit for a boho beach-ready look. Up the romance in a lace trim top and olive drawstring shorts. This combo pairs perfectly with a floral print open front woven. Now that’s what bohemian style dreams are made of.
Wide-Leg Pants
While we’ll always have a special place in our heart for skinny jeans and leggings, boho style is best accompanied with less fitted bottoms. Wide-leg styles are a fresh option for achieving a bohemian look. The best part? The loose leg line helps keep you cool under the desert sun. Wondering how to wear wide-leg pants? Keep the look proportionate. Wear an eye-catching pair of folk print wide-leg pants. Top it off with a simple knot front tee. Add extra boho style points by choosing a tee with embroidered details. Polish off the look with espadrilles, and you’re ready to embrace your wandering spirit.
Eclectic Layered Jewelry
You’ve probably heard of the phrase less is more. When it comes to women’s boho style jewelry, we say the more unique, the better. Free-spirited bohemians don’t shy away from being themselves. So, don’t be afraid to go big with your accessories. Layer multiple necklaces or stack on several bracelets in various colors and textures. Incorporating natural elements such as turquoise, stone or wood beads adds an earthy aura to your bohemian look. Feeling extra bold? Wear a pair of colorful feather earrings and you’ll feel like a free bird.
Patterned Hair Accessories
Headbands and hair accessories are having a major moment right now. This above-the-keyboard-friendly style is one of our favorite secrets to looking instantly pulled together. Add these accessories to your WFH rotation in various prints. Trust us, retro floral blooms and colorful paisley headbands complement boho style. Next time you’re wondering what to wear while working from home, throw on a printed headband. A tie-dye option will keep the good bohemian style chi going all day long––groovy.
Feeling Inspired embrace your inner bohemian spirit and add new boho styles to your closet? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and ask your stylist for a bohemian Fix. You can relax trying everything on at home, plus, shipping and returns are always free.
