Our modern city life dictates our sartorial picks and sometimes that limits our want to wear (and feel) something different than our regular attires. How do we then change the game in your favour? Easy—think Bohemian!
Bohemian style is one of the most fun and easy ways to liven up a mundane outfit.
Irrespective of whether you are a minimalist, a classic or a work-driven dresser, we all have felt the boho vibe from time to time. It adds a certain breeziness of thought in our ensemble’s temperament. And in all honesty many of us have secretly wished to adapt boho but are often threatened by the fear of being looked upon as a reckless hippie.
Here are few tips on how to incorporate boho in our everyday city dressing to break the
monochromatic monotony.
1. Think boho chic
Work for a chicer version of boho featuring garments that are more structured and outfits that are a mishmash aesthetic of focus (seriousness) and freedom. Dare to wear more luxe fabrics like velvet, satin and silk. Remember there is a fine line between Boho chic and an Urban Hippie! For our cosmopolitan lives the chicer rendition of Boho has more acceptability.
2. One trick boho
The trick to pull off boho’s finest in the city style way, is to not over-do it. Follow the rule of one-boho item only. For example, wear a floral short dress (the only boho item of the ensemble) and urbanize the rest with a pair of sleek heels and magazine makeup. Carry a structured bag along to further polish the look.
3. Think big
Choose larger scale prints instead of small scale prints for a crisp, retro-inspired look.
To avoid looking like a Coachella hangover, bend the rule and deviate slightly around the prints. Instead of small scale prints go for larger prints. This will take you away from boho to vintage chic, while still giving the liberated feel to your outfit.
4. Play with textures
Challenge traditional bohemian with texture play. Mix soft and hard elements to translate hippie into rocker gal look. For e.g. pairing an eclectic maxi with a leather jacket to butch up the vibe. For a mellower version, team a floral top with flirty, feminine appeal with suede pants or skirt.
5. Bohemian trinkets
An option that could be played either ways. Wear gemstone jewelry or gold trinkets with your clean shaped outfit, as a color pop or style fusion. Second route, if you are wearing a typical boho outfit say a crochet dress, refine and sophistication to it with some contemporary jewelry pieces.
6. Turn that boho needle up
Upgrade your clothes with appliqués and adornments incorporated with sequins, rhinestones and romanticised embellishments. You can also add statement artisanal embroidery to your shirts (or any other piece) for that country charm and drama.
7. Bohemian at work
Tailored trousers are a work staple, but when your everyday uniform starts to feel a little blah try a boho printed pant or shirt to shake things up. Pair it up with everything else neat and minimal. Such an outfit will be work appropriate and still tons of fun.
8. Wear suede
Suede is an important member of the bohemian family and something that can be easily adopted with an urban quirk. Wear a clean cut suede jacket to work and let it rest on your shoulders for an after-work hang. Or just a simple suede hat or suede boots too achieves the goal.
9. Tassel Up
Every so often comes a trend around that is simply too cute to pass up. Currently that rage is that of the tassels—a quintessential bohemian embellishment. It is the perfect mix of fun and flirty. They are playful enough to wear for casual daytime look and elegant enough to compliment a dressier nighttime look. You can spice up the fun of it in your clothes, bags, earrings and shoes.
10. A touch of boho for the clean minimalists
If you are a strict minimalist but are getting tempted with the idea of adding just a dash of extra, pick something as non-major as an eclectic scarf. Snake it around the neck, over collared shirts or your little black dresses for that French je ne se quoi. Don’t forget to paint your lips fiery red. Or, just simply put on a Moroccan shrug over your white tees and blue jeans.
In contrast with other styles, bohemian comes with a lot of fluidity and adaptability. You don’t necessarily have to join the cult to enjoy it. It is very easy and simple to plug into your unique personal style and offers creativity in the process while breaking boredom. So have fun with it as an extended styling option.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi I'm Menka! I am from India.
In my happy place, I am making ayurvedic concoctions for beauty and wellness.
Notoriously, pinterest-ing fashion and decor. And, I love forests.
Let's connect on Instagram.