Also known as boho-chic, the bohemian style seems to cycle in and out of fashion pretty regularly. I remember it being trendy when I was in high school with broomstick skirts and peasant blouses. Then, in college, caftans and fringe were the thing. And, all of this was just in the last 10 years. That’s not to mention the 60’s and 70’s when this look was super popular. Except then, the look was referred to as ‘hippie style’. So, why do we call the style ‘bohemian’?
Bohemianism first emerged in the early 19th century when artists began to move into gypsy neighborhoods in Europe. The term ‘bohemian’ refers to untraditional, antiestablishment lifestyles. For clothing, dressing bohemian means expressing your creativity and individuality. The look can be quite messy with its many layers and accessories. Some fashionistas have claimed that to pull off this look, you have to perfect that messiness by maintaining an overall balance. In other words, don’t overdo it.

Bohemian Styles

Peasant Girl

Peasant girl boho is the ultra feminine version of this style. Long, flowing skirts, angelic headbands, lace and embroidery characterize this style. Go for lighter colors and floral patterns.

Rugged Bohemian

The rugged boho style often includes distressed denim cutoffs, cowboy boots and a tunic of some sort.

Bohemian Luxe

The super chic version of the bohemian trend is the luxe look. Basically a glammed up version of the basic boho style, bohemian luxe includes maxi dresses, a mix of more modern heels and accessories and darker colors.

Bohemian Style on the Runway

As bohemian style cycles in and out of high fashion, we can always look to certain designers for the standard. Diane Von Furstenberg, Mara Hoffman, Anna Sui, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs and Matthew Williamson have all been major players in keeping the trend stylish.

Celebrities Wearing Bohemian Style

Celebrities love to dabble in bohemian style. We’ve seen plenty wear a peasant top with denim cutoffs and cowboy boots. One celebrity who’s embraced the look (some argue she and Kate Moss created boho-chic) is Sienna Miller.

Mary Kate has also frequented the style, sometimes to the extreme. A few years ago, her style was referred to as ‘ashcan’ and ‘homeless’ (think Direlict from Zoolander).
Mischa Barton, on the other hand, has epitomized the bohemian luxe look with her angelic headbands and goddess gowns.

Basic Pieces to achieve Bohemian Style

When looking for bohemian style pieces, go for flowing, light fabrics with ethnic or floral prints, embroidery and/or fringe. Layering and accessories are key to achieve that messy, yet put together look.

Dresses

Maxi dresses, tunics and tiered dresses are all perfect examples of bohemian style dresses.
Shown:
Charlotte Russe Halter Dress $21.80, What Comes Around Goes Around Tunic Dress $173, Victoria’s Secret Embroidered Dress $85

Bottoms

For bottoms, look for distressed denim, bell-bottoms and peasant skirts.
Shown: Citizens of Humanity Bell Bottoms $198, Vigoss Destroyed Shorts $26.99, Smocked Lace Skirt $22.99

Tops

Tunics, caftans and peasant tops are the main boho tops. Most have long, full sleeves, but short sleeves work, too.
Shown: bb Dakota Tunic $41.00, Juicy Couture Caftan Tunic $129.90, Alloy Boho Tunic $14.99

Shoes

Gladiator sandals, boots and fringed heels are the perfect shoes for a boho look.
Shown: Jessica Simpson Fringe Sandals $49, Studded Gladiator Flats $18.99, Distressed Cowboy Boots $34.99

Accessories

Accessories are a must for the boho look. Oversize sunglasses, scarves, wide leather belts, bangle bracelets and oversize jewelry are the basics.
Shown: New York & Co Scarf $11.86, Woven Horseshoe Belt $9.99, Jessica Simpson Sunglasses $45, Ethnic Bangle Set $4

Are you a fan of Boho Chic or Bohemian Style? Do you go all out or just wear one or two pieces?