How to Get the Boho Chic Look

By Elma B.

Origins of the Boho-Chic Look: Secret Brotherhood 

Although Sienna Miller, Kate Moss and Mary-Kate Olsen were the pioneers of the modern day boho-chic look, the bohemian style dates as far back as mid 1800s to a brotherhood of English painters, poets, and critics (known as the Pre-Raphaelites), and of course the gypsies inhabiting Spain and Morocco. The boho-chic look reached its peak in the 1960s with the hippie psychedelia and the make love and not war mindset. Overall, bohemian fashion encapsulates the nomadic, non-bourgeois, and the free-spirited lifestyle.  

Although some say that the boho-chic look drifts in and out of fashion, I agree with journalist Bob Stanley that "the late 1960s are never entirely out of fashion, they just need a fresh angle to make it de jour." The carefree boho look has withstood many centuries and has made its colorful imprint on the fashion world. 

How to Get the Boho-Chic Look: 

Me

Above (and below) you see my look, which was inspired by the bohemian lifestyle and adapted to New York City lifestyle. So, how do you incorporate this look into your wardrobe? Here are some styling tips on how to get the boho-chic look:

1. Free flow fashion items. Pick items that are loose, e.g., long dresses, twirly skirts or shirts with loose and long sleeves. The items need to be the opposite of tight. Comfort and free flow are key. 

2. Chunky and vintage accessories. The jewelry needs to have a vintage feel, try copper. Pick unique pieces that have animal shapes, e.g., snakes, owls, bull heads, and eagles. Large vintage necklaces or head pieces will complete your look. 

3. Embroidery. Embroidery on clothing or accessories, e.g., head pieces, gives that extra touch to boho-chic pieces. Embroidery on top or a free flowing dress is a modern twist added to many dress-up pieces. 

4. Loose locks. Just like clothing, tight hair is the opposite of the bohemian look. The beachy waves and I just got out of the bed look work well for a bohemian hairstyle. 

Whatever you pick to complete the boho chic look, keep in mind that the opposite of polished in bohemian; instead, rough around the edges with lots of love is more like it. Until next time, stay chic, lovable and elegant, xo from New York! 

For more on how to get the boho-chic look with Moroccan twist, click here.