Boho style in fashion – what is the story behind it and what are its characteristic features?

The history of the boho style

The word “bohemia” came into being at the end of the French Revolution in 1799. In the 19th century, the representatives of bohemia were the subjects of many plays and operas such as Giacomo Puccini’s “La boheme”. Writers, painters, musicians, and philosophers identified with bohemia. They were all against capitalism and restrictions. The social and political situation also influenced the development of bohemia. In the 50s and 60s, two subcultures became popular: the hippies and the Beat Generation. Their main values were freedom and equality. They rejected all conventions and the excessive integration of the state and the church. They manifested their views through their clothing. Fashion became more than just clothes; it became the voice of this generation.

Paul Poiret was the first to introduce boho style to fashion. He added a touch of ease and freedom to his designs and replaced the rigid corsets with bras. He also popularised tunics and all kinds of decorations. Loose cuts, fringes, embroidery and floral dresses were introduced, which brought joy and fun. Boho style evolved into modern boho chic, combining various fashion influences, especially from the 70s and the hippie style.

Origin and evolution of the boho style

The boho style has its roots in the culture of gypsies and artists who adopted this style in the 19th century as an expression of rebellion against conventional social norms. Gypsies, known for their nomadic lifestyle, introduced elements of freedom and independence into fashion, which became the foundation of the boho style. In the 20th century, boho evolved and became popular among hippies and artists who drew inspiration from the culture of gypsies and other ethnic groups. Hippies, with their love of nature and freedom, added elements such as loose cuts, natural materials and rich patterns to the boho style. Nowadays, boho style is popular all over the world and is characterised by a relaxed and casual approach to fashion, with an emphasis on originality and expressiveness. It is a style that combines the past with the present, creating unique and distinctive outfits.

Modern icons of the boho style

Modern style icons have fallen in love with the boho style. We probably don't need to introduce Kate Moss or the Olsen twins. However, the pioneer of this trend was Dora Maar, Pablo Picasso's muse. She added feathers and patterned elements to her theatrical outfits. Brigitte Bardot, the French fashion and film icon, was also a fan of the boho style. She loved gypsy dresses, which she complemented with hippie-style items. In the 60s and 70s, the style was promoted by the model Veruschka.

What are the characteristics of the boho style? Boho clothing and accessories

The boho style is influenced by hippie, vintage and ethnic styles. What are the characteristic elements of this style? Above all, loose and airy clothes, ethnic patterns and handcrafted items. Also, there are plenty of flowing skirts or maxi dresses with frills or loose trousers decorated with numerous ethnic and geometric patterns. Denim is also a key element of the boho style – flared jeans, vests and katana jackets are the hallmarks of this aesthetic. Boho style is also about accessories, with a focus on maximalism – large jewellery, metallic bracelets, headbands, scarves and flower wreaths are a common element of styling in this vibe. Handmade jewellery is also popular – necklaces, bracelets or wooden bead rings, which give them a unique character. Flat shoes, usually with fringes, dominate the boho style. And what about bags? The most popular are woven baskets, which you will find in the Staud or Dragon Diffusion collections.

What colours dominate the boho style?

The boho style is dominated by natural, earthy colours. Beiges, browns, greens, muted orange, white and black. However, warm, subdued colours dominate. But don't be fooled. This does not mean that boho styles are boring and devoid of colour. Nothing could be further from the truth. Pink, fuchsia and turquoise are just as common in boho outfits. However, you won't find any neon colours in this style. Remember that boho style is the opposite of minimalism, so you can go for both extremely colourful, creative outfits and romantic, airy designs in shades of beige and white.

Boho dress – which model to choose?

Dresses are probably one of the most recognisable elements of boho style. Probably the most popular are boho dresses made of lace. The most frequently chosen boho lace dress is white. Any length is allowed – mini, midi or maxi. When looking for the perfect white boho lace dress, pay attention to details such as subtle cut-outs or ruffles. Boho dresses are a key element of a boho outfit, and the right accessories, such as cowboy boots and fringed handbags, enhance the effect.

Crocheted dresses are also popular in the boho style, after all, the boho style is characterised by handcrafting, decorating clothes and accessories or sewing from scratch. We were particularly taken with the Allude design – a dress made of virgin wool and cashmere. It is a perfect choice for summer evenings, but in a slightly more elegant and luxurious version.

Another model we must mention is the patterned maxi dress. Ethnic patterns dominate the boho style, and are spread over the entire length of the maxi dresses. This is an ideal choice for women who like to play with colours and patterns and are not afraid to cross fashion boundaries. You will find silk maxi dresses covered with patterns and flowers in the Camilla collection.

How do I create a boho outfit?

The boho style has come a long way, but it seems to have stabilised its position in the fashion market and has entered the mainstream for good. How to create a boho outfit? You can combine a cotton girly dress with embroidery by Juliet Dunn with boho-style cowboy boots or sandals or braided flip-flops. The icing on the cake in this case would be a braided handbag, e.g. a basket by Staud.

Denim is the dominant fabric in boho style. You can combine flared jeans with a frilly shirt in white or beige and wear them with suede shoes. A colourful headscarf is the icing on the cake. Delicate, ethnic accessories, such as a feather necklace or a fringed leather handbag, will complete the look and emphasise the artistic and casual character of the outfit.

A boho lifestyle

The boho style is also a lifestyle. The boho spirit is characterised by freedom, openness to different cultures, respect for nature and harmony with the environment. The boho style is perfect for people who value freedom of self-expression and dislike conventions. It is a lifestyle that celebrates individuality and creativity, encouraging self-expression through fashion, decorations and everyday choices.

Boho style in fashion – summary

Boho is the perfect opposite of minimalism and fashion restraint. It is a true riot of colours, patterns and textures. It draws heavily on other eras and carries a deeper meaning. It is characterised by rich patterns, loose cuts and natural materials. Boho outfits are often layered and dominated by embroidery, lace and fringes. It is a style that celebrates the freedom of self-expression and allows you to play with fashion without conventions.