The Bohemian style, often also called Boho or Boho Chic, is a style of dress that was popularized in the 1960s and 1970s although its roots can be traced long before that. The core of the bohemian style focuses on loose, breathable fabrics. This style also emphasizes concern for the environment so that the most often used are natural fabrics and used clothes. If you want a bohemian style, start by adding to your clothing collection with bohemian style clothes. However, remember that the bohemian style also emphasizes clothing that is in harmony with yourself and nature. So don't assume there are strict rules about what's bohemian and what isn't.
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Part 1 of 3: Dress Bohemian Style
Step 1. Wear layers
Create a relaxed, gypsy-like look. This means that you need to wear layers of clothing to create a bohemian feel. Since this look was inspired by gypsies and hippies traveling with all their possessions, they wore layers of clothing to keep warm and not bulk up.
- For example, you can wear a tight bralette under a loose t-shirt, wear a jacket over a loose tunic, or wear all three pieces at once.
- The advantage is, if it's cold you can put on all layers, and if it's hot you can take it off.
Step 2. Choose loose loose clothing
The idea of bohemian style is free and flowing. Some of these include maxi or peasant skirts, as well as tunics and light tops. Anything that is light and comfortable to wear is a good choice.
- You can also look for floating dresses which can then be layered inside or out to create a casual look.
- Try to layer clothes on top only. Draw attention to your face. If you wear layered bottoms (for example, wearing pants and a skirt at the same time), people's attention will be directed to the bottom that looks "heavy".
Step 3. Accentuate the floating pieces of clothing by matching them with body-fitting clothing
Although if you want you can wear tops and bottoms that are both floating, you can actually add a body-fitting match. For example, if you're wearing a floating tunic, pair it with leggings, which will create shape while emphasizing a loose top.
Step 4. Look for used clothes
True bohemians rarely buy new clothes because their style focuses on classics with a passion for protecting the environment. Head to your nearest thrift store for good used clothes, maybe you'll find original clothes from the 1960's or 1970's, and that's a special collection in your closet.
- If you can sew, you can also make your own clothes with the fabrics and patterns you want.
- If you're looking to buy new clothes, instead of choosing a trendy clothing store (for example, H&M), try a small, independent shop that lets you know how and where it was made. Cheap or expensive is relative, but you'll probably find it's much better quality and lasts a long time.
Step 5. Choose natural ingredients
Since the focus is on maintaining harmony with nature, you should look for clothing made from natural fibers such as hemp and cotton. In addition, you can also consider clothes made of chiffon, lace, or silk.
- Avoid fabrics like polyester which are synthetically made.
- Look for fabrics that are sold fairly and taken with nature in mind. If you're not sure and the store doesn't tell you, look online for what brands claim to use fair-trade purchased fabrics.
Part 2 of 3: Hair and Makeup in Bohemian Style
Step 1. Choose a long curly hairstyle
If your hair is naturally curly, all you need to do is shampoo it and let it dry on its own. Sticky hair can be tamed with a little mousse while it's still damp. If your hair isn't naturally curly, you can still get it by using a little mousse and/or a product that creates texture before drying your hair with a blow dryer with a diffuser.
- When dry, flip your hair over and blow dry on a cool setting. Randomize with your fingers to form curls.
- If your hair is very straight and refuses to be curled, don't worry. Long straight hair is also one of the bohemian styles.
Step 2. Try braids
Another hairstyle that impresses the bohemian style is the braid. If your hair is long enough, make a crown braid around your head for a more complex look, or just a regular braid.
- Remember, the key is a messy and relaxed impression. So don't worry if your braid isn't perfect. Even if your braid is perfect, pull a few strands of hair inside the braid to create a not-so-tidy look.
- If you can't braid, but still want to style your hair, use a little mousse or a texture product and make a random bun.
Step 3. Choose simple makeup
The essence of bohemian style is fresh and natural. If you don't want to apply makeup, that's okay because it's actually more natural. However, if you want to apply makeup, know that heavy makeup is not an option.
If you prefer not to apply makeup, stick to a moisturizer with SPF before leaving the house. This is to keep the skin fresh and also protect it from the harmful UV rays of the sun
Step 4. Use a foundation that gives a glossy finish
If there is a stain that you want to cover with foundation, choose a foundation that is light and gives a shimmer effect. The result is clear, radiant skin that everyone wants.
Apply the foundation a little and evenly. You only need a light foundation so that it covers the stain and doesn't seem heavy
Step 5. Apply a little bronzer
Bohemian style emphasizes harmony with nature. Living at one with nature means being outdoors a lot. So, your skin should be bright because it was touched by the sun. A little bronzer on the cheeks and forehead will create that impression. You will also look healthy and fresh.
Use only a small amount of bronzer. Don't let your facial shine look artificial
Step 6. Choose a neutral eye makeup
Cat eye makeup and sharp eyeliner are not great options if you want to accentuate your bohemian style. The best option is not to apply eye makeup, but if you want a bit of eyeliner or mascara, choose natural colors like olive green and brown.
Apply a light eyeliner to highlight the eyes and avoid thick lines, finish with a layer of mascara
Step 7. Choose a natural color for the lips
If you want to use lip color, choose a natural color. You can also use just a lip balm with SPF. If you want color, avoid bright colors like red and pink. Instead, choose a peach color that will add color to your lips, but still look natural.
Neutral lipstick color depends on skin tone
Part 3 of 3: Complementing the Appearance with Accessories
Step 1. Paint the nails
If you like coloring your nails, go ahead, you can even choose a fun nail polish. While most bohemian styles are just simple and natural, you can add variety with a metallic gold or bronze color to your nails. However, if you want to stay natural, choose a neutral color.
Don't feel like you have to wear nail polish. If you don't want to, that's okay
Step 2. Add a little embellishment
If your outfit is pretty plain, add bold accessories, but choose natural colors and avoid plastic jewelry. Instead, look for jewelry made of leather (avoid if you're vegan), shells, beads, and woven threads.
Turquoise and wood are also good materials for jewelry. If you're having a hard time finding bohemian jewelry, head to a craft market or thrift store
Step 3. Choose a craftsman's handcrafted item
Since bohemians value the environment, try choosing jewelry made by artisans. Don't just go to a cheap jewelry store and pick up a bunch of jewelry without thinking. Instead, go to a craftsman who sells his work.
If there is no artisan market in your area, look at an organic grocery store. Such shops usually sell food and household goods, but sometimes also offer accessories
Step 4. Use a belt, scarf, and hat to complete the look
If you're still missing something, try adding a hat, scarf, or belt. Scarves can be worn in many ways, wrapped around the neck, slung over the shoulders, or tied around the waist as a belt. If you have a wide, cute belt, wear it with a loose-fitting shirt to create a slight curve.
If your hair isn't looking great, opt for a wide-brimmed hat or beanie to cover it up. Since one of the bohemian style ideas is layers, you can add some extra accessories to complete the look
Tips
- Remember that you should do whatever feels good. If you just follow fashion trends, you will be exhausted. Look for clothes that make you feel good about yourself and you can't go wrong.
- Don't worry if your outfit isn't perfect. To find your own style, you need to experiment, and that means there will be some mistakes.
