The term “bohemian” is used a lot these days, especially in the context of music festivals like Coachella and the celebrities who love it-Vanessa Hudgens, Emily Ratajkowski, and pretty much every model who has walked the runway for Victoria’s Secret-but what exactly does it mean?
Boho is an acronym for “bohemian” and is most commonly associated with the hippies of the 60s and 70s, but the truth is that the style is inspired by so many fashion subcultures and time periods that almost any outfit can be a “boho dresses” if you style it right. Especially if you incorporate a few of these elements.
Boho dresses or the bohemian style is one of the most important styles of the last decades. However, its beginnings can be found in the nineteenth century, and its definition is more than just a style because it is a way of life.
Where does the boho style come from?
The first mention of bohemianism as a lifestyle is found in the French Romantic writer Henri Murger’s work Scènes de la Vie de Bohème, published in 1851. This work is the precursor of many others. For example, Murger’s work served as inspiration for Puccini’s opera “La Bohème”. The operas Louise by Gustave Charpentier and Carmen by Bizet were also inspired by this literary work.
The boho dress and bohemian lifestyle are adopted by a part of the Parisian artistic community. This group of artists rejects the conventional lifestyle of society. Instead, they draw inspiration from the nomadic and joyful lifestyle of the gypsies in the Bohemian region. In this way, bohemians move away from conventions and opt for a more austere life and a departure from society’s rules, both in attitude and in clothing, commonly referred to as boho dresses.
What is the boho style?
Boho style is based on the free-spirited, unfettered lifestyle of bohemians and hippies, which stands apart from mainstream fashion and could best be described as “a look of affected informality.” Boho fashion is romantic and flowing, often incorporating vintage pieces and elements from many cultures. Colors are rich and bright, and patterns are mixed with abandon. Garments are often long and loose, and outfits are layered. No boho dresses is complete without accessories like necklaces, bracelets, and dangling earrings.
Boho chic is a neater boho look. The clothes may be more closely tailored, better coordinated, and in more neutral colors than the boho look, but the style is still very expressive.