Bohemian fashion: A Boho state of mind

A certain Bohemian breeze has blown right through this year’s transseasonal wardrobes and we aren’t complaining. Whether it was the runways in Milan, the recently concluded Coachella or simply our streets, feminine flares, fringes, crochet, paisleys and florals are screaming boho this season.  

With Bohemians travelling to ‘culturally rich’ zones like India, Africa, Uzbekistan and South America between the 50s and 70s, the trend is strongly influenced by indigenous prints and embroideries, festooned with silver jewellery and turban-style wraps even! According to Twisted Coco’s fashion blogger Pavithra Acharya, the trend lasts all year long. “It instantly lifts up your mood and makes you feel like you are on a holiday,” says the blogger, mirroring our thoughts exactly. The basic elements you need to build a boho wardrobe? “High-waisted denims, floral finishes, fringes, a lavish helping of accessories, lace, maxi skirts, variously textured fabrics, oversized knitted sweaters or shirts and bright handbags,” says celebrity stylist Nishara Kiran.

Ironically, though “boho” might have once been low-brow and far from mainstream, it’s now a luxury fashion house favourite — Roberto Cavalli made velvet flares and ombre capes big again, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini brought in tiered ruffled dresses to channel the boho and Alberta Ferretti sheer chiffon creations, punctuated with Seventies embroidery. The trend though, still remains effortless and for the free-spirited gypsy in you. “It’s made up of the easiest things you can find in a girl’s wardrobe — florals, lace, crochet, metallic junk jewellery and tribal pieces picked up from the streets. Whether it’s pairing your laces with leather or florals with your metallic jewellery, it’s all about mixing it up. A nose ring or a headgear will add a dash of drama to your bohemian outfit,” she adds. Want to channel the Coachella vibe? “Pair high waisted denim shorts with a floral print crop top, layered with an oversized shirt or an over coat. Mix this up with a head band or layered chains with lots of bracelets and sunglasses, and gladiator sandals or neutral ankle boots and you are boho ready!” suggests Nishara. The trend comes just in time to complement the sweltering heat with breezy styles. “Whether it’s colourful skirts, comfy floral palazzo pants, ponchos (yes, they’re back), over-sized shirts or bell-sleeved tops, it’s all about giving your fitted shirts and trousers a break,” says city-based fashion blogger, Mansi Bhatia of Style-Psychic, who shuns going over the top — don’t match your accessories and makeup and tie your hair in an easy bun. “Also, a big no to high heels, neon colours — never use more than four shades. Do not copy, as it is all based on you,” adds Nishara.

If barely-there bralettes and maxi skirts with thigh high slits aren’t your thing, ethnic wear is getting the gypsy update too. “Whether it’s a plain silk saree with chunky jewellery, or giving a hippie touch to your tank tops with palazzos in very ‘Indian’ prints, boho sees junk and class coming together,” adds  fashion designer Tejaswini Kranthi.