Boho chic is back in a big way; just check out the groovey embroidered items, kaftans, and paisley prints on a bevy of stars: everyone from Rihanna to Katy Perry. Far from being unique to 2018, boho chic fashion returns in yearly waves, making a big reappearance every spring and summer. The light cotton materials, playful primary colored thread, and loose flowing dresses and blouses make this style the perfect complement for the woman who likes to be unfettered, comfortable, and just a tad rebellious. India has aced this look for many years by taking its inspiration from nature and ancient tradition, so find your inspiration in Indian fashion shows and wear Boho chic the way only you know how.
India is Leading the Wave
Marc Jacobs has a gorgeous bag called the Boho Grind, Proenza Schouler’s cult favorite carryall has gone boho chic with a retro-inspired fringe, and Stella McCartney has named dresses and waistcoats after the Boho Chic way of life. It can be argued, however, that the country that presents what is arguably the most ample array of inspired outfits year after year is India, the very inspiration for this movement. Thus, top designers such as Laksheeta Govil (a master of footwear), or Vipul Shah (fashion designer) are filling the catwalks, not only with one or two traditional items, but with outfit upon outfit expressing the essence of boho chicness. What lessons can these designs teach us?
The Tiny Details Matter
Even if you are into the crisp white shirt and jeans thing, you can add a little Eastern artistry with accessories. To get the Bohemian look right, opt for a wide leather belt with embroidered details, a pair of dangling engraved silver earrings, or a pair of Indian juttis (Indian shoes in leather with bright embroidery). Little touches such as these say you are a woman who likes exotic, colorful touches; one who tends to combine a wealth of word influences in your daily looks. The best thing about small details is that they don’t involve major expenditure yet they significantly change the entire feel of an outfit.
Combining Influences
Magazines typically portray boho chic in one standard way: tousled hair, cotton dress with embroidery, boots, hat….Yet you can make it so much more personal. For instance, Indian fashion shows have seen designers pair silk office shirts with colorful lehengas (long Indian skirts in silk, with bright and metallic prints making for a visual feast), or combining a traditional Indian embroidered jacket with striped A-line mini skirts. Pick up a color in an embroidered item and match it with plaid, strips, or other prints that utilize the same color.
If you want to ace the Boho chic look, definitely glean your inspiration from Indian catwalks. You will find an array of ways to combine traditional garments with Western items to create looks that work as well at work as they do at an elegant soiree or gala. Often, a big difference can be made just by one item (think a belt, shoes, or jewellery). Show you are a woman of the world by expanding the range of influences and colors you use by day and night.