Design Trend Defined: Boho Chic

Did you know that the definition of Boho Chic can be found in the Urban Dictionary?

The term Boho Chic as it relates to clothing is described as a fashion trend that is part bohemian and part chic. It is tied to the vintage phenomenon in fashion where the trend was to bring back vintage styles for the modern era. Boho chic combines organic, colorful, detailed, folk-inspired pieces with simple, modern pieces.

The trend is said to have been started by actress Sienna Miller in 2005 when she wore bohemian-style clothing in the movie Alfie and back then the style was only expected to be around a few years and then fade away.  The boh0 look became a hit and people began to imitate the style and fashion designers took notice.

Like all fashion trends, it didn’t take long before bohemian looks began to show up in home decor.  Anthropologie fueled the fire with their eclectic textiles and home decor and  now the boho style of decorating has just about become mainstream.  For the home, BO-HO is the new wave version of hippie glamour!

If you’re asking yourself what makes up bohemian style here’s a quick list of the decor elements:

*  Colorful, eclectic and whimsical

* Pattern on pattern / abstract designs

* Tie-dye, suzani and moroccan looks

*  Mixed materials and finishes

*   The opposite of minimalism

* Exotic details

*  Vintage and reclaimed / 1950’s and 1960’s inspiration

 

As I was looking through photos of bohemian styled rooms, I must admit that there are parts of this style that are totally me.

I love colors and eclectic details–colors add energy to a room and eclectic touches add individualized personality.

I love spaces with drama and impact and I’m not afraid of pattern mixing.

I love bold patterns, a mix of materials and handmade pieces.  

I have a great love for vintage not only because of the history but because of the craftsmanship that went in the designs from the 50’s an 60’s.

Even when it comes to entertaining, I love an eclectic, boho inspired tablescape that mixes colors, materials, textures and design styles.

While extreme boho looks aren’t for everyone, the trend today seems to be toned down versions of bohemian where bold colors and pattern mixing are the foundation to a rooms design.

The furniture can have clean lines and traditional details but the accessories are eclectic and whimsical.

The room may be on the minimal side but pattern mixing, a mix of vintage and new decor, as well as texture give the room its boho-chic style.

Even a small vignettes can have a boho style

Shopping for bohemian decor couldn’t be easier.  You can find all types of products in this style at big box stores like HomeGoods, Urban Outfitters and Target.  Some of my favorite sources for bohemian decor are on-line shops like Furbish Studio, The Zhush & Anthroplogie~

If I were decorating boho style, I’d include this, this and this from Furbish Studio.

If I were decorating boho style, I’d include this, this and this from The Zhush.

If I were decorating boho style, I’d include this, this and this from Anthropologie.

To learn more about the Bohemian style, check out the new book, The New Bohemians!

Ok, now I want to hear what you think.  Is the Boho style one you’ve embraces or one you’ve passed by?