The bohemian look combines a variety of aesthetics from many different cultures, like those found in India and Indonesia. You may see echoes of gypsy culture or artsy hippie vibes in this type of style such as garments made of ethnic inspired prints or colours such as reds, yellow and oranges that were used by historical tribes for protection as well as for festive occasions.

If you love layering a variety of accessories and enjoy expressing your personality, then embrace your bohemian style by living the laid-back lifestyle, giving yourself the freedom to express your individuality and personality through clothing. Create a “capsule wardrobe” by collecting garments designed to be worn together, that harmonise in colour and design, with “key” or “staple” items so you never have to wonder… what will I wear? We’ve developed the ultimate guide to start building your bohemian capsule collection.

Elements of Bohemian Style

  • Layering

The key to bohemian style is layering. It creates a relaxed, free-spirited feel that’ll help you achieve the “travelling gypsy” look which inspired the creation of the bohemian style in the first place. Items that can be layered or long, flowing pieces are perfect for representing the “free and easy” embodiment of boho style. They’re perfect additions for a boho capsule wardrobe.

  • Plenty of Jewels

Layering your jewelry is just as effective as layering your clothing when it comes to the bohemian style. Incorporate necklaces with tassels or coins, stack bracelets, layer your rings and finish with long, dangling earrings for the ultimate bohemian look.

  • Natural Fabrics

Bohemian style is all about being one with nature, so it helps to choose natural fabrics wherever you can. Cotton, linen, hemp, wool, leather, and cheesecloth are perfect for the bohemian look, and excellent additions to keep your wardrobe succinct with your style.

  • Natural Colours

Follow up those natural fabrics with natural colours which are soft, muted, or can be found in nature. Palettes featuring burgundies, mustards, and russets are common in the bohemian look, but you may also wish to incorporate inspiration from the ocean and add blues to your outfit choices. Similarly, natural prints featuring florals, or heritage prints which have cultural significance, are a great way to incorporate nature into your boho look.

Complete Bohemian Style Wardrobe for You

  • Boho Tops

What defines a boho top? Anything with a little flare, really! Tops with interesting cuts, a relaxed fit, tribal, paisley, or batik patterns, ruffles, and unique hems. Bell sleeves, embroidery, or shirts made of unique materials like faux suede add instant bohemian style to even the most basic outfit.

Check out these tops from Cienna Designs that are perfect staple ideas for your capsule wardrobe:

  • Cardigans and Jackets for Boho Look

When looking to keep warm while keeping your boho look on point, try to find knitwear with tassels or tie detailing, as well as bell sleeves and stunning patterns. They’re perfect for creating your boho capsule wardrobe (and embodying the best of your artsy personality).

You could opt for a short sweater to help you layer over long tops, or create long lines with a long, baggier cardigan. Choose jackets with stand-out details and unique shapes to layer over bohemian dresses, pants, and skirts. Outerwear staples include kimono jackets, shearling, or suede vests (for a bohemian “rocker” style), capes or ponchos, and faux fur vests.

Checkout these perfect bohemian outerwear additions from Cienna Designs:

Or explore our full range of kimonos/jackets and knits to get you on-track to the perfect boho capsule wardrobe!

  • Bohemian Pants and Jeans

Show off your bohemian style with pants that really make a statement. Pants that have offbeat or unusual details are a favourite of the boho look and perfect for your wardrobe. Bell bottoms, embroidery, patchwork, faux leather or suede, or natural textures like gauze and linen add an offbeat, adventurous style to your bohemian capsule wardrobe.

Here are our top picks from Cienna Designs:

  • Bohemian Style Dresses and Skirts

When choosing skirts/dresses? Opt for spirited details like waterfall hemlines, fringes, embroidery, crochet, and lace detailing to help embody the “free spirit” personality. 

A hallmark of boho style is to mix unique pieces together in interesting and unexpected ways. Try pairing a leather skirt with a delicate lace top, or wear a rugged shearling vest over a longer length feminine skirt. Or, you can always keep it simple and ultra-modern with a simple bohemian style statement dress! We love them here at Cienna Designs…

Our dress picks:

Our favourite skirts:

  • Accessories to Wear with your Boho Outfit

The easiest – often most affordable – way to add a little bohemian style to any wardrobe is with artsy, attention-grabbing accessories.

Wide brimmed, fedora hats and bold jewelry communicate a bohemian sensibility. Layer necklaces to add a stylish touch of boho to any simple outfit. Unstructured bags in a slouch or hobo shape are ideal. Mix in details like colourful tassels, fringes, and nubuck leather for an earthy vibe.

Think creatively when it comes to dressing bohemian – mix exotic patterns, wear layers of long necklaces, incorporate long, statement earrings, wrap a tie-dye scarf, or add a stack of ethnic-inspired bracelets to your boho ensemble.

Here are a couple Cienna Designs looks to inspire your capsule wardrobe:

What Should Be in Your Capsule Wardrobe?

Summer:

Tangerine Dreams

For styling your summer boho look, it’s ideal to get yourself a bright kimono, simple bandeau top, and some denim shorts to keep it easy, breezy, AND beautiful!

Autumn:

Iclyn Jumper

For autumn days when it starts cooling down, a simple pair of jeans and a reliable (but thin) jumper are the perfect statement pieces. They’ll keep you warm and in-line with your style.

Winter:

Danny Poncho

For a winter look? A poncho or wrap is the perfect bohemian staple piece. It’ll offer the right amount of colour, warmth, and the “free spirit” feel you want in your everyday.

Spring:

Crimson Night Dress

When it slowly starts warming up, a floral, long-sleeved dress is perfect for bringing a touch of spring magic to your look. Combined with a wool fedora, this staple is the ultimate choice.

Cienna Designs: Your One-Stop Bohemian Shop

Here at Cienna Designs, we believe in slow fashion and fair trade to encompass the “Free Spirit” lifestyle you lead. All our designs are inspired by our love for India and Indonesia, so you can trust all of our products will be perfect additions to your bohemian wardrobe. And when it comes to the succinct, capsule wardrobe you want? We’ve got you covered. Explore our full range of bohemian staples here.

Conclusion

The bohemian style encompasses more than just aesthetics and echoes of different cultures – it’s all about embodying the “free-spirited” and laid back personality within. For those who love a little creative flare in their everyday life, the bohemian style is an easy way to express yourself from the outside, in.

When it comes to building a succinct bohemian style capsule wardrobe, filled with key and staple items, it’s much easier than you’d think. By following the themes of natural colours, designs, fabrics, and experimenting with layered, flowing looks, you can easily have your wardrobe perfectly styled for your bohemian look. With our guide, you’ll be able to build a super-effective capsule wardrobe where you’ll never feel overwhelmed with “what” or “how” to wear it.