How to Wear: Boho Chic

From a darling reader:

Dear La Couturier,

You probably get tons of emails, so thanks for taking to read mine. I love the bohemian chic attire.  It’s fun, it’s fresh, and totally for this summer!  I love how Sienna Miller, and Kate Moss pull it off, but how can I?  You can probably say “Just throw on a embroidered blouse, wide leg jeans, and and a fringe bag” but I want to know more!  I’ve been saving my money, and I’m planning to go shopping really soon, I need your help!  Please help, it would mean a lot.  Btw, I’m on a budget, so anything under $150 bucks is al right with me.

Chloe

I’ve grown increasingly fond of the bohemian look; whether influenced by the blogosphere’s tendency toward that particular look, or because I am still quite obsessed with the film Vicky Cristina Barcelona, I shall never know. But I am, at the moment, thoroughly infatuated with all things boho and hippie.

First things first.

The effortless, summery look that has become quite coveted since Gucci’s Fall 2008 runway collection, ironically, takes much effort to emulate. The key point, I suppose, is to keep in mind that the overall aesthetics cannot look contrived. A certain degree of being undone intention is what makes the look. But in looking effortless, many interpret that as throwing on whatever. But the true meaning of effortless begs to differ. Meaning: leave your hair au naturel, or in loose waves (which can be easily done). If your hair is naturally straight, curl it with a small-medium barreled curling iron; brush through them lightly. If your hair is wavy (like mine), enhance curls by spraying a bit of product, or simply tying your hair in a messy bun while its damp; let down the next morning.

The same goes for makeup. Natural is the best. Sultrier, nighttime looks are best achieved with smudged kohl liner. The key word  is undone. And unfussy.

Stick with the basics.

When shopping on a budget, to keep in mind the shopping smartly is necessary. As you’ve all heard many a time, investing in basics is key to creating a versatile wardrobe that can be worn numerous ways. More importantly, in this particular case, investing in basics – rather than specific pieces (such as an entire wardrobe dedicated to paisley and florals) – is the foundation for that effortless look without seeming too contrived. Note what the queens of boho/hippie chic all have in common: the loose fitted V-neck tee. Men’s undershirts (tees & tanks), in a size smaller. The mini denim shorts. The boyfriend jeans. Cardigans to throw on. That is what you should focus on.

Accessories are key.

Accessories are what make the outfit – it is what transforms the entire outfit. The clothes simply exist as a foundation in which to build upon; think of the tee-and-jeans combination as your blank canvas. Add color and personality by way of jewelry, bags, scarves, headwear, eyewear, etc. And since accessories are mere elements of trends/styles, and may come and go, fashion jewelry is perfectly fine – even preferable over fine jewelry. The best places? Vintage/thrift shops: bulk (and authentic to the 60s, 70s) for cheap. Forever 21. H&M. Etc.

With jewelry, the boho chic can cover two extremes: the minimalistic (meaning near none) or the glamorous hippie (think Rachel Zoe, Nicole Richie, Ashley Olsen.) Options under $100 can be found at Forever 21, Nordstrom, Topshop & Urban Outfitters. Either way must haves (in my opinion, of course) include:

• Stacks of thin bangles. I may be partial, considering that bangles are the only type of bracelet I wear on a daily basis. But stacking thin bangles – plain or with laser engravings & cuts – are so pretty and add lightness to the hippie look. Gold would, perhaps, be more “boho”, but silver ones are equally pretty. Wear them on your wrists or push them near your elbow, a la Nicole Richie. I do suggest investing in good quality ones, but Forever 21 has them quite cheap for a whole lot!
• Large bangle. Worn near the elbow. Loooove that look.
• Rings. In my opinion, completely crucial. The more, the merrier! But a large, turquoise ring does the trick quite well.
• Feather earrings. I find them entirely ethereal and gorgeous; whether it be peacock or a plain, brown feather with gold chains dripping beside it, the look is quite hippie-like. The effect if beautiful – it looks so dainty with hair pulled up or left down.
• Minimal necklaces. In my mind, the ideal boho-chic woman focuses entirely on her hands in accessorizing. So skimp the statement necklace and leave it completely un-accessorized. Or, if you must, wear a a long, chain necklace in gold.
• Wooden or leather bracelets. Wearing more than one of those beaded wooden bracelets is another option. Such natural materials epitomize the essence of the boho-chic.
• Braided bracelet wraps. A la Ettika. Quite the easy DIY, too! Choose your favorite string/ yarn/ cord/ hemp/ leather strips, braid the entire length (length does not matter at all). Add a jump ring (or more) rather randomly on the braid, attach a favorite charm. If it’s longer, simply wrap around your wrist and then tie into a knot.

The head wraps are completely necessary for the quintessential bohemian style. Choosing the type of wrap can create different boho looks: the romantic (Tasha Romantic Flutter Head Wrap, $28), the minimalistic (Double Wrap Braided Headband, $1.50), the natural (Suede Feather Head Wrap, $3.80).

Bags are entirely important in finishing the overrall look; instead of opting for the “classic” handbag, perhaps look for something a bit more unconventional – unique, that is. I’m particularly drawn to bags with long straps that can be worn as a cross-body or shoulder bag. From leather and suede to woven and fringed. Colors? Natural colors, beige, browns, turquoise. Loving:

• The Sak “Eco Harmony” Organic Drawstring Bag: (Nordstrom, sale! $58.90) In dip-dye Gingersnap, the color, pattern, and texture is gorgeous. A beautiful and, of course, eco-friendly hand-crocheted shoulder bag.
• Kimchi Equestrian Fringed Hobo: (Urban Outfitters, sale! $34.99) Fringed perfection. For a lovely, lovely price.
• Suede Fringed Hobo: (Urban Outfitters, sale! $39.99) Another fringed option.
• Suede Fringed Crossbody Bag: (Urban Outfitters, sale! $49.99) Yet another fringed.
• Kimchi Studded Messenger: (Urban Outfitters, sale! $49.99) Fringed and studded.

.   .   .

bisous,

La C.