Make boho bold again: 5 key things to know about the great comeback of bohemian style
Vogue has dubbed Chemena Kamali’s style the “freshest déjà vu” for her debut Autumn-Winter 2024/25 collection as the new creative director of Chloé. Meanwhile, TikTok is in a frenzy over Isabel Marant’s time-tested aesthetic of fringes and lace, a staple since the mid-90s.
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All signs point to one thing: boho chic is making a major comeback in our wardrobes and on the streets. This revival, with its carefree flair and relaxed, free-spirited vibe, demonstrates that its eclectic charm is more relevant than ever—even in winter. Here are 5 things to know if you want to embrace boho without falling behind the trend.
A Timeless Style Shaped by History and Rebellion
In fashion, it may seem like just another fleeting trend that comes and goes in cycles, as many trends often do. However, boho chic has deep historical roots. Today’s bohemian style draws heavily from the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 70s, taking inspiration from artists, writers, and free spirits who rejected societal norms in favour of self-expression.
It’s defined by vivid colours, animal prints, ethnic patterns, intricate embroidery, lace, beads, and feathers—creating a unique mix of creativity and individuality.
The Bohemian Legacy: From Counterculture to Sienna Miller’s Wardrobe
Bohemian culture is thought by some to have emerged as a countercultural movement in the late 18th century following the French Revolution. This period marked the decline in patronage, as the elite stopped providing private support for the arts, leaving many creatives facing poverty and uncertainty.
Others trace the term “Bohémien” to a different origin, suggesting it was originally a derogatory label for Romani people, who were mistakenly believed to have come to France from Bohemia—then a medieval kingdom that is now the largest historical region of the Czech Republic.
Regardless of its origins, the term came to symbolise a community defined by its unconventional and often nomadic lifestyle. This attitude shaped its aesthetic, which is marked by loose, flowing fabrics adorned with rich historical influences and artisanal techniques from across Europe, expressing a sense of freedom and individuality.
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Over the years, bohemian style has been embraced by designers such as Paul Poiret in the early 20th century. This aesthetic has continually evolved, undergoing significant transformation during the 1960s and 1970s. It merged with the hippie movement, which shared ideals of self-expression and a rejection of societal norms, giving boho dressing a new identity.
The Woodstock festival in 1969 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of this aesthetic, solidifying its place in popular culture. While floral, airy dresses remained a staple, the look expanded to include flared silhouettes, intricate embroidery, ponchos, moccasins, balloon sleeves, and plenty of fringe.
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In the 2000s, celebrities like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and the Olsen twins (before their venture into The Row) channelled Woodstock vibes at Coachella and Glastonbury, reinterpreting boho style for a new era.
Sustainability at Its Finest
Boho chic often carries a sustainability message. Characterised by relaxed silhouettes, natural fabrics, and artisanal touches, designers who champion the style typically prioritise preserving craftsmanship and honouring the environment, drawing inspiration from its hippie roots. However, there are times when it can feel like greenwashing, especially when co-opted by fast fashion brands.
However, boho’s ethos feels more relevant than ever, particularly in today’s climate, where sustainability and responsibility are no longer optional but expected. At its core, the artisanal craftsmanship that defines the style aligns seamlessly with eco-conscious values, making it a natural fit for the slow fashion movement.
The Return of the Wanderer’s Wardrobe: Here’s Why It’s Back
When it comes to boho chic, Chloé remains unparalleled in today’s fashion. Chemena Kamali’s debut collection for Autumn-Winter 2024/25 has breathed fresh life into the aesthetic, showcasing translucent, feminist-inspired dresses that reinvigorate the brand’s bohemian charm. Her reinterpretation even appeals to those who were left cold by Gabriela Hearst’s tenure.
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Kamali’s work has successfully brought Boho styles into winter, a season not traditionally associated with floaty dresses and cowboy boots. To paraphrase Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada: “Boho? For winter? Groundbreaking!” And this time, it really is. Welcome back, fringing, ruffles, and dreamy silhouettes—you’ve never looked better in winter.
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But the boho resurgence isn’t limited to the colder months. Alessandro Michele’s debut at Valentino and Ralph Lauren’s Spring-Summer 2025 collections demonstrate that Boho will thrive in the warmer season, too. Even Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent tapped into paisley influences during the latest Paris Fashion Week, showcasing flowing maxi dresses.
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Yet, no one embodies the boho style quite like Isabel Marant and her artistic director, Kim Bekker, whose ethnic-inspired designs continue to capture the movement’s sincerity, season after season.
From Street Style to Celebrity Influence, The Evolution of Boho Chic Today
Celebrities like Zoë Kravitz, Kate Moss, and Sienna Miller are once again setting the tone for boho chic fashion. Their effortless style is evident on the streets, where flowy maxi dresses, vintage-inspired accessories, and relaxed, nostalgic vibes dominate the fashion capitals of New York, London, Milan, and Paris.
The beauty of boho chic lies in its versatility. Inspiration comes from everywhere, so who knows? The next boho icon could be just around the corner, ready to inspire your new dream look.
Ethel Miftakhutdinova
Student, Milan