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Boho Chic history and evolution, from Hippie Culture to Festival Fashion

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Casper Libero chapter.

You don’t need to be an expert in fashion to know that the Boho style came back stronger than ever. We can see it everywhere: in the stores, in the streets, and in social media.

But do you also want to see it in the mirror? If your answer was yes, let’s learn how to wear a boho style without losing the chic? Follow me through this journey and I’ll show you!

Evolution of Boho in Fashion

So… How did it all start? The word “Boho” is short for “bohemian”, and the term was created in France in the 19th century to describe socially unconventional people in an artistic way. This group was formed by French artists, writers and musicians who rejected social norms and lived nonconformist lifestyles. The boho style is rooted in artistic, free-spirited, and unconventional vibes.

In the 60s and 70s, the bohemian style was embraced by the hippie movement, which rejected materialism and embraced peace, love and self-expression. Boho fashion became known for its relaxed, eclectic, often incorporating vintage or hand-made clothing. Who hasn’t seen photos of Woodstock

This era introduced the most recognizable boho styles, characterized by flowing maxi dresses, bell-bottom pants, fringed vests, embroidered blouses, peasant tops and earthy color palettes. Iconic figures like Jane Birkin, Joni Mitchell and Bianca Jagger were key influences in this period, setting trends in the fashion world with their clothing choices.

The boho style made a major comeback in the 2000s, thanks to celebrities like Sienna Miller and Kate Moss, who wore flowing dresses and layered jewelry. This era introduced a more polished, mainstream version of the style that combined elements of vintage fashion, grunge and romanticism. Designers such as Chloé and Isabel Marant popularized boho chic in fashion collections, making it a key trend during the early 21st century.

Nowadays, the boho style continues to evolve, blending in contemporary elements like minimalism and street style. With the recent comeback of this trend, our social media is flooding with boho outfits and inspirations. But there is oneplace where this trend never died: Coachella!!!

Coachella Sunny

Coachella and the boho style aligns perfectly because of their free-spirited and artistic nature. The festival, held annually in Indio, California, and is one of the most famous music festivals in the world, known for its diverse lineup, high-energy performances, and unique atmosphere. It attracts thousands of festival-goers each year, including celebrities, musicians, and fashion influencers. Artists and Influencers are often remembered for their amazing looks.

Many of Coachella’s attendees are looking to express their creativity, individuality, and connection with nature through their fashion. The relaxed vibe of the event, combined with the desert surroundings and vibrant performances, sets the stage for an effortlessly cool boho style that blends music, art, and fashion.

The Inspiration Behind Boho Style

Ethnic and Folk Art: The eclectic mix of cultures, especially from India, North Africa, and Native American cultures, plays a big role in boho fashion. Items like embroidered fabrics, handwoven textiles, and tribal prints are common features in boho clothing.

Nature and the Outdoors: Inspired by a deep connection with nature, boho style often incorporates earthy tones (browns, oranges, greens) and natural materials (wood, leather, feathers). This can be seen in the  use of fringe, beaded jewelry, and worn-in denim.

Vintage and Retro: Boho often celebrates vintage and retro elements, especially from the 60s and 70s. This includes floral prints, paisley patterns, and flared pants.

Art and Music: Many boho styles reflect the laid-back, creative, and artistic attitudes found in the music and art scenes, especially from the counterculture movements of the 60s and 70s. 

To sum it up, here’s what you need to create a boho chic outfit and follow the trend that is all about combining different textures, colors, and patterns.

  • Flowy, relaxed silhouettes like maxi skirts, wide-leg pants, and loose-fitting dresses;
  • Wearing multiple layers, such as stacked jewelry, scarves, and hats, often gives off a carefree vibe;
  • Fringes, tassels, and crochet. Textures that evoke a handmade or artisanal quality;
  • Natural materials like leather, cotton and linen are often favored over synthetics.

Boho has always been about expressing yourself through your clothes and wearing what you want without caring about what others may think. So embrace your individuality, wear what makes you feel free, and let your style tell your story!

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The article above was edited by Mariana De Oliver.

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Larissa Olm

Casper Libero '28

Larissa Olm is a journalism student at Cásper Líbero. She loves to talk about entertainment, culture, fashion and beauty, if you need to know anything about the latest trend, she's the girl you need to talk to. Moved by the passion of writing, now she does it as a job!