bohemian fashion is a style with a lot of historical significance. If you’re an avid fan of boho style, check out this article to learn how it began!
Where it all began
bohemian fashion is a way of life. Bohemian style or boho fashion is much more than a style; it is a way of life. The Bohemian style first came into existence in France. The French revolution was the catalyst for this Bohemian culture. The proletariat at the time had little funds or the resources to design trendy looks, and they usually wore cheap and comfortable clothes. Artists of the day did not have a status and often struggled to make an income.
After the demise of the bourgeoisie, the artists were viewed as role models and formed an individual cult. The cult exhibited a relaxed style of dressing where everyone expressed themselves by the way they dressed. The Romantic Movement gave rise to self-expression, and the Bohemian group was considered to be individuals who valued comfort over all else.
The self-expression of clothes was an accepted trend, and people praised the artists who reflected their convictions through their lives and clothes.
Post Liberation Boho Looks
Henri Murger, the renowned French Novelist, wrote that the Bohemians comprised a group of intellectuals and artists with worn-out coats, threadbare jackets, and worn-out shoes that had a relaxed appearance. The Bohemians of the time could adapt to medieval dress fashions and more vibrant fabric, and they had hair that was long and unruly and wore hats for fashion statements.
Then, in the Aesthetic movement, The group of Aesthetics stood up against social rules and decided to bring the older style to the modern age. The cult believed the entire industrial revolution was dehumanizing in which workers were abused, so they decided to fight back through their clothing. They wore loose clothes, and the material was purely soft. The dyes used were organic to color the clothes, and the embroidery did not come made in factories but was hand-crafted. The cult still opposed the strict clothes. The cult was entirely opposed to corsets and wanted their clothing to be more comfortable.
Bohemian was a common slur for the masses and referred to as “Gypsy.” Because the adherents of this movement opposed the materialistic view, they lived in a way that was based on necessity and not the luxury that showed through their clothes.
Come the 20th Century
Bohemian fashion changed its direction in the second century. It was a fashion option for those who were poor as well as the richest. The style evolved later with swirls, floral prints, and other accessories. The era began to ease towards its Hippie Era, wherein in 1960, the cult became larger, and people fought against the traditional lifestyles. The fashions were redesigned to match the clothes. There are now flared silhouettes,
patterns made of mixed prints, embroideries, and patterns of mixed prints. Many people also included the ethnic clothes they wore in their clothes, ensuring they reflected their country’s culture.
The hippies did not care about social conventions and chose to express their displeasure through their fashion choices. Their style starkly contrasted with the fashionable fashion of slack-fitting, luxurious clothes. From then on, the Bohemian style has experienced many seasons and changes. Today, it is a distinct style from its past and is mostly viewed as a fashion statement.
The 20th century was a time of change, it was evident that the Bohemian design was linked to younger generations, and people wore it to distinguish them from previous generations. The cult fashion trend is a welcome addition to the styles that have led to trends like Beatniks and striped clothes, floral dresses, or turtle necks.
In addition, the Bohemian style turned into a blend of various clothing items that were mingled to create a unique look. The counterculture will continue to be popular in the coming generations because our fashion world is accepting of unique and unusual concepts. Presently, it’s not an alternative style; however, it is a fashion statement that people use all day and on the weekends.
What is the Bohemian Look?
If you’re looking at the cult from afar, You may not be aware of the Bohemian style. Here are a few elements from this Bohemian Style that have passed the tests of time:
- Natural Fabrics: The bohemians opposed synthetic fibers because they resulted from unsafe working conditions. They preferred to use natural soft textiles.
- Loose Clothing: Restrictive Clothing was a way of limiting oneself to social norms, which is why bohemians usually choose loose clothing.
- Scarves: Colorful scarves worn around necks provided an extra splash of color to faded and worn-out clothes.
- Older Clothing: Clothes made of worn fabric were more popular than new clothing.
- Persian and Indian Designs: Designs from the world’s major cultural centers were popular as they showcased diverse styles and were interesting to look at.
- Layering jackets: Long coats over dresses, or loose shirts were the most popular fashion styles. The idea of layering clothing that was mismatched was also very fashionable.
- Handmade Jewelry: Bohemians prefer to make their own instead of buying jewelry. This was a sign that they valued their work and put their heart and soul into their expression of self.
- Hoops: Hoops were and remained the most prominent element of the bohemian style. Bohemians wear Hoops, and Bohemians wear Hoops in different shapes and colors.
- Patchy Clothing: Patchy Clothing Clothing with patches is a popular choice for many boho-styled fashionistas. It creates a ‘poor look’ that is one of the fundamental principles of boho style.
- Ruffles: Ruffles and other unusual sleeve designs are a great option for bohemian-style followers to stand out in fashion.
- Robes: Loose clothes are not limited to dresses. Kimonos and robes are fashion statements that are popular in Boho fashion.
Boho Now
In the present, we can spot almost everyone sporting boho looks to make a statement. This is no longer a style choice for the poor but has become a popular trend for everyone from all backgrounds. The development of boho fashion is a fascinating journey everyone needs to learn about!