How to Master Boho Chic Style at Any Age

Boho style has been a pillar of fashion for centuries – and it still plays a key role in today’s fashion. This distinctive style conveys a free spirit and an open mind while its shapes remain timeless and intriguing. 

Because of its timelessness, you can master boho chic style at any age – so let’s explore that together in this guide.

Boho style is named after the Bohemian movement. It’s a fashion aesthetic that embodies a free-spirited, eclectic, and unconventional approach to dressing and even interior decorating. Drawing inspiration from various cultures, historical periods, and artistic movements, it results in a unique blend of textures, colours, and patterns. 

Characterised by its free-flowing silhouettes and relaxed shapes, expect plenty of earthy tones and vivid clashes of colours accented with bold accessories and craft-inspired detail. If you want a real in-depth guide on everything boho, then check out our guide on What is Boho Style Clothing? Everything You Need to Know About Bohemian Style.

Boho style can be traced back to the 19th century, emerging as a countercultural response to mainstream Victorian values. Bohemians were of Romani traveller descent, rejecting societal norms and embracing the bohemian lifestyle, characterised by artistic expression, nonconformity and a love of nature. 

Gaining popularity with artists, writers and intellectuals, particularly in large European cities like London and Paris, the boho style flourished. During the 60s and 70s, boho style experienced a real resurgence as part of the hippie movement, where it remains today. Embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds, we’ll explore how you can work this expressive style into your wardrobe and set your spirit free – the Joe Browns way!

Boho is short for bohemian, whereas boho chic is a more modern, refined interpretation of traditional boho style. So, what does boho chic look like? Well, it takes the eclectic, free-spirited elements of boho and adds a touch of sophistication. Featuring more tailored silhouettes, it gives a more curated approach to boho styling.

It doesn’t stop at clothes either, boho chic decor can be used around your home to reflect your personality. Don’t be afraid to play with textures like cushions and throws, and why not try some wall art? It can really breathe a breath of fresh air into your space.

Firstly, it’s all about flowy fabrics. Naturally, flowy boho dresses should be the first thing in your wardrobe. These become the ultimate boho go-to.

• Dresses: Flowing maxi dresses work best, but also some midi length dresses work well if they’re loose fitting with flowy sleeves and a cute pattern.

• Tops: To choose an undeniably boho top, opt for something with flowy silhouettes, embroidery, lace, tassels, fringe detail or off-the-shoulder peasant-style tops really carry the boho message through your entire outfit.

• Skirts: Maxi skirts paired with any of the above tops will curate a beautifully bohemian look. It doesn’t stop there, though! Try playing with texture like wearing a slip skirt with a chunky jumper and long boots to create some depth to your outfit.

• Trousers: When it comes to trousers for styling boho chic outfits, flares are your friend. From plain denim flares to all-out embroidered pieces, flares will put a retro spin on your outfit, and can even provide a Western-style boho look that’s bang on-trend right now. Tailored wide leg trousers offer a great contrast against the flowy tops, too, which is the ultimate in boho chic styling.

• Shoes: Obviously, long boots reign supreme, but you should also try some ankle boots to give yourself some options. During the summer months, find yourself a pair of sandals with leather straps or even some beading for a gorgeous, free-spirited look.

• Accessories: Bring your A-game when it comes to boho accessories – because there’s plenty of them! With jewellery, we love long necklaces and bracelets to carry through the boho message. Don’t be afraid to layer up different kinds, too – the more the merrier! With belts, you can really play around with your boho style, so choose something embroidered for that artisan vibe. Lastly, don’t forget a poncho or kimono to take a plainer outfit and turn it into something truly bohemian.

From the likes of Stevie Nicks and Chaka Khan to modern icons like Florence Welch and the Olsen twins, boho style reigns supreme and has done for several decades (without forgetting our Queen; Janis Joplin, of course!). This goes to show boho style really can suit any age, with a few tweaks and some tips, you, too can rock the bohemian look.

The clothes look great, but it’s your “devil may care” attitude that does the heavy lifting with the bohemian lifestyle. The importance of confidence and open-mindedness is key to achieving a complete boho chic look and will open avenues to experimenting with your own unique take on this style. Are you more of a rocker boho, sleek and sophisticated boho chic or nature-loving bohemian? 

Wedding season is all year round, so you’ll definitely need a boho chic outfit in your boho capsule wardrobe.  Dresses are at the top of the list, naturally – so we recommend a flowy boho dress with plenty of colour and pattern. If you prefer to have something plainer in colour, you can add pattern with a longline kimono which will offset the dress beautifully. Add some choice accessories like a statement long necklace and earrings, and lastly, a pair of heeled sandals with leather straps will complete the entire look!

Styling boho looks in your 20s can be a super exciting and liberating experience when exploring your own style identity. Joe recommends when shopping for boho looks in your 20s, go super whimsical with it and push the boundaries of styling. 

For this we recommend a long maxi dress, chunky boots and some choice accessories. Alternatively, a crop top and a maxi skirt pull off the boho look for those sunny summer days. In the colder weather, try layering a super thick cardigan over your flowy ensemble to play with some texture.

Styling a boho look for the flirty 30s, Joe knows you probably have a sense of identity, so this decade is all about balancing comfort, sophistication and a touch of whimsy. Of course, your fashion choices can still evolve, but boho chic style is a timeless trend that you can keep coming back to. 

Opt for elevated silhouettes like a tailored maxi dress, flowy slip skirts and structured blouses to keep a slightly smarter look that’ll make you feel confident and ready to take on the day. Accessorise with your favourite statement pieces and – if the weather needs it, layer with purpose, like lightweight cardigans, kimonos or a leather jacket for a little added edge.

Styling boho looks in your 40s is all about embracing sophistication while maintaining the relaxed and free-spirited side of you. Joe’s top tip is to balance out structured items with free and flowing items for a fresh, refined take on the boho style. 

Choose some tailored pieces like tailored wide leg trousers and pair them with a flowy top, or a blazer to pair with your boho dresses. We also love pointed Western-style boots for this, as it provides that structured edge to your outfit. Really focus on quality items here so they’ll stand the test of time. Lastly, accessorise with understated elegance to add some polish to your boho outfits.

Styling boho looks in your 50s is all about embracing confidence and sophistication whether you’re navigating change or finding yourself again. The trick here is to maintain your personal flair when styling your free-spirited boho look. 

Choose elegant silhouettes that flatter your figure and exude confidence, like flowing maxi dresses, tailored flares and lush, relaxed blouses. When it comes to accessories, you can really take advantage of statement pieces like a wide-brimmed hat, bold jewellery and chunky necklaces. Embrace a sophisticated colour palette with rich jewel tones balanced with subtle neutrals and layer them up with an elegant twist. For instance, a lovely flowy kimono looks sublime over a pair of tailored trousers and a graphic tee with a free-spirited message.

Styling boho looks for your 60s and beyond is all about embracing your individuality, confidence and adventurous spirit with beautiful boho styles that make you feel amazing. It’s all about embracing comfort here too, and boho is amazing accommodating for this approach to styling with purpose. 

First, embrace those comfortable silhouettes that flatter your figure and provide ease of movement. Choose the classic flowy maxi dress, but also consider tunics (don’t forget to check out our tunic guides!) that offer unparalleled comfort while maintaining sophistication. With layering, try lighter layers of sheer fabrics like duster jackets and kimonos. Lastly, accessorise with your statement pieces. Really experiment and find what makes you feel confident!

So there you have it. Styling boho chic looks at any age is a skill that stands the test of time. With Joe’s top tips, we want to see you rocking your boho chic styles – so be sure to share them with us on Facebook and Instagram. 

For more styling tips from Joe Browns, be sure to bookmark our Inspiration page.

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