How to Dress Bohemian

 

The Bohemian look is always in, but it is exceptionally present right now.  Sometimes it's hard to be trendy and comfortable in your day to day life. But with this look, you can get as creative and crazy as you want and still be relaxed. Interested? I thought so. If you want to start adding the Bohemian look to your personal style, here are 5 steps:

Step 1: Know what a Bohemian is. By definition, a bohemian is, "a person with artistic or intellectual tendencies, who lives and acts with no regard for conventional rules of behavior." What does this mean to you? Experiment, experiment, experiment! There are little to no rules! If you happen to put together a hideously unmatched bohemian outfit and someone tries to doubt your style, tell them...."I'm bohemian, do you know what that means? It means rules don't apply to me. Look it up on stylewithanna.com" (haha). That's the kind of attitude you need to have when rockin' this look. You are an intellectual, artistic, expressive and creative person. Work it!

1. Patterns - The patterns can be loud and busy... flowers, shapes, stars, squiggles, diamond patterns, etc.  Sometimes it's all of the above sewn together.  Patterns sewn on skirts can sometimes look like a patchwork quilt.  If a pattern is not printed onto the fabric then you will see beads and sequins sewn onto the item of clothing in all different colors.  Mixing of patterns is what makes this style unique and fun.
2. Colors - When I researched the history of the bohemian style, a lot of sites stated that the colors were more earth tones.  While yes, you can definitely go earthy with this look, you can also go the complete opposite end of the spectrum.  I see a lot of modern day interpretations (especially since the 80s are back) of this look to have a lot of bright and vibrant colors.  From oranges to purples, navy blues and yellows.  Maybe in the very very old days the bohemian look was more earthy.  Definitely not today.
3. Fabric - Think light and flowy.  This is where the comfort of this look comes into play.  No squeezing into tight tube tops or working your abs for the midriff shirt trend.  Yes, this look is flowy and forgiving for your figure.  Light fabrics with no structure is key.  Think of sheer or soft cotton tops and prairie skirts.

Step 3: Pile on the Accessories
Big and chunky is in and that's why I think the bohemian look followed.  This look is all about the accessories.  Let's start at the top.  Wear a headband, then big stone or turquoise earrings, followed by five layers of different types of beads for your necklace (layer them in different height's and add a necklace with a chunky medallion in the middle), wooden bracelets and a medium brown colored belt.  Am I finished with the accessories?  Of course not.  Sport a big bag and aviator sunglasses.  Ok...now I'm done.  But if you want more, check these great "Bohemian" accessories:

Step 4: The Shoes
I love the shoes because not only are they comfortable, they have more detail and are 'oh so cute'.  Think Pocahontas and Indian inspired.  Sandals with colorful beads or medium brown boots with fringing.  You don't have to wear heels, as you are trying to portray a more comfortable look, being one with nature.  However, if you're short like me and must have heels, go for a low to medium heel.  No stilettos here.

Step 5: How far do you want to take this?
By step 4, you're already pretty bohemian.  No one will doubt the look you are going for.  But if you want to take it a step further, tattoos and piercings can definitely top it off.  This is for the hardcore and serious bohemian fashionistas.  Eyebrow piercings, lip piercings, multiple ear piercings will add to your look.  As for tattoos, I suggest getting one on your foot or wrist. Choose something colorful and fun.  Of course make sure it's meaningful and something you can live with forever.  Otherwise, have fun and be free with yourself!

The Right Jeans For Wider Hips

Alright girls, I've consulted my denim specialist from Gap and she's given me some good tips to share with everyone. If you've been blessed with a J.Lo booty and then some, or have wider hips, do not stuff them in mom jeans. Mom jeans are high waisted and never looked good on anyone. If you have a curvier shape below your waist, always go for a low rise. Otherwise, if you have wider hips and you go high rise, there will be a lot of denim that contours around your hips, drawing more attention to the area.  If you go with a low rise, the jeans start lower, cutting your hips in half. My friend also suggested trying the Long and Lean or the Curvy from Gap:

If you're the usual fan of boot cut and flare jeans, those work just as well, especially if they're a low rise. The only difference between boot cut and the long & lean or curvy is the extra room in the hips and thigh area.

As far as the wash goes, always go for a continuous dark wash or a very semi destructed wash. Otherwise, if you have bigger thighs, it will draw attention to unwanted areas. You don't want jeans that are dark with a big faded area on both thighs...or worse, right on your butt. Keep it simple.

Sarah Jessica Parker 2009 Oscar Inspired Gown

There were a lot of split decisions on this Dior Haute Couture Oscar gown. At first I liked it, then I didn't, but in the end, I realized that Sarah Jessica Parker was wearing it. She IS Carrie Bradshaw after all, so I can't hate. (I'm the biggest Sex and the City freak that ever lived). So if you have an occasion where you can stand out, you might consider going all out like Sarah Jessica Parker did. Her dress is a light mint green and I must say, I love the added belt that makes this dress different from any other poofy prom dress. Here's a designer inspired dress that will be sure to make your prom night fashionably memorable!

Angelina Jolie’s Oscar Inspired Dress and Emerald Jewelry Knockoff

If you haven't noticed it by now, I love Angelina Jolie. She is one of my all time favorite actresses and I loved her all the way back when she was wearing a blood vile on her neck and "making out" with her bro. Those days are long gone and it seems as she ages, she gets classier and more beautiful. It is hard to stun a crowd with a simple black dress (by designer Elie Saab) but Angie did it and she did it well. I have found her designer inspired dress for much less and some other knockoff options to stun a crown in your own little black dress:

 

 

Angelina's gorgeous Lorraine Schwartz emerald earrings and matching cocktail ring really pulled together this look. If you haven't got the budget, here are some alternative options to pop your black dress: