Need focussing - feel like I'm neglecting the 'bohemian'/'boho' part - YouLookFab Forum

Category

Dressing

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Need focussing - feel like I'm neglecting the 'bohemian'/'boho' part

Astrid

Veteran

All the recent style musings (but especially Caro's post) made me think about narrowing down my focus about where I want to go in the long run. I do need more careful wardrobe planning, because I can't spend too much. I do love the style moniker Angie (and some others) came up with, Bohemian Prairie Girl. It fits the style I want to have, I'm just not feeling like I'm there yet with my actual outfits. Especially with the 'bohemian' or 'boho' part.

I'm posting some inspirational pictures from my Pinterest below, just so that you see what 'feel' I'm talking about. I'm not quite sure how that should translate into purchases, especially combined with the other two parts of my style. Just thought I'd throw it out there! And keep thinking about it.

This post has 25 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Dressing

30 replies

Latest reply was from Astrid

Molly L-R

I especially love 15 and 22. For me, "bohemian" signals pattern and rich colours. Relaxed silhouettes. Influences from the East and Arabia. Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul. The colours and pattern of 18 are quite Bohemian, but the structure and tailoring make the whole ensemble more Dandy.

If I had to pick one of your slides to sum up "Bohemian Prairie Girl", #6 encapsulates it all in a single outfit. The colours and pattern make up the "Bohemian", the lace up knee boots "Prairie", and the long sleeved dress "Prairie Girl".

Lantana

Veteran

Fluid, drape, movement, soft, texture - these are the words that spring to mind as I flip through your Pinterest board.
When I look at your forum posts I see more structure in your choices, so perhaps that is an element to focus on.
Places like the Oxfam shop have lovely affordable drapey skirts and tops in homespun prints, doubtless you have something similar in Berlin?

RoseandJoan

Veteran

Outwith the heavily patterned and embroidered numbers there are the kind simple pieces with a relaxed fit which you already wear and love. These outfits are often made boho with the use of jewellery and belts.

In terms of developing the bohemian aspect of your style I think it would be a fun exercise to gradually build up your accessory wardrobe by browsing vintage / second hand shops and craft fares. The good news is you can do this over time on a small budget and curate a really unique collection which resonates with you.

lyn67

Veteran

Beautiful inspiration board here, Astrid(esp loved dresses in 1 and 6), and I think your style already has a good bohemian vibe wich suits you well-no wonder the style descriptors you got! my advice for saying focused is one thing/one purchase at a time- and see how can you blend it in your actual wardrobe, then take it one step further. It takes time, but you'll reach there!

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Molly. And I agree, #6 seems to sum it up well. These are pins that I think go more 'bohemian' than others, but I also have a lot of casual feminine modern classic outfits pinned and a lot with a bit tomboy thrown in. I might need to cull my Pinterest boards a bit.

Thanks Lantana! And I agree about the structure, I don't really do much drape and softness in my style. A lot of that has to do with body type though. I love floaty blouses for example but as a pear I don't look good in them. And we do actually have Oxfam in Berlin, I just have never shopped there. But I'm going to have a look.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Julie! That's good advice, to slowly build a collection of accessories that resonate with this part of my style. It's probably the easiest way too.

Thanks Lyn! That makes sense. I wouldn't be able to do a big overhaul at once anyway.

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I really enjoyed looking through these pictures Astrid - I see a lot of "modern classic" under-pinning many of these outfits too.
The other thing I notice is a sophisticated use of pattern mixing. Imo pattern mixing is a really fabulous way of getting an outfit to be more boho. You could do this with a more structured blouse & an embroidered vest or patterned jacket. Then the individual pieces could work back with other plainer pieces too. I think jackets & vests can bring shoulder definition to a softer blouse or top too. #8, #11 & #22 are fabulous examples of what I'm trying to get at:)

Anonymous

I agree about pic 6. To me that is BPG. Like the others, I see drape and fluidity. I also see some unusual shapes and a fair bit of pattern. Caro made a good point about layering with a vest and so on.
I think you need to add a bit more softness. Perhaps you could add that in smaller ways if you aren't into floaty blouses. One pic has a soft ruffle around the armhole for instance.
Good luck with your continued style journey

Lynne

Veteran

I love your collection, Astrid! A little bit of boho can go a long way so you probably don't need to add too many pieces; a few here and thereadded to your existihng wardrobe might boost your boho quota more than you realize? Hugs, Lynne xo

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Caro! These definitely have a modern classic basis, I agree. The pics below where under the first results when I searched for 'boho' and 'bohemian' and it's not quite the look I'm going for, even though it's often associated with the term. I'm already doing pattern mixing and I love it, mostly with scarves. I might need to try adding some different patterns in the future - I have a lot of plaid and stripes so far, but not many wild patterns. I like the idea of a jacket or vest to add structure to a softer top or dress.

Thanks Diane! I agree about adding some softness. I don't have anything with ruffles and I don't always like them, but I do like the detail in #16.

Thanks Lynne! Great to see you. You're right, a few little changes might be sufficient for the overall feel of the outfit to be what I want. It's all in the details.

This post has 3 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Traci

Veteran

I just saw something in this collection that I've never been able to put my finger on in your style. I think I like the term Gypsy better than Prairie for the type of ornate detailing and flowy lines you're drawn to. I see glimpses of Gypsy all over these pins.

Carla

Veteran

Beautiful inspiration board. From what I've seen in your outfit posts, you've got a foundation for the look, but tend to more solids and darks. Maybe your next items could be multicoloured like a knit sweater or vest or woven skirt. If there are loads of different colours, it should mix and match with what you already have.

You might want to browse arts and crafts fairs for one of a kind hand crafted garments. Although there might not be any fiscal bargains, you will be supporting local artists and likely getting something quite unique. I'm thinking weavers, knitters, and other artisans who work with fabrics, leather,etc.

Anonymous

Yes 16 is the one I meant. I like those pics you've added too, there's a bit of lace in one which I like and I love the soft knit in 3.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Traci! That's really interesting. Would you still think that if you took my other inspirational pics into consideration? I can see why Gypsy might fit well here, but I might be tempted to substitute the 'Bohemian' part with Gypsy, not the 'Prairie' part. Or not? Now I'm confused.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks, Runcarla! I like your suggestions. I've no idea where you would go for art and crafts here, but I'll try to find out. There are many stores with small designers and so on, but most I know are going for a whole different look. I like the idea of getting some multicolored patterned items.

Diane, I like #3 the best from the ones I've added later. I like bits and pieces of the first two, but they're much too 'busy'. If that makes sense.

nancylee

Veteran

I have a boho streak, too, Astrid....so I really loved your photos.

I'm struggling a bit with the same problem, but I think the advice to seek out pattern and texture is key to adding that boho flair to your current wardrobe.

Or maybe a slouchy purse for summer? Having at least one "relaxed, easy" element in your outfit will help nudge it into the boho camp.

T-Rex

Veteran

Runcarla made the suggestion I was going to make. Keep an eye out for art festivals in your area. Those are a good place to find handmade jewelry and handknit scarves and sweaters. You will probably also find artisans who change up and repurpose older clothing, which tends to end up having a bohemian look and feel. Also check out music festivals, international festivals, neo-pagan festivals, etc. These gatherings often have vendor booths with the kinds of accessories you are looking for.

I would also browse the Vintage and Handmade sections of Etsy. If the shipping to Berlin is too high, see if there is an equivalent to Etsy in Germany. I see lots of items on that site that can be worked into a Boho wardrobe.

I think of "bohemian" style as being a combination of loose, flowing shapes, international style elements, and a good bit of "this 'n that" from different eras all mixed together. I am struck by the image in #7. The pants, top, and vest are all classic and while loose fitting, are a bit structured. It is the accessories that make the look boho. The sash, the beads, the headwrap, etc. I really, really love that particular look.

Vix

Veteran

Hi Astrid --

You know we share a love of boho elements so I'm glad you're focusing on that side of yourself a little more...sorry it's been a bit more of a challenge than you'd like. I really feel that we Barely Boho'ers -- especially those of us who stick to a color palette -- have a harder time picking through what's out there.

But when we find the right thing: awwww.

One thing I've noticed for myself is that I have to stay away from an overall look that's (to use shorthand) unisex. Elements = fine. This is especially a PI[My]A when it comes to casual looks, but must be addressed.

Maybe take a look at that issue and see how you feel? Between your boho and prairie leanings I think you may need very stereotypically feminine pieces/accessories to pair with your more rugged items.

Oh -- did you see Teri's boho thread with jeans + tunic? Sorry I can't link, but don't miss out.

Re the flowy + body shape issue: I feel your pain, as I'm drawn to that look, have several voluminous items, and since it's very much on trend feel "permitted" to wear them -- yet it's not the most flattering on me.

One thought is to go sheer (with a sturdy T underlayer, of course) -- so that it's an overall lighter look and the shape of your body is seen a bit. I also have been known to fall in love with a print that's not in my size and wear it open + tied to contain the volume (photo 1). You have a shape ideal for belting so you could try that.

You know this and it's been talked about before/above but "rough" texture really is such a boho thing IMO. I find pairing my suede boots or pebbled leather bag with anything pushes something a BIT farther from classic into boho.

I also have a bit of possible inspiration for you: Rachel Zoe's collection:

http://www.rachelzoe.com/colle.....ollection/

A lot of her line's looks draw from vintage and classic elements, and of course she's known for her boho slant.

Keep us posted!

This post has 2 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

T-Rex

Veteran

I thought of another idea. You could pick an element or example of boho style that you like, and try searching for that. For instance, I love batik clothing, and have several pieces. It can be soft and flowing, but it can also be a bit stiffer and more structured. So, I did a google image search of "batik clothing", and found a wide variety of styles. (I tried to just paste the URL, but it was so long it ran off the page. So just try doing that same search yourself.)

I also checked out wikipedia, and it seems there is a great deal of history and culture behind the technique. I need to go back later and read it in detail. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batik

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks Nancy! I actually have what I call my 'boho bag', see the pic below. I really like the look of it, but I'm not using it as much as I want to because it doesn't have a zipper and I'm always fearing for my stuff in public transport.

Thanks T-Rex! I'm going to try to find out what kinds of fairs/festivals are held here. I haven't shopped on Etsy before, but I've been looking from time to time. The only thing that's making me hesitate to use it is that it has just SO MUCH stuff. There's something similar for Germany, http://de.dawanda.com/. At least that's the one I know of. And I love look #7 too! Searching for specific elements is a good idea, I'm going to try that too.

Thanks Vix! You're making an important point here, about the 'unisex' looks. I definitely agree that having 'feminine' pieces is important - I'm thinking for myself that's linked to the Girl part of my moniker. I felt good when I've been wearing my favourite slouchy straight legs with a solid colored tee and sneakers lately (happened quite often), but my hapiness factor could have been much higher. I guess I would have been much happier wearing the jeans with my oxfords (that I think were feminine too) and a patterned flowy bouse or shirt. Belting to rein in volume is a good idea too. Maybe I will rediscover my belts that way, because I'm not belting in the waist at all recently. I found that belting at the waist in combination with form fitting clothing just isn't me. Now I'm mostly using belts to hold my slouchy pants up. And thanks for the Rachel Zoe link! I'm going to keep you all posted.

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Laura B.

I really love the looks you've posted! There are a few markets mentioned on this website if you are still looking for places to buy handmade things. The site is for handmade underwears xD but the markets I think will have more.

http://www.en.berlin-underwear.com/wokaufen

T-Rex

Veteran

Ack! I had a long reply for you and the internet ate it.

Short version is this. I found a less fancy version of the jacket in #18 on the National Geographic shopping website. Boho, but with structure. I saw some other nice pieces there, too. I loved the colorful bangles in particular, and a tooled leather bag from Bolivia.

http://shop.nationalgeographic.....tik-jacket

I've fallen into a rabbit hole of finding things I want while looking around for inspiration for you. Very dangerous! (Actually, I don't mind.) I do need to stay away from online vintage stores, though. The best pieces are always sold, but the websites leave the photos up just to torture me. For instance, a search for "batik jacket" turned this up.

http://www.vintagevirtuosa.com.....tment=0400

And then browsing the site, I found this, which I love. It reads as boho to me because of the pattern, but it's also structured and a bit ladylike. And, of course, sold.

http://www.vintagevirtuosa.com.....tment=1000

And I found a designer brand called "Antik Batik" which may be worth googling. Lots of variety there. I think the bags and purses are probably the stars of that line.

And yes, Etsy is overwhelming to me, too! I can get lost there for long stretches of time. That de.dawanda.com/ site looks a lot like it.

Happy Hunting!!! Let us know if you end up finding any gems.

rachylou

Veteran

Wow! I can't tell you how much I love #6! It's kinda saloon girl goes out on the trail... ok, yeah, maybe you don't wanna go that far, but still...

Ok so the differences I see between where you are now and these pins is in layering of patterns, use of "ethnic" pattern, and softness. I can see where you'd want structure in your clothing, but you could bring in softness through sleeve styles and soft "fuzzy" fabrics and more relaxed collar lines and skirts. I also think these pins are on the womanly side of bohemian prairie girl. You have probably been more preppy in putting together outfits (and yes, preppy is like the opposite of womanly, hehe).

Jyoti

(website)

Veteran

Apologies as I have been off the forums for quite a bit and can't exactly recall your wardrobe, but I feel like what you might be missing in order to capture this look better are some statement pieces. In your past WIWs, I remember that you have some great basics in beautiful colours that are very much bohemian prairie girl. I think you might want to look into getting some in your face pieces-- from the inspiration photos, some pieces that I see that accomplish this include: a tie belt, big beaded jewelry, lace-up knee boots, voluminous skirts, and textured or patterned pieces.

I just skimmed through the other responses as I should probably get back to studying, but I noticed there are some specific brand/shop suggestions. I'm not sure what you have access to in Berlin, but some bigger name lines that I tend to associate with boho and prairie looks are Free People and Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply. I can find those lines here in Canadian department stores-- not sure if you could do the same with German department stores?

Traci

Veteran

I think I see it in most of your inspiration pieces, but I've never been able to name it. The gypsy thing may be more overt in this series, but there is definitely a refined, ornate, feminine, organic slant to your style that I've always found familiar, but have not been able to put my finger on. I think the couple of vests in this series were what put it over the top for me.

I see Gypsy in the scarves you choose, the full skirts that flatter you, even your slightly wild and beautiful hair. I think I have a little bit of a RATE association with Gypsy too because it all needs to look like it can be stuffed into a bag and travel around the world on a whim.

RoseandJoan

Veteran

Traci, yes I get Gypsy too, it is equal parts ornate and carefree, beautiful but not precious.

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks for the link, Laura!

Thanks for the links, T-Rex! And oh my god, I love some of that Antik batik stuff. It's great, but expensive.

Thanks Rachylou! I think your analysis is spot on.

Thanks Jyoti! I think adding a few stand out pieces or accessories to tweak my more modern classic looks is a good idea.

Thanks Traci and Julie! I can see why you think 'Gypsy' fits. I'm not ready to change my moniker right now, but I'm going to think about it. I like the term! And I do think I might perhaps benefit from a descriptor that's less unwieldy.

T-Rex

Veteran

I thought I was done filling up your thread with my comments. I guess not.

I thought of another possible resource for you. Are there any shops where you live that sell Middle Eastern clothing and decor? There is a shop like that near my place of employment. It is filled with tunics, skirts, jewelry, scarves, etc. that would be good accent pieces in a Boho wardrobe. And here, at least, the prices are very resonable. (That Antik Batik stuff is way out of my price range, too!) Luckily, a lot of boho items are inexpensive, so it's not as much of a commitment to experiment as it might be with other looks.

If you can't find any such shops right away, see if there are any bellydance troupes nearby. You might ask them where they shop for their costumes. Usually shops that carry bellydance gear also carry other clothing items.

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

I've been away for a few days Astrid but saw your post and pics and immediately thought of an example of my own. I recently bought a simple white slub cotton tee from EB that had a slight embroidered "edged" design on the top of the v "flaps" white on white, very subtle. It was an ever so slight touch of boho style to an otherwise basic tee. That tee, paired with BF jeans, ethnic belt, strappy sandals, brown Fossil saddle bag, and a simple floral sterling engraved pendant really "read" a slight "boho" vibe to me. Longish, wavy hair adds to that of course.

So I guess I'm wholeheartedly agreeing with those who suggested adding a few strategic accessories that help project boho, and look for small hints of boho design in the new things you purchase.

Embroidery, textured fabrics (even simple, affordable slub cotton adds texture to an outfit), ethnic weaves, jewelry that has a slight ethnic or at least intricate design, etc.

I think it's good to start small with a particular theme and add to it over time.

12