Petite boho

Gigi

I am feeling drawn to incorporating more boho elements into my style. I am mainly a classic dresser, with some fun and feminine elements thrown in, so this would be a secondary style and not a main one for me. My problem is, I am very short (5'2"), and I have prominent hips. I also have a small bust. So relaxed fits, like full maxi skirts and flowy tops, don't look very good on me. I can wear maxi skirts if they have a straight cut, but anything that's A-line just screams frump city. I have read that it is best to combine boho elements with some structure so that my small frame is not overwhelmed, but I don't quite know what that means in concrete examples. Does anyone have any tips to share? Does anyone know where I can get petite-sized boho clothing? (I will also clarify and say that I am looking for boho-chic, not I-just-stepped-out-of-the-seventies grungy boho.)

12 years ago

Dressing

8 replies

Latest reply was from Caro in Oz

Anonymous

How about boot cut jeans? You could look for tops, jackets, sheath dresses, and pencil skirts with structure but decorated with ethnic patterns. Use ethnic jewelry. Boots.

12 years ago

Gigi

Veteran

Joy, I was forced to wear bell bottoms in the seventies and just can't do it of my own free will. :^)

What kind of boot styles would be considered boho?

12 years ago

Beth Ann

Veteran

Gigi: The new bootcuts are narrow. Sometimes they even call them "baby bootcuts." Might be worth a try! Also, boho can be represented in accessories: ethnic jewelry, scarves and bags!

12 years ago

MuseumGal

Veteran

As much as I'd love to swan about in full on Stevie Nicks garb, I incorporate boho mostly with jewelry and scarves worn with very plain (classic) clothing. I think of it as Minimalist Bohemian or Subtle Bohemian.

12 years ago

Anonymous

I lived boho as a young woman and medium to wide faded denim boot cuts with an Indian cotton paisley peasant blouse and jade pendant with a leather hobo bag with fringe was a favorite outfit. I am too short for the maxi dresses and skirts to look good. Oh, and earthy sandals, even in cool weather with wool socks. Lots of strings of tiny multicolored beads, any accessories from India, and cotton scarves tied at the waist are other memories.

12 years ago

Gigi

Veteran

OK, I will give the "baby bootcuts" a go! Never say never.

Joy, I love paisley and just bought a basic long-sleeved knit top with a bright-colored paisley pattern. I'm on the lookout for more of that type of pattern.

I did try finding some Indian shops online, but the ones I found all liked to put elephants on the garb, and I'm not that crazy about elephants! Otherwise, I really loved the bright colors and patchwork feel. Maybe I just need to keep looking some the nonelephant styles...

I had thought about scarves but thought that I should try to get some boho-inspired outfits put together first, and then add accessories. But maybe it would be a smart idea to find some scarves to incorporate into my current wardrobe first.

12 years ago

karymk

Veteran

Okay Gigi I think I am in the same boat as you as far as wanting to add a little boho to my classic foundation. What I do, is focus completely on the JEWELRY and accessories for that. So for example you can still wear a basic classic outfit of jeans, shirt and perhaps tailored jacket, but what you do is add jewelry with color pops and an ethnic feel. What about those string bracelets layered with gold bangles? statement necklaces from places like World Imports, or Etsy? Go on Pinterest for inspiration in the bohemian category and see what comes up without having to deviate to unnaturally from your core style.

In the summer it is easier. Peasant tops abound, and they are just considered another kind of classic. They look great with crisp white jeans, and you can add in the more bohemian sandal then too.

In winter, you can add in chunky knit scarves and hats with your more tailored pieces like pea coats.

12 years ago

Caro in Oz

Veteran

For cooler weather I like jeans tucked into cognac boots with a soft cotton shirt & fitted short jacket. You can add to the boho vibe with jewellery or scarves/beanies or not depending on your mood

12 years ago

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