In the book Seven Days in the Art World, Sarah Thornton explores the meaning of ‘bohemian’: “the term bohemian has a bad reputation because it’s allied to myriad clichés, but Parisians originally adopted the term, associated with nomadic Gypsies, to describe artists and writers who stayed up all night and ignored the pressures of the industrial world.”

Like the lifestyle, the bohemian/ boho style connotates artists, nomads and freedom, itself embodying levels of formality and the opposite. For a low key romantic look, layers and a preference for tertiary and darker colours play a major role.Experiments between fabrics and prints are freely encouraged. These can vary from: fur, leather, floral prints, denim, velvet, cashmere although all must be combined with the notion of equilibrium.

Since less is more, especially in this context, having a wide choice in the wardrobe gives more room to emphasise one’s original identity, without looking like a try hard. For example, to a simple tee under a woollen jumper, can be added a denim jacket, a leather jacket or a blazer; all of which will help create layers. Why not throw a trench coat on that well-layered outfit you just created? Are you going for colour block effect or complementary colours? The choice is yours.

Trousers are a lot easier in this context; simplicity then comfort obtain a premium. Here your chinos, corduroys, skinny jeans and slim fitted trousers will do, leaving you more room to think about the shoes. Shoes are more prescriptive as trainers are less suitable for this look. Brogues and Chelsea boots, on the other hand, are a win.

ACCESSORIES: Accessorise as much -or little- as you like. Add a scarf? Silk scarf or woollen scarf? Fancy a hat? Think fedoras and berets: Go wild! Explore.

Here’s how our style session guys represent Le perfect Bohémien.

images: google