Boho-chic is back in a grown-up avatar, which is at once chic but careless, elegant but effortless. Ace the look with this cheat sheet
Bold prints and contrasts can be chic. Pic Courtesy/@tonfifi
The counterculture is back in all its paisley-printed glory — and this time, it’s dressing in a chic-er, more trendy fashion update. Once reserved for the artists and intellectuals, bohemian style has always found its way to the wild at heart, finding favour with rock icons including Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks as well as supermodels such as Kate Moss. Fast-forward to the current day and it appears that boho-chic is well and thriving again, combining the softness of nostalgia with the more playful Y2K-inspired sensibilities of contemporary fashion lovers.
Aditi Rao Hydari shows the right way to sport tiered skirts. Pic Courtesy/@aditiraohydari
“It’s safe to say that boho-chic has grown up. While it’s still relaxed and expressive, this iteration has sharper silhouettes, cleaner layers and smarter styling. The new age bohemian is about effortless fashion with intention. It’s romantic yet grounded. Easy-going yet elevated,” explains fashion designer Sanjana Bubber Divecha. She explains easy ways to bring out the sophisticated wild-child in your closet.
Clashing but cohesive
Keep a balanced silhouette to avoid a bulky look. Pic Courtesy/@inspodelook
Bohemian looks have always thrived on a good clash of prints. Now, it’s about doing it with harmony. Choose two prints that share a colour palette or have contrasting motif scales. For instance, a bold floral top can be paired with a soft abstract print. An Ikat blouse pops when combined with micro florals, Divecha advises. Let the accessories keep you grounded. Stick to one tone like black, taupe, beige or gold.
Tiers and transparency
Lean on soft colours like taupe or denim blue. Pic Courtesy/@sideways.toupee
Always remember that boho is floaty, not frumpy, Divecha warns. A few pieces that work well include tiered skirts (maxi or mini only) as well as bouffant or balloon sleeves with snug cuffs. Choose light fabrics like sheer cottons, slub textures or soft seersuckers. Try pairing a neutral tiered skirt with a fitted tee and cropped bomber jacket. Add fringe sandals or ankle boots to complete your look.
Balloon strategically
Sonam Kapoor’s outfit captures an aligned aesthetic. Pic Courtesy/@sonamkkapoor
Balloon hems are having a serious fashion moment. However, to keep the look from seeming overwhelming and bulky, Divecha recommends avoiding adding volume to both ends. Instead, try a balance of silhouettes in the form of balloon shorts with a tiered slim-fit shirt, or a balloon camisole with mirror work paired with horseshoe or bootcut jeans. If you have wider hips or an hourglass shape, stick to streamlined bottoms and voluminous tops.
Earthy and light
With embellishments, the bolder they are, the better it is. Pic Courtesy/@devanshi.15
Boho-chic is especially grounded in 2025. Divecha recommends earthy tones and breathable textures. Lean towards soft white, taupe, olive, denim blue, camel, lemon, mint and dusty peach. “White is the central theme this season. Build your look around it and layer with neutrals or soft metallics,” she adds.
Embellishments are a game-changer
Vijay Varma keeps it muted with his relaxed fit. Pic courtesy/@itsvijayvarma
One of the easiest ways to elevate the boho vibe is with an embroidered neckline. Globally, subtle Indian elements are making waves, whether in the form of mirror work on collars or camisoles, delicate zardozi on soft cottons or linens or even Indian block or buti prints on skirts and oversized shirts, says Divecha. These touches add richness to your outfit without overpowering the look. They work beautifully with earthy tones and add a unique global flair.
The finer details
Sanjana Bubber Divecha
When it comes to accessories, the bolder, the better. Boho looks are built around statement pieces. Take your pick from large hoops, fringe or feather earrings, bamboo or jute totes, animal-shaped clutches and elegant gold rings. “Your accessories must be visually aligned. If you’re wearing gold jewellery, keep your shoes and belt in the same tone. Metallics must match. So must neutrals,” Divecha says. At the same time, keep your makeup soft and glowing.
“These looks don’t lend themselves well to sculpted cheekbones or graphic liners here. You want skin that looks kissed by the sun, and lit from within. To achieve this, begin with a dewy base followed by a peachy or pink blush. Add glow with a little gold bronzer. Your eyes should be soft with a neutral shadow. Finally, a nude or rosy lip tint rounds up a look that is simple and youthful,” she suggests.
Masculine but earthy
The boho look also lends itself to menswear, notes Divecha. “The colour palette includes vintage browns, military green, sage green, taupe and muted neutrals. Key pairings include military green with white, brown with off white or muted beige, and camel with white, faded denim or soft beige bottoms. These unique colour combinations add a luxe vibe,” she shares.
Opt for fabrics that feel tactile and lived-in. Crushed cotton, linen, wrinkled denim, crochet, sheer shirts and patch pockets are top boho but luxe picks. Pieces with raw thread work or raised thick cord embroidery in earthy tones of beige, grey and brown add that extra boho-edge. Relaxed fits, organic fabrics and neutral accessories are a proven formula, she signs off.
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