How To Pull Off Bohemian Style For Men
If putting on the same old suit from Monday to Friday has left you with a mind blank when it comes to weekend dressing, we’ve got the cure. It comes in the form of bohemian dressing and it’ll provide you with the sartorial inspiration that you need to reinvigorate your casual style.
The definition of a bohemian is “A socially unconventional person, especially one who is involved in the arts.” In other words, it is someone who makes their own rules and finds beauty in everyday life. A fine idea, but how does it translate into a style of dress? The answer is, with a notion of unconformity that provides a refreshing departure from the modern, minimal, and sleek aesthetic of current days. Silhouettes are relaxed and styles made comfortable and casual for the wearer. Patterns and colors are injected in a bold and expressive manner. Fabrics are natural and unfussy. Details carry a vintage charm and accessories are artisanal and aplenty. Still don’t get it? Let us show you.
Bohemian style is about expressing yourself and feeling comfortable in what you wear. While modern life may try to dictate that men wear pants pretty much everywhere but the beach, bohemians break the mold and embrace shorts. Their free-spirited lifestyle is reflected in the casual garment, as is their relaxed demeanor. True to the expressive nature of the bohemian style, patterned shorts are a wardrobe essential for gents looking to pull off this look. Bold botanicals and busy patterns in a short, chino style will be your ticket to keeping this look stylish. If you like a more traditional touch, however, opt for regular chino shorts in a long and loose fit. The exaggerated silhouette will provide the laid-back look you’re after and add some vintage charm.
When the weather gets too cold for shorts, bohos turn to two distinct types of trousers to provide them with coverage and style. The first of these trousers types is jeans. Jeans are a wardrobe staple for every gent and bohemians are no exception. To pull off the bohemian look, ensure that your jeans are the appropriate off-duty style. Forego the sharp, dark denim you wear to the office on casual Friday, and opt for rugged and ripped, light or mid-blue jeans instead. A slim silhouette is best while cuffed legs are optional. While these jeans suit the easy-going nature of the bohemian style, pleated trousers create an old-world feel that suits its vintage feel. Wear them slightly baggy in the leg and belted at the waist to complete the style.
When trying out a new bohemian style, a patterned shirt is a necessity. What better way to show off your non-conformist personality than with a shirt that doesn’t conform to the traditional rules of men’s dressing? So, save the pinstripes and checks for the office and let your creative side run wild. No matter if you have a penchant for florals, paisley, or even some subtle animal print; you can’t go wrong when selecting a boho shirt. Just make sure it’s eye-catching and unique. To really solidify your bohemian look, choose a lightweight cotton style and “forget” to iron it. The crinkles in the breezy fabric will have a stylishly disheveled and undone appearance. When it comes to shaping, loose is best and short-sleeved is appropriately unconventional. Likewise, rolled-up long sleeves and a few open buttons carry the same nonchalant attitude.
Bohemian style carries a theme of unstructured silhouettes and rough-around-the-edges detail. Therefore, it would hardly look appropriate to throw a tailored blazer on over the top of your paisley shirt and distressed denim. Instead, your look calls for something a little more relaxed, such as a cardigan. The style is perfect for the comfortable and vintage nature of bohemian dressing. Keep the look from becoming prepping by choosing loose shapes and leaving buttons undone. If you can find one that looks a little worn out or features pulls or holes, that’s even better. Also, remember that a knitted or crocheted vest makes a good warm-weather option. Alternatively, anything lightweight, oversized, and patterned tends to make a great backup choice.
While traditional bohemians might consider going barefoot the only real option, modern-day gents will undoubtedly find that quite impractical (and a little unhygienic). Instead, the trendsetting bohos of today’s generation have found themselves rocking sandals. Casual, yet indisputably more stylish than flip flops, sandals are the ideal footwear to complete a bohemian look. While you may be tempted to throw on some Nike pool slides or pull out a pair of hipster-Esque, velcro sandals, stop yourself. Bohemian is synonymous with the artist, and therefore to dress like one your outfit must feature artisanal details. Leather straps are definitely the way to go with your sandals. Likewise, when the weather cools off, opt for leather too. Select a pair of loafers with a slightly worn or “traveled in” appearance.
A bohemian man would be nothing without his accessories. While modern ways of dressing may have taught you that a minimal watch and some sleek sunglasses are all you need, bohemian style rebels against this notion. To really pull off the bohemian look, you’ll have to complete it with accessories. Not only are accessories a reflection of personal style and individualism (something very important to the bohemian culture), but they can also add that artisanal feel that’s essential to the style. Choose between a range of accessories, made from natural materials to achieve the look. A simple straw hat, canvas tote bag, patterned scarf, and wooden bead bracelet, are all quick, surefire ways of nailing your finishing touches.
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