{Editor’s Note: Erin’s back with a look at one of the trickiest trends there is: boho. How to pull it off without looking like a hippie schlub? It’s a tricky business. The key is to glam it up and be wary of proportions, and Erin’s got a can’t-miss strategy to make it work for anyone…yes, even you.}
Altuzurra, via Style.com / Rachel Zoe, via Style.com / Hermes, via Style.com
Erin ~ The bohemian, free-spirited look is shown so often that it has become less of a trend and more of a type of style. However, this season has a little twist on the classic flower child look. It’s a little less Woodstock and a little more wealthy gypsy with a dash of urban sophistication. The look is characterized by rich leather, fur (faux or real), layers of luxe fabrics, and gold accessories. This is definitely a look for maximalists, so don’t be shy with the layers or the accessories!
For the weekend, start with a maxi dress in an autumnal palette. This is a great way to stretch your wardrobe and bring some of those summer sundresses into fall. A long necklace and patterned scarf bring in a bit of happy chaos to give that bohemian feel. Heeled booties lend the outfit a bit of urban edge and the tweed blazer adds polish and texture to make the look feel current.
Modern Lit Lecturer Blazer, Modcloth, $45 / Harness Heel Boot, Dolcetta by Dolce Vita, $98 / Plaid Shirt Scarf, Free People, $48 / Crystal Spear Necklace, Alexis Bittar, $155 / Paisley Maxi Dress, Eighty Sixty, $99
To take the boho look from 9 to 5, try pairing contrasting textures of rich fabrics. Gold jacquard pants contrast with a silky blouse, and the small diamond pattern plays well with a simple feather print, creating a harmonious mix of textures and patterns. Layer a black vest and bangles over everything to bring the outfit together and add an extra dose of boho cool. I personally love the look of cropped pants over a calf height boot or ankle booties, but this look would work equally well with a wedge heel or a classic black pump.
Darling Elizabeth Tunic, ASOS, $60 / Trinity Gold Jacquard Cigarette Pants, Reiss, $265 / Mighty Black Leather Zip Boots, Topshop, $90 / Sleeveless Wool Vest, Lord & Taylor, $60 / Art Deco Bangles, Tinley Road, $18
Lastly, for a night out, pair a jewel-tone dress (merlot is particularly on trend for fall) with a fur vest. A pair of chandelier earrings adds a touch of gypsy glimmer; after all, it is a girls’ night out. Tassels and fringe are standard for a boho look, but instead of a predictable pair of fringe boots or a bag, add just a touch with a tasseled skinny belt and keep the boots classic for a more sophisticated look.
Tassle Hem Faux Fur Gilet, Topshop, $110 / Timber Jersey Dress, French Connection, $138 / Emina Boot, Libby Edelman, $127 / Gala Chandelier Earring, Banana Republic, $45 / Skinny Waist Belt with Tassel, BCBGeneration, $24
This trend is a great way to get some extra mileage from your closet by making unexpected pairings. Mix glamorous, special pieces with your casual weekend wear, mix patterns and textures, combine floaty summer pieces with heavier fall clothes, and when in doubt, always layer on one more thing!
