If you want to be groovy, you gotta go ‘boho’
This season, fashionistas are rhapsodic about the revival of the bohemian style. Judy Gordon guides you through the racks
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Judy Gordon The 'Today' show Style Editor • Profile • E-mail |
Want to add a touch of exotic luxe to your wardrobe this season? Welcome the eclectic mix of bohemian style!
No need to jump back to the ’60s from head-to-toe — unless that’s what turns you on, of course — one or two pieces will add just enough fashion buzz to keep things interesting.
A great new handbag, a wonderful print or a dazzling, bejeweled kurta, the choice is yours. It’s all right here in the latest edition of our weekly fashion and beauty update.
Skirt alert 
A long, gauzy skirt embellished with beads or mirrors is about as bohemian as you get. These skirts are easy to wear, right on trend and they cover a number of flaws (as long as they’re not too full). For a more sophisticated look, opt for a solid color — instead of a Moroccan-type print version — and pair it with a sleek top in the same color family. Beaded thongs or metallic sandals will complete the feminine and pretty picture.
Trend Tip:
For the slimmest look, steer clear of flounced and tiered skirts in heavy cottons. Instead, choose a flowing skirt in silk. If size — or age — isn’t an issue, go for a skirt in mixed bright colors and wear it with a tank, or two layered, different-colored tees. Henri Bendel has an amazing selection.
Pattern play
If you have an inner bohemian spirit, you’ll want to reach for an exotic print this season — and just one is all it takes to grab this trend. What’s hot right now are colored tie-dye and ombre prints in everything from easy cottons to luxurious cashmeres and silks. Choose one in a tee, pareo or tank top for a whimsical casual update, or go for something a little more substantial, such as a cashmere sweater or silk skirt that you can wear in the evening. Whatever you choose, it’ll be a taste of the easy, breezy bohemian lifestyle that many of us wish we could live!
Trend Tip:
We love the fabulous prints on casual pieces from BCBG Max Azria, Free People, Anthropologie or Armand Diradourian (at Vivre.com).
Cool jewels
Go for the gold with a mixture of the season's must-have coral, turquoise and wood beads. Or sharpen up those crochet hooks and revisit your days in summer camp! We’re witnessing the return of bracelets, earrings, necklaces and belts crocheted of yarn or string, woven raffia … even macramé! They are a fun and affordable way to add a bit of boho glam to your summer looks at very gentle prices. The trend is to mix, match … and pile it on.
Trend Tip:
You will find bohemian-inspired jewelry everywhere, from your favorite mall store to the counter of every major department store. If you want to let your fingers do the walking, try FreePeople.com, Target.com or Claires.com … and go wild!
Walk this way
It’s time to move the pointy stilettos to the back of the closet. In their place, you will find the top trends are the super comfy espadrille, the wedge heel and a flashback to the Birkenstocks of the ’60s. Of course, these styles have been re-tooled with a touch of 2005 glamour, but the bottom line is clear — bohemian-inspired shoes are “it” and they are easy to wear as well. Go for lace-up espadrilles with khakis or feminine styles, beaded Birkenstocks as your casual must-have, and the wedge for everything in between.
Trend Tip:
Our favorite boho shoes can be found at all price points including Cole Haan (as in the espadrille featured here), Delman, Donald J. Pliner, Kate Spade, Kors Michael Kors, Stuart Weitzman, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Nine West Studio (their new fashion forward line), Kenneth Cole, Anne Klein, Aerosoles and Mossimo at Target.
It’s in the bag
Oh yes, your spring and summer wardrobe will not be complete without the prerequisite woven handbag or tote, but this time around they are far from the “flower child” looks of the ’60’s! We’re seeing gorgeous combinations of woven and studded leather mixed with crocheted and beaded details that can truly be called works of art. The humble straw tote is also elevated to boho luxe when it’s woven and finished with colorful leather details. All in all, it’s more than enough reason to spring for a special summer bag, which could be all you need to get the boho trend into your daily life.
Trend Tip:
Where to find them? We absolutely adore the boho chic bags from Isabelle Fiore carried at Saks — as featured here — but they are a bit on the pricey side. You will also find wild metallic hobo bags and great straw totes at Target. Or check your local department store for its private label handbags — they generally cost less.
Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more about Gordon, you can visit her Web site, TheTrendReport.com, which highlights style trends in America and across the world.
firstVIEW is the primary supplier of photos to Fashion Friday. Go to www.firstVIEW.com for the latest pictures from top fashion shows around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Brazil, New Zealand, South Korea and more.
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