Boho Trends in India

The word “Boho” truly signifies an epitome of fashion escapism. “Boho” is an abbreviation for bohemian, who were travelers or refugees from Europe. Boho-chic fashion is exclusively for women and draws inspiration from the Bohemian and hippie culture. Bohemian is more than a trend. It is actually a style and lifestyle that reflect an eclectic aesthetic – one that takes inspiration from travel and different cultures. Bohemian style originated back in the 1700s but its influence in fashion can be dated back to the 19^th century.

Bohemian fashion is a harmonious link between Western and Indian styles. Indian aesthetic lends itself well to a Boho style. The trend easily takes the floral nomadic prints of India and fuses them with western flowy silhouettes and cuts. The rich colors of the prints instantly up the boho chic quotient of any style. Bohemian style is an easy way of expressing oneself with the comfort and ease of natural fabrics, bright colors, and non-conformity. In India, the banjaras are a rich source of bohemian inspiration. Bohemians represent a colorful counterculture based on an indifference to social structures and traditions. Thus, Bohemian remains a trend that is evergreen and much-loved by the young and anti-establishment. That’s why it’s more of an anti-trend.

I Pooja Yadav, feel that Bohemian is more than a trend.  Bohemian culture is a constant because it is a flattering and feminine look that suits all different shapes and sizes of women. It’s my genuine feeling that Bohemian style is an easy way of expressing oneself with the comfort and ease of natural fabrics, bright colors, and non-conformity. It is pretty suitable for any outdoor occasion, be it for college, functions, festivals, etc. The dress materials are of impressive colors and style is quite unique.

Call it an effect of the shift in global consciousness or a gypsy revival, the fashion world is witnessing a bohemian bonanza. The boho chic movement- defined by a marriage of colorful folk-inspired elements with simple modern pieces – is storming the ramps and the high street with fresh zeal and modern updates. With the ecological shift the world is going through, fabrics and shapes are getting sturdier and more organic in contrast to the volumes of viscose and polyester of the past. The new – age bohemian trend is all about slimmer silhouettes, well co-ordinate prints and contemporary accessories that either pair well with current trends or create their own.

Contrary to past tendencies towards esoteri frills, the emphasis now is on accessibility and travel-friendliness. Although experimentation is the key, modern boho chic is about practicality; comfort gets more importance than adornment. The Boho-chic movement is back to India, and it’s all set to rule the roost yet again. This tie, it’s not just doing the rounds in a typical old western way. This trend is quite popular in India. A new company called Global Desi started by entrepreneur Anita Dongre , has come up with a new line of Boho chic garments with distinctive block prints , Indian motifs and embellishments on contemporary tops and kurtas that can be matched with Churidars , Patiala , Leggins and even shorts . Indian sartorial pieces are seen in bohemian twists, and it’s bright, peppy, positive look is here to stay in the country.

Presently, Bohemian style in India includes all types of material from pants or cut-off shorts to jeans, maxi dresses, tunics, gypsy skirts, voluminous petticoats, buttoned down collar kurta etc. The bohemian chic fashion looks alive also in accessories like headbands, luxe belts, chunky and colored wooden bangles, handcuff bracelets, hand-chain jewellery, gemstones, beads and gunmetal pieces, anklets, mix-and-match necklaces, dangling earrings or Chandbalis . In case of footwear, it completes the desi vibe with Kolhapuri chappals, mojris and sandals that have traditional motifs. We may want to go for vibrant colors and prints, but we can easily try and mix them well with a boho palette which is earthy – black, brown, grey, gold or khaki.  Also, silk, cotton or ikat fabrics in earthy tones of blue, beige, maroon and black are perfect choices for Bohemian looks. Alternatively, one may try long jackets or capes to complete the look.

There are 7 ways to be Boho:-

1. Kaftan chic: Loose, colorful and comfy, kaftans are as boho as it gets. Use old shawls and stoles as kaftans by creating a simple neckline. Finish with jholas, Kolhapuris and bright beads.
2. Be earthy: Try on ikat in earthy tones or soothing cotton fabrics and paisleys. Pair with fuller pants or manskirts.
3. Patch it up: With an innate folksy element, patchwork saris exude a chic, laidback vibe.

4. Add layers: Add multiple layers to your ensemble by making use of scarves, dupattas, jackets, shrugs, long skirts and more.
5. Oversized me: Wear an oversized or relaxed silhouette. A pair of oversized pants with a fitted top or vice versa goes well for this style.

6. Get ahead: Who says colorful scarves can be worn only around your neck? Wrap them around your head as well.
7. Mix prints: Jumbling different prints is a classic bohemian trick. Play around similar colorful tones. Add a striking accessory for extra effect.

Boho look is a dominant fashion style for the “now” generation. Indian people of different culture, religion, etc are seen to love the Boho style as it is a mix of both ethnic and western wears. The style had influenced the fashion sense of people in the past. The style had fused with the most popular trends of 2013 and created exciting new styles. It very much dominates the present generation. And the future trend of our country is likely to show a growth of this Bohemian style. 

About the author

The author, Pooja Yadav is a final year graduate student of Geography Honors from Miranda House College, Delhi University. A 21 year old girl, she loves to explore new places and has interests in social works. She wishes to continue her journey in the field of social work.