Bohemian style, or "boho," has long been associated with artistic expression and free spiritedness. While its roots stretch back to the 19th century with the Romantics and the countercultural movements of the early 20th century, it was the 1960s that cemented boho as a defining fashion movement. Today, its influence remains strong, particularly during festival season, where self-expression through fashion has become so much a part of the experience.
Where did the style of the Wanderers come from?
While the 1960s and 1970s popularized boho fashion in the mainstream, its roots stretch far deeper. The term “bohemian” originally referred to artists and intellectuals in 19th-century Paris who rejected bourgeois norms and lived a nomadic lifestyle. Their clothing reflected their nonconformist ideals, blending Eastern European folk influences with vintage military and workwear garments. The aesthetic continued to evolve in the early 20th century, absorbing elements from global cultures, especially during periods of artistic exchange and colonial expansion.
Boho’s visual language—embroidered fabrics, voluminous silhouettes, and layered textures—is taken from Romani dress, Middle Eastern textiles, and Central Asian and Indian influences. What we call boho today are the traditional dresses of these cultures filtered through the lens of Western fashion's fascination with the “exotic.”
The 1960s and 1970s
Prominent female figures of the 1960's and 1970's namely Brigitte Bardot, Talitha Getty, and Jane Birkin embodied what we now call "Boho" by incorporating elements from global traditions into their wardrobes. Their style was characterized by rich textures, handcrafted details, and a reverence for artistry—embroidered garments, woven fabrics, and ornate jewelry featured prominently.
(Brigitte Bardot, 1960s)
(Jane Birkin, 1960s)
(Talitha Getty for Vogue, 1968)
Boho and Festival Style
Thanks to contemporary music festivals like Glastonbury, Burning Man, and Coachella, boho fashion found a new stage. The festival setting—rooted in creativity, escape from western society, and a return to self—became a natural home for bohemian style.
Musicians have been central to this narrative. Stevie Nicks, with her layered shawls, flowing chiffon, and mystical energy, brought a rock-and-roll edge to bohemian fashion in the 1970's. More recently, Florence Welch has embodied a poetic, ethereal version of boho, often seen in vintage gowns, dramatic sleeves, and floral crowns.
The Festival Goers
