The (very strict) rules of how to wear boho style like an adult

Make no mistake, boho fashion is back and its growth will continue to grow as we approach September.

For those of us who wore it in the 2000s, this news may well cause alarm, along with memories of some questionable fashion choices.

Perhaps, like me, you invested in one of those wide studded belts after seeing Sienna Miller at Glastonbury circa 2004 (I actually owned two, which I wore slung low on my hips, along with a much-loved pair of slouchy ankle-high suede boots).

But there’s no need to panic, because this time boho has grown along with the women who wear it.

The revival began on the Chloe runway at Paris Fashion Week, where the fall/winter 2024 collection was packed with airy white blouses, ruffled chiffon and fringed jackets.

All the fashion editors agreed that it was the look to wear, while Sienna herself was, of course, front row.

Unsurprisingly, being a member of the Chloe gang comes with a hefty price tag: £2,000 for a frilly dress that all the top stylists are fighting to get their hands on; Suki Waterhouse wore it on stage at the Eras Tour for her performance supporting Taylor Swift on Saturday.

I’ll be keeping an eye out for the peach version from John Lewis, which will arrive mid-September, when the return of boho style becomes the biggest trend on the high street.

The key to achieving this is moderation, which means remembering that, unfortunately, what looks great on a celebrity with a full-time glam squad may not look so chic on the rest of us. Here are the rules for the new grown-up bohemian style.

EARTH TONES, NOT PASTELS

The boho style of the 2000s was characterized by ecru and pale pink.

But this time, opt for a little more saturation and more sophisticated earthy tones like terracotta, olive, lemon and soft browns, to make your look seamlessly transition into autumn – just add a loose jacket. The Mondo Corsini dress takes you there without a hitch.

LIST A CLOGS TO START WITH

The undisputed queen of bohemian style, Sienna Miller, recently wore Chloe’s Jeanette wedge clogs. No doubt there will soon be socialite models, but this is one case where you shouldn’t follow what the celebrities do.

Clogs are not the appropriate footwear for running errands or walking past the walkway to your waiting (and chauffeur-driven) car.

A cowboy boot, like this dark suede style from Penelope Chilvers, goes with dresses, skirts and trousers and is a perfect transitional shoe.

STAY AWAY FROM TRANSPARENT MATERIALS

We’ve become immune to seeing celebrities wearing practically nothing on the red carpet.

But while there are plenty of sheer streetwear options, this look is hard to pull off without a team of assistants checking every angle. Try on any new purchases in good light to make sure they’re well-lined.

This Albaray dress is lined in the same shade to give a sheer effect without leaving a huge reveal.

THINK SHARP, NOT LAZY

Lace and broderie anglaise are feminine and beautiful, but it’s best to opt for crisp (and yes, pressed) garments rather than loose ones to avoid the Miss Havisham look. This embroidered blouse from Sezane is perfect.

And don’t add more embellishments and decorations to a garment as eye-catching as this one; cut-out details add all the interest you need. Keep the rest of your outfit simple with a skirt or pants in a single color.

STRUCTURE YOUR STYLE

Texture is important for bohemian style; good quality, soft and silky fabrics are sought after. If you choose them well, you will have a lot of glamour.

But the key to looking grown-up is to maintain some structure. Don’t be seduced by all those tight slip dresses with bias cuts, lace trims and spaghetti straps that will make you look like you’re wearing a nightgown.

Instead, make a statement with this pretty pink shirt and trouser set from Boden, £98 and £46.

The paisley print is absolutely soft and feminine, so make it more appealing by adding a fitted black suede vest.

The flowy sleeves and wide cut of the pants add to the boho factor and can easily be styled for a simpler look.

KEEP DENIM DARK – ANDM EMBRACES FLARED PANTS

In an era where straight-cut, ultra-wide-leg jeans are hard to wear, hurray for the ultimate boho jean style: the ultra-flattering flared pants!

Keep it chic with a mid-1970s blue like this style from Kitri for £145, or a darker wash.

Or if you’re a die-hard denim fan, Phase Eight has a deep blue dress, £118, that gives it a modern retro edge.