Modern Bohemian

French Bohemian sentiments of the 1960s and 1970s get a modern reshaping for Spring 2013.  Subtly infusing garments with a hippie spirit, it's an evolution we can call embrace for the warmer weather.

I'm not talking hippie tunics- the new boho is characterized by structured, exotic pieces that look effortlessly chic and totally now. 

I consider myself a bit of a style chameleon- I like to keep people guessing in edgy leather one day and poppy florals the next.  Sometimes you need a fashion shake-up to breathe new life into your personal style. If you're interested in embracing a look that's synonymous with creativity and a laid-back attitude, consider picking up a few bohemian pieces on your next shopping excursion!

If your desire is to channel your inner bohemian you'll have to learn to stray from your roots and embrace riskier fashion choices. The truth of the bohemian look is that it's not one that's easy to pinpoint. Instead, it's all about pairing pieces that the more conservative dresser wouldn't think to put together.

Style dictates that the true boho fashionista must have some flowing, lightweight garments in her collection. For example, airy peasant blouses or lightweight, ruffly skirts (long or short) in eclectic patterns are staples of the boho wardrobe. Another must-have is a maxi dress, which is typically long, non-binding and carefree in nature. Maxi dresses come in just about every color, design and fabric imaginable. Plus, they're so versatile that they can be easily dressed up or down, depending on your destination.

If you're new to the bohemian style start by sporting bright color combos. Next, play with patterns that a regular fashionista might hesitate to pair. You'll be surprised to see what garments look mismatched on the hanger, yet work together beautifully once you actually put them on.  Remember -- the boho style isn't about looking put together as much as it's about having a good time with fashion.

Accessories are a great way to integrate this trend into your current wardrobe.  The beauty of the bohemian look is that no piece of jewelry or other accessory is off limits. So raid your jewelry box for long-forgotten pieces and hit the stores for a few new items to properly stock your boho closet.  Floppy hats, chunky necklaces, layers of bangle or leather bracelets, headbands, stand-out belts, fringed handbags are all common, celebrated staples. Whether you pick a couple of choice items or flex your jewelry muscle with a bunch of pieces at once, there are no rules when it comes to bohemian accessorizing

Begin your own style evolution this Spring by shopping the looks below from Tory Burch, Isabel Marant and Ralph Lauren.

Chloe

Amazon

Ray Bans

American Eagle

Elsa Peretti for Tiffanys

Jessica Simpson "Kari"

ISABEL MARANT

 

 

Brian Atwood

Isabel Marant

RALPH LAUREN

 

TORY BURCH

 

Seeing Red



DUY

Lucian Matis

Michael Kors

What’s black and red and chic all over? The international runways for Spring & Fall 2013!  Designers have hit this stark color combo in every way, from head to toe, be it in prints, embellishments or just mixed ensembles. Although you can pair black with pretty much any color, nothing quite brings the drama like a good red.  While there is certainly an Asian flair to black and red, I saw it interpreted in so many more ways, from tartan plaids to glam furs to whimsical lobster prints.

This season add a touch of glamour with a stand out red- I promise you won't go unnoticed in this bold color. Escape the humdrum of everyday work attire with notice me red pieces paired with subtle extras. 

Test out the monochromatic look or accent your poppy red with hints of other complimentary colors.

Red pairs especially well with black, white, tan and cobalt.  No matter your style point of view, there is a red for this season and the season to come that you are sure to love.

Jason, Wu, Jill Stuart, Reem Acra 

Alexis Mabille, Wason Wu, Reem Acra

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

Amazon



Saint Laurent
Hedi Slimane

Saint Laurent
Hedi Slimane




Banana Republic

Banana Republic

Basler
Bloomys






 

Christian Louboutin

Valentino









 

Gianvito Rossi
net-a-porter.com

Banana Republic

YSL Rouge Volupte
No. 4



 


Stacked: A Guide to Wearing the Season's Most Stylish Bangles and Cuffs

Yves Saint Laurent

There are many current fashionable jewelry trends, but the ones that really stand out and will surely have staying power this year are the bangle and cuff bracelets. You can either wear them stacked, embellished with gemstones, studs, and crystals, or you can mismatch them to complete a unique look.

Everyone has been experimenting with this innovative look, from celebrities to models and everyday people, so you should definitely feel confident to try it out for yourself! You can find this look in most fashion forward stores, but some of the most beautiful and trendy jewelry comes from Vince Camuto, Tory Burch, and Rachel Zoe. Major department stores such as Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus have been stocking up on this catchy trend as well.

The best way to wear bangles and cuffs is to layer them up on each arm and to mismatch the colors and the width of the bracelets. Mixing bright and neutral-toned bracelets together looks impeccable- especially with a beautiful.  This season give your statement necklace a rest and pile on an opulent stack of bangles or a luxe cuff.


Vince Camuto




Vince Camuto




Rachel Zoe
Neiman Marcus




Kenneth Jay Lane



Kendra Scott

Neiman Marcus

Simone I. Smith

Neiman Marcus

Tory Burch

Tory Burch

Tory Burch

Rachel Zoe
Neiman Marcus