Boho style is often associated with free-spirited, laid-back outfits, but it can be effortlessly adapted for a professional setting. The key to pulling off boho clothes at work is striking a balance between relaxed, creative elements and polished, sophisticated pieces. Whether your office has a casual dress code or you’re simply looking to add a touch of personality to your work wardrobe, you can incorporate boho-inspired pieces while maintaining a professional appearance. Here’s how to style boho clothes for work without sacrificing professionalism.
1. Choose Tailored Boho Pieces
When incorporating boho style into your workwear, it’s important to focus on tailored pieces that add structure and sophistication. Boho-inspired clothing can sometimes be too loose or unstructured, which may not be appropriate for an office environment. Opt for pieces that offer a blend of boho charm with a more polished, tailored fit.
Key Pieces:
- Boho Blazers: A tailored blazer with subtle bohemian details like embroidered lapels, ethnic prints, or crochet inserts can make a statement while still looking professional. Pair it with a simple blouse and tailored trousers for a chic look.
- Boho Midi Dresses: Choose midi dresses with a structured waist and minimal details. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns, and avoid overly flowy or too bold designs that may come across as casual.
- High-Waisted Trousers: Look for trousers in earthy tones like beige, rust, or olive green that provide a boho feel while maintaining a professional, streamlined silhouette.
Styling Tips:
- Stick to neutral and earthy tones for a sophisticated, refined boho look.
- Mix boho elements with more structured office staples like button-down shirts, pencil skirts, and tailored blazers.
2. Incorporate Subtle Prints and Patterns
Boho fashion is known for its vibrant patterns and eclectic prints, but when incorporating them into workwear, it’s best to go for subtle and sophisticated designs. You can still embrace the boho aesthetic while keeping your look professional by choosing prints that aren’t too loud or overwhelming.
Key Pieces:
- Floral Blouses: A floral print blouse in muted tones like soft peach, olive, or navy can add a hint of boho style while remaining office-appropriate. Look for shirts with small, delicate prints rather than large, bold florals.
- Striped or Geometric Patterns: Subtle stripes or geometric patterns add visual interest without being too flashy. A striped blouse or a geometric print pencil skirt can give off a boho vibe while remaining professional.
- Ethnic-Inspired Fabrics: Fabrics with an ethnic or tribal-inspired pattern can be very boho but still professional when paired with solid, neutral colors. For example, a woven ethnic print jacket can be styled over a simple black dress for a more polished look.
Styling Tips:
- Keep prints on a smaller scale and mix them with neutral, solid pieces to maintain a balanced, professional appearance.
- Avoid too many contrasting prints—choose one boho piece and keep the rest of your outfit simple.
3. Opt for Light, Flowing Fabrics with Structure
While boho clothing often features loose, flowing fabrics, for work, it’s essential to choose pieces that are still structured enough to maintain a polished look. Fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk are perfect for creating that bohemian vibe while still looking professional.
Key Pieces:
- Silk Blouses: A silky blouse in a neutral or muted tone offers an elegant, sophisticated take on boho style. Look for tops with subtle details like ruffles, pleats, or lace trims to give them a boho touch.
- Flowy Midi Skirts: A flowing midi skirt in a solid color or light print can be a great option for work. Choose skirts with a slight A-line or pleated design for a structured yet boho look.
- Maxi Dresses with a Structured Waist: A boho-inspired maxi dress with a defined waist and a more structured fit can be a professional alternative to the usual office dress. Look for one with subtle details like a cinched waist, a keyhole neck, or a low-key print.
Styling Tips:
- Layer structured pieces like blazers or cardigans over your flowy items to keep your look grounded and professional.
- Keep the fabrics light and breathable to ensure comfort during long office hours.
4. Add Elegant Boho Accessories
Accessories are the perfect way to bring a boho touch to your office attire without going overboard. Keep your accessories minimal and sophisticated, focusing on quality and subtlety.
Key Pieces:
- Leather Bags: A leather handbag or crossbody bag in earthy tones, like brown, tan, or camel, can add a subtle boho vibe to your outfit. Choose a structured, polished design to maintain a professional appearance.
- Simple Jewelry: Opt for minimalist jewelry with boho influences, such as delicate layered necklaces, simple hoop earrings, or stackable rings. Avoid oversized or chunky pieces that might be too casual for the office.
- Scarves: A lightweight scarf with a subtle print or fringe detailing can add a touch of boho without drawing too much attention. Stick to scarves in neutral or soft tones to keep the look professional.
Styling Tips:
- Keep your accessories understated and avoid over-layering.
- Choose quality, timeless pieces that complement your outfit rather than overwhelm it.
5. Stick to Neutral and Earthy Tones
Boho fashion often embraces earthy, natural tones like browns, oranges, greens, and yellows. These colors are perfect for adding a bohemian touch to your work wardrobe without looking too casual or unpolished. Opt for earthy neutrals and combine them with classic office staples for a harmonious, professional look.
Key Pieces:
- Earth-Toned Blouses: Blouses in olive green, mustard yellow, or rust can add a boho flair while still being suitable for the office. Pair these with neutral trousers or a pencil skirt for a balanced outfit.
- Neutral Outerwear: A beige or khaki-colored trench coat or cardigan can add a touch of boho style while keeping you warm and professional.
- Brown Leather Shoes: Choose comfortable, polished brown leather flats or low-heeled shoes for a professional, boho-inspired footwear option.
Styling Tips:
- Pair earthy tones with neutral pieces like black, white, or gray to create a balanced and professional appearance.
- Stick to a monochromatic color palette for a sophisticated and cohesive look.
Conclusion
Incorporating boho style into your work wardrobe is all about balance. By selecting tailored pieces, subtle prints, and elegant accessories, you can create a look that’s both professional and stylish. Remember to keep your clothing structured and choose accessories that enhance your outfit without overpowering it. With the right approach, you can bring a relaxed, bohemian vibe to the office while maintaining a polished, sophisticated look. So, embrace your creative side and style your boho pieces for a professional and fashionable work environment.
