The Best Women’s Bohemian Dress

Buying Guide

Fashion is forever cyclical, but the bohemian look is one that really never goes out of style. And while there are a lot of garments (and a ton of accessories) that you can associate with that style, the centerpiece for ladies has got to be the classic, colorful bohemian dress.

So what exactly is a bohemian dress? The style in general is so free-wheeling that bohemian fashion can be hard to define — but you know it when you see it. We’re talking about a look that’s equally influenced by 1960’s hippies, classic Romani gypsies and 19th century Romantics. When it comes to dresses, the usual bohemian benchmarks are a complex floral or psychedelic print, loose fit and a long, flowing skirt.

You might think that something that colorful wouldn’t be versatile, but more is more when it comes to the bohemian style. Whether you add on a few extra bracelets, your favorite denim jacket or a loose-fitting belt, it’s all about layering. Pick a dress that works with some of your favorite accessories and don’t be afraid to pile them on. If you’ve got a great necklace or three to show off, wider necklines are a great option. Scarves are an eternal staple of boho fashion, and they can do wonders to pep up any outfit.

The great thing about longer dresses is that they can work well in most any kind of weather. That long skirt can be cooling and fun to twirl around in, even if it may not be appropriate for a work setting. If you’re wearing it in summer, go for something in a thinner cotton weave, or polyester if you’re on a budget. If it’s winter, pick something thicker that goes well with a jacket.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to pair it up with your footwear. The great thing about longer dresses of any style is that they can complement almost any kind of shoe. If you favor longer boots, try a skirt that goes up to mid-calf or higher so they can be showcased a little more. If you step out in mules or sneakers, longer hemlines are usually a better bet. And while elaborate heels aren’t usually a hallmark of bohemian style, they too can stand out if you get the right color dress.

The great thing about bohemian dresses is that they look just as good on plus-size women as they do on thinner girls. There’s often a fine line between flowy and frumpy, so pick something that fits tighter in the areas you want to accentuate.

Bohemian fashion represents a certain carefree spirit, so it would be ironic to own dresses that you need to be meticulous about cleaning. Luckily, bohemian dresses shouldn’t require a lot more care than any other maxi dress you own. If it’s polyester, denim or even cotton, you should be able to get away with dropping it into the washing machine on the delicate cycle. Fading colors can be a concern though, and you certainly don’t want that happening with such a bright dress. To preserve those patterns, consider turning the dress inside out before laundering or even using a laundry bag to keep it separate.