Bohemian style is all mix and no match
Living with bohemian style is like wearing your heart on your sleeve. All your personal passions are out in the open for everyone to see.
It may appear jumbled, but every item has a story to tell, and this is the enchantment.
The underlying philosophy behind this style is to gather together the cherished objects that you have been collecting on travels around the world. You’ll discover a mix of styles and cultures that happily keep each other company.
If you love the look, but are more of an armchair traveller, hunt down items in vintage shops and bazaars. Here are some guidelines for creating this carefree, unconventional style. It’s all mix and no match.
No surprise that earthy tones would be prominent. Whitewashed and aged wood have a well-used, weathered appearance that is prevalent around the world.
The dark metals — bronze and gilt — are popular in frames and fixtures. Wrought iron stands alone or doubles up with wood.
The console table shown at right has drawers and stands on metal triangles, a captivating shape. The rustic A-frame wall unit is a unique showcase for anything from crockery to plants and books.
In contrast to the neutrals, jewel-tone colours appear in fabrics and carpets. Carpets overlap freely and have contrasting materials and patterns.
Rough and ready sisal shares space with soft, brightly patterned rugs. Heirloom Persians, brilliant saris and tapestries display perfectly as art on the walls.
And don’t forget the fringes, found on everything from blankets to upholstered furniture to lampshades.