Skip to content

The Bohemian-Inspired Décor Trend We Can't Get Enough Of

bohemian decor style

Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

For years, the boho chic style was dominating every magazine spread, Pinterest board, and major retailer catalog—some may say ad nauseam. But as the proliferation of macramé wall hangings, batik pillows, and Beni Ourain rugs spread like wildfire in the décor world, another trend crept up in homes everywhere: monochrome minimalism. Suddenly, brightly colored, eclectic spaces were pared back with almost superhuman restraint—to the point where we were left wondering: Does anyone even live here?

Despite the rise of minimal, modern, and Scandinavian influences in our homes, many signs point to traditional décor making a comeback. One of the most frequently resonating themes, from interviews with famed interior designers to polls among our Instagram followers, demanded two things from décor trends: a broader mix of periods and styles and an approach to décor that felt more authentic and personable. After all, once the pendulum swings too far on one side, it has no choice but to swing back.

One décor book, Haute Bohemians by famed interior photographer Miguel Flores-Vianna, goes beyond the simple return of traditional décor by reintroducing bohemian style with a more authentic, individualistic approach. You won't find any instant décor formulas for boho chic style in this book. Instead, it's a collection of worldly homes photographed throughout the years—each wildly different from the other. However, they're all tied together with one common thread: a deeply individual, eclectic style that pays homage to the city where the home is located, the architectural period of the building, and the quirky personal style of its owner.

Miguel Flores-Vianna Haute Bohemians $40.00
Shop

Consider Patterned Cement Tiles

Bohemian Décor Book
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

Patterned cement tiles have seen somewhat of a revival of late, but few have done it better than novelist-turned-garden designer Umberto Pasti and couturier Stephan Janson in their Morocco home. Here, the tones of the walls, doors, and door frames are loosely drawn from the tiles' blue hues. To further accentuate the variety of blue tones, bold, complementary-colored floral arrangements are strategically placed in perspective to create a striking combination.

Add a Vintage Rug

Boho Chic Décor
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

In Oxfordshire in the English countryside, New York expat Bridget Elworthy's manor sways between respectfully traditional and unexpectedly modern. While the antique pieces and ornate moldings are unabashedly classic, the worn floors, faded antique rugs, and wild floral arrangements give the space a bohemian flair that feels fresh and new in its own way.

Opt for Classic Appliances

Boho Décor Book
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

Classic French ranges like La Cornue or Lacanche can be a little bit of an investment, but they've stood the test of time, both functionally and aesthetically. This is not an appliance you'll replace anytime soon, and it adds to the timeless flair of a kitchen. In writer Susana Bombal's kitchen in San Rafael, Argentina, a French range is paired with tiled walls that speak to the region's traditional style.

Pay Attention to the Environment

Bohemian Home Décor
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

In garden designer Madison Cox's Tangier home, the outside environment plays a role in the house's décor—where floral linens and rattan chairs contribute to a sense of merging the inside and outside. Even the door frames, which are painted a soft green, signal that indoor/outdoor living is encouraged.

Start With a Simple Base

Boho Chic Décor Style
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

Carolina Irving, textile designer and Creative Director of Home for Oscar de la Renta, knows a thing or two about mixing patterns and colors—and it starts with a fairly neutral base. In her Paris living room, a light blue and white dhurrie rug proves to be the perfect modern base for a varied mix of pieces, including a red kilim ottoman, a green ikat skirted table, and paisley printed chairs.

Replace Your Lampshades

Bohemian Décor Style
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

Another room in Carolina Irving's Parisian abode reminds us of a very important décor lesson: Custom lampshades are one of the easiest ways to make a room look more expensive. Some classics, like fabric lampshades, Louis XVI mirrors, and art lighting on bookcases, stand the test of time for a reason—they work every time.

Small changes can instantly elevate a room and make it feel more traditional, while the rest of the room can be populated with more modern touches.

Be Bold With Color

Bohemian Decorating Tips
Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Vendome Press, New York, 2017

It's easy to shy away from brightly colored walls, especially when your style is a little eclectic, but if Peter Hinwood's London home has taught us anything, it's that a bold seafoam green can be the perfect unexpected backdrop to a varied collection of mementos and antiques—giving each piece a more modern flair.