For many, the continuous arrival of new aesthetics or "cores" can feel overwhelming, but I think there’s real beauty in it. Back in the day, fashion played with the idea of styles being "in" or "out", forgetting that individuality sits at the heart of all personal style.
Now though, there’s real diversity in fashion because every style has a place, even if some trend harder than others. Looking around team Who What Wear UK, many of us have classic minimalism and quiet luxury tastes, but at the same time, we each play with these concepts differently, and we also explore fresh looks and aesthetics without regard.
When we cover the rise of a new trend, I like to think it gives everyone the opportunity to explore it in the context of their own personal aesthetic, being excited to celebrate fashion, rather than exhausted by it. So today I present you with something new—an aesthetic I’m a particular fan of right now: "boho romantic".
It's the combination of two styles, blending the intricacy of romance with the fluidity and delicate nature of bohemia. It's a little coquette, a little renaissance, but all in all, it's soft and sweet. The prominent identifiers are ruffles, lace, ties with sheer fabrics and a mix of fitted corsetry and fluid shapes. What's more, there are various ways to embrace the trend, from jumping in fully with a top-to-toe dainty look, or experimenting with elements of soft and hard.
For 2023, we're seeing a real exploration of contrast within fashion (see: the wrong-shoe theory), where opposing styles are combined to create something new. We've taken tailored waistcoats and paired them with pyjama shorts and thrown sharp blazers over floaty dresses without a second thought. And right now, we're seeing fashion people take their boho romantic tops and combining them with "harder" contrasting bottoms, from simple jeans to cargo trousers.
When it comes to dresses, the shoes are where to add that point of difference. But as you'll see below, embodying the trend in your whole outfit is also a strong option. So, let's jump into how fashion people are playing with the boho-romantic trend, and take a look at the best pieces to get the look.
HOW FASHION PEOPLE ARE STYLING BOHO ROMANTIC
A perfect example of the wrong-shoe theory.
Tie details feature heavily in this aesthetic.
Ruffles are everywhere right now, and are perfectly placed for this pretty aesthetic.
The addition of loafers grounds the dainty feel of this dress.
Make like Amaka Hamelijnck and go full force with boho romantic from top to toe.
You'll spot broderie details throughout this trend.
Chase Wise's look embraces all the top notes: lace, ties and a little bit of skin.
SHOP THE BOHO ROMANTIC TREND:
I've had my eye on this Reformation top for some time now.
An easy way to dip your toe into the style.
Pair with the matching Broderie Anglaise Tiered Skirt (£25), or opt for a point of difference with wide-leg jeans.
Simple, yet so effective.
Our editors swoon over Dôen.
I'd style this with retro trainers.
An affordable option that ticks all the boxes.
It's no surprise that Free People has plenty of spot-on styles.
It's hard to believe that all this intricate detail is available on the high street.
This cardigan completely won me over.
I've dreamt of a dress this good.
Wear with a mini skirt, jeans or even tailoring.
From the puff sleeves to the corset details, this one is sure to fly out of stock.
This also comes in white and black.
Detailed slip dresses are an easy entry to boho romantic.
From the soft green to the embroidery, I'm sold.
You could wear this as a mini dress, but I'm keen to copy this whole look.
Next Up: I Think These 6 Simple Shoes Look Great With Jeans, Skirts and Trousers
