7 Shortcuts to Boho Chic

Just like on the catwalk, interior fashions come and go but there is one which is stubbornly sticking around – boho chic.

So just what is boho chic, we hear you ask? In terms of interior design and accessorising, boho chic is the best of laid back, unstructured living, with global influences and a love of all things handmade.

Before you assume it’s an ‘anything goes’ look, the most relaxed and carefree rooms seen across social media and in the top interior design magazines are actually painstakingly pulled together.

But fear not, you don’t need to be a professional property stylist to create bohemian, louche-living vibes where you live. Follow these simple rules and you’ll be lounging Ibiza-style in no time.

1.     Wall hangings: the casual essence of boho chic means the clean lines of framed photos and prints are replaced by eye-catching wall hangings. Anything with tassels and tapestry works well so don’t discount wall mounting your favourite rug!

2.     Texture: fringing, beading, knots and even pom-poms provide a shortcut to boho chic. The texture de jour is macramé, so look out for cushion covers, hanging planters and even indoor hammocks for an arts and craft feel.

3.     Low-level seating: socialising boho style means sitting low down but not at the expense of comfort. Add bean bags, pouffes and oversized cushions to your living room for maximum lounging capabilities. 

4.     Exotic treasures: a boho interior should look like you’re well-travelled but don’t worry if your passport hasn’t seen the light of day for years. Scour the internet and no one will know that your gilded tea glasses weren’t purchased in a Marrakech medina or that your Nepalese string of prayer flags were bought on eBay.

5.     Non-matching furniture: the eclectic nature of boho chic dictates that nothing should match. Vintage and heirloom items can sit side-by-side with more modern pieces. There are no rules about upholstery either, so mix and match velvet, linen, embroidery and bold prints.

6.     House plants: botanics lend any interior design scheme an exotic vibe and while there are a myriad of faux plastic house plants to choose from, there are more health, environmental and air purification benefits from growing the real deal. Opt for palms, ferns and the on-trend Swiss cheese plant for maximum foliage.

7.     Colour combinations: almost every boho chic interior design has one common denominator – a neutral backdrop. White or cream walls in a chalky paint finish are reminiscent of far-away villas and allow the accessories to shine. Add splashes of jewel tones for an Ibizan island vibe or choose lush greens and deep turquoise for an Indonesian take on boho chic.

If you’re dreaming of creating a boho chic ambience in a new home, ask us for a list of available properties in your area.