A bohemian is a person who lives and behaves following an alternative and nonconformist lifestyle, different from most people. The word itself evokes the romance of a life as an artist and a wanderer. For all those who feel unconventional, there is no better way to express this feeling than to do it through their own style, for example in the way of dressing.
Steps
Step 1. Create art
If that means quitting your job and moving into a tiny studio full of paintings, do it. For bohemians, the creation of art comes before many other things. But don't overdo it, don't quit your job if you have no other means to support yourself.
Step 2. Listen to music, read books, watch movies you like
Do not be ashamed. What you like or dislike is part of your personality as an individual, why hide it? Being nonconformist means rejecting everything that is the norm, especially if it goes against the things that inspire you personally.
Step 3. Question everything you and other people believe
If you grew up in a certain environment (religious, political, etc.) ask yourself if and why you believe in it. Or maybe you just do it out of habit or tradition?
Step 4. Learn about different lifestyles and points of view
If you feel attracted to any aspect, incorporate it into your lifestyle. You don't have to marry a lifestyle or an ideology in its entirety, choose the one that suits you best.
Step 5. Give space to your artistic side
It may not be your forte, but we all have something creative about us. Choose the one that works for you, music, art, poetry, etc. Don't worry if at first you don't feel like you're talented in your chosen field. All the masters have started from scratch and not necessarily the others have to notice your talent. What some call a doodle, for others it can be art.
Step 6. Question the powers (without exaggerating) - politicians, teachers, parents, and even the role models that society imposes on you, they all tell you in one way or another what you need to do
Ask yourself: What are they really asking me to do, what are their intentions, purposes and values? The answers should help you figure out if what they say is worth listening to. But don't forget to be respectful and to follow a certain logic when challenging the authorities.
Step 7. Live for the day
Remember that if something goes wrong, you don't have to get stressed out and don't panic. Let it pass and try to resolve everything calmly. Try to live without remorse, and if you think you want to do something, do it!
Method 1 of 1: The Way of Dressing
Step 1. The bohemian lifestyle has to do with both self-expression and a sense of comfort and ease
In general, the clothes should not be too tight and the fabrics should allow the skin to breathe. Clothes should reflect your lifestyle, not the other way around - in a nutshell, don't wear anything that prevents you from moving freely and isn't comfortable. The only exception should be an evening dress.
Step 2. Fabric is the most important thing in an offbeat and bohemian style
Choose natural materials such as cotton, wool, leather and muslin. Raw furs, such as raccoon furs, are accessories that go well with this style. But also a synthetic or patent leather accessory can give an ironic and original touch to your clothes.
Step 3. Treat what you wear like a second skin
Nonconformists love decorations. Choose accessories with embroidery, bangs and beads. Don't be afraid to wear too much jewelry. But don't forget to think about how each element is perceived by others; is it necessary to wear every accessory? If you don't like jewelry, flowers are a perfect alternative. If you like tattoos or piercings, feel free. But especially with tattoos, don't rush to get one, remember that it will stay with you for life.
Step 4. Watch how your clothes move around your body
The movement of a bohemian dress should be graceful and loose. It should give you a sense of freedom. Also dwell on the sounds your accessories and jewelry make when they move.
Step 5. Remember that most people associate flashy colors and prints with bohemian style
Nonetheless, while these add a gypsy flair, a simpler look can be created with monochromatic dresses. It is above all the design and the fabrics that give a bohemian touch.
Step 6. Bohemian style doesn't mean overdoing it
As with other types of looks, study every detail thoroughly. Never wear things that aren't necessary to achieve that kind of look. Sometimes, the bohemian style can be simple and clean and still have a strong impact.
Step 7. Make your clothes reflect your mood and personality
Don't let yourself be influenced by others. If your style means being bohemian one day and minimalist another, go for it! Try to be consistent with yourself and express what you have inside. This is exactly what makes the bohemian look unique and charming.
Advice
- Don't judge others without knowing them for their sexual orientation, skin color, religion or whatever. Treat them like human beings first and foremost.
- Shop at thrift, vintage or ethnic stores or flea markets for alternative clothing. If you want to buy clothes in malls or designer stores, look for clothes that are original and have personality. Don't choose things that are too mundane.
- Add a personal touch. Think of the model of a bohemian look and then add something of your own, even if it has nothing to do with what you have read so far. Just try to keep something that echoes the bohemian style.
- A bohemian custom is to match your mood with a perfume, you can use an essential oil of patchouli, sandalwood or orange blossom.
- Try to be innovative and experiment to the fullest. Never create a look without putting love on it.
- Don't forget that your makeup and hairstyle must also match your clothes. Both loose hair and intricate braids are perfect, and similarly a makeup-free look or cat-style eyeliner can both work.
- For an in-depth look at the bohemian lifestyle, listen to and read the opera La Boheme and watch the musical RENT. They will help you learn more about this lifestyle.
Warnings
- Your friends may be caught off guard by such a drastic change of yours, but they will accept you to be yourself if they are true friends. Maybe it's a cliché, but it's definitely true: people may be jealous because you are strong enough to be yourself. They actually admire and respect you, and if they don't, ask yourself if you really need the approval of these kinds of people.
- Parents might worry. Use your intelligence to explain your point of view to them, and don't do it impulsively. If they find that you have really thought about what you are doing using your head, they may feel better and not think it is just a momentary stage of adolescence.