The #1 Bohemian Wardrobe Essential

Everyone's talking about the re-emergence of the boho trend. Whether or not you want to jump on that train, this blouse is worth a look!

On Saturday, we went to a 10th anniversary party, and our lovely hosts asked us all to wear clothing inspired by the early-2000s. As I hopped my way into a now-very-tight old pair of skinny jeans and flat-ironed my side-parted hair, I found myself surprisingly emotional. The physical act of recreating this previous version of my self felt poignant. I thought of what early-2000s Joanna would think of my life now—more chicken nuggets, fewer cigarettes, early nights, Kidz Bop instead of festivals. As big of a change as it is, I think she would approve.

Looking back on that era of style, I’m inclined to call it the worst in all of fashion history. Skinny jeans were so tough; the prints were bad, and the accessories were worse! But as I thought through it more, I realized that some of my favorite collections come from this time, including Phoebe Philo’s work at Chloe. (Read this article for a wonderful reprise of Chloe’s history, including the Philo era.)

What I loved about her work then was that she presented a feminine, slightly bohemian look that maintained a sense of sophistication. And how timely to be reminded of this as everyone’s suddenly talking about boho again!

From Vogue to the blogs, the trend is lighting the fashion world up once more, proving that things really do just keep coming around and around and around. But before you start to roll your eyes, remember that each iteration of a trend is unique, reinventing a notion from the past instead of regurgitating it.

So, how is this version of boho different than the many times we’ve seen it in the past? My observation is that, this time around, the trend is less print-happy and more elegant, with elements of tailoring keeping the bohemian from slipping into crusty or kitschy territory. Very Phoebe at Chloe.

At the center of this trend is the boho blouse, a term I kind of hate, but I can’t come up with a better one. The alliteration is too powerful! And I am NOT calling it a pussy-bow blouse like a pervert!

Here are a handful of the best ones from the Resort shows:

Clockwise from Top L: Chloe, Zimmermann; Stella McCartney; Isabel Marant; Valentino

What I love about his blouse is that you can take it full boho with a flowy skirt or palazzo pants, or you can amp up the sophistication with a tailored trouser or really well-fitting pair of jeans. I’m excited to incorporate this sweet style into my rotation, and I’ll be thinking of early-2000s Joanna and Chloe-era Phoebe Philo as I do.

Here are a few to shop now!

Clockwise from Top L: Isabel Marant on SUPER sale!; Doen, among the best in boho; Alice + Olivia lovely blue print; dramatic collar from Charles Jeffrey Loverboy; fun Farm Rio print with romantic details.

That’s all for now!

xx,

Joanna