A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe

A white background with 12 clothing items plus shoes and accessories for A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer capsule wardrobe. In the middle is a light purple box with black text that reads, "A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe."

Summer and boho style seem to go hand in hand, but this is a step up from the boho we all know and love, and is boho chic style. Also aptly named chic desert aunt by Allison Bornstein which is a fun way to look at it.

This style aesthetic evokes a sense of being well-traveled and worldliness. It combines comfort with style and is for any age group but there is a particular focus on us more “mature” ladies who appreciate a bit of bohemian.

It also is like an homage to the Olsen twins who have perfected this relaxed and oversized look.

What I love about them is how they don’t feel like they need to wear petite and fitted pieces because they are tiny.

And they are very tiny.

No one should feel like the result of their outfit is that they look tall, because that implies that there is something wrong with being short.

And there isn’t.

I’m short, and if you are standing beside me you know I am short as well and no matter how elongating I tried to make my look I will still be notably short when standing around other people.

I can photograph tall at times which I think is because I don’t have petite proportions. My arms are long, and my torso and legs are balanced so sometimes I can look like I might potentially be taller than I am.

But on other days I look short.

I recently had someone comment on a photo that my jeans made me look short and were not flattering. I should look for a pair that is fitted and lengthens me.

I am short. Why would I care if I looked tall?

And don’t get me started on flattering. Flattering for whom? And why would I care if it was flattering for anyone else but me?

People are weird with comments but also we, and by we I mean us who lived through the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, have these types of unhealthy views drilled into our heads because this is what we heard, saw, and read.

It is a hard mindset to disentangle yourself from.

Before you use the term flattering, remember that it is just body policing wrapped in the illusion of a compliment.

So today we are going to say f*ck flattering and embrace the oversized, flowy, and slouchy looks. Not only embrace it, but live it and love it to become our authentic selves.

A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe

A white background with 12 pieces and accessories for A 12 Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe.

Asymmetrical T-shirt | Vintage Levi’s | Mesh Mule | Cape Shirt | Beaded Bag | Camel Tank Top | Kimono Robe | Slip Dress | White Flats | Linen Button Up | Necklace | Flip Flops | Brown Bag | Maxi Skirt | Anklets | Bermuda Shorts | Bracelet | Hat | Grey Tee | Silk Tank | Red Heels | Oversized Sunglasses | Loafers | Fringe Bag | Earrings | Wide Leg Trousers

What is Boho Chic Style Aesthetic?

Boho chic, is a term that blends both “bohemian” and “chic,” and represents a fashion style that encapsulates a carefree, eclectic spirit with a touch of elegance.

This style has been prevalent in women’s fashion for years, and draws inspiration from various cultural influences, vintage elements, and the free-spirited attitude of the 1960s and 70s.

We are modernizing this and using the Olsen twins as an example to demonstrate by blending it seamlessly with high fashion.

Their unique interpretation of boho style, combines vintage elements with a sophisticated edge, creating looks that are both laid-back and luxurious.

What are the Characteristics of Boho Chic Style?

Oversized Silhouettes: One of the hallmarks of this style is a love for oversized clothing. Think pieces like billowy dresses, loose-fitting blouses, long loose skirts, and wide-leg pants.

This not only adds a relaxed, effortless vibe but also creates a striking silhouette.

I chose some wide-leg linen pants that almost look like a skirt when worn. Loose, Bermuda length shorts, and a maxi satin skirt because this outfit lives in my head.

An oversized t-shirt, and this asymmetrical tee caught my eye, and I ordered immediately.

It is one of those elevated basics that I talked about last week. It’s not available in the US store yet, but is in the UK and international shops.

You also can’t forget the flowy kimono-style robe in a very lightweight fabric.

Etsy is full of vintage styles if you are looking for a unique piece at a higher price point because they are often not cheap.

Sometimes though, you come across a gem that is a steal so keep your eyes open.

There are some silk robes from the 20s and 30s that are stunning and would make great statement pieces.

Layering Mastery: You need to become masters of layering which can be hard in the summer but not impossible. This is a crucial aspect of boho chic.

Mix and match different textures, fabrics, and lengths. Think oversized shirts over flowing skirts, layered necklaces, and stacked bracelets. This creates a rich, multidimensional look that’s both chic and bohemian.

Muted and Earthy Tones: Favour a muted colour palette, including shades like cream, beige, black, and olive. These earthy tones lend a sophisticated touch to boho looks, making them versatile and timeless.

It is okay to occasionally, incorporate pops of colour through accessories or statement pieces. I chose a red shoe which I also own.

Vintage and Designer Mix: This is my favourite and how I work within my own wardrobe. Mix vintage finds with high-end designer pieces, and more affordable high street.

Combine your thrift store treasures with luxury items, and high street staples, creating a unique blend of old and new.

This approach not only adds a personal touch to outfits but also highlights a keen eye for fashion.

I added a beaded vintage kiss-lock bag because it screams 1920s, especially paired with a long vintage robe over a long slinky dress. What a look for an occasion.

But you can also pair the bag with any outfit in order to add a touch of that same vibe.

Always a pair of vintage jeans. I recommend when buying vintage jeans, if you are seeking out the slouchy boyfriend fit then go up at least two sizes.

It can be difficult when going between men’s and women’s sizing but once you figure it out, you never have to worry because men’s jean sizing doesn’t really fluctuate like women’s.

They are pretty standard across the board.

So for size reference, if I want a 90s style more fitted look I get a 30 waist in men’s jeans (I am a 28 in women’s for the same fit). And in order to get that slouchy boyfriend jeans look I go anywhere from 32 to 34 in men’s.

Keep that in mind when shopping.

I had this Mary Kate Olsen outfit in mind when I included the light wash slouchy jeans and gold loafers.

Statement Accessories: Accessories play a crucial role in boho chic style. Pieces like oversized sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and statement bags.

Scarves, chunky jewellery, and unique belts are also great choices that add personality and flair.

Nothing says boho like a Chloe bag so I had to include a slouchy model. We want big and slouchy bags. And not only big but well-used.

Don’t be scared to use your designer bag and let it get beat up and worn-looking.

Which is why I also included a large fringe bag. Boho and fringe are almost synonymous, plus it also resembles the bag in the outfit that lives in my head that I linked above.

I recreated it in the boho chic outfit ideas below, minus the gladiators.

We also want stacks of bracelets or anklets (or both), large pendant necklaces, and dangly earrings.

Textural Play: Embrace a love of texture. Fabrics of course depend on the season but you can still utilize heavier fabrics in your accessories and bags in a summer outfit.

Silk, lace, crochet, linen, poplin, ramie, leather, and even beading and sequins. This textural play adds depth and interest, making your looks feel rich and opulent.

Like this sequin robe is glorious but probably a bit too hot for summer.

Boho chic style is a beautiful blend of comfort, creativity, and individuality.

It allows you to express your personality through fashion while embracing a relaxed, free-spirited attitude. By incorporating flowy silhouettes, earthy colours, and unique accessories, you can effortlessly achieve a boho chic look that’s both stylish and timeless.

This wardrobe might appeal to you if your style adjectives are boho, vintage, relaxed, neutral, artsy, oversized, or flowy. Your style tells your story, so don’t be afraid to share it.

Boho Chic Outfits for Summer

A white background with 12 outfits for A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe.
A white background with 12 outfits for A 12 Piece Boho Chic Summer Capsule Wardrobe.

Asymmetrical T-shirt | Vintage Levi’s | Mesh Mule | Cape Shirt | Beaded Bag | Camel Tank Top | Kimono Robe | Slip Dress | White Flats | Linen Button Up | Necklace | Flip Flops | Brown Bag | Maxi Skirt | Anklets | Bermuda Shorts | Bracelet | Hat | Grey Tee | Silk Tank | Red Heels | Oversized Sunglasses | Loafers | Fringe Bag | Earrings | Wide Leg Trousers

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Sara

Sara is the founder and creative behind livelovesara. A George Brown College Fashion Styling Graduate, she provides advice on finding your personal style regardless of age and budget. She is always on the hunt for the perfect wardrobe piece and is a vintage and thrifting enthusiast who can't wait to share her newest finds. She is also trying to learn French.

4 Comments

  1. I love this capsule almost as much as the romantic capsules. The addition of the Bermuda shorts really surprised me- very chic, though. Thank you for the wonderful inspiration!

  2. I really love how modern this feels and that there are no ruffles or other boho cliches. Very inspiring!

    • Thank you! I appreciate you noticing. I was really trying to keep it somewhat more minimalist while still embracing the boho feel. I think it makes it less dated and the pieces more versatile that way.

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