Bohemian Style Decorating

If you are a free spirit, bohemian style decorating might just be your cup of tea. This style is similar to eclectic, as it often incorporates a blend of cultures, art and style. Another way to describe bohemian style might be “hippie chic”. The bohemian lifestyle is that of the unconventional artist, musician or wanderer; a gypsy at heart. Vintage collectibles and décor also fit in perfectly in a bohemian style room.

There should be no shortage of color in bohemian style.

Artists love color, and so does the Bohemian decorator. A mixture bright, vivid hues will add interest and visual appeal. However, because bohemian style leans more towards vintage than modern, neon colors don’t really work with this style. Think more along the lines of colorful handmade Indian saris or vivid, hand painted ceramics.

Include layers of richly textured fabrics.

The more handmade home textiles you can find, the better. Layer a handmade quilt with a hand knitted afghan, accented with decorative handmade pillows. Look for enhancements such as beads, sequins and fringe.

Native American or Mexican blankets provide great textures and patterns. If you prefer something softer and more feminine, look for French lace, Asian silk or vintage velvet textiles. Middle Eastern style bedding, pillows and fabrics give a bohemian style bedroom an exotic touch.

Add some texture to a table lamp with a fabric and fringe Victorian lampshade. You can also add texture to a wall with textured wallpaper.

Add unique and unusual furniture.

Period furniture fits well with a bohemian design scheme. The term “bohemian” originated with the travelling artists and gypsies of Europe, where all of the popular furniture styles of the 17th and 18th centuries originated as well. A Louis XIV chair or dresser would make a lovely addition to this decorating style, as would a Victorian style sofa, bed or loveseat. This doesn’t mean looking for pricey antique furniture. A used reproduction piece will better suit the bohemian budget.

If you need to make due with the furniture you have, you can always use slipcovers, handmade blankets or Afghans, decorative pillows and other types of fabric to change the look. Drape your favorite fabric or a paisley patterned shawl over an end table or nightstand. Use a sheer or mosquito net canopy over your bed.

Create interest with bohemian accents.

With your free-spirited, wandering gypsy lifestyle, you should have an eclectic collection of art, trinkets and knickknacks from your worldly travels to display. If you’ve never left your hometown, don’t worry. You can find items like these at flea markets, thrift stores, yard sales, curio shops, antique stores, boutiques and online.

Look for items that are unusual, interesting, imperfect, or one-of-a-kind. Many vintage and handmade items fit this description. Here are a few suggestions:

• Unusual frames
• Wall art
• Mirrors
• Candle holders
• Lamps
• Chandeliers
• Rugs
• Curtains
• Sculptures
• Vases
• Baskets
• Trinket boxes
• Art glass
• Ceramics/pottery

Etsy and eBay are good online resources for handmade and vintage items.

A bohemian decorating style allows you to get creative and really express yourself. If you happen to be an artist or crafter yourself, this type of decorating scheme will truly reflect everything you are passionate about.