What dress for a boho-chic wedding?

Are you on the hunt for the wedding dress of your dreams? Are you planning a bohemian wedding and want your dress to be the highlight of the event? Would you like to choose a contemporary wedding dress that truly flatters you?

You're in the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast and event planning professional with a focus on weddings, it's only natural that I became interested in the fashion trends that define this industry.

Today, I’m sharing everything I know about chic bohemian wedding dresses, so you can finally find THE dress that will make you shine on the most beautiful day of your life.

Feminine and elegant, the bohemian wedding dress is all the rage. It brings vintage style back into the spotlight and gives it a modern twist: crochet and lace are making a comeback, creating stunning wedding dresses. No matter your tastes or body shape, there’s definitely a type of bohemian wedding dress that’s perfect for you! For those seeking simplicity, a short dress will work beautifully. If you want to highlight your back or enhance your profile, there are plenty of backless designs available. And if you wish to accentuate your neckline, I recommend an off-the-shoulder gown. To help you choose among all these options, trust your instincts, take your time, and seek advice from your bridal party, who will be able to guide you!

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:

  • What defines a chic bohemian wedding dress,
  • How to know if this trend suits you,
  • What are the different types of bohemian wedding dresses,
  • Which body shapes do they flatter,
  • And my professional tips to help you choose the perfect dress!

bohemian wedding dress

How to Identify a Chic Bohemian Wedding Dress?

Both elegant and highly fashionable, bohemian chic wedding dresses have many qualities and distinctive features. In the following lines, I'll take you through what gives these dresses their boho vibe, so you can decide which style you like best.

Iconic Materials and Textures

The bohemian chic style marks a return to authenticity in the world of weddings. Gone are the puffy, uncomfortable gowns, replaced by outfits that are defined by their simplicity and elegance. This is particularly reflected in the use of fine, vintage fabrics.

Lace

This very elegant fabric allows for the creation of lace patterns, particularly around your back and neckline. It gracefully adorns you with sensuality, suggesting your skin without ever exposing it.

The Crochet

This is a well-known needlework technique from our grandmothers, which produces beautiful interwoven patterns. It is done using wool and highlights the details of your dress. Its vintage style perfectly aligns with the chic bohemian tradition.

With these weaves, the fabrics used are generally flowy and light, like silk. A bohemian dress is typically comfortable to wear and allows you to move freely.

Discover the classic patterns of boho chic style

This trend is characterised by recurring patterns that create a sense of movement and evoke a feeling of freedom, while also reminding us of nature. These include:

  • of flowers,
  • of intertwined plant patterns,
  • of foliage,
  • and arabesques

bohemian wedding dress with flowers

Inspiration: The Origins of the Hippie Chic Style

It might not be a secret to you, but chic bohemian fashion draws its inspiration from the social, cultural, and artistic revolution that was the hippie movement in the late 1960s. In contrast to conservative traditions, the youth of the USA and Europe embraced an alternative and peaceful lifestyle at that time. From a fashion perspective, this meant a break from formal attire in favour of loose and flowing outfits. Women began wearing long dresses and skirts, often customised with embroidery.

This heritage is reflected in the bohemian chic trend, featuring dresses whose cuts and fabrics convey the same sense of freedom that was evident in the outfits of the hippies.

Occasionally Colourful Dresses to Break Away from White

Because this is a less conventional style, it allows those who wish to break away from traditional wedding customs. Therefore, if you're after a wedding dress in colour, this is the style to consider! There are many designs of pastel wedding dresses or even those with more vibrant colours. There's nothing quite like it to stand out from the crowd!

pastel wedding dress

👉 Ever wondered why the wedding dress is traditionally white? Check out our article dedicated to this topic!

Is this type of dress right for you?

After exploring the features of the bohemian wedding dress, you might still be wondering if it’s the right fit for you. I suggest we answer this question in the form of a quiz:

  • Do you prefer flower crowns to classic tiaras?
  • Do you enjoy rummaging through second-hand treasures? Are you a fan of vintage fashion?
  • Do you prefer leather ankle boots and sandals over high heels?
  • Do you think comfort is just as important as beauty?
  • Do you like minimalist styles?
  • Would you like your wedding dress to be unique and reflect your free spirit?

➡️ Have you answered Yes to several questions? If so, you might just find the wedding dress of your dreams in a bohemian boutique! To help you with that, I invite you to explore a range of chic bohemian dress styles on our dedicated website for this beautiful world.

👰 Are you worried that the dress won't fit you? With the tips provided on our site, you can take your measurements and send them to us when you place your order. Your dress will then be tailored by our seamstresses to ensure it fits you perfectly!

What are the different types of boho chic wedding dresses?

Now that you're more familiar with chic bohemian dresses, let’s explore the various trends within this style so you can find the one that you like best!

In Lace, for Those Who Desire an Ornate and Sophisticated Dress

Bohème chic lace dresses are perfect for you if you're looking for a flowing yet form-fitting style that shows off your skin. Their delicate patterns make them truly festive outfits, exuding elegance and femininity. Are you after an extraordinary wedding dress that stands out from the norm? I highly recommend opting for this type of fabric and cut.

lace wedding dress

Long Sleeves for Their Romantic Appeal

When you look at the wedding photos of our grandparents, you can’t help but notice that our grandmothers often wore beautifully intricate dresses with long sleeves. If you’re a fan of this vintage style, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many bohemian wedding dresses with long sleeves available. The sleeves are usually quite simple and slightly transparent, hinting at your skin underneath.

👉 There are even dress styles where the sleeves can be removed! This allows you to surprise everyone by changing up your outfit as the festivities unfold.

A dress that bares the shoulders, to brighten your face and neckline

Are you looking to showcase your hairstyle or perhaps a special necklace that means a lot to you? If so, I recommend choosing a dress that exposes your shoulders. These typically have sleeves, but they start just below the shoulder. This adds a romantic and sensual touch, accentuating your femininity and drawing attention to your face and neckline.

bohemian chic wedding dress

The Short Bohemian Dress: Perfect for a Casual Chic Style

Are you on the lookout for an elegant and feminine bohemian dress that strays a bit from the classic princess style? You might want to consider a short bohemian dress, which will enhance your legs and give you the appearance of a vibrant and independent woman. These styles are also perfect for those seeking a slightly more casual dress, suitable for a civil ceremony, for example.

The Backless Dress: A Sexy Cut that Combines Sensuality and Glamour

During the ceremony, most of your loved ones will see you from behind. This is also true when you walk down the aisle to get married. That’s why it’s crucial to make this part of your body stand out, whether it’s with a lovely bun, a veil, or a backless dress. There are many styles of backless dresses that you can pair with a back jewelry piece, for example!

bohemian short wedding dress

A Colourful Dress to Break Away from Classic White

As I’ve mentioned before, bohemian dresses can also come in vibrant colours. You could choose a romantic pastel shade that’s unique and a lovely alternative to white, while still remaining very feminine.

What type of dress to choose based on your body shape?

Bohemian dresses suit most body shapes, but here are some basic rules to help you choose a dress that flatters your figure:

  • If you're tall, opt for a long, flowing dress, possibly with a backless design.
  • If you're short, shorter dresses will be ideal to enhance your silhouette!
  • If you have wider shoulders, consider an asymmetrical neckline, which will slim your bust and create an optical illusion.
  • If you're curvy with slightly wider hips, don't hesitate to wear a loose-fitting dress with ruffles and pleats that will highlight your curves.
  • If you want to accentuate your bust, square and sweetheart necklines will be perfect.
  • Got a smaller bust? A dress with an exquisite backless design will be perfect for drawing attention to that area of your body!

plus-size wedding dress

👉 For more details, feel free to check out this blog post, which offers personalised tips for selecting your dress based on your body shape!

How to Make Sure You Pick the Right Dress?

Are you on the hunt for the bohemian wedding dress that will make you shine on the most beautiful day of your life? To ensure this process doesn't become a headache, here are a few tips to help you!

Choose the right size...

Many women are tempted to buy a dress that’s too small, thinking it will motivate them to lose weight before the wedding. Have confidence in yourself: if your partner has chosen to marry you, it’s because they find you beautiful! There’s no need to add extra stress while preparing for this joyful occasion. I can only recommend choosing a wedding dress that fits your body shape and isn’t too tight!

Give it a go or measure up carefully

To find a dress that truly fits you, there’s no secret: you need to take your measurements correctly and use them to find a dress that matches. If you’re buying your dress in-store, make sure to try it on. If you’re ordering online, don’t hesitate to choose a cut similar to a dress you already own and love to wear every day.

dress for a rustic wedding

Seek Advice from Your Bridesmaids

Your bridesmaids or witnesses are usually friends or close ones whom you’ve chosen for this role because you trust them. Don’t hesitate to ask for their help in picking your dress! When you’re feeling a bit lost, the opinion of someone who knows you well can make it easier to choose between the different styles you’re considering.

👉 If you’ve hired a wedding planner, don't hesitate to ask for their help with this as well. Being well-versed in the world of weddings, they should be able to assist you in choosing a dress that flatters you and fits well with the style of your ceremony.

Trust Your Instinct

Finally, and this is the best advice I can give you, you must trust the little voice in your head that tells you which dress is right for you! A wedding dress is a special outfit that will create countless memories, so it’s important that you absolutely love it. Be patient and wait for that genuine 'wow' moment!

bride in bridesmaid dress

I hope this guide has helped you to choose a bohemian wedding dress that you'll remember for a lifetime ! In the meantime, to assist you in your wedding preparations, feel free to check out the many articles dedicated to this topic on our fashion blog!

Need some inspiration? Take a look at dresses that are perfect for a stylish bohemian wedding. Discover Our Boho Dress Inspirations