Have you fallen for a long tunic and are wondering what to pair it with? How can you wear it to achieve a chic and feminine bohemian look?
You're in the right place.
As a fan of bohemian fashion, I especially love tunics, which are one of the iconic pieces of this trend.
Today, I'm sharing all my tips on how to incorporate them into your outfits, so you too can enjoy their lightness and uniqueness!
The long tunic is a comfortable and lightweight garment that's perfect for all seasons. In summer, it can be worn as a mini dress. In winter and autumn, it looks great paired with simple jeans and heels. To give your outfit a bohemian chic vibe, accessorise with jewellery, a pair of wedge sandals or natural leather ankle boots, and a unique handbag. Lastly, make sure to choose a tunic that flatters your figure by opting for one that reaches mid-thigh and a colour that enhances your complexion.
Want to know more about this topic? Keep reading to find out:
- Tips for choosing a tunic that flatters your figure,
- Tricks to enhance your silhouette with this bohemian garment,
- What pants and shoes to choose to wear with your tunic,
- How to create a full bohemian look using a tunic, with accessories, jewellery, and a lovely makeup…
What is a long tunic?
Easy to slip on and comfortable, the tunic is a garment that has been around for a very long time. The term tunica first appeared in ancient Rome: this outfit was the basic attire for men of that era.
So how do we define a tunic? It’s not a specific type of garment, but rather a category of clothing. The term can refer to any loose-fitting and long clothing that is worn over the head and covers at least the arms. When it is long, it usually falls to mid-thigh and covers the lower back and your backside like a short dress.
The term "tunic" can refer to:
- a short, loose-fitting dress,
- a loose blouse,
- a long men's shirt worn as a dress,
- an oversized t-shirt that stands alone…
👉 The tunic is also a key element of the bohemian fashion culture. It was brought back into the spotlight in the late 1960s by well-known stars such as France Gall, Jane Birkin, and Françoise Hardy. The bohemian style draws its inspiration from the outfits of this era, which witnessed the rise of the hippies and a genuine liberation in the world of fashion!
➡️ Discover a wide range of bohemian-style tops and tunics by visiting our specialised online store! We are committed to offering you stylish, high-quality clothing at affordable prices all year round!
Our Top Tips for Wearing a Tunic with Style
The tunic is a garment that can be very flattering, provided you choose it carefully. Here are some tips to help you find the one that perfectly enhances your figure!
How to Choose the Perfect Tunic Length?
If it's too short, your tunic might be uncomfortable to wear on a daily basis. If it's too long, it can overwhelm your figure and not be very flattering.
Here’s a simple tip to determine the optimal length: when you put on your tunic, keep your arms by your sides. If the garment falls at the tips of your fingers, it’s spot on!
How to Define Your Waist with a Tunic?
This type of garment can definitely give you a slim and feminine silhouette. For this, opt for ¾ sleeves, which will create an optical illusion that makes your waist appear narrower.
If your favourite tunic doesn't have three-quarter sleeves, you can also roll your sleeves up. Alternatively, you can tuck your tunic on one side of your pants to create an asymmetrical style that will elevate your look.
Finally, by wearing a leather belt with your tunic, you'll enhance your bust while adding style to your outfit!
How to match the right colours with it?
Even for someone experienced in the fashion industry, pairing colours is a subtle art that requires careful attention. To avoid the risk of a poor combination, here are two very simple rules:
🔸 If your top is light, pastel, or features faded patterns, opt for light-coloured bottoms. Wearing overly bold colours with patterns may lead to a mismatched look.
🔸 Choose colours that you love and that complement your skin tone. There are plenty of tutorials online to help you find shades that make you shine. Sometimes the simplest way is to go through your wardrobe with the help of a trusted friend or family member, who can assist you in deciding what suits you best.
What type of pants should you wear with a tunic?
When wearing this type of clothing in the mid-season or winter, it's essential to pair it with pants. Here are a few examples to help you out.
Pair it with straight-leg jeans for a classic and stylish look
Because they flatter most body shapes, dark straight jeans are very popular. They pair nicely with a lovely, colourful boho chic tunic.
You could also choose a skinny fit jean, which you can wear with high heels or boots.
Currently very fashionable, flare or wide-leg jeans are a great choice to pair with a loose, long shirt. Team them with wedge sandals, and you'll have a perfectly stylish look that's right on trend!
Can you wear a tunic with leggings?
This is a question often asked about tunics and mini dresses. Indeed, leggings haven't always had a good reputation among fashion enthusiasts. This largely stems from the fact that many of them are of poor quality: they tear easily, are too thin, and the fit isn't flattering.
It is possible to pair your tunic with leggings, as long as you choose wisely when picking them. They should be of good quality, opaque, and fairly thick. If you prefer, you can also go for a jeggings: this is a type of jeans that looks like leggings, but will give you a more stylish appearance, as it’s a proper pair of pants!
👉 This style may not be suitable for plus-size women, especially if your tunic is too short at the back.
A simple tunic for summer!
Are you searching for a light outfit for your holiday? If your tunic is long enough for you to bend down comfortably, you can wear just that. Consider accessorising it with a thin belt, some jewellery, and a lovely pair of lightweight sandals to complete your summer look!
What jacket to wear with a tunic?
When wearing a long tunic, it's best to choose a short jacket or vest that falls at your waist. This will create a harmonious and stylish silhouette. This could be, for example:
- A denim jacket,
- A leather jacket,
- A bomber jacket,
- A crop-top style cardigan…
👉 Make sure to coordinate your colours well! If your top has patterns, opt for a plain jacket instead. 😉
What Shoes to Pair with an Outfit Featuring a Long Tunic?
Wondering how to pair shoes with this type of outfit? I've put together a handy selection of footwear that's perfectly suited for you!
Wedge sandals for their bohemian vibe
In summer, wedge sandals are the perfect shoes for those who want to have style without sacrificing comfort. They allow for more freedom of movement compared to heeled sandals or stilettos, while still shaping your silhouette in a similar way to those shoes.
👉 Feel free to create a colour reminder by choosing shoes that match your tunic or even the shade of your hair for a complete “total look” effect!
Heeled ankle boots for a casual chic look
By choosing classic ankle boots with a small heel, you won't go wrong in the style department! They are suitable for any occasion, whether it's a night out with mates or a professional interview, and they'll enhance your silhouette beautifully!
👉 If your tunic has a bohemian style with patterns and warm colours, then natural leather ankle boots will be perfect!
Thigh-high boots for a sexy look
Finally, if you're on the hunt for an outfit to head out in that gives you a unique and unparalleled style, don't hesitate to pair your tunic with over-the-knee boots. They will elongate your legs and make you look more glamorous than ever!
What Accessories and Makeup to Choose to Enhance Your Bohemian Chic Outfit?
To create a personalised look that truly represents you, it's essential to pay attention to the details. Here are some final tips to perfect your outfit!
Enhance Your Tunic with Accessories
Because they allow you to express your taste with elegance and subtlety, jewellery is a great asset for achieving a style that reflects you. With a tunic, and to keep with the bohemian vibe, you can wear:
- Stacked bracelets,
- Colourful and ethnic earrings,
- A long pendant necklace that will create the illusion of a slimmer waist,
- Unique handcrafted jewellery by designers…
Carry a Chic Bohemian Handbag
Wondering what handbag to pair with a boho tunic? You have plenty of options to choose from, including:
- A fringed bag,
- An embroidered leather bag,
- A tote bag,
- A colourful messenger bag…
👉 A custom handbag will go perfectly with this type of look!
Go for a light makeup look that complements your outfit
Finally, to add a stylish and feminine finishing touch to your look, I recommend that you pay attention to your makeup. A subtle and carefully chosen makeup will add a chic element to your outfit. For instance, if your tunic has some red in it, don’t hesitate to wear a lipstick that matches!
👉 You can also choose a boho chic hairstyle! Check out plenty of inspiration by visiting this article on our blog!
Long tunics are now a total mystery to you no longer! I hope this article has helped you incorporate them into your wardrobe and make them your own!
Do you have a tunic that you don’t wear often because you find it a bit too baggy? I might be able to help! I’ve published a complete tutorial on the blog that teaches you how to take in a tunic easily: feel free to check it out! 😉