Summer CasualCalls for Boho-Chic

BY MEGAN SIMONS

Are our lives changed permanently? Are we ever going back to the ways we knew? Are we going to create a new normal, a new reality? What will it be like? What will change? Many unknowns, many questions, and as the nature and shape of our future is vague, one thing will undoubtedly remain a part of our daily routine - we will wear clothes.

It is crucial today to protect ourselves with masks and social distancing, but do not forget the impact of your individual style, therefore I would like to present to you boho-chic.

Boho style comes with a long history, it describes unconventional, creative, and free-of-ties way of life. It is often thought that bohemian was originated by ‘60s and ‘70s hippie-inspired fashions. But Bohémien was a popular name for the nomadic gypsies community in France, who were believed to have migrated to France via Bohemia, a region in today’s Czech Republic.

It emerged in the early 19th century France, when artists began to concentrate in the not-so- wealthy, but highly creative, Romani neighborhoods. Today, bohemian style in fashion uses infl uences from the inventive period, but also refl ects free spirited, relaxed, and unique, nonconformist trends. The peasant look, relaxed fi t, retro patterns and earthy, jewel, warm tones have a strong position in boho designs.

Our hot summers present somewhat of a challenge for fashion picks. You are more than familiar with the sizzling dog days of summer in the city when you feel that the less you wear, the better you feel. You ask yourself daily, what can I wear that will not make me melt. Just because it is hot outside does not mean you have to give up a stylish look, and I believe I can help you with cool and trendy choices.

Lightweight tunics are an excellent idea. A bright colored, fun print top in easy not constrictive, boho style and light fabric that breaths, is not going to restrict your choices for daily activities. Sleeves or no sleeves is your option. Throw on a pair of shorts, bermudas or capris and you are ready for the day.

Jumpsuits and dresses can be your best friends. On hot summer days their versatile nature makes them pieces worth investing in and refreshing your wardrobe easily. The key to comfort lays in style and fabric. Your best friend in a summer dress will be the fl owy one, that gives your body enough room to breathe.

With jumpsuits you do not have to worry if the top matches the bottom. The variety of available jumpsuits today makes me feel comfortable to say that maybe not every style will fi t your body, but there is a great jumpsuit for everybody’s unique style. Just think about what you want to emphasize, your arms, waist, legs? Would your choice be the light-as-a cloud, silky, wide-leg leopard print, or the bold tie-dye with adjustable straps for better fi t? Just remember that what you wear expresses who you are.

Megan Simons is the owner of Pippa Pelure, a fi ne fashion boutique in downtown St. Petersburg. Contact her at pippapelure@tampabay.rr.com Fashion By Hale Bob