The bohemian or ‘boho’ look is relaxed and retro, natural and no-fuss, ethnic and eclectic. It suggests a free spirit, with unashamed individuality and personal style. Boho rule #1 is ‘There are no rules’. What this means for you is that you can have the freedom of the boho look and splash out on a little luxury ... just because you want to.

Here are 3 ways to give your interior design a distinctive bohemian style with a touch of luxurious elegance.

Enjoy natural materials ... and dress them in their best

Get back to earth with some of earth’s treasures.

Colour really counts. Earthy and neutral tones – cream, beige, tan and olive green – are the hallmarks of boho style. But for boho de luxe, don’t be afraid of including colour. Bright ‘look at me’ shades – in pillows, throws, art and decorative items – will add personality and zing to your room. Rich jewel tones of deep blue, emerald green, ruby wine and burnt orange, and bronze, pewter or gold accents will complement your basic earth colours and add luxurious highlights in any room.

The boho vibe typically features natural fabrics with contrasting textures and designs. Take mix and match even further and add rich layers for depth and visual interest. Consider plush rugs, velvet or embroidered cushions and faux fur throws to create luxurious opulence. Make sure to create balance: mix solid colours with patterns, heavy fabrics with some delicate touches and darker elements with lighter accents to avoid overwhelming the space.

Incorporate nature’s elements to create a boho-luxury ambiance. Take plants, such as ferns or palms, lush foliage or interestingly shaped branches and place them in the most luxurious decorative containers you can find. Make a feature of wood carvings or stone sculptures displayed on an elegant pedestal or sideboard. Use natural furniture materials, such as rattan, cane or bamboo, and shine a light on them (quite literally) with a sumptuous lamp or pendant light.

Choose ethnic and cultural ... with exotic spice

Boho style says, ‘Go global’. Your choices should be inspired by artistic and cultural influences, from wherever you find them. Add memories of your travels and dreams of future adventures. Focus on one culture that speaks to you or be eclectic.

Will it be a Moroccan wedding blanket or handmade leather pouffe, a stunningly beautiful mother of pearl inlay mirror from India or a vintage iron mask from Mali? What about a set of Chinese figurines, a Turkish rug, a Rajasthani bone inlay or American oak chest.

The world’s art and artisan-crafted items are there for you. Select pieces you love and add luxury and distinctive flair to your boho chic home.

Go for the ‘wow’ factor ... and keep going

The boho look says, ‘You have individual style’. Boho-plus-luxury says, ‘You live in style and love it’. Unique handmade, vintage and antique treasures are the gold standard for discerning home decorators.

• Seek out a statement piece that will stop traffic and start conversations. It might be an item of furniture, a picture frame or mirror, a striking light fitting or chandelier, or a sculpted work
• Look for one-of-a-kind items with ornate or intricate patterns, surprising details or a cultural or historical backstory
• Choose objects that have been repurposed or recycled in an innovative way
• Hang artwork – paintings, tapestries or framed artifacts – that capture the attention and the imagination
• Make mirrors work for you – to create the illusion of space, to reflect and frame an arrangement in the room or as a focal point
• Accessorise, accessorise! Display decorative objects, miniature collections, books, bottles or scented candles to draw the eye and please the senses.

Boho style is flexible. It’s about personal expression, creativity and a sense of adventure. Adding what spells luxury for you makes it uniquely yours.

You can have the perfect balance of boho-chic and high-quality finishing touches. It’s boho-luxe. And you deserve it.

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