The term 'boho chic' is one you that you often see being used to describe designer handbags, and fashion wear in general. Some styles seem to come and go in terms of being 'back in style', but boho chic always seems to be there. It's a timeless classic fashion style. Here is a guide to help you understand the trend.

What are the origins of the term ‘Boho-chic’?

'Bohemian' means somebody who follows an unconventional lifestyle. More often than not, this is linked to the arts. Bohemians are adventurers and travellers who don't conform to the usual. It's a lifestyle choice. The hippie lifestyle has many similarities and certainly the hippie movement took considerable inspiration from the bohemian lifestyle. 'Boho' is the common abbreviation for the word. It's so widely used now, that the full word 'bohemian' is rarely used at all these days.

'Chic' is a French word, that has been almost appropriated by the English language. It represents 'style' and 'elegance.'

How did the term ‘boho chic’ emerge? 

Actress, model and fashion designer, Sienna Miller, is often cited as being the key figure in the development of the boho chic style. Her appearance at the Glastonbury Festival in 2004, along with the hippie styles that were in evidence, is seen as a key moment. Certainly by the summer of 2005, high street fashion was full of floaty dresses and skirts, furry boots and handbags with tassels - boho chic had officially arrived. Some fashion experts would argue that the style was not new and had been around for years, but the term itself really entered our vocabulary in 2004-5.

How has boho chic changed?

It's never really gone away, if we're being honest. Every few years, it seems to dominate the high street and the designer collections we see, particularly summer collections. The festival scene in the UK is now massive, so this continued popularity is little surprise. The 'folk' style and 'boho chic' are one and the same really too.

The boho inspired look means that saddle bags, bucket bags, big buckles and tassels can always be found on many designer handbags. Boho chic is a style that is loud and proud - and never really out of trend.