How We Put the FP in Boho

In the early days of Free People, just about every piece of apparel we designed boasted some sort of embellishment, flare and/or flutter. These consistent design details put FP on the boho map. Creatives (or those hoping to look the part) flocked to our site and the handful of stores at the time in search of embodying this bohemian, nostalgic take on fashion. Fast forward to today, and though our brand has grown up a bit to incorporate more modern approaches to outfitting, boho chic remains a staple component of our assortment. It’s a trend that never quite leaves our periphery, especially today. And for many of our teammates, that keeps FP very true to its roots.

Take Merrie (our Director of Planning & Allocation), for example, on how we continue to find fresh ways to style boho while staying true to that philosophy:

“The idea of a bohemian ideal is grounded in the appreciation of integrating nature, creativity, community, and a free spirit into your lifestyle, attitude and aesthetic. I think the appreciation of imperfect beauty and individualism are foundations of boho–that means there’s not always one way to frame what it looks like, and allows the evolution and iterations that allow boho to feel moody or uplifting or quiet or passionate. I think that element of “free spirit”, which is overused and bland as a result but still useful, extends to punk and goth and aesthetics that see art as part of the energy of the tribe. I think bohemians are collectors, are travelers, are embellishers, are experimenters, are celebrators, are aesthetes.”

Boho fashion is rooted in the counterculture of the late 60s, which took its nod from 19-century Paris, when scholars and artist-types shunned their traditional garb (think corsets) in lieu of silhouettes that afforded them–in fit and function–a new sort of freedom, called bohème.

After the French Revolution, this community found themselves impoverished and, with a need to explore new opportunities, embraced a uniform that would reflect their impending nomadic lifestyle: florals, velvet, lace and flowy layers. Rich in pattern and color, these “bohemian” pieces were also expressive of a broader cultural reach, employing techniques and shapes found far beyond Parisian borders.

Though bohemian dressing reappeared briefly (as trends do) after this period, it wasn’t until the 1960s when the “hippie movement” reclaimed full charge of this non-conventional, independent and spirited look–with Janis, Anita Pallenberg, Mama Cass, Jane Birkin and Talitha Getty perfectly personifying the look and feel of “boho chic.” Yves St. Laurent brought boho style to high fashion in the 70s, with Stevie Nicks acting as music’s queen boho unicorn.

And then came the early 00s and countless festivals and, well, I’ve got two words for you: Kate. Moss. (Actually eight: Kate. Moss. Sienna. Miller. Mary-Kate. And. Ashley. Olsen.) The rebirth of fringe, florals, floppy–all pillars of boho chic fashion–which coincided with Free People’s “teenage years.” And we haven’t been able to let go of boho since. Rightfully so.

Several of our teammates obliged us in reminiscing about their favorite FP boho pieces from the past, including flare jeans, maxi dresses, bralettes, and (faux) fur:

“The piece that first came to mind—one that truly embodies the boho spirit and that I have a deep affection for—is the Extreme Flare that Sasha Pivovarova wore in 2011. This jean was designed to make the wearer feel free—not because it was trendy, but because of how it allows someone to feel when walking, running, or sitting. I remember the first time these jeans came back from the factory: I threw them on and ran down the hallway with joy, knowing what they would represent for our brand.” – Alex, Global Head of Design

“Iconic FP boho moments I think of are of course the Discharge Bali Flare (and Steven Tyler wearing them…), the Ruffle Lace Slip Maxi, dresses like the Rosalie Maxi, the Hibiscus Heaven Maxi Dress, Adella Bralette, the Coin Jacket, the Kate Jacket (and now Moonlight Faux Fur)… I should probably raid my closet for more.” – Merrie

And today, we still avow to stay true to these OG boho styles and silhouettes that excited us as young wide-eyed adults, crafting pieces that feel fresh and purposeful in this new era of boho.

“Excited about flares again, especially low-rise! For going into fall with boots.” – Landry, Senior Merchandiser

In the end, boho style is what you make it. As Merrie so eloquently stated, it’s for the collectors, travellers, embellishers… Anyone who longs for their individuality to shine through.

And, if you’re a trend follower, don’t worry–it’s always sure to come back round.

Shop all things boho here.