7 Ways to Style Boho Dresses
Perfect for unpredictable spring weather, boho dresses are designed with layering in mind. From waistcoats to skinny scarves, we spoke with creative stylist at M&S, Jessica Rea Long, who explains how to style boho dresses throughout this transitional period and into summer.
Boho is big this year
No longer reserved for festival fashion, boho is a key 2025 trend. In the last year the nostalgic noughties trend has had a revival, transitioning from the catwalk to celebrity style and onto the high street, as Jessica explains:
“This March we saw a 27% increase in online sales of our Per Una range compared to March 2024. This collection is known for its feminine designs, floral prints and details such as lace and embroidery.
“We believe one reason for the increase in demand is the popularity of boho style. In response to this, we recently filmed a live show, introducing some of our best boho dresses and sharing styling tips.”
Boho dresses
The cornerstone of bohemian style is the boho dress. Boho dresses are all about movement. They tend to have relaxed, modest silhouettes and are commonly made from natural, breathable fabrics with playful detailing.
The boho colour palette ranges from earthy tones like browns, creams, and olive greens to more vibrant hues like mustard, turquoise, and coral. In this way, styling options are almost endless – as Jessica illustrates:
1. Waistcoat
“If you want to define your shape a little more, layering a waistcoat on top of a boho dress is a clever way to cinch in your waist. For a more pared down look, go for a knitted waistcoat. Alternatively, a suede or leather waistcoat could look very sophisticated.”
2. Gilet
“As an alternative to the waistcoat, try wearing a quilted gilet over your dress for a softer look. I love the western vibe of this denim quilted gilet.”
3. Longline cardigan
“While they can be controversial in the fashion sphere, celebrities including Bella Hadid have shown us that a long cardigan can be the perfect accompaniment to a boho dress. Something sheer may work better on warmer days.”
4. Oversized belt
“On warmer days when you don’t want to add an extra layer, a belt is the perfect way to elevate your silhouette. Go for something delicate like a noughties-inspired chain belt or double down on the boho aesthetic with a disk belt.”
5. Boots
“Channel Ibiza style and pair your boho dress with a pair of cowboy boots. Or for some added edge, swap the cowboy boots for biker boots. I love this Moto Boho aesthetic.”
6. Layered jewellery
“Boho style is all about having fun with jewellery. More is more. I’m talking colourful pieces, mismatched chains and giant pendants.”
7. Skinny scarf
“Skinny scarves are the epitome of carefree bohemian style. They make for a softer alternative to necklaces but inject interest in a similar way. We have just added a cream beaded scarf to our collection which sits somewhere in between.”