How to Use Boho Style at Home

Mixed Patterns and Colors

When it comes to creating a boho-style space, all rules go out the window. Bright colors and lots of patterns such as florals and paisleys mixed with natural prints and mismatched patterns are a hallmark of boho style, like this space from Dazey Den. If brights aren't for you, embrace a subdued mix of shades like olive green, cognac, mustard yellow, and rusty oranges.

Natural Finishes

The hippie influence of the 1960s and '70s on boho design ushered in an infusion of accessories that utilize natural or raw materials such as hemp, sisal, wood, and rattan. Think woven wall decor, macrame plant hangers, a sisal or wool Moroccan rug, and leather furniture.

Cultural Artifacts

Bohemian styles have significant ties to global and cultural aspects, so it's important to know exactly what you'd like to represent when decorating your space. This space from Afro Bohemian Living features African artwork, woven baskets, and decorative items for an authentic feel.

Global Accents

If you're lucky enough to travel to far-flung locales, look for souvenirs to help you achieve a layered boho-style feel. Otherwise shop thrift stores, flea markets, or source global decor pieces online.

Piles of Textiles

Boho-style spaces are not fussy. Think floor pillows and leather poufs, piles of pillows or a comfy area rug, and spaces that encourage conversation, reading, and listening to music or playing games rather than watching TV.

Thrifted Pieces

While thrifting for that perfect find may require some serious effort, you would be surprised at how many potential boho-style accents you can acquire on a budget—especially when it comes to textured pieces like wicker.

Emma Wilson of Wilson Aesthetics snagged this wicker shelf online, which is the perfect place to display her curated decor collection.

Layered Textures

Layering textures in your space can help create a chic boho-style atmosphere. Try layering boho-style bedding in a mix of textures, colors, and/or patterns, or add a chunky knit throw on your bed to add dimension to a more minimalist room.

Mixed Styles

Mix boho style with midcentury modern accessories. For example, a mid-century hairpin leg desk mixed with a geometric print rug and a sleek white bookshelf with plants galore will achieve the look flawlessly.

Emphasis on Art

No bohemian-style space would be complete without a curated, creative mix of art and books. Pile art books on the coffee table, frame album covers as wall art, or hang an eclectic collection of art prints on a gallery wall that stretches floor to ceiling, like this living room from Dazey Den.

Lots of Neutrals

If you aren't wild about color, design a boho-style living room with a focus on neutrals. Esther Schimdt added textured with layered rugs, leather and wicker accents, and a gallery wall. One of the best ottomans for a bohemian room is a leather, Moroccan-style option like this one.

Whimsical Decor

Boho style is meant to be playful, so have fun with it. This apartment by interior designer Alvin Wayne has its share of plants, muted tones, and a calming presence—yet the geometric tapestry on the wall boasting bright, abstract hues adds a whimsical touch to the room without overpowering it.

Earthy and Glam Design Elements

Pair earthy and glam textures and finishes to add interest to a boho-style interior. This living room by Blue Copper Design mixes leather and wood accents with white walls and floor-to-ceiling curtains for an airy and polished feel.

Plants as Decor

A bohemian-style room can never include too many potted plants. This living room from Leaf and Lolo is covered with natural greenery in various shapes, sizes, and styles. The macrame wall hanging and the wicker baskets enhance the boho-style feel.

Personal Touches

Ultimately, boho style isn't about creating something perfect—it has to do with making the space feel like your own. Adding personal touches can tie things together. This colorful living room from Dazey Den includes houseplants throughout and a custom tiled mantel to liven things up against the painted white walls.

Black and White Patterns

You don't have to go all out to create a boho-style room (unless you want to). Keeping things simple can sometimes be the key—like this bedroom by Arbor & Co. A black-and-white color palette, a simple tapestry, and an oversized rug make up most of the decor here for an effortless feel.

Curated Gallery Wall

Gallery walls can take a boho-style room to the next level. The key is to work not only with photos or art prints but also with objects, like this space from House of Chais. There are really no rules—and definitely no rhyme or reason—to how your art collections and decor objects should be arranged.

Scandinavian Accents

Mix eclectic boho style with minimalist and functional Scandinavian design to create a modern boho-style bedroom like this space from S.U.S.A.P.

Wicker Statement Piece

Bohemian styles do not necessarily need a centerpiece to work, but statement pieces can contribute to the room's overall feel. This bedroom by K Shan Design features a retro wicker flower-shaped headboard that screams boho-style chic.