Boho style, short for bohemian, is all about expressing your free spirit through decor.
It’s an eclectic style that mixes rich textures, patterns, colors and materials for a relaxed, non-traditional look.
Boho style emerged in the 1960s and drew inspiration from hippie and nomadic cultures.
At its core, boho style embraces freedom of expression, creativity, and getting back to nature.
If you’re looking to add some boho flair to your home, there are many fun and easy ways to do it.
Incorporating touches of boho style allows you to add personality and visual interest to your space.
Keep reading for 13 tips on elevating your home with boho style.
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Idea 1: Layer Rugs
One of the hallmarks of boho style is layering rugs over carpeting or hardwood floors.
Choosing rugs in different sizes, shapes, colors and patterns is key to creating a collected boho look.
Try a large jute or braided rug as a base layer – these natural fiber rugs have an organic, casual feel that lays the foundation.
Make sure your base rug is large enough to peek out from underneath other layers.
For the additional layers, look for rugs that are 4×6 feet or smaller in geometric patterns, global prints, shag or oriental designs.
Play with positioning the rugs slightly askew or angled rather than lining them up neatly.
Mixing materials like wool, cotton, leather and acrylic adds eclectic texture.
To anchor the rugs, use natural rubber rug pads trimmed to fit each layer.
The pads prevent sliding around on hardwood and carpeting.
Check that rug pads are rated for the type of flooring you have.
When choosing rug pads, make sure they are non-slip and made of natural materials like rubber, felt or woven cotton.
Rug pads also help level out bumps or dips in existing carpeting.
When layering rugs, it helps to stick to a color theme or limiting it to 2-3 complimentary colors.
Neutral ecru, ivory and gray base layers make it easier to build color on top.
Aim for contrast between the smaller rugs and base layer.
Use dark colored or patterned rugs on top of light base rugs or vice versa.
Avoid any extreme contrast between colors or the layers will compete.
Decide if you want the look to feel orderly and symmetric or messy and asymmetric.
Layered rugs instantly give a boho vibe to any room.
Idea 2: Use Tapestries
Tapestries are commonly used in boho decor to add color, texture and free-spirited style.
These ornate wall hangings instantly create visual interest and a relaxed vibe.
Look for tapestries made from natural fibers like cotton, wool and linen that have earthy or global patterns.
Tapestries depicting nature scenes with flowers, trees, animals or landscapes embody the boho love of nature.
Neutral toned tapestries allow the textures and patterns to pop.
Tapestries with mandala designs, paisley prints or folk art feel bohemian and cultured.
Intricate motifs and vivid dyes make tapestries true artistic statements.
When hanging tapestries, allow them to drape loosely rather than pulling taut.
Hang tapestries above beds, sofas or chairs as focal points.
You can also hang them above mantels or shelving to create captivating backdrops.
Allow at least 6 inches between the top of furniture and bottom of the tapestry.
For very large tapestries, mounting them extended out from the wall creates attractive dimension.
Smaller tapestries can be draped across tabletops and dressers.
Use weights, like ceramic vases, on top of the tapestry edges to hold them in place.
You can also turn tapestries into pillow covers by inserting pillow forms and loosely tying shut with ribbons.
Draping tapestries over doorways or windows as makeshift curtains adds exotic allure.
Allow tapestries to flow freely for a casual boho look.
Idea 3: Add Pendant Lights
Pendant lights with colorful patterned shades or unique shapes add a whimsical touch in boho decor.
Over dining tables, kitchen islands, seating areas and bedrooms, pendant lights feel laidback and artistic.
Choose pendant shades made from natural materials like woven rattan, bamboo, jute and leather.
Look for ones in mosaic tile, stained glass, cut-out metal and hammered copper with organic shapes.
For lots of personality, hang a grouping of 3-5 colorful pendant lights over seating areas or clustered kitchen islands.
Vary the heights of each pendant for visual interest – some closer to the 12-18 inch range and others in the 24-36 inch range.
Let pendant cords be loose and asymmetrical.
Cool metal pendants mixed with rattan and woven shades make an eclectic statement.
In bedrooms, a solitary pendant light over the bed creates a cozy focal point.
Outdoor pendant lighting also adds boho personality for patios and porches.
Look for outdoor-safe pendants in materials like all-weather wicker and rust-resistant metals.
You can also find UV resistant shades to prevent fading.
Pendant lighting is an easy way to illuminate a space with free-spirited flair.
Idea 4: Use Macrame Decor
Incorporating macrame into your boho decor adds natural texture and breezy style.
Macrame is a form of textile that has a woven, knotted appearance created using a simple knotting technique.
The knots can form beautiful patterns that have a flowing, organic look.
For boho flair, use neutral toned macrame to make plant hangers, wall hangings, table runners, headboards, room dividers and more.
Natural fiber macrame made from cotton, jute or linen has an earthy vibe perfect for boho spaces.
Hang macrame wall hangings above windows, beds and seating areas to create an airy, relaxing atmosphere.
Knotted macrame plant hangers mounted into walls or ceilings keep plants elevated in style.
Draped macrame backdrops transform basic bookshelves or media consoles into artful focal points.
For tabletops, use macrame in place of tablecloths as ornamental runners.
Knotted macrame also makes great lightweight drapes across doorways or breezeways.
Add lightweight macrame rugs on top of existing carpeting for carefree texture.
Anywhere you want to create a casual, peaceful ambiance, macrame is the perfect boho-inspired choice.
The textured handmade look feels cozy and unique.
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Idea 5: Add an Accent Wall
Creating an accent wall or accent wallpaper is a straightforward way to spice up a room with boho style.
Use a richly colored or patterned wallpaper as the backdrop for seating areas, beds and shelves.
Earthy tones like deep greens, burnt orange, crimson red or midnight blue work well.
Look for organic or global patterns like paisley, ikat, floral and animal prints or aboriginal dot designs.
You can also stencil patterns like paisley, flowers or mandalas for a DIY accent wall.
Painting one wall in a contrasting saturated color is another option for making it pop.
Painted medallion details, geometric shapes or nature silhouettes add boho personality.
Just be sure your accent wall complements the room instead of clashing.
An accent wall draws the eye and creates ambiance with character.
For accent walls around fireplaces, avoid flammable materials and opt for tiles, stacked stone or painted brick.
In bedrooms, use natural woven grasscloth or textured wallpaper above the headboard for impact.
In living rooms, choose an accent wall with the main seating areas or mantel.
Accent walls work best when the other walls are neutral.
The eclectic focal point ties the look together.
Idea 6: Display Houseplants
No boho space is complete without lush greenery.
Houseplants emphasize living in harmony with nature, a core part of bohemian style.
Indoor houseplants breathe life into rooms in eco-friendly ways.
Ferns, trailing ivy, weeping figs, parlor palms and fiddle leaf figs work perfectly for filling floor space.
Use hanging macrame plant holders or set pots on plant stands, stools and shelves to save space.
Groupings of plants in coordinating ceramic or rattan planters make a stylish statement.
Let them trail over the edges for an artful feel.
Remember to rotate plants occasionally so all sides get sunlight.
Mist plants regularly to prevent drying out in indoor conditions.
Small potted succulents also pair well with the organic textures of boho decor.
Arrange them on window sills, edge of bookcases, console tables and nightstands.
Mini cacti and air plants provide natural accents without taking up much room.
In bathrooms and kitchens, have plants thrive in high humidity spots.
No matter what room you want to freshen up, houseplants are an easy way to bring inviting nature vibes into a boho home.
Idea 7: Add Woven Accents
Incorporating woven details is an easy way to establish natural boho style.
Look for baskets, throws, pillows or poufs made from natural fibers like jute, cotton, seagrass and sisal.
Neutral woven pieces complement bold or colorful boho decor without becoming overwhelming.
Use wooden-edged seagrass or wicker baskets for holding blankets, magazines or firewood.
The visible weave adds organic texture and style.
Try natural woven roller shades on windows for casual light filtering.
Top stair railings and shelves with jute garland for breezy allure.
Swap out solid curtains for airy woven linen or bamboo ones.
Small touches like a woven placemat or basket under an end table bring in boho charm.
Macrame and woven wall hangings can be as small as 12 inches for petite impact.
For sofas and chairs, use cotton crochet blankets and woven throw pillows in ecru and gray for laidback contrast.
Even a simple round braided rag rug ties a high-traffic space together with earthy boho appeal.
Idea 8: Use Varied Textiles
Mixing and matching textiles is key for creating depth and dimension in boho decor.
Combine textures like wool, velvet chenille, linen, cotton, leather and suede for visual interest.
Avoid matching furniture sets in favor of a collected look of complementary pieces.
Reupholster solid furniture with tribal prints, ikat patterns or vibrant fabric.
Pair sleek leather seating with cozy knit pillows.
Layer in fur throws, silk drapes, crochet blankets and fluffy sheepskin rugs for eclectic contrast.
Floor pillows covered in vintage suzani panels or madras plaids have a relaxed yet cultured vibe.
Oversized pillows allow more personality.
Choose textured, globally inspired fabrics on accent pillows and poufs.
The mix of textiles makes a space feel multilayered, modern yet handcrafted.
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Idea 9: Add Moroccan Style
For quintessential boho decor, look to Moroccan style.
Moroccan patterns like geometric tiles, fretwork arches and lattice screens create an exotic yet relaxing vibe.
Use a Moroccan inspired color palette of rich blues, purples, warm metallics and terra cotta.
Incorporate Beni Ourain shag rugs from the Middle Atlas mountains of Morocco.
Their neutral earth tones and divine texture instantly establish boho style.
Display intricate silver Moroccan lanterns and candle holders for exotic flair.
Use colorful beaded curtains to create magical doorways between rooms.
For pattern, add lightweight quilts with Moroccan motifs.
Paint woodwork in earthy jewel tones like amber, sapphire or jade to complement the palette.
A Moroccan tile backsplash or accent wall makes a bold style statement.
Blend these touches of Moroccan style for an ultra bohemian global feel.
Idea 10: Use Eclectic Furniture
Furniture is a great way to establish the eclectic mix of textures, colors and designs that defines boho style.
Look for unique wooden pieces, antique finds, painted flea market treasures and restored storage furniture.
Distressed leather and jewel-toned velvet sofas feel instantly bohemian.
Add in ornate side chairs and loungers for regal contrast to worn woods.
Reupholster mid-century structures with vibrant patterned fabrics.
Repurpose vintage items like trunks as coffee tables or stools.
An antique cabinet, hutch or dresser is perfect for displaying cherished curios, books and artworks for artistic charm.
Rattan, bamboo and woven sea grass furniture blends beautifully with boho decor.
Their organic shapes and tactile appeal complement reclaimed woods and exotic accents.
Neutral natural fiber furniture allows colorful textiles and wall accents to shine.
Avoid matching sets in favor of a curated mix of beloved furnishings.
The varied textures, eras and designs create an inviting, collected look.
Idea 11: Add Vibrant Colors
While earth tones are popular in boho decor, incorporating vibrant splashes of color adds energy and personality.
Use fuchsia, emerald green, sunshine yellow or sapphire blue in moderation on pillows, stools, throws and artwork.
Punchy colors enliven neutrals and grab attention.
Paint a front door or piece of statement furniture in a saturated tropical hue.
Try refreshing antique wood pieces with chalk paint tints for uplifting appeal.
Vivid colors in global patterns like ikat, batik and madras go hand in hand with bohemian style.
Set out turquoise ceramic garden stools as handy side tables or conversation pieces.
Lay an electric patterned wool rug atop neutral flooring for an artistic pop.
Hang vivid canvas art depicting nature or abstract shapes.
Add a neon retro table lamp for an unexpected pop.
Vibrant colors and expressive patterns energize a boho space in stylish moderation.
Idea 12: Incorporate Metallics
For a bit of boho glam, bring in metallic accents and hardware.
Gold, rose gold, bronze and brass add warmth and shine.
Use them to accessorize neutrals and muted earth tones.
Display collected brass trays atop rustic coffee tables for laidback sophistication.
Scatter gold-rimmed throw pillows across sofas for subtle sparkle.
Use hammered copper or antique silver bowls to hold decorative items.
Try hanging an oversized brass sunburst mirror or faceted star pendant light fixtures as bold metallic focal points.
Paint old picture frames or candlesticks metallic for glamorous wall art.
A gold mosaic side table provides a luxe feel beside cozy seating.
Add a metallic wash to terra cotta vases and pots for an earthy shimmer.
Metallics in small doses catch and reflect light beautifully in boho spaces.
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Idea 13: Display Meaningful Treasures
At its heart, boho style embraces self-expression and collected treasures.
Display favorite flea market finds, travel souvenirs, artwork, books and other meaningful keepsakes throughout your home.
These imbue spaces with personality and memories.
Arrange your curated collections and treasures artfully on shelves, mantels, countertops and tabletops.
Rotate things seasonally to keep it fresh.
Paintings, photographs, pottery and sculptures from beloved artists make a space feel personal.
Choose accessories with global or vintage flair to tie rooms together: handwoven baskets, fair trade textiles, retro curiosities.
Showcase items acquired on trips that inspire you.
Your displayed treasures should reflect what makes you uniquely you.
This highly decorative approach makes a space feel curated, lived-in and full of soul.
Infusing bohemian style into your home allows you to creatively express yourself through decor.
By layering rugs, using bold prints and textiles, displaying plants and your collections, and adding worldly touches, you can craft a relaxed, welcoming boho vibe.
Start small by adding accents and accessorizing with key pieces.
Soon you’ll have a space that feels free-spirited, artistic and uniquely you.
Embrace your inner boho spirit and transform your home into a personalized oasis.
With an open mind, creativity and these tips, you can easily elevate any space with boho flair.
