The Pastel Boho aesthetic is an aesthetic that blends soft, pastel colour schemes with bohemian elements like natural textures and eclectic décor. It has roots in bohemian style which draws inspiration from the 1960s and 70s counterculture, emphasizing individuality and artistic expression. Pastel BoHo was developed as a softer, more whimsical take on the traditional BoHo aesthetic, appealing to younger audiences and social media trends. This aesthetic is most often seen in party décor, often for weddings, Easter, and birthdays.
Visuals[]
The visuals in this aesthetic are girly, dreamy, light pastel colours with classic bohemian visuals. It often features elements like:
- Detailed and unique clothing: Lace and frills, loose, flowy dresses, layered with delicate jewellery, wide-brimmed hats, pastel coloured shorts and skinny jeans, Bohemian kimonos, and sandals.
- Soft pastel colours (ex. light pinks, blues, mints, yellows, greens, purples and corals).
- Eclectic décor such as dreamcatchers, potted plants, tapestries, and fairy lights are popular.
- Natural textures such as ood, weaved straw, rattan, macrame, and woven fabrics are frequently used.
- Flowers and floral designs such as roses, daisies, orchids, peonies, and lavender.
Fashion[]
Patel BoHo fashion is very similar to Bohemian fashion, but with a more softer and whimsical look. People, especially bloggers participating in the aesthetic, usually wear:
- Flower crowns
- Coloured skinny jeans and high-waisted shorts
- Flowy dresses
- Wide-brimmed hats
- BoHo kimonos
- Sandals
- Long necklaces
- Crochet clothing
- Floral patterns
Decoration[]
Most Pastel BoHo decorations include:
- Pastel balloons
- Ribbons tied on to the back of chairs
- Painted mason jars
- Flowers, mostly peonies
- Paper lanterns
- Beach scenery
- Pastel rainbow cakes
- Flower crowns
- Gold incorporated into various things
- Floor cushions
- Fairy lights
- Candles
- Dreamcatchers
- Flower garlands
- Tassels
- Teepees
Food[]
Because this aesthetic is often used for parties, there are many snacks that are common in said environments such as:
- Rock candy
- Macarons
- Chocolate eggs
- Cake
- Floral or herbal infused drinks
- Cupcakes with buttercream frosting
History[]
The Pastel BoHo aesthetic is an evolution of the traditional Bohemian or BoHo style, which dates back to the 19th century. The original Bohemian lifestyle emerged as a counterculture movement associated with artists, writers, and people who rejected mainstream norms and embraced a free-spirited, unconventional life. It was shaped by various cultural influences over time, including Romani fashion, French Bohemian art circles, and 1960s/70s counterculture. Celebrities like Stevie Nicks and later, influencers in the 2000s and 2010s, played a significant role in reviving and popularizing the modern Pastel BoHo style.
Philosophy[]
The philosophy of Pastel BoHo is about being free to express yourself in a relaxed and creative way, using soft, peaceful colours. It focuses on staying connected to nature by using natural materials and living simply. The style encourages being mindful, slowing down, and appreciating handmade or unique items. It's dreamy and fun, with an emphasis on staying balanced and feeling calm. There's also a focus on inner peace, spirituality, and creating a sense of togetherness and harmony with others in a peaceful environment.
Criticism[]
Pastel BoHo has faced some criticism, mainly for its commercialization and detachment from the original Bohemian lifestyle. Critics argue that it turns the deeper, more meaningful Bohemian philosophy—focused on freedom, artistic expression, and rejection of materialism—into a superficial trend based more on aesthetics than values. The soft, pastel version often leans into a curated, Instagram-friendly look, which some say commodifies the style and makes it less authentic. Additionally, like other trends, the widespread use of the aesthetic for parties, home decor, and fashion has led to concerns about cultural appropriation, especially when BoHo symbols or elements are used without understanding their origins or significance.
Gallery[]
