Boho has had a bold upgrade for autumn - these are the pieces I can't wait to wear & how to style them

Forget flimsy festival dresses: boho has had a witchy winter update, and it's never looked better. Although traditionally a summer trend, autumn is actually the ideal time for it to come into its own, because you can layer. And now the weather has finally broken, I can't wait to try some out. 

Boho with an edge

© @charlottesimone

This version is darker, heavier and a little bit grungy. Think long-sleeved dresses with cowboy boots, embroidered gilets over chunky knits, and shaggy faux fur coats (hello, Charlotte Simone). There's a less bohemian edge too. Swap the cowboy boot for a battered biker - and the whole look toughens up instantly.

It started on the catwalk

Chloé, Zimmermann, Etro, Valentino and Gucci have all leaned into bohemian references, but the more-is-more festival chaos of the 2010s has gone. Today's boho is still relaxed and free-spirited, just more polished. 

Styling your prairie smock

Shapeless smocks have given way to defined waists, proper tailoring and cuts that skim the body rather than swamp it. A ruffled peasant blouse or a 70s flared sleeve looks brand new with sharp trousers or dark denim. Try Sézane, Free People, Monsoon, and George at ASDA.

Pick one hero piece

The real lesson is restraint. Rather than piling on fringe, florals and beads all at once, let one great piece do the talking, such as a lace-trimmed dress or an embroidered jacket (I love Rixo's selection this season), and keep everything else simple. For the colder months, look for paisley, crochet, suede and tassel necklaces in a richer, moodier palette of chocolate, rust, plum and forest green.

It's also a trend that rewards buying well. The point is natural fabrics, handcrafted textures and pieces you'll wear for years. Boho done properly should only get better with age.

Rethink your colour palette 

Plenty of brands are already nailing it. Hayley Menzies, Sézane and Farm Rio do bohemian prints beautifully, and Rixo's latest collaboration with Bay Garnett is a treasure trove: the belts, the gilets, the tapestry jackets! For shoes, Etro has teamed up with Birkenstock on a kind of cowboy Boston clog, which is every bit as fabulous as it sounds. Team them with a pair of chunky socks.  

Cream and white also has its place

Winter whites have been a quiet favourite for a few seasons - and for good reason. They work beautifully with both black and brown. My take: Loeffler Randall's crocheted Dorothy Dress, styled with tan cowboy boots or black block heels and a cosy black gilet.