What is Bohemian Jewellery and Why Is It Back In Fashion?

Stephen Alan's Jewellers - The Jewellery Blog

There’s something wonderfully carefree about bohemian jewellery. With its earthy textures, natural materials, and slightly rebellious charm, it’s a style that feels just as at home on a sun-soaked beach as it does layered over a linen shirt in town.

And right now, in 2025, boho jewellery is well and truly back in fashion.

But what exactly is bohemian jewellery? Where does it come from, why has it returned, and how can you wear it in a way that feels authentic (not like you’ve raided a festival costume box)? Let’s explore…

What is the History of Bohemian Jewellery

The term "bohemian" dates back to the 19th century and was originally used to describe artists, writers, and thinkers who rejected conventional lifestyles in favour of creativity, freedom, and self-expression. These early “bohemians” often dressed in a way that mixed cultural influences, historic references, and handcrafted pieces picked up from markets, travels, and friends.

Their jewellery was no different. It wasn’t about flashy status symbols — it was about storytelling, individuality, and collecting pieces with meaning.

From French writers to Romani communities, the bohemian aesthetic grew into a symbol of artistic rebellion. Think of layered beads, coins, and rough gemstones — all worn in a way that suggested personal history and a life well-travelled.

Boho Jewellery Through the Decades

Bohemian jewellery truly hit the mainstream in the 1960s and 70s. As the hippie movement took hold, jewellery became a symbol of peace, freedom, and nature. Women and men wore leather cuffs, love beads, woven friendship bracelets, turquoise rings, and long, dangly earrings with feathers or shells.

The 90s and early 2000s saw another wave — especially with the rise of festival fashion and vintage revival. Italian charm bracelets, stacked rings, and handmade gemstone necklaces became staples at music festivals and high street boutiques alike.

Now, in 2025, we’re seeing a renewed appreciation for all things boho — but this time, with a touch of polish.

Why It’s Back in Fashion Now

In a world that can feel increasingly digital and curated, boho jewellery offers something refreshingly personal. People are leaning towards slow fashion, handmade details, and pieces that tell a story. That means natural materials like wood, shell, freshwater pearls, and raw stones are making a comeback — along with bold colours, tactile textures, and designs that feel one-of-a-kind.

On the fashion front, trends like boho luxe and coastal cowgirl are everywhere — blending soft femininity with earthy, textured jewellery that looks just as good with denim as it does with a flowing summer dress. Put simply: people are craving jewellery that’s expressive, not excessive. And bohemian style delivers.

How to Choose Boho Jewellery

If you’re drawn to the style but unsure where to start, here are a few simple tips for choosing boho pieces that feel genuine, beautiful, and totally you:

Choose natural materials.

Look for shells, beads, gemstones, pearls, and leather. A hand-polished stone or piece of sea glass feels personal and grounding — like it’s been on a journey with you.

Embrace imperfection.

Boho style isn’t about polished perfection. That raw-edged crystal or irregular pearl? That’s exactly the point. These pieces have character — and they’ll add depth to your outfit.

Go meaningful

Charm bracelets, stamped pendants, birthstones, and lockets all have a strong place in boho style. Don’t be afraid to wear jewellery that has real emotional value.

Layer it up

Bohemian jewellery is often worn in layers — multiple necklaces of varying lengths, stacked rings, or bangles that jingle softly when you move.

Mix materials

Don’t worry about matching metals or colours perfectly. Boho is all about freedom. Try combining brass with silver, or wooden beads with polished stones.

How to Wear It: Styling Tips

Bohemian jewellery is versatile, which means you don’t need to dress like a festival-goer to wear it well. Here’s how to style it for everyday:

✔ Pair long necklaces with simple outfits. A neutral top and jeans can come alive with a layered shell necklace or a bold gemstone pendant.

✔ Use one statement piece. A chunky turquoise ring or a beaded cuff can add a striking focal point — perfect for elevating an otherwise understated look.

✔ Wear pearls with a twist. Boho pearls are rarely perfect and round — they’re baroque, irregular, and often paired with colourful beads or knotted thread.

✔ Let earrings do the talking. Drop earrings made from wood, feathers, or mixed metals bring instant personality to any look — especially with hair tied up or tucked back.

✔ Dress it up or down. A floaty dress and layered bangles work for weekends, while a single earthy pendant can be just the right touch for workwear.

Stephen Alan’s Take on the Trend

At Stephen Alan’s Jewellers, we believe in jewellery that tells a story, and that’s exactly what boho style is all about. Whether you’re looking for a simple shell bracelet, a stack of beaded bangles, or something truly one-of-a-kind, we’ve got plenty of inspiration in-store.

Our in-house goldsmith, Dean Quy, can even work with you to design a bespoke piece using natural stones, family heirlooms, or a concept that’s close to your heart.

Want a bracelet that reminds you of a beach holiday? A pendant with your children’s birthstones? A ring that feels a little wild and completely yours? Book your bespoke jewellery design consultation online today.