How to Style a Boho Apartment: A Complete Guide
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So, you’re ready to boho-fy your apartment and give it that carefree, artsy, totally-put-together-but-not-trying-too-hard look? I’ve been there. And let me tell you—styling a boho apartment is one of the most fun, freeing, and sometimes frustrating design adventures you can take. But fear not! Whether you’re starting from scratch or just trying to figure out why your “boho” living room still feels a bit…meh, this guide’s got your back. 🙂
I’ve decorated (and redecorated) more than a few boho spaces over the years, and every time, I learn something new about layering textures, mixing patterns, and embracing just the right amount of “organized chaos.” Let’s talk rugs, rattan, and just a smidge of rebellion.
What Exactly Is Boho Style?
Before you toss a macramé wall hanging on every surface, let’s make sure we’re all talking about the same thing.
Boho (short for bohemian) is all about free-spirited, eclectic vibes. It pulls from global influences—think Moroccan lanterns, Indian textiles, and vintage furniture—layered together to create a space that feels lived-in, creative, and uniquely you.
But here’s the deal: Boho style isn’t a formula. It’s more of a mood. And IMO, that’s what makes it so addicting.
Start with a Neutral Base
I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t boho all about color? Yes and no.
Here’s the trick: Start with a calm foundation—think white, cream, beige, or soft gray walls. That neutral canvas lets your wild patterns, vintage treasures, and leafy friends shine without making the whole space feel like a flea market exploded.
Why It Works:
- Keeps your space from feeling chaotic
- Lets you change accents easily (because commitment is hard, OK?)
- Makes small apartments feel bigger and brighter
So before you go wild with prints, pick a soft, grounding base. Then we build.
Layer Up That Texture, Baby
If there’s one word boho worships, it’s texture. Woven, tufted, ruffled, knotted—you name it, boho loves it.
Want to make your space feel effortlessly cozy? Layer the heck out of your textures.
Some faves to mix:
- Chunky knit throws tossed over a rattan chair
- Macramé wall hangings or plant holders (bonus: plants love them too)
- Woven baskets for storage or decoration
- Fringed or shaggy rugs underfoot for extra coziness
Don’t worry if it feels like “too much.” With boho, too much is kind of the point. 😉
Go Wild with Patterns (but Make Them Work)
Pattern mixing is peak boho energy. But if you’re not careful, your apartment might start to look like a dorm room from 2007.
The secret? Stick to a cohesive color palette, even if the patterns vary.
My go-to pattern combos:
- Tribal rugs + floral cushions
- Ikat prints + vintage kilims
- Striped throws + embroidered pillows
Pro tip: Choose one or two dominant colors, and let the rest play backup. Trust me—it’ll save your sanity and your eyes.
Plants, Plants, More Plants (Yes, Really)
Ever seen a boho apartment without greenery? Me neither.
Plants are non-negotiable. They breathe life into your space (literally) and soften all those busy textures and patterns.
Low-maintenance plant picks for your boho lair:
- Pothos: Basically unkillable
- Snake Plant: Tolerates neglect like a champ
- ZZ Plant: Thrives in low light
- Fiddle Leaf Fig: For the drama (we all need a little)
Bonus points for cool planters—go for terracotta, jute, ceramic, or even hanging baskets. It’s not just about the plant; it’s about the presentation.
Add Global and Vintage Finds
This is where your apartment starts to feel like you spent a year backpacking across continents—even if you just went to the flea market last Sunday.
Boho style thrives on storytelling. So bring in pieces that have a past (or at least look like they do).
Ideas to get you started:
- Moroccan poufs for extra seating (and serious style)
- Vintage trunks or suitcases as coffee tables
- Old-world textiles as wall art or throws
- Beaded lamps, carved wood, brass accents—a little goes a long way
Not everything has to be “authentic” or expensive. The charm is in the mix—old with new, worn with shiny, Etsy with grandma’s attic.
Don’t Sleep on Lighting
Lighting is your apartment’s mood manager. And in boho world, soft and ambient lighting wins every time.
Say goodbye to overhead lights (they’re the worst anyway) and hello to a layered lighting setup.
Light up the vibe:
- Paper lanterns for that soft glow
- Beaded or woven pendants (yes, they exist and they’re gorgeous)
- Salt lamps or string lights for cozy corners
- Candles in mismatched holders because why not?
Pro tip: Put your lights on dimmers or smart bulbs so you can control the mood. Date night or solo Netflix binge—your lighting should match.
Embrace the Imperfections
Perfect symmetry? Matched sets? LOL. Not here.
Boho is beautifully imperfect. That leaning mirror, the chipped pot, the rug that’s just slightly askew? Those are features, not flaws.
Let your space feel like it’s evolved over time. Even if you just threw it together over a long weekend with three coffees and a Pinterest board.
Use Art and Wall Decor with Intention
Boho walls are never boring. But that doesn’t mean you need to cover every inch.
Instead, curate your wall decor like a collage of your personality.
What works:
- Gallery walls with mixed media (photos, paintings, textiles)
- Framed vintage scarves or tapestries
- Floating shelves with layered frames and tiny plants
- Statement mirrors in funky shapes or natural materials
FYI, it’s OK to leave some walls blank too. Negative space is a vibe.
Cozy Is the Ultimate Goal
Honestly, at the end of the day, boho should feel like a warm hug. You want to walk in and feel relaxed, inspired, and maybe like you should be journaling with a cup of chai tea.
So how do you dial up the comfort?
- Pillows—everywhere. Couch, floor, bed, window seat—go wild.
- Soft throws in every texture you love.
- A reading nook with a papasan chair or floor cushions.
- Layered rugs (yes, on top of each other) for that plush vibe.
If it feels like you could host a game night or take a midday nap without moving anything…you’ve nailed it.
Final Thoughts: Your Boho Apartment, Your Rules
Let’s be real—boho isn’t about following rules. It’s about expressing yourself in a way that feels organic, creative, and a little rebellious.
If you love something, add it. If it sparks joy (or at least a double take), keep it. Don’t stress about “getting it right”—your apartment is a reflection of you, not an Instagram showroom.
So grab that quirky vintage lamp, rescue a few more plants from the nursery, and let your inner boho queen (or king!) shine.
And hey, if you ever wonder whether a pink velvet chair and a tribal rug can live in harmony… they absolutely can. You’re the boss here.
Ready to give your apartment the boho glow-up? Start small—swap a light fixture, add some texture, buy that second-hand pouf you’ve been eyeing. Before you know it, you’ll be living your best bohemian life, plant babies and all 🌿.
Got a favorite boho piece you can’t live without? Let me know—I’m always collecting inspo!
