Vintage and boho styles in children's fashion are two extremely popular approaches to dressing children, which, while they have some similarities, differ in character, details and inspirations. Both styles refer to the past, natural materials and looser cuts, but each has its own unique features that give the clothes a different feel. In this article, we will compare vintage and boho styles, explain what makes them different and show how to dress children in each of these styles.
1. Characteristics of vintage style in children's fashion
Vintage style in children's fashion is a return to classic styles, patterns and materials from the past. It draws inspiration from the fashion of the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s, introducing clothes with elegant cuts, subdued colours and details referring to the past to children's wardrobes. Vintage clothes often have a more formal character, which makes them an ideal choice for special occasions, although they can also be successfully worn every day.
Characteristic features of vintage style:
- Classic styles : Simple, elegant cuts such as flared dresses, high-waisted trousers, blazers and knitted sweaters.
- Subdued colors : The vintage style is dominated by earthy colors, pastels and smoky shades such as beige, brown, powder pink, navy blue or mustard.
- Patterns and details : Characteristic patterns include checks, polka dots, stripes and delicate floral motifs. Lace inserts, embroidery and decorative buttons are also common.
- Materials : Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool and lace.
2. Characteristics of the boho style in children's fashion
The boho style refers to the hippie culture of the 60s and 70s, but also draws inspiration from ethnic patterns and nature. Boho style clothes are characterized by a loose cut, colorful patterns and accessories that give the stylings a lightness and artistic character. This is a style full of ease and clear details, perfect for every day, especially on warm days.
Characteristic features of boho style:
- Loose cuts : Clothes have a casual, light character, often decorated with ruffles, fringes and embroidery. Long dresses, tunics and wide-legged trousers are popular.
- Colors inspired by nature : Warm, earthy shades such as beige, brown, green, red, but also stronger accents such as turquoise or brick red.
- Ethnic patterns and floral motifs : In the boho style we will find patterns inspired by ethnic culture and nature, e.g. floral motifs, Aztec patterns or geometric decorations.
- Natural materials : As with vintage style, cotton, linen, wool and lace dominate, but knits and looser fabrics are more common.
3. The main differences between vintage and boho style
While both styles use natural materials and inspiration from the past, there are important differences that set them apart:
1. Cuts and styles
- Vintage : In vintage style, the cuts are more structured and classic. The clothes often have an elegant character, e.g. flared dresses, blazers, button-down sweaters, high-waisted trousers. The cuts are more fitted and structured.
- Boho : Boho style is characterized by looser cuts that are more casual and unrestrictive. Clothes feature ruffles, fringes, asymmetrical hems, and loose shapes such as long tunics, ponchos, and maxi dresses.
2. Colors and patterns
- Vintage : The colors of the vintage style are more subdued and classic. Dominant are pastels, beiges, navy blues and delicate patterns such as checks or polka dots. The colors are more subtle and less intense.
- Boho : Boho style uses warm earthy tones, but is more open to mixing colors and patterns. Stronger color accents and bold patterns inspired by nature and ethnic culture are popular.
3. Extras
- Vintage : The vintage style favors retro accessories such as hats, 50s style caps, delicate scarves, classic leather shoes. Accessories are more elegant and classic.
- Boho : In the boho style, accessories are an important element that gives the whole thing character. Fringes, embroidery, braided jewelry, scarves and wide-brimmed hats are popular. Accessories are more colorful and eye-catching.
4. Materials
- Vintage : Natural fabrics dominate, but in more structured cuts, such as cotton, linen, wool, lace in subtle forms.
- Boho : Materials are more airy and loose, often featuring knits, soft lace, fabrics with fringes and patterns inspired by ethnic motifs.
4. When to choose vintage style and when to choose boho?
Both styles will work for different occasions, depending on the nature of the event and your preferences:
- The vintage style is perfect for more formal occasions, such as family celebrations, weddings, communions or photo sessions, where classic and elegant are the most important. It can also be used for everyday wear, especially in casual styles with a subtle retro accent.
- The boho style is perfect for everyday wear, vacation trips, festivals, picnics, and outdoor photo shoots. Free, loose cuts and bold patterns are perfect for summer styling and spring days.
5. Examples of vintage and boho styling for kids
Vintage styling for girls:
- A dress with ruffles in a pastel shade of pink, decorated with lace details.
- A button-up sweater in a subdued color, e.g. light gray.
- Leather ballet flats and headband with bow.
Boho styling for girls:
- Airy dress with a floral pattern and fringes on the sleeves.
- Wide-brimmed hat and sandals with braided straps.
- Braided handbag or bag with embroidery.
Vintage styling for a boy:
- High-waisted checkered trousers and a collared shirt.
- Beige wool cardigan.
- Leather boots and a retro-style cap.
Boho styling for a boy:
- Wide-legged trousers and an embroidered blouse.
- Fringed vest and braided bracelet.
- Strap sandals or soft leather shoes.
Vintage and boho style in children's fashion are two different approaches to referring to the past, natural materials and freedom of dressing. Vintage is characterized by more classic cuts and subdued colors.
