My '70s Bohemian Romance

I've got Chloé on my mind and what I'm eyeing for fall (hint: suede! fringe! lace! studs!)

Chemena Kamali’s fall 2024 collection for Chloé has been on my mind since its unveiling in late February. Harper’s Bazaar noted that the energy was electric at the designer’s first runway show as the house’s new Creative Director. For Kamali, it was something of a homecoming — she previously worked at Chloé under Phoebe Philo and Clare Waight Keller, before joining Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent.

There was an extra buzz surrounding Kamali’s new role, as she’s the only woman appointed to lead a luxury fashion house in recent years. It’s a refreshing change that got the fashion world talking.

(via Harper’s Bazaar) A joyful moment at the end of the show — Kamali’s son fervently cheered as his mom walked down to take a bow.

The first glimpses of the runway show left an immediate impression. My initial thought was simple: “This is so fun!” It evoked memories of Chloé’s core aesthetic — a return to the brand’s roots, if you will. The collection managed to capture the essence of Chloé’s DNA while infusing a contemporary twist. Kamali’s approach bridged Chloé’s past and future, drawing inspiration from two key figures in the house’s history. She looked back to Karl Lagerfeld’s influential tenure, while also channeling the progressive vision of founder Gaby Aghion.

via Annie Collage

As both a designer and a mother, Kamali brings a unique perspective to her role at Chloé. She intrinsically understands the need for clothing and accessories to seamlessly integrate into the modern woman’s life. Her vision for the collection was rooted in practicality — creating pieces that are “not too precious, something you can put on the floor.”

This philosophy aligns closely with the foundation Gaby Aghion originally laid for the fashion house. It reflects a commitment to designing for real women with real lives, balancing luxury with functionality.

“She wanted women to be able to be free, to move and go to work, but still feel a sense of youthful spirit, of spontaneity.”

Kamali’s fall 2024 show was a nostalgic nod to Chloé’s rich history. According to W Magazine, the collection paid homage to Karl Lagerfeld, the house’s longest-serving Creative Director, while zeroing in on perhaps the most iconic Chloé signature: the silk blouse.

The concept of the blouse served as the foundation for nearly every look in the collection. Kamali’s skillful touch transformed delicate fabrics into flouncy maxi dresses and playful lace numbers. These airy pieces were cleverly paired with richly textured cape coats and glossy over-the-knee boots, giving the silhouettes a distinctly autumnal feel.

Her ability to blend Chloé’s rich history with a modern sensibility is evident in the collection. Looking at Kamali’s work, I couldn’t help but swoon over the beautiful blend of airy fabrics, patchwork denim, gleaming gold accents, and substantial outerwear. It all came together in this ‘70s-inspired bohemian romantic aesthetic, with subtle Western touches woven throughout.

In bringing this Chloé vibe into my own wardrobe, I sought out pieces that feel both special and wearable in everyday life. To me, the Chloé girl is all about those buttery suedes in warm earth tones, a bit of swishy fringe here and there, and blouses that practically float. She’s not afraid to pair delicate lace with her favorite leather jacket either, creating a look that’s both edgy and romantic.

How to get the vibe

Seeing Daisy Edgar Jones’s Chloé press tour looks for Twister has me obsessing even more with boho touches for fall. While I admire her outfits, I’m not about copy-paste styling. Instead, let’s explore some pieces that capture the essence of the iconic Chloé girl with my own personal twist.

1. The silk blouse

I don’t remember the last time I owned a dressy silk blouse, so I’m really excited to add this category to my wardrobe. I adore this silk georgette blouse — the flouncy silhouette, gorgeous crinkle pleating, and subtle ruffles feel right up my alley. If ruffles are not your thing, may I suggest this classic silk top with elegant balloon sleeves and edgy leather cuffs (they’re removable.)

I know silk can feel a bit high-maintenance, so if you prefer something more practical or it’s just not your vibe, this parachute blouse in a tencel blend (washer-friendly!) is a great alternative.

2. Statement outerwear

“The coat is the outfit” is my favorite styling trick in the colder months. It’s also a great excuse to collect statement jackets and coats since they make getting dressed so much easier in the fall and winter. I’ve been searching for a brown fringe jacket for some time now and this beauty from Frame checks all the boxes — sumptuous chocolate brown, dramatic but not overwhelming pieces of suede fringe carefully placed throughout a collarless wool silhouette. A vintage number is my ultimate goal, so I’m keeping the search in motion until I find the one.

If you prefer a more classic with a modern twist approach, this trench cape from Cuyana is a perfect choice. And if you’re in the mood to turn heads this season, this snake print coat is the ultimate statement piece.

3. Western-inspired shoes

Chloé’s fall collection went big on chunky clogs, studded wedges, and sky-high boots — not really my cup of tea, tbh. But I’m still all about making a statement with my footwear. So let me introduce you to Western-inspired shoes — they’ve got that eye-catching flair without going over the top.

I’m eyeing pieces like these suede Mary Janes with Western buckles and these stunning hair calf flats. They bring that subtle cowgirl edge without feeling costume-y. These Freda Salvador Western boots in a gorgeous cherry embossed croc leather are perfect for adding a touch of attitude to any outfit.

These picks give me that Chloé-inspired boldness in a way that feels more ‘me’ and can actually see myself wearing day-to-day.

4. Lived-in denim

Jamie Haller finally launched their long-awaited denim and RTW collection this past week. I’m eyeing the Slouch in a worn indigo wash, which is their take on the iconic 501. Jamie’s version is a bit more relaxed with a refined fit. Slouchy and cool perfection. Of course nothing beats a pair of vintage Levi’s — if you have any hot tips on where + how to score the best pairs (and willing to share your secrets), I’m all ears!

I’m eyeing a denim shirt as well because for some reason, I don’t own one (!!)…oh, so tragic. Good thing AYR just dropped a denim version of their best-selling Deep End shirt, which happens to be one of my favorite button-up shirts. I’m also on the hunt for a vintage Ralph Lauren denim shirt in a perfectly faded wash for that ultimate lived-in feel.

5. Lace separates

I’m all for the 2024 lace renaissance. Topping my list is this fabulous sheer lace skirt from Siedres. I’m also swooning over Doen’s pre-fall lace pieces like this stunning midi and matching cami. J.Crew is also upping their lace game — I’m into the idea of a silky slip skirt with a lace hem peeking just above the knee.

If you’re committed to go all-in on lace, this layered ruffle lace blouse from Frame practically screams Chloé girl in all caps.

6. Studs + gold hardware

Edgy studs on suede or leather is one of my favorite textured combinations. Lately, my obsession has grown immensely because of all the studded accessories that have recently dropped for fall. This incredibly cool suede hobo is on my wishlist. Clare V has a version in a lune silhouette that comes in suede and leather. If you want to splurge, may I suggest this beauty from Khaite.

This Jujuvera pendant necklace is my take on the Chloé girl statement necklace. I’ve been admiring the sterling silver version for some time, but now I’m convinced that the brass is it. I have no notes on this Déhanche leather belt other than it’s perfect.

---

How to style these pieces

fringe jacket // jeans // bag // boots // belt // earrings // sunnies

Styling notes: To let your fringe jacket take center stage, pair it with a simple under layer like a black tank or white tee. For a more refined look, you can swap the boots for black pointed-toe mules or pumps — the brown and black combo is unexpectedly chic.

Also, don’t be afraid to mix textures! Leather accessories complement the suede jacket nicely, adding depth and interest to the outfit. This subtle contrast creates a more dynamic look than pairing suede with suede.

silk blouse // leather shorts // suede mary janes // suede bag // necklace

Styling notes: Pairing soft feminine fabrics with structured masculine pieces is one of my go-to styling tricks. The dreamy silk blouse with its billowy sleeves paired with edgy leather shorts creates a cool, unexpected contrast.

But what really makes this outfit sing is the play of textures. The silky blouse, sleek leather, and that studded suede bag all mingle to create a visually appealing ensemble. The Western-inspired Mary Janes and statement pendant pull the look together. It’s boho with a modern edge — which perfectly captures that effortless Chloé girl vibe we’re after.

denim shirt // jeans // belt // ballet flats // suede bag // necklace

Styling notes: Denim on denim is a classic in my book. The key to nailing this combo is by pairing similar washes to create a streamlined silhouette. Adding touches of brown through the suede belt, hobo bag, and textured cow hair flats creates visual contrast and breaks up the monochrome blue.

The pendant necklace serves as a versatile accent piece. For a more relaxed look, skip the belt and wear the denim shirt untucked, allowing the gold pendant to become the focal point. Subtle adjustments like this can completely transform the vibe of an outfit.

leather jacket // sheer lace skirt // lace cami // bucket tote // boots // earrings

Styling notes: I’m dying to wear this exact outfit this fall. By now you should know that I love mixing different textures to create contrast. The distressed leather jacket paired with the lace cami + sheer skirt, the woven leather boots, and the suede bag — chef’s kiss.

The baroque pearl earrings is the cherry on top of this look. It adds another layer of contrast — the textured pearl and gold hardware create the perfect combo of romantic and edgy.

silk blouse // leather pants // belt // suede bag // mules // sunnies // cuff

Styling notes: Instead of wearing your bracelet or cuff under a long sleeved top, try placing it over the sleeve. It’s all about making that statement piece shine. In this case, the hammered gold cuff over the billowy sleeves (place it right at your wrist, just above where the sleeves flare out) adds a dash of cool and sophistication to this outfit.

Don’t be shy about mixing your hardware either. I used to be an all-gold girlie but in the last few years, mixing gold and silver has become my signature move to make my outfits feel more modern and personalized. The gold cuff and the leather belt with silver studs play well together and add more interest to this mostly neutral look.

If you enjoyed this newsletter or if it sparked some new outfit ideas, I’d love to hear about it! Tap that heart icon to show some love, or drop a comment to share your thoughts.

xx Angela

---

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. As always, I only include links for products I genuinely use and love, or would happily buy for myself.

---

Give me a follow @linkswesendfriends