Bravely Bohemian

Breathe Deep, Be Brave

Why President Trump’s Juneteenth (June 19th) Rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma Was a Bad Choice

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So President Trump decided it would be a good idea to hold a rally on Juneteenth in Tulsa, Oklahoma, home of the Tulsa Race Riots of 1921.

The United States is in a tough place right now. The Covid-19 epidemic is still rearing its ugly head in many places. George Floyd was killed unnecessarily by overly aggressive police officers in Minneapolis, and it was caught on film by many witnesses. As a result, there are major demonstrations in most cities across the country. In such uncertain times, people are angry, and rightfully so.

The U.S. has a tradition of pulling together in times of difficulty. It helps Americans feel that we are unified and bigger when we work together. It also gives us a place to grieve and heal our losses. However, President Trump has done nothing to bring the country together, and in many ways has purposely used his seat of power to divide us.

I try really hard to stay out of publicly voicing my opinion on political issues, especially in this blog, but after seeing Trump’s actions over the last few weeks, it’s hard not to say something publicly. I was horrified when he used the military to clear out Lafayette Park so that he could cross the street and stand in front of the historic St. John’s Church. He then called in military forces to quell demonstrations in Washington, D.C. that night.

And if that wasn’t enough, I was even more horrified when I heard he purposely planned a rally for June 19th in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the site of the most outrageous act of hatred and violence towards African Americans in our country’s history. Supposedly, Trump’s visit to Tulsa was changed to June 20, which is still insulting to many people, but this does give us the opportunity to understand why visiting Tulsa on June 19th is such a slap in the face (or gut punch?) to so many of our own citizens.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a holiday celebrated by African Americans in many cities across the U.S. Juneteenth stands for June 19th, 1865, the date that General Order #3 was read in Galveston, TX announcing the freedom of all slaves in Texas. While the Emancipation Proclamation freeing all slaves in Confederate states and territories went into effect on January 1, 1863, it took the rest of the Civil War to free a lot of people. Trying to escape fighting, many Southerners moved west and brought their slaves with them, so by the war’s end, it is estimated there were around 250,000 enslaved people living in Texas. Because the news was slow to travel and the population was so spread out, it took that long for slaves in outlying areas to find out they were freed.

Juneteenth_Origin_General Order no 3
General Order #3 was read to citizens of Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, notifying all slaves that they were freed. This date became the basis of Juneteenth celebrations.

A little known fact of interest- the Emancipation Proclamation did not apply to slaves located in Union-held territories including Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri. It only applied to those states that left the Union. The 13th Amendment later freed all remaining slaves on December 18, 1865.

Celebrating Juneteenth

As a result of the June 19, 1865, General Order #3, African Americans in Texas began celebrating the date of their freedom each year. Juneteenth was originally known as Jubilee Day. As celebrations spread to other areas, various names came about- Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, Cel-Liberation Day, and finally Juneteenth. Juneteenth was originally commemorated mostly in Southern states and went in and out of fashion based on political and cultural pressures.

The History of Juneteenth

Today Juneteenth is celebrated by African Americans in many cities throughout the U.S. as a festival of heritage, food, and culture. I attended the Juneteenth Festival here in Syracuse, NY for the first time last year. I found it to be a fun day of community pride and celebration. Our festival includes a parade, great music and food, plus many vendors and educational booths.

What were the Tulsa Race Riots?

The History of Greenwood and the Tulsa Race Riots of 1921

Just over 99 years ago this month, the most violent race massacre and incident of domestic terrorism happened in Tulsa, Oklahoma. At the time, the Greenwood District of Tulsa was the most prosperous African American community in the U.S. and known as “Black Wall Street.” Once oil was discovered in Oklahoma, Tulsa became a boomtown, and many African Americans moved there to seek their piece of the American dream. The Greenwood community became self-supporting in many ways, and as a result, very successful.

Since the days of Reconstruction and Jim Crow laws, resentment of African American success ran high in many cities. Riots between whites and African Americans happened fairly regularly as a way to keep black Americans repressed. Check out this extensive list to learn more. 

Tulsa Race Riots_June 1_1921_morning_newspaper_account
Tulsa World newspaper issued the morning of June 1, 1921. As a result, many white men joined the Tusla race riots. As a result, the Greenwood District was burned down and many African Americans were killed or displaced from their homes and businesses.

The Tulsa Race Riots kicked off when a young black courier delivered a letter downtown. After riding just two floors, a white woman in the elevator screamed “Rape!” The news spread very quickly, elevated by a newspaper article published in the May 31, 1921, Tulsa Tribune. The young black man was arrested. Both blacks and whites gathered at the courthouse to protest the situation and shots were fired. The African Americans were outnumbered and retreated back to Greenwood. Then things got really out of control.

Greenwood District__Completely_Burned_Tulsa_Race_Riots_1921
Over 35 blocks of African American homes and businesses were destroyed on June 1, 1921, in the Greenwood district of Tulsa, OK.

White mobs rallied and full out attacked the Greenwood district, looting and burning 35 blocks of homes and businesses. Though reports vary, historians estimate that upwards of 300 people were killed. As many as 9,000 African Americans were left homeless. And maybe most shocking, eyewitnesses reported that planes flew over the community and dropped dynamite on the buildings. Let me say that again- Americans purposely bombed the people and properties of Greenwood.  And on top of that, many African Americans were arrested and held at the Tulsa Fairgrounds and Convention Center for up to 8 days.

Greenwood men arrested during Tulsa Race Riots of 1921
During the burning of Greenwood district of the Tulsa Race Riots in 1921, African American men were rounded up and held at the Convention Hall and Fairgrounds for up to 8 days.

Somehow, this and most other race riots were not included in our textbooks growing up. In fact, I had never heard of the Tulsa Race Riots or Greenwood district until I was watching a PBS special last year, 10 Streets That Changed America, and then did some more research online.

President Trump and Juneteenth

And that brings us back to the issue of President Trump wanting to do a Presidential campaign rally on June 19th in Tulsa. Even though it has supposedly been rescheduled to June 20th, just the fact it was placed on his schedule is disturbing.

President Trump likes to speak and act with very little, if any, filter. He loves the attention he gets from being controversial and adversarial, a formula he mastered while in business, and on his reality tv shows. Trump seems to appeal to the renegade, bad boy personality in many people, and the sad part is that so many people are taking his behaviors as permission to then turn and behave poorly towards others.

I get the desire to be a renegade. I am a free spirit and this whole blog is about embracing who you are as an individual. To breathe deep, be brave, and be yourself. However, that should never be at the expense of someone else.

We are living in a very dangerous time. President Trump is using his power and platform to discredit the media, discredit our political parties, and discredit all three branches of government. He acts because he wants to act. He seems to fire high ranking government officials almost every week. We can only imagine how strained the scene in the White House must be. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to come to the conclusion that his staff and advisors are barely holding things together.

And he says what he says when he wants to say it. Thanks to his tweeting and other public moments, he discredits many groups of U.S. citizens, especially along racial lines.

His desire to visit Tulsa, OK on June 19th, is literally incendiary. He knew it would appeal to his strongest base of supporters, upset minorities, and get him major media coverage. He lives for attention. I’m not sure he is capable of even understanding working for the greater good or loving thy neighbor. These are basic concepts in almost every religion and spiritual practice.

With so much going on in our country right now, we desperately need healing energy. We need to reach out and support one another. We need a sense that things will get better. We need hope. We don’t need anything that will continue to tear us apart. President Trump is purposely fanning flames to ignite resentment and fear of anyone we perceive as different or better than us.

Juneteenth and the Tulsa Race Riots are part of American history. They both tell stories of people who were resilient and determined and had every right to be. Juneteenth has become a day of remembrance as well as a celebration of African American culture and achievement throughout the U.S. While some people moved away after the riots, others stayed to rebuild their lives in Greenwood. The legacies of both show the importance of understanding our complicated history while looking toward the future with hope and humanity. But what we don’t need now is to ignore the lessons and end up repeating history.

For more information on Greenwood and the Tulsa Race Riots of 1921, check out these great articles, audio eye-witness interviews, videos, and resources:

*Read about, listen to firsthand accounts, view photos and resources of the 1921 Tulsa Race Riots at the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum virtual exhibit.

*Learn more about The Greenwood Cultural Center and the history of the Greenwood District of Tulsa, OK here.

*Read the 2005 study issued by the National Park Service about the Tulsa Race Riots.

*View this Smithsonian Magazine article containing a powerful eyewitness account of the Tulsa Race Riots.

*Listen to an NPR interview of the last living witness of the Tulsa Race Riots.

Learn more about the history of Juneteeth here:

*Check out this article by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explaining the history of Juneteenth.

*Read this article from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture on the legacy of Juneteenth.

Enjoy this blog? Click here to explore more interesting articles on history.


Should Columbus Day Still Be Celebrated As a Holiday?

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*I wrote this article a few years ago for a popular museum blog. I think my conclusions still ring true- Christopher Columbus was a product of his time, and we should be careful in what we teach future generations about him. And, WOW! What a jerk! By honoring Columbus Day, we are dishonoring many others.

In fourteen hundred ninety-two
Columbus sailed the ocean blue.

(Full poem below).

Most of us remember learning this famous Christopher Columbus poem in elementary school as part of our Columbus Day education. We learned early on that Columbus “discovered” America while hoping to find a simple western route to trade with India and China. To many of us, Columbus was a historical hero, a true Bohemian, as were most other explorers we learned about. As kids, we ate up that sense of adventure! Who didn’t want to be a discoverer of someplace new?

Engraving of Christopher Columbus from 1595
Engraving of Christopher Columbus by Johann Theodor de Bry, 1595.

However, in real life, Columbus had some very strong motives and not such a great track record. Columbus was motivated by conquest plus gold and spices, two very hot commodities in Europe at the time coming in from the Far East. Instead of finding his way to China and India, Columbus landed with his 3 ships in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492. On his first day on land, Columbus already had in mind to convert the local “Indians” to Christianity and make some of them his servants.

In his journal that day, he wrote, “It appears to me, that the people are ingenious, and would be good servants and I am of opinion that they would very readily become Christians, as they appear to have no religion. They very quickly learn such words as are spoken to them. If it pleases our Lord, I intend at my return to carry home six of them to your Highnesses, that they may learn our language.”


After establishing the first colony at an island he named Hispaniola, Columbus became the first governor and viceroy of the West Indies. He enslaved the local natives to help establish his foothold in the region and to help look for and mine for gold to send back to Spain. According to History.com, recent research shows Columbus quelled several native rebellions with intense violence. He also sent thousands of Taino Indians from Hispaniola to Spain to be sold into European slavery.

The European explorers also brought numerous contagious diseases to the “New World.” Illnesses like small pox and measles spread to epidemic levels and all but wiped out many of the native populations.

Columbus-Taking-Possession-of-the-New-Country
Columbus Taking Possession of the New Country, chromolithograph, Boston, U.S.A. : Published by the Prang Educational Co., 1893.

So, back to the issue of celebrating Columbus Day. Was Christopher Columbus a product of his time and place? Yes. Should he still be celebrated as a hero today and his accomplishments be recognized by a national holiday even though he was ruthless and beyond disrespectful to the native peoples he encountered? I think we should be very careful about what we teach the next generation.

In 1492

In fourteen hundred ninety-two
Columbus sailed the ocean blue.

He had three ships and left from Spain;
He sailed through sunshine, wind and rain.

He sailed by night; he sailed by day;
He used the stars to find his way.

A compass also helped him know
How to find the way to go.

Ninety sailors were on board;
Some men worked while others snored.

Then the workers went to sleep;
And others watched the ocean deep.

Day after day they looked for land;
They dreamed of trees and rocks and sand.

October 12 their dream came true,
You never saw a happier crew!

“Indians! Indians!” Columbus cried;
His heart was filled with joyful pride.

But “India” the land was not;
It was the Bahamas, and it was hot.

The Arakawa natives were very nice;
They gave the sailors food and spice.

Columbus sailed on to find some gold
To bring back home, as he’d been told.

He made the trip again and again,
Trading gold to bring to Spain.

The first American? No, not quite.
But Columbus was brave, and he was bright.

-author unknown

Enjoyed this article about Columbus Day? Check out more history-related articles here and also in the book review section.


Understanding Fear in Yourself and Others

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As I get older, I’ve come to realize how much people operate from a space of fear. People use fear as a reason to protect themselves from being hurt and as a way to keep from moving forward. While everyone carries various levels of fear in their lives, it doesn’t have to define you.  Once you identify it, fear can become a choice. Understanding fear is the first part. Then, what you decide to do with that fear keeps you stuck or helps you move forward spiritually.

I am a big believer in the universe giving us opportunities to learn and grow as spiritual beings. The universe will keep giving you certain types of experiences until you learn to handle those situations in new ways. Often, it’s much later before you are able to look back and understand the lessons. But they are usually there if you choose to look.

Louisa May Alcott_quote_I’m not afraid of storms

Understanding Fear

There are two different types of fear to practice observing: fear that is your own and then fear that is someone else’s.

Start by taking a self-inventory. Write down the biggies, like fear of heights, fear of flying, and/or fear of public speaking.  Then commit to digging deeper. If I am really truthful with myself, here are some that are on my list:

*Fear of rejection.

*Fear of not being enough.

*Fear of being misunderstood.

*Fear of failure.

*Fear of being judged.

*Fear of not being worthy.

As you continue to write down your list, breathe deep and be brave. This is an opportunity for discovery. While you may be aware of the first few on your list, as you continue to write, you will start to go deeper and may surprise yourself with what comes up. Your initial response may be to reject some of what comes up: ”That’s not really me” or “That can’t be true.” Write everything down, no matter how surprising or painful. Some part of you deep down is wounded and needs to have a voice.

Next, take a few more breaths and then read through your list. How do you feel as you read through each fear? Note which ones are most painful. The fears that are deepest and most painful are usually your strongest triggers when life gets tough.

Quote by Thich Nhat Hanh_The Only Way to Ease Our Fear

Discover Your Triggers

What do I mean by triggers? Let’s go back to human evolution. Everyone has heard of the fight or flight response. A caveman or cavewoman is out hunting and gathering and happens upon a large predator. The predator spots them and there is a moment of immediate tension and adrenaline. The body floods both creatures with a chemistry that tells the brain it is time to fight or run like your life depends on it to safety.

Have you ever experienced the full intensity of the fight or flight response? Maybe in a true emergency, such as right before a car accident? Or in a semi-controlled environment, such as right before you leap if you’ve ever bungee jumped? Those are life-changing moments that stay with us.


And that’s the point, there are all sorts of things that stay with us in our lives. We are experiential beings. As humans evolved, we’ve learned to use aspects of the fight or flight response on a regular basis. Some experts call it the pain or pleasure principle. From the beginning, we learn what brings us pleasure and what brings us pain. Our evolutionary programming jumps into gear to help us try and avoid anything that brings pain. Our brains store memories around painful things so that when we encounter similar situations in the future, the brain kicks in and says, “Wait! This was painful last time! Stop! Don’t go there! Beware! Be afraid!” We often bury these experiences deep and pile other examples of pain on top of them to the point where we aren’t even aware of these feelings anymore. Until something triggers the fear response again.

Like I said earlier, the universe loves to test you to try and keep you growing deeper into your spiritual self. What is the saying? We are spiritual selves having a human experience?

I was recently tested, and have been reflecting on the list of fears I noted for myself above. A person I very much respected turned on me, told me some harsh things about myself and really crossed my boundaries. What made the situation extra painful was that I did not expect it. The situation kicked up all kinds of triggers for me. Let’s just say I had to really breathe deep and be extra brave to walk through the last few weeks. I am still reflecting on some of what was said and reconciling what I experienced with who I know I am.

Learn From Your Triggers

So that’s the next part of the lesson: be aware when something triggers you. If you are truly aware when it is happening, then you can choose how you will react. When you find yourself in a situation where you feel afraid, you can choose whether to proceed or hold back. When someone provokes you into an argument, you can choose to participate or not. You can hear what is being said and decide if it has merit or not. You can choose to defend yourself or just watch the other person go into a dither without having to lose your power. Some situations are just about unavoidable. However, you can control much of it by being proactive instead of reactive.

I don't let go of my thoughts_quote by Byron Katie

When you look back at the situation, figure out what you can learn. What triggers came up? How did you handle the situation? What did you do poorly? What can you improve upon next time you are in a similar predicament? If you were triggered by another person, is there merit to anything they were saying? Or were they just coming from a place of their own fear?

Dealing With Other People’s Fears

So now we’ve come to the other type of fear that is worth observing- other people’s fears. As humans, we tend to be quick to point out things in other people. And we can often be mean about it, focusing on where we think other people are falling short, instead of building them up. For most of us, it takes practice to be positive and find the good in each other.

People act out, say negative things, become competitive or behave passive-aggressively when they are coming from a place of fear. Part of them is frightened that there isn’t enough___ (fill in the blank- love, power, money, basic resources, etc.) to go around.

Knowing people are coming from a place of fear gives you the opportunity to step back and breathe in the moment of intensity. It’s hard to do and takes practice.

Sometimes people need to be heard and it’s best to let them vent. Knowing that they are coming from fear and pain, gives you the option to have empathy towards that person. If the situation becomes personal, you have the option of defending yourself (which often doesn’t work in the heat of the moment) or telling the person, “I’m sorry you feel that way.” By using this phrase you acknowledge what they are saying but you don’t lose your power. It’s a neutral phrase, so practice keeping the energy neutral as you say it.

You can also always breathe, ground yourself and then choose to remove yourself from the situation. There’s no reason you need to stand there and take it. That doesn’t mean you have to go storming off. It’s usually best to just quietly announce that the situation has become heated and you are leaving now but are willing to readdress the issue when things are calmer. Sometimes you do have to be firm with the other person and tell them you need some space to think, then do what you need to do to take it.

Understanding Fear as a Mirror

Another thing you may notice is that people often point out in others things that mirror places of pain within themselves. It’s so much easier to point to people and say what their faults are than look within and take true inventory of ourselves. The universe surrounds us with people we can learn from, and the closer the relationship, the more reflective they can be. In other words, those close relationships will often trigger things within you until you choose to learn and grow. Knowing this gives you power to handle things better in your life.

Eleanor Roosevelt Quote_The purpose of life

When you are in a quiet space, think about what the other person said in the heat of the moment or complains about in less heated times. It may be comments about you, someone else, or just in general. First, if directed at you, see if there is any merit to the words and if there is anything you can do to improve yourself. Now reflect on the person who said them. Why are these points of pain for that person? What can you do to acknowledge and support their points of pain and help them to grow through them?

However, you have to tread very carefully here. Just because you are aware of the patterns doesn’t mean the other person is aware or willing to work on things. Timing is everything. And you don’t want to enable them. You CAN’T FIX the other person. But you can be gentle and have empathy for where that person is at in their lives. And you can always work on yourself.

At a quiet, neutral time, you can try saying something like, “The other day you seemed very upset about ____. Is there anything I can do to help you feel more supported? I just want you to know you are not alone.” If the other person triggers and immediately gets angry, you’ll know they are not ready to acknowledge their pain and fear yet. Sometimes people will want to talk about what happened and your acknowledgment will provide an opportunity for healing and forgiveness.

Understanding Fear Changes Your Life

While you can never completely overcome fear in your life, you can learn to recognize it in yourself and others. Recognizing that you or someone else is operating from a place of fear gives you the power of choice in any given moment. Fear can hold you back, but choice can propel you forward. Fear gives you many opportunities to grow as a spiritual being and have empathy towards others. The next time fear enters your life, I encourage you to breathe deep and be brave. You may surprise yourself what you learn.

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Boho Velvet Clothing You Simply Can’t Live Without

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Boho velvet clothing is all the rage this season. Designers big and small are featuring velvet dresses, jackets, kimono shawls, tops and jumpsuits in their collections. Burnout velvet in floral, leaf and paisley patterns is also popular. I have a ton of velvet in my bohemian wardrobe, plus velvet fabric in my sewing room.

Boho Style_Velvet Clothing

Velvet is such a royal material. Velvet says luxury. It says elegance. Velvet always makes a statement, so its the type of clothing where you go all out with your pieces or you use velvet articles sparingly to complete the rest of your look. Depending on how the clothes are cut and styled, you can easily get a relaxed boho look using velvet. Here are some great examples of boho velvet clothing trending right now:

Off the Shoulder Long Sleeve Velvet Top

This gorgeous Off the Shoulder Velvet Top can be dressed up on weekdays or dressed down on weekends. Priced at under $15, the top is available in Gray, Brown, Green or Wine Red.

Urban CoCo Women’s Long Sleeve Velvet Cardigan Coat with Asymmetric Chiffon Hem

Urban Coco is a trending brand known for its affordable boho styling. We love Urban Coco’s fabulous velvet coat featuring a beautifully ruffled hem. The coat comes in various colors and is priced under $35. A must have for your boho wardrobe.

Lucky Brand Women’s Velvet Applique Yoke Top

This beautiful Lucky Brand top, made of viscose and linen, is incredibly comfy. The velvet embroidered yoke makes the top easy to style up or down. Priced under $30, the top comes in black, wine and blue.

Karen Kane Women’s Velvet Ruffle Top

Check out this black crushed velvet top by Karen Kane priced at under $40. The high bracelet peasant sleeves lend a particular grace to the top. Wear this comfortable shirt with leggings or jeans.

Women’s Velvet Burnout Duster Kimono

Sometimes you need a special piece or two in your wardrobe. Consider investing in this gorgeous floral burnout velvet duster priced at $75. The duster says bohemian style for sure and is a great example on how to achieve a relaxed, but elegant look.

Maggy London Women’s Novelty Crushed Velvet Cold Shoulder Sheath Dress

If you have a fancy event to attend this year, you will look amazing in this Maggy London Crushed Velvet Sheath Dress. The dress features cold shoulders, a v-neck, flounce sleeves and a slit in the front. The “raisin” color is rich and elegant while keeping you true to your bohemian style. You can purchase this dress for under $75.

Adrianna Papell Women’s Velvet Burnout Midi Dress

If you really want to look gorgeous at your next event, consider an Adrianna Papell dress. Her dresses are well made and stunning when on. This paisley burnout velvet dress features a v-neck and off the shoulder ruffles. It has an A-line skirt, which is feminine and flattering for most figures. The dress is yours for just under $150.

Adelyn Rae Women’s Elle Jumpsuit

We love the styling of this Adelyn Rae velvet jumpsuit in chestnut brown. The large front ruffle is feminine, while the crisscrossed back is unexpectedly boho. The best part: It’s priced at under $55!

Jack Women’s Hello M’lady Velvet Peplum Top

This Jack by BB Dakota velvet peplum top is so pretty! The top comes in black or magenta purple and is priced at under $55. It features a soft v neckline, cross-over styling, and mid-peplum waist. The back panel has beautiful boho ruching above the waist. This top can be styled up for work or styled down for a casual evening with friends.

Crushed Velvet Open Shoulder Blouse

This is one of our favorite bohemian finds! We love the soft boho look of this crushed velvet open shoulder blouse. The chiffon high neck with velvet bow is so pretty, as are the ruffles in front and the cut of the sleeves. The blouse is available in shimmery blue or pink and is priced at under $30!

Boho Velvet Embroidered Dress

Grab a boho hat and boots to go with this fun velvet peasant dress priced at under $30. Take a look at the floral embroidery down the front and on the high bracelet sleeves of the dress. We love the relaxed style of the high waist, v-neck and tassel front. This dress comes in several colors.

Women’s Black Velvet Flared Pants with Silver Boho Design

Sometimes you just need to add something fun to your bohemian closet. Check out these super comfy pull-on black velvet pants priced at under $40. We love the silver designs on the leg. Try pairing these with a white or gray peasant blouse to complete your look.

Velvet and Rayon Embroidered Maxi Skirt

Boho spirit is all about ease- pulling on a long comfortable maxi skirt, a pretty top and comfy sandals, then off you go! This velvet and rayon paneled maxi skirt is covered in embroidery and comes in numerous colors for just under $60. Add a matching blouse for around $40 for a complete outfit.

Paisley and Floral Top with Velvet Burnout Bell Sleeves

Here’s another beautiful velvet burnout top perfect for pairing with comfortable jeans and boots or for dressing up. The top features paisley and floral velvet motifs, solid black knit neckline and black knit front and back. The velvet bell sleeves are really striking. The top comes in black or burgundy and is priced under $30.

Burnout Velvet Cold Shoulder Top

This wine-colored burnout velvet cold shoulder top is stunningly designed! The top features a halter neckline, gathered waist and sexy v in the back. The long sleeves are feminine with ties at the wrists. At under $40, you will feel like a million dollars in this showstopper!

Max Studio Women’s Sleeveless Burnout Velvet with Lace Trim

Have a special occasion coming up in your schedule? Consider this beautiful velvet burnout dress by MaxStudio. The fabulous bohemian lace on this dress will show off your features. And the best part- it is priced under $45!

Karen Kane Women’s Burnout Velvet Poncho

Check out this incredible burnout velvet poncho by Karen Kane. Dyed in shades of navy, the flowered burnout pattern is really eye-catching. The top is set off with dolman sleeves. The poncho is priced at $140 and below, depending on size ordered.

Silk Brocade Print Velvet Burnout Scarf with Fringe Ends

Have an outfit that needs a little something? Try adding accessories such as this silk and burnout velvet scarf. The scrolling leaf design is so pretty, as is the fringe set along the ends of the scarf. The scarf comes in several color combinations and is priced under $25.

Velvet Burnout Paisley Leggings

Want to brighten up a boho dress or tunic? Try pairing them with these pretty velvet burnout leggings. The leggings feature a paisley design and come in hot pink or bright blue. Or order them in both colors since they are priced at under $14 each.

Velvet Open Front Coat with Pockets

Get the boho look by layering this velvet coat over a relaxed shirt and jeans or maxi skirt. Even though the coat is in velvet, the open collar and big pockets give it a casual feel. The coat comes in several colors and is affordably priced at under $30.

Embroidered Velvet Mini Skirt

If you like old world embroidery, you will love owning this velvet mini skirt. The skirt is dark green then has multi-colored embroidery across the front. This skirt would look amazing with short or tall boots and is priced at under $40.

Embroidered Velvet Sleeveless Top

And last but certainly not least, we love the WOW factor this sleeveless velvet top. The top features a large cowl neck, a gorgeous embroidered mandala down the front and a pointed hemline. The back of the top is set off with beautiful ruching. This top comes in burgundy or black and is priced at under $70.

Have fun adding boho velvet clothing to your wardrobe. As you can see here, you don’t have to spend a ton to incorporate velvet into your look. However, spending a little extra to add that special velvet piece to your collection is usually worth it.

Happy boho shopping!

To see more boho fashion trends, check out our Fashion section of the Bravely Bohemian blog.

Make Bohemian Feather Ornaments

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As part of our boho Christmas blog series, I recently made these bohemian feather ornaments.

Clear boho feather ornaments

Do you see the clear ornaments in the store and wonder what to do with them? Some people fill them, while others paint the interiors or exteriors with alcohol inks or crayon wax. If you look on Pinterest, there are many suggestions.

I like the bohemian feather ornaments I created because they are simple to make and give a festive vibe to our other bohemian Holiday décor.

Here are the directions for the bohemian feather ornaments.

You will need:

*Clear glass or plastic ornaments
*Small white feathers
*Brightly dyed small pheasant feathers
*White and green or white and blue fine glitter
*Birch cones
*Red, green and turquoise hemp thread, thin enough to string your beads
*Multi-colored glass beads
*Beading needle
*Craft tweezers or long blunt needle
*Scissors

Directions:

1. Carefully remove the tops from your clear ornaments and set aside.

2. Start by gently adding a white feather or two into the interior of each ornament. To keep the feathers in good repair, slide the bottom of the feathers into the ornament first, so the tops are the last to go in.

3. Next, add a few colored feathers to the ornaments. Use your craft tweezers or long blunt needle (such as a tapestry needle) to carefully arrange the feathers on the inside of your ornaments.

4. Now tap some glitter into the bottom of each ornament. I used about a ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of glitter for each ornament.

5. On top of the glitter, drop 2 to 3 birch cones into each ornament.

6. Use your craft tweezers or long blunt needle to do the final arrangement of the feathers and cones.

7. Gently squeeze the tops back onto your feather ornaments.

Boho feather & pinecone ornaments

8. Next, cut 5 to 6 inches of colored hemp thread. I cut two different colors for each ornament.

9. Tie a knot on one end of each strand of hemp thread.

10. Thread your beading needle, followed by 6 to 8 colored glass beads onto each hemp thread. Then knot the other end of the hemp thread.

11. Gather 2 beaded hemp threads together and hold in the middle so an equal amount of beads slide to each end of your threads.

12. Wrap and tie the centers of the beaded hemp threads around the tops of your feather ornaments, so that the threads and beads drape like tassels. Trim the ends of the hemp.

Clear boho feather ornaments

*Of note, you may want to store your feather ornaments upright in the off-season, so the interiors stay where you want them and the glitter doesn’t spill out.

Enjoy your wonderful, colorful bohemian feather ornaments.

For a full list of our Boho Christmas series projects, click here.

Happy Boho crafting!