History
The current bolero is a “hello” from the Spanish bullfighters, which has survived to our times with virtually no change. Then this part of the men's suit was an open vest or a short sleeveless jacket.
The main feature of this wardrobe detail is the absence of a fastener, sleeves and a short cut. Of course, women could not miss such a variation of clothes and gladly moved the bolero to their wardrobes.
Benefits
In the women's wardrobe, the bolero has undergone some changes: options with sleeves, with lacing, clasps and even elongated back options, some “bolero tailcoats” appeared.
But their advantages have remained unchanged - as before, the bolero is an element of clothing that can hide a lot of flaws and emphasize advantages.
So, putting on a bolero, the girl visually lengthens the figure and emphasizes the bust. In addition, by choosing a bolero with sleeves, you can hide full arms or excessively large shoulders, giving the image more grace.
The most important thing is that the bolero, as a universal soldier, fits any outfit and image, so the desire to externally improve the figure will not become inappropriate.
You can pick up a bolero to almost any outfit, which will add a twist to the image. This is a unique wardrobe item that can change the whole image as a whole. If the dress or top looks too simple - the bolero will fix it.
If you need to add a little femininity and coquetry - the bolero is again at your service. In addition, it is an indispensable option to keep warm in cool weather without sacrificing comfort and created image.
Styles and models
Thanks to the designers, the bolero can be picked up for any occasion.There are a dozen styles that are united by only one common feature - a shortened cut. Conventionally, they can be divided into several categories:
- Bolero like outerwear. Jackets, fur coats and even coats sewn in the “bolero” style have been waiting for their owners in stores for several years. The option, of course, is somewhat extreme for those who live in a cold climate, but even where in winter the temperature drops to a deep minus, if your lovers of winter boleros. First of all, shortened outerwear is pleasant to young ladies who spend a lot of time behind the wheel - then the bolero becomes irreplaceable.
- Bolero as part of everyday wardrobe. Variations on the theme of short jeans, sweaters and sweatshirts, as well as sweatshirts and olympics with or without a hood, are ideal for creating an urban look. This is the case when the bolero is an independent part of the image loved by many girls, and designers sew such things in casual style or even sports style.
- Bolero as a special element. Often, festive, evening dresses are immediately sold with a bolero made of partner fabric or, on the contrary, in a contrasting color. This element of clothing has always been popular since the time of balls, and to this day girls coquettishly cover their shoulders, if the outfit allows or even requires it. The bolero is combined not only with bustier or sleeveless dresses, but also with tops that open the neckline, many designers also offer festive trouser two-piece suits, where the jacket was successfully replaced with a bolero - with a long or short sleeve.
Also, boleros are divided into two variants “according to the season” - winter and summer. Winter models can be knitted, cashmere or leather, as well as made of fur. Perhaps this option is not so practical, but it allows you to look elegant and still not freeze, if you do not mean a long stay on the street.
Summer options are indispensable for office employees - in hot weather I want to choose an outfit easier, and even the most open sundress will ideally complement the bolero, if such a need arises. Thus, you can always be ready for a business meeting without sacrificing comfort.
Of course, a bolero will be appropriate with any clothes, and models of denim, knitwear and any other material allow you to wear this part of the wardrobe every day.
Kinds
Curiously, in the wardrobe of a modern woman, the bolero took place twice - both as an independent element and as an accessory. In the first case, we are talking about boleros, which are self-sufficient. Consider their types in more detail.
Bolero as an element of evening dress can at the same time become both a highlight of the image and a functional thing. Thrown over the shoulders, the bolero will not make the image heavier, but will warm its owner if the event takes place in a cool room or in the cold season.
Lace, satin bolero, as well as decorated with embroidery, rhinestones or sequins in a position to “stretch out” a modest outfit and forgive even the absence of other accessories. At the same time, the bolero can be either more classic, decorating an evening dress, or hooligan, ultra-short - for a party in a club.
Another option for an “independent” bolero is an option for a wedding or wedding. In the first case, the bolero is useful in the registry office to create a more rigorous image, it will save during the photo shoot, if the bride shakes, helps to diversify the outfit in the photographs.
In addition, the bolero will help hide the imperfections of the figure or skin - if the bride has problem skin in the back or shoulders, this element of clothing will come in handy.
At the wedding, the bolero will also play an important role - depending on the model, the bolero will help cover the neckline, arms and open back, the model with the hood can exclude the veil.
In general, such a reverent and important event, like a wedding, dictates its own rules - the bride should look chaste and bolero in this regard is an ideal option.
Also, the bolero “penetrated” into such a sphere of life as sports.Girls choose this detail for training - in particular, to protect their shoulders and neck during a warm-up.
The bolero does not constrain movements, but at the same time it warms the shoulder girdle, helping to avoid injuries and muscle strain. Also, the bolero is part of the costume, for example, at the performance of gymnasts. It does not prevent the athlete from performing the necessary elements of the number, while making her image spectacular and spectacular.
Bright bolero tops are used as a form for training in fitness, when practicing on a pylon or canvases, this piece of wardrobe is loved by dancers. Such boleros are sewn from a fabric that is easy to wash and dries quickly, which allows you to comfortably wear them daily.
Sleeve
Despite the fact that the bolero is initially a sleeveless jacket, today designers sew them with any sleeve length or traditionally without them at all. A long-sleeve bolero can be used to keep warm, hide some hand imperfections, or simply add mystery to the look.
Now you can choose any style of sleeves of this length - fitted or flared, options with a “loop” for the thumb or with a cuff fastened with a button.
There are also shortened sleeves, I also call them “three quarters”. With their help, you can create the image of a fairytale princess, if it is a fur bolero or just bring convenience and comfort to your everyday look.
Options with a short sleeve or without it - summer or "for a special occasion". It can be denim sleeveless jackets, decorated with studs or daring leather options, or light bolero shirts for every day.
Length
As for the length of the bolero, this is a subjective option. Regarding a classic jacket or cardigan, of course, a bolero is a shorter option, but its length is always the designers decision.
It can be a virtually weightless product that ends with armpits and looks more like an accessory than an element of clothing. But, at the same time, the bolero can reach almost the trouser belt, and if the options are shortened in front and going back down to almost to the knees.
Such "bolero-tailcoats" can be evening, or they can simply play the role of a stylish version of a coat or warm cloak.
Knitted
Knitted bolero is a trend that designers do not part with from season to season. Moreover, this element of the wardrobe is knitted so that it warms its owner, and so as to preserve the texture of the knitting, in fact, allowing to wear a bolero even on a sultry day.
Knitted options can be office or casual, smart or athletic, modest or sexy.
Openwork bolero made of cotton or silk will fit perfectly into the summer wardrobe, and models knitted from mohair or “grass” yarn are universal at all - they can be worn on a cool July evening and in the office in the cold season.
Knitted patterns, implying large "gaps" in the pattern, are well suited to the dress - they do not warm too much, but add completeness along with it. Depending on the material from which it is made, such a bolero will decorate both a sundress and an evening toilet.
For full
For some reason, girls with magnificent forms often underestimate the bolero and completely in vain. But this particular wardrobe item is capable of appetizingly “raising” the bust, while visually reducing hands. At the same time, the bolero will not look bulky.
The main rule is to choose a bolero with sleeves - “three quarters” or long, as well as a reasonable approach to choosing the size. The bolero should not “dig into” the body, but at the same time it should not hang, giving extra volume.
It is better to choose an option that does not need to be tied or fastened - let the edges of the bolero lie beautifully on the chest.
Fashion trends
It seems that all fashion trends are immediately applicable to boleros. In the new season, at the peak of popularity, denim models are also calmer, decorated with rivets and rhinestones, and options in satin and guipure, and knitted boleros, which designers offer for every taste and color.
A new trend is bolero vests that have an open back. Designers made this part of the wardrobe independent, balancing on the verge of evening and office style. Another popular variant of bolero is made of thin yarn, but in large knitting.
Of course, they are not intended to give warmth, but to show that their owner is versed in fashion - very much so.
Material
Today you can buy a bolero made of any material, depending on your desire. Warm options can be sewn from faux or natural fur.
Sable, arctic fox, fox or rabbit, as well as mink boleros - all these designers offer both in a classic version, and in all kinds of variations and combinations. You can choose, starting from your own taste and financial capabilities.
Another “fundamental” version of the bolero is leather. Shortened leather jackets do not go out of fashion that season, and the variety of models allows them to be worn by both fans of the rebellious style and lovers to feel reliability and comfort in everyday life.
Some leather models are quite suitable for workdays.
Also, to create a strict or solemn look, for example, in the office or at an official event, you can choose a fabric bolero or bolero made of expensive wool or cashmere. This cozy element of the wardrobe will fit into any look, and natural materials will warm you regardless of the weather.
In the world of evening and wedding fashion, boleros made of the finest satin, delicate guipure or chiffon are popular. Flying, translucent fabrics will create any image - from seductive and alluring to airy and weightless.
There are even models whose decoration is made of swan fluff - such boleros are charming on little girls, on brides or in evening dresses, where gentle cut and shades prevail.
Color
For boleros that belong to the casual style, more calm colors are inherent: white, black, beige, dark blue, wine-burgundy. Designers have tried so that girls of any color type can choose the shade they need - a bolero, nevertheless, this is a thing that is worn close to the face and color in this case is very important.
For light, lace or lace products delicate shades are relevant - these are natural, golden or sand tones, shades of gray. Options that can replace outerwear are more juicy - here you can find lilac and violet boleros, variations of a deep red color.
What to wear?
First of all, a bolero is an ideal addition to a dress of almost any cut. The bolero can cover bare shoulders or emphasize the chest, become a frame for a chic outfit, or independently perform in the foreground.
At the same time, the bolero does not require any special shoes - in the case of an evening outfit, it can be high heel shoes or oxford shoes, closed ankle boots or half boots.
Knitted boleros with ties or buttons will look good with light and romantic dresses, and a clutch bag and sandals will complement the look.
If we talk about everyday style, the bolero can add a touch of femininity to the beloved set of jeans + shirt. In this case, even sneakers or sneakers will not spoil the image of an active, but sophisticated young lady.
Of course, you can’t do without a bolero if you create a wedding or festive, solemn outfit. Any cocktail dress will play in a different way, if you choose a bolero to it.
This element always gives the girl sophistication and romance, so that in the eyes of a man the very light that many want to see lights up.