How to wear a boubou every day

The boubou has long had a reputation as a special-occasion piece. Something you bring out for celebrations and put away the rest of the time. That's a shame, because it should be exactly the opposite.

The boubou as a foundation

What makes a boubou enjoyable to wear every day is its cut. Fluid, roomy where it matters, with a waist that doesn't constrict. In summer and between seasons, it breathes where a regular trouser would not.

The approach is simple: treat it like any statement piece in your wardrobe. A printed boubou with a white t-shirt, sneakers or flat sandals. That's enough.

What to wear it with

A simple top in a neutral colour. The boubou already carries the print; it doesn't need competition. White, beige or black depending on the tones in the pattern.

For shoes, the range is wide. Strappy sandals in summer, ankle boots in autumn, sneakers for a casual feel. The boubou adapts without effort.

What to avoid

Mixing prints. A colourful boubou with a patterned shirt is too much. Keep the rest simple so the piece can actually be seen.

The practical side

A well-cut boubou doesn't crease the way a lightweight cotton trouser does. It folds, stores and recovers easily. That's part of why we love them.