What should I Wear to a Music Festival?

Heading to a vibrant music festival is an exhilarating experience, as you prepare to immerse yourself in an ocean of pulsating beats and electrifying performances.

But amidst the excitement, the question of what to wear can present a puzzling challenge.

In this article, we’ll be presenting a kaleidoscope of possibilities to help you curate the perfect ensemble that strikes a balance between comfort, style, and festival-appropriate flair.

Get ready to discover the ideal outfit that will make you feel like the epitome of cool while navigating the vibrant world of music festivals.

Denim Shorts

Denim shorts have gained popularity as a go-to choice for music festivals due to their versatility, comfort, and association with a carefree, bohemian aesthetic.

They have become deeply ingrained in the music festival culture, and their origins can be traced back to iconic UK and US music festivals.

In the UK, the Glastonbury Festival has played a significant role in establishing denim shorts as a staple festival garment.

Glastonbury, known for its eclectic mix of music and arts, has been celebrated since the 1970s.

Attendees embraced a laid-back, free-spirited style, often opting for denim shorts paired with wellies, reflecting the festival’s rural location and unpredictable weather.

In the US, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival has had a profound influence on festival fashion trends.

Held in California, Coachella has become synonymous with bohemian and indie-inspired fashion.

Denim shorts, often distressed or adorned with embroidery, have become a symbol of the festival’s relaxed and effortlessly cool vibe.

When it comes to wearing denim shorts at a festival, there are numerous ways to style them for a fashionable look.

For a bohemian-inspired ensemble that is both chic and comfortable, opt for a loose, flowy top or a crop top to balance the casualness of the shorts.

Alternatively, accessorising your denim shorts will undoubtedly elevate your look.

Consider adding a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a statement belt, or layered necklaces to add personality and complete your festival outfit.

Flowy Dresses

Flowy dresses have gained popularity during music festivals due to their effortless and bohemian appeal.

These dresses offer a comfortable, lightweight, and breezy option for festival-goers, allowing them to stay cool while exuding a carefree and feminine vibe.

The popularity of flowy dresses can be traced back to their association with the bohemian and hippie fashion movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

Originating from the free-spirited and countercultural movements of that era, flowy dresses became a symbol of liberation, self-expression, and a rejection of traditional fashion norms.

They were often characterised by loose silhouettes, vibrant prints, and flowing fabrics, embodying a sense of freedom and nonconformity.

When attending a summer music festival, opting for a flowy dress is an excellent choice to ensure you stay cool and comfortable amidst the lively atmosphere.

To enhance the stylish appeal of your outfit, consider pairing the flowy dress with ankle boots or sneakers, to add a touch of allure and playfulness.

For those moments when the temperature cools down, a lightweight denim jacket or a chambray shirt can be the perfect layering option, allowing you to adjust to changing weather conditions while maintaining your look.

If you anticipate a lot of dancing and movement, leather boots can provide both style and practicality, offering sturdy support and ensuring your feet are protected throughout the festival experience.

Wellies

Wellies have become a popular footwear choice at music festivals for several reasons.

One primary reason is their practicality in dealing with muddy and wet festival grounds, especially in the UK where rain showers are common.

The popularity of wellies at music festivals can be traced back to iconic UK events like Glastonbury Festival.

Wellies quickly became associated with Glastonbury as a practical and fashionable footwear choice, blending seamlessly with the festival’s rural and nature-inspired atmosphere.

In addition to Glastonbury, other UK music festivals like Reading Festival and Leeds Festival also popularised wellies due to their similar outdoor settings and unpredictable weather conditions.

When it comes to styling wellies at festivals, there are numerous ways to create fashionable and functional outfits.

For a feminine look, pair your wellies with a colourful or patterned sundress or skirt.

To embrace bohemian vibes, style your welly boots with a flowy maxi dress, a fringed vest, and a wide-brimmed hat.

If you prefer a casual and edgy ensemble, mix your wellies with denim shorts or jeans and a graphic tee.

Layer your wellies with cosy knits like chunky sweaters or cardigans for cooler weather.

Add festive accessories such as colourful socks, funky shoelaces, or ankle bracelets to further personalise your festival style.

Graphic Tees

Graphic tees have become a popular choice at music festivals for their ability to make a bold statement and express individuality.

These tees often feature eye-catching designs, band logos, artistic prints, or witty slogans, allowing festival-goers to showcase their musical preferences, personal style, or social and political affiliations.

The popularity of graphic tees at music festivals can be traced back to their association with the music and counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

One notable music festival that played a significant role in popularising graphic tees is the iconic Woodstock Festival, held in 1969.

The festival served as a platform for self-expression and cultural revolution, with attendees donning graphic tees emblazoned with anti-war sentiments, psychedelic art, and symbols of peace and love.

Woodstock became synonymous with the free-spirited and rebellious atmosphere of that era, making graphic tees a staple of festival fashion.

When it comes to styling a graphic tee for a music festival, the options are limitless.

To enhance your festival look while showcasing your style, consider pairing your graphic tee with high-waisted denim shorts and sneakers for a classic and effortless ensemble.

Alternatively, embrace a bohemian vibe by combining it with a flowy skirt and sandals.

Layer your tee with different jackets like a denim or leather jacket for cooler weather or opt for overalls or jumpsuits for a playful and carefree look.

Statement Jewellery

The popularity of statement jewellery at music festivals can be traced back to influential celebrities who have embraced this trend.

One notable example is the iconic musician and fashion influencer, Stevie Nicks.

Known for her bohemian style and captivating stage presence, Nicks often adorned herself with statement jewellery, including layered necklaces, oversized earrings, and ornate rings.

Her distinctive accessories became synonymous with her artistic persona and inspired a generation of music lovers to incorporate statement jewellery into their festival attire.

In more recent times, celebrities like Rihanna and Beyoncé have further popularised statement jewellery at music festivals.

Rihanna has been seen wearing elaborate body chains, oversized hoop earrings, and bold chokers during her festival performances.

Beyoncé, with her iconic Coachella performance in 2018, showcased statement jewellery as an element of her stage costumes, captivating audiences with her bold accessory choices.

When it comes to statement jewellery at festivals, there is a wide range of options to choose from that can make a bold impression.

Chunky necklaces with oversized pendants or intricate designs can serve as a focal point for your festival ensemble, while bold and eye-catching earrings like long tassels or geometric shapes can draw attention to your face.

Stackable bracelets of different widths, textures, and materials can create a wrist full of style, and oversized or embellished rings can add a touch of drama.

Body chains offer a unique and elegant choice, draping across your body to accentuate your curves.

Temporary Tattoos

Temporary tattoos have become increasingly popular at music festivals as a fun and stylish accessory.

They provide a temporary way to express your creativity and individuality with unique designs and patterns, allowing you to experiment without the commitment of permanent ink.

Temporary tattoos can elevate your festival look by offering expressive body art, versatile customisation, and complementing your outfit.

They come in a wide range of designs, from intricate mandalas to whimsical symbols, and can be strategically applied on your arms, wrists, or face to make a statement.

Additionally, temporary tattoos promote bonding and interaction among festival-goers who choose matching or themed designs.

They offer a temporary way to enjoy body art without a long-term commitment.

Temporary tattoos add an extra element of style, foster creativity, and allow you to showcase your unique personality at music festivals.

When attending your first music festival, it’s crucial to find a balance between comfort, style, and practicality in your outfit choice.

Embrace your style and add unique elements to reflect your individuality in vibrant patterns, bohemian-inspired pieces, or vintage finds.

The key is to feel comfortable, confident, and ready to enjoy the music and energetic atmosphere of the festival.