The Dos and Don'ts of Festival Fashion
We go for the outfits first, music second.
by JENNY DESTEFANO ★ AUGUST 7, 2021
Music festivals are BACK (and my heart is whole again <3). With the enviable artist lineups and amazing setlists of Rolling Loud, Lollapalooza, and Governors Ball comes the trendiest (and cheugiest) fashion on Instagram. It’s basically one big fashion show...just minus Bella Hadid. To keep you looking (and feeling) festival-fab, here are some trends to choose from and some *choices* to avoid.
Do: Fanny Packs
At a festival, you’re likely not carrying much more than your phone and lip gloss. Keep it light with a functional fanny pack -- You’ll have enough room for your essentials while not having to constantly lug around a giant purse. A simple black, white, or neutral tone will go with all of your carefully coordinated fits, so you don’t have to worry about dropping a scary amount of money on two or three different bags. Convenient AND cute. What more could you want?
Don’t: Too Much Neon
Though it’s def a festival fave, you don’t need to be DRIPPING in neon to stand out in the crowd. Bright colors are of course a must-do, but you’ll probably be seeing a whole pack of highlighters in the same neon yellow set. Go for pops of neon or less flashy brights (like hot pink) instead to amplify your look without getting too *loud.*
Do: Chunky Sunglasses
Always a staple, you’re def going to need some sunnies to protect your eyes and spice up your ‘fit. This year, opt for colorful, chunky shades instead of your usual aviators for a fun color-coordinated moment that is sure to compliment your clothes and accessories.
Don’t: Jumpsuits
Yes, a little ~one-piece moment~ is sure to keep you cool in a crowd, but do you really want to have to strip just to go to the bathroom? Using a Porta Potty is traumatizing enough…don’t make it any worse than it inevitably is by having to get butt ass NAKED because your romper is a one-way removal. Save yourself a panic attack and wear a dress instead. Besides, you’re not at 2021 Gov Ball to give 2013 Coachella.
Do: Knit Embroidered Tops
What better way to add a little *spice* than a colorful embroidered halter? The colors and designs are endless -- not to mention the style possibilities. Mix and match with coordinating shorts, leather or even some basic denim to create a comfortable yet totally trendy Y2K look that fits your own fashion. Plus, you can support small businesses by shopping local, hitting up Etsy, or even DIY (Once I learn how to crochet it’s over). Show off some skin while still feeling comfy in your cute little knit *look* and you’re sure to get a bazillion compliments.
Don’t: Bandanas
We LOVE a lil scarf (ascot?) moment, but a bandana gives more of a summer-camp-color-war vibe than totally-chic-accessory. That red bandana with the all-black American Apparel (RIP) combo is giving 2014 Vanessa Hudgens at Coachella…tré outdated. Instead, dress up your hair and neck with chunky jewelry, like beaded chokers (think Olivia Rodrigo “Sour”), butterfly clips, and layered necklaces.
Do: Cowgirl Boots
Whether you love them or you hate them (which, literally how could you??), there’s no denying that cowgirl boots are BACK. If you’re looking for a cute shoe to fit your ‘fit, look no further than the ~cowgirl boot~! Just as comfy as your go-to sneakers (shoutout AirForce Ones, love you queen), these fab boots will turn any basic outfit into a trendy MOMENT. Bonus: you’ll never have to keep re-tying shoelaces that somehow get progressively dirtier (#lifehack).
Don’t: All Black ‘Fits
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE wearing black...maybe a little too much. But that’s just it. Music festivals are not any old affair, and therefore not the time to pull up in something you wear on the reg. Instead, you can keep that monochrome look by wearing different shades of one color, or break up a bright matching set with some neutrals. Still, if you feel most confident in black, try jazzing up your ~little black ‘fit~ by incorporating pops of color in your shoes and accessories. (Just make sure you’ll stay cool under the open sun!)
Regardless of what you wear, the most important accessory is *always* how you FEEL in your ‘fit. Take the time to plan ahead, shop around, and make the most of what you have. Stay comfy, stay trendy, and stay you.