From cowboy-core to flower power, it’s a chance to shake up your fashion this festival season.
With the summer sunshine well and truly here, it is only a matter before the festival season rolls around.
“Festival fashion dominates the style pages each year,” says shoe expert Paul Donnelly, so whether you’re off to Boomtown or Boardmasters, there’s no better time than a festival to play around with your wardrobe.
Whether experimenting with accessories or mustering up the courage to wear something a little outrageous for a change, festival fashion is this perfect time to shake things up. And here’s how…
Frills and ruffles
With part two of Bridgerton season three coming out this month, it’s natural that frills and ruffles are on trend. So make your outfit a little bit fancy this season and add a feminine touch. Wear it with a dress, frilly collar, or floaty skirt—there are many ways to try this style.
Don’t know where to start?
“Search for tops or dresses with ruffled sleeves or hemlines, as well as skirts with tiered layers for a dramatic effect, ” says Bonnie Zhao, head of user product and business at AliExpress UK.
“Pair these pieces with simple accessories to let the frills take centre stage.”
Chunky boots
Chunky boots have always been in. From Lara Croft to Black Widow, badass women in action movies have been rocking them since dawn. And there’s a reason for it. Not only do they look good, but they’re also practical. The truth about festivals is that they’re often quite gross. Be it mud, using the dreaded portaloos, or jumping around in a mosh pit, it helps to have a sturdy pair of boots to hand.
Celebs are getting wise to the trend, too. “The category is: comfort,” model Hailey Bieber wrote on her Instagram story, sharing a mirror selfie of her outfit for Coachella this year, which featured a pair of chunky ankle boots.
“Chunky boots are a popular choice for festival-goers for their practicality and style points,” says Donnelly, working with Heavenly Feet.
“They are an essential addition to any festival outfit, you can opt for classic black boots or experiment with metallics, which are a huge trend this season.”
Sheer fashion
Dare to bare! From Emily Ratajkowski’s revealing see-through ensemble to actor Phoebe Dynevor’s custom Victoria Beckham gown, sheer was everywhere at the Met Gala this year. But it’s a fashion statement that can not only be pulled off on the red carpet.
The perfect addition to your festival wardrobe, “Whether you go for a classic mesh top with your favorite brightly colored bikini top underneath or an ultra-cool transparent maxi skirt to dance the night away in, the secret to nailing this look is in the accessorizing,” says fashion and jewelry expert, Ben Roberts, managing director of Clogau.
Cowboy-core
Giddy up festival goers because cowboy-core is the most significant trend this season. Maybe it was Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling’s Barbie and Ken in matching western outfits that did it, but the cowboy-inspired trend has been everywhere lately, and festival season is the perfect time to hop on this rodeo.
“The cowboy trend has been gaining momentum for a number of years, and with Beyonce’s iconic Cowboy Carter, it’s not going to slow down anytime soon,” says Zhao.
“This year it’s going to be bigger than ever, as not only are stars buying into the trends, but its versatility means anyone can get involved.”
The good news is that you only need a cowboy hat, a fringed jacket, or a necktie to nail this festival trend. Yeehaw!
Boho chic
I thought Boho was out. Think again. The Sixties trend is back and bigger than ever this year for festival season. The floaty and loose style is the perfect way to stay calm and prevent sunburn while catching your favorite bands.
“Channelling your inner Vanessa Hudgens at Coachella or Florence Welch is a timeless festival trend, and definitely one we expect to see make a return this festival season,” says Roberts.
“If you want to look your best for the ‘summer of love’, I’d recommend picking up anything with fringe detailing, crochet panelling or made from a floaty and gauzy material like linen.”
Tie-dye revival
In the wave of nostalgia for the Noughties, tie-dye is also returning this summer. The perfect festival fashion statement is back, and best of all, you can do it at home for free. Grab some old white clothes, a bag of dye, and some rubber bands, and get creative.
“Its colourful and psychedelic patterns evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering a fun and vibrant look that’s perfect for music festivals,” says Zhao.
“Pair with denim or neutral pieces to balance out the boldness of the tie-dye patterns.”
