Today we are talking about festival outfit ideas! I can’t help but get excited when music festival season is just around the corner. It’s that giddy feeling of anticipation, like having a swarm of butterflies fluttering in your belly.
It’s that moment when we switch our status to Out-of-Office and it feels like work is a distant bad memory. All that matters is being with our friends, enjoying the music, and soaking up the incredible festival vibe!
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I’m sure you’ll be on board with me when I say that music festivals have an irresistible appeal beyond just the live performances, the electric crowd and general festival shenanigans! It’s also about the eclectic and expressive festival fashion that comes with each event.
From Burning Man’s dusty playa to Glastonbury’s rolling green hills, let’s dive into some festival outfit ideas for some of the world’s most iconic music festivals.
This post is about festival outfit ideas
Burning Man – The Playa Elegance
Burning Man isn’t your average festival – it’s a unique community experience in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada that focuses on radical self-expression and self-reliance. Load up your RV (and don’t forget your bike) and prepare to live off-grid for the week.
While at Burning Man, you won’t have to open your wallet – it’s all about gifting. You could stumble upon a pop-up bar serving free Bloody Marys or a camp dishing out pancakes, and you might even receive some handmade jewellery as a gift. It’s always good to be ready to give back in return.
The style? Picture a fusion of Mad Max apocalypse, bohemian chic, and cyber steampunk aesthetics!
AfrikaBurn in South Africa is a similar festival – it’s like a mini version of Burning Man, making it much easier to navigate!
Outfit Ideas:
- Futuristic Warrior – holographic or mirror bodysuit paired with chunky boots. Add a utility belt for a practical yet stylish look and style with custom hats or headpieces and light-up accessories for night-time fun.
- Cyber Queen – opt for neon dreads or braids for a low-maintenance festival hairstyle. Complete the look with a metallic catsuit, platform trainers or boots, and a cool holster bag.
- Dusty Playa Nomad – layer scarves, or even go for a hooded dress, don goggles, and face masks for that classic Burning Man desert nomad look and practicality – because those pesky dust storms just sneak up on you!
Tip: take a look on Etsy for unique custom outfits and accessories like goggles and masks. I also picked up some gorgeous vintage Afghan tribal wedding jewelry from eBay.
Tip: the temperature drops massively at night, so if you want to be dancing until sunrise at Robot Heart or Mayan Warrior (I know you do!) then a oversized faux fur coat is always a good idea!
Glastonbury – The Eclectic Mix
With its unpredictable British weather, Glastonbury calls for festival fashion that’s as diverse as its lineup. it’s all about mixing practicality with personal style. This aesthetic combines vintage, boho, Y2K, grunge, and indie sleaze influences, with some classic elements thrown into the mix.
The ultimate queens of this look have always been Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Alex Chung. Their go-to festival outfits include vintage pieces like embellished waistcoats, denim shorts, slip dresses, belts, leather jackets, cowboy boots, Barbour jackets and Hunter wellies worn as long boots or ankle boots.
When it comes to the amount of walking required, this festival is no joke, seriously! The uneven ground can also get very muddy, making it even more challenging so, take my advice, and plan your footwear accordingly. I’ve been caught out a few times, you would think I’d learnt my lesson by now!
Outfit Ideas:
- Mud-Proof Glam – whether it’s a classic Barbour jacket or a colourful raincoat or poncho with waterproof boots – being prepared doesn’t need to be dull!
- Vintage Gems – hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures at local vintage shops and on eBay and Etsy for unique finds such as metallic shift dresses, fringed kimonos, vintage hats, scarves or ornate belts.
- Layered Looks – It’s not unusual to experience several different seasons in just one day at Glastonbury, so it’s smart to dress in layers. You can try layering a slip dress with a jumper tied around your waist or an oversized shirt and keep a Barbour jacket handy.
Denim shorts / tan sling bag / white slip dress / leather poncho / Barbour short wellies / earrings
Coachella – The Boho Paradise
Coachella is like the ultimate bohemian dream, fusing music, art, and style under the California sun in Indio, not far from Palm Springs. Festival-goers opt for a laid-back yet chic look, often channelling glam rock chick or bohemian vibes. Plus, the festival takes place on a polo field making strolling around a breeze compared to the rough terrain of Glastonbury!
Outfit Ideas:
- Boho Vintage – rock the perfect boho look with flowing maxi dresses or skirts matched with a pair of cowboy boots. Complete your outfit with fringe bags and top it off with a stylish hat.
- Retro Revival – get that retro look with high-waisted shorts paired with crochet tops or dresses. Complete the outfit with either sandals or ankle boots, and don’t forget to add those round sunglasses with yellow or orange-tinted lenses!
- Rave Glam – get ready to dance the night away in sequin bodysuits paired with platform trainers or chunky boots. You’ll be able to dance all night without sacrificing style or comfort.
Sunglasses / leather bag / cowboy boots / sequin playsuit (similar) / purple dress / earrings / brown boots /
Festival Essentials
Whether you’re getting set for a full-on camping festival like Glastonbury or a city festival like Sónar in Barcelona – don’t be that person who’s always borrowing from their mates! Check out these festival essentials to make sure you’re prepared.
Bamboo cutlery / bamboo toothbrush / make-up wipes / face SPF 30 / dry hair shampoo / eye mask / ear plugs / lip balm / bamboo drinking straws / portable charger / eco-glitter / rehydration sachets / hand sanitizer
Each festival offers a unique atmosphere and experience, reflected in the diverse fashion seen at these events. Remember, while expressing your style, comfort and practicality are key to enjoying any music festival to the fullest – take it from someone who wore new cowboy boots to Glastonbury last year…not funny or clever!
Let your festival outfits be an extension of your personality, and most importantly, have fun with your fashion choices!
