This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s summer editorial intern Ana Sofia Corral Morales. Find her on Instagram at @sofi.photographsss. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
We can say summer is the favorite season for music festival arrivals. Whether you grooved in this last Glastonbury, are going to vibe at Lollapalooza or planning to attend a more local/regional event, the outfit is part of the whole experience. The moment you secure your ticket, the first thought afterwards is, What am I going to wear? What is the vibe going to be? One thing I love about music festivals is the creativity levels people go to express themselves. I got no secret formula on creating the best festival outfit, however I got a guide navigating the latest trends, must-have items and practical considerations for your look.
Key Trends For 2024
This year, festival fashion blends nostalgia with progressive designs:
Y2K Revival: The 2000s comeback continues, but with a modern twist. Think low-rise pants paired with crop tops, jorts, cargos, hair accessories. Mini bags are also making a strong return, but with updated materials like recycled plastic. Cargo pants and skirts are back, so why not combine both and include a cargo skirt to the outfit?
Cyber Cowboy: Metallic cowboy boots are the centerpiece of this aesthetic. But this trend also includes classic Western elements like denim, suede, and COWBOY HATS.
Sustainable Chic: Eco-friendly materials and upcycle pieces prove that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Besides designers using innovative fabrics, the search and purchase of second hand pieces has become a trend for some time now. Give it a personalized touch in order for you to wear it more than one time.
A lot of Inclusivity: Every time more designers create stylish options for people with disabilities. Magnetic closures, for example, or adjustable fits. Aside from that, global influences are continuing to shape fashion. This might include oriental prints adapted to occidental modern style.
Essential Items
You can build your festival wardrobe around these pieces:
Small tops: You need to be able to breathe while being inside the big crowd. Bikini tops in a festival are a great example of using your clothes in another context.
Jorts: Remember the baggy bottom and skinny top combination? Jorts give you the chance to follow that pattern and feel fresh (by not dying in the heat).
Bodysuits: Creates a smooth silhouette.
Comfortable footwear: Think chunky sandals, western boots or stylish sneakers.
Sunscreen: Keep in mind that you’re literally going to be all day in the sun.
Accessories and Extras
The point in this section is to remember the practicality touch you need to add to your outfit.
Sunglasses: They sure make you look hot and mysterious, but also take care of your eyes. That’s hot too.
Hands-Free Bags: Crossbody bags will do their jobs while leaving your hands free for dancing. Please DO NOT bring a tote bag. Besides not leaving your belongings safe, it also creates a mess when trying to reach out for one specific item.
Bandanas: I would consider bandanas an essential part in my festival outfit, since they’re both fashionable and practical. For example, initially you had the bandana wrapped around your neck and suddenly feel like your hair is too much of a mess. Take the bandana and wrap it around your head.
Tech Accessories: Portable fans and solar-powered chargers can be life savers in festivals. Make sure to list them as essentials.
More Practical Considerations
More tips that remind you that comfort should not be overlooked:
Weather-Appropiate Choices: Check the forecast and prepare for various conditions. Bring layers for cool evenings and breathable fabrics like linen in hot climates.
Comfortable Footwear: I’ve mentioned this once already, but if you really want to bring out your nice heels for the pics, i suggest packing a pair of comfy sandals for the long hours of standing.
Choose materials that can resist dust, spills and general festival deterioration. For water stages or unexpected rain, wear items that dry quickly, because dear, the hypothermia you feel from wet clothes is real.
Celebrity and Influencer Inspirations
Start by taking cues from long-time festival attendees like Vanessa Hudgnes or Kendall Jenner. Personally, the celebrity festival outfits (stage singers and attending celebrities) at Coachella this year did nothing but prove how someone can stick to trends while adding their personal brand.
An artist that really stood out to me was Young Miko, rocking the tight top and jorts combo (like mentioned before) with the vibrant colors that characterize her.
If you’re seeking the Y2K style, check out artists like Rihanna, A$AP Rocky and Katy Perry. While Rihanna and Katy Perry show us a black base with their distinctive elements, A$AP Rocky plays with layers and colors, giving male celebrities a great festival fashion representation.
This Vogue article sums up 50 2024 Coachella looks if you need more specific inspiration.
Whether you’re attracted to the Y2K revival, cyber cowboy aesthetics, or committed to a more sustainable fashion line, there’s a festival look that’s perfect for you. Remember, the key to great style isn’t just about following trends, but feeling comfortable, confident and ready to enjoy the atmosphere. As you plan your outfits, consider the practical aspects like confort and functionality, and add them to your fashion choices. Don’t be afraid to upcycle old favorites or try out new bold looks. Festival fashion is all about experimentation. Finally, the best festival fashion allows you to explore and create memories without worry. After all, in the world of concerts and musical festivals, you’re not just a spectator, you’re part of the show. Who knows, maybe you’ll end up on the festival’s social media (that’s my delusion)! I hope you get to assist many festivals and get to create many outfits!
Tell me in the comments, how do you like to experiment with your festival fashion? What summer music festival looks would you recommend?
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