Festival Fashion – Tips for the Festival Season

Festival fashion has a storied past and a diverse present. It began with Woodstock in 1969 and has since become an influence on our consumer habits. People buy outfits and accessories explicitly to take to festivals. They coordinate with other participants to purchase matching outfits. A lot of thought can go into a festival outfit. Fashion, weather, location and comfort are the three main factors that are considered when deciding on an outfit. Too many layers can leave an individual overheated or even dehydrated, while an underprepared person may leave early due to colder temperatures or rain. A festival in a parking lot with concrete ground would require different shoes than say a festival in a field where it can be muddy or full of insects.

A long-sleeved shirt may make you hot during the day, but it will also keep you from sunburn and warm you once the sun disappears. Additionally, a long-sleeved shirt/T-shirt will protect against insect bites. Some can even take into consideration the distance to the festival, possible alternative activities and even criminal activity when choosing an outfit. Of course, the genre of music is also heavily taken into consideration when an outfit is chosen. A country festival is not the place to wear emo make-up or clothing, while an EDM festival goer does not wear a cowboy hat or boots. Choosing the right outfit can be daunting, however, with a little help from the Funktasy team, you can relax and enjoy your festival experience knowing that you are covered in the right clothing for your festival.

History

The festival fashion of the late 1960s with the iconic Woodstock festival epitomized the free-spirited, anti-establishment essence of the era. Attendees wore flowy maxi dresses, tie-dye shirts, fringe vests, and bell bottoms, channelling a bohemian aesthetic which highlighted the freedom and individuality that was prominent during that era. This era used a DIY approach, with many festival-goers creating their own unique outfits as a form of self-expression and rebellion against mainstream fashion norms.

As festivals gained popularity and became more commercialized in the following decades, festival fashion began to evolve. The 1990s saw a shift towards grunge-inspired looks with flannel shirts, combat boots, and ripped jeans becoming staple items. The turn of the millennium brought a wider mix, influenced by the rise of electronic dance music (EDM) and rave culture. Neon colours, holographic fabrics, and futuristic accessories became prevalent, reflecting the vibrant, high-energy atmosphere of EDM festivals.

In recent years, the influence of social media and celebrity culture has further transformed festival fashion. Platforms like Instagram have popularized elaborate, Instagram-ready outfits, with influencers and festival-goers alike sporting carefully curated looks. This contemporary festival fashion is often characterized by bold patterns, glitter, body paint, and a mix of boho-chic and futuristic styles, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and innovation as attendees have been using inspiration from previous eras’ fashion styles.

Coachella, which began in 1999, has become a staple with a particular style that combines elements of bohemian, hippie, and high fashion. Celebrities and influencers attending Coachella often set trends with their outfits, making it a hotspot for fashion experimentation. This led to the popularization of items like flower crowns, fringed kimonos, and oversized sunglasses during the 2016 festival. Coachella’s influence is so prevalent that many brands now release festival-specific collections in the lead-up to the event.

Tops

Liberty Netuchil

Country

If you are going to a festival, you need to look the part. The shirt that is the staple of the Western genre is the flannel shirt, which is synonymous with the Canadian and Western scene. The shirt evokes an aura of rugged terrain and rugged people. The flannel shirt is actually an export from the British and Scottish people who immigrated to Canada. Plaid designs were unique to clans and when immigrants crossed the Atlantic, they brought their colours with them. So the popularity of the flannel shirt is universal and it does not matter where the festival is being held.

When searching for the right shirt, one must consider the material, the weight, and the fit. For a festival, shirts should be appropriate for the weather, a lighter shirt is better for warmer climates while a more rugged or overshirt can be perfect for cooler climates. One option is MuskOx. MuskOx is a Detroit-based company that specializes in flannel shirts and sources its material ethically before refining them in Portugal. Its shirts are perfect for festivals and more formal events and gatherings. Another possibility is the J.Crew Demin shirt, which is a great festival and out-on-the-town shirt.

EDM

An EDM top should be comfortable and express your style. Something shiny and metallic or otherwise in bright neon or glow-in-the-dark colours will help you express and as an added bonus will make you visible to cars when you leave. A T-shirt with a spring or rain jacket to keep off any chill that might settle in later in the night will be comfortable and fashionable.

When looking for a jacket for festivals Patagonia is a good choice because they source their material and produce their jackets ethically. Patagonia jackets stand up to the company’s quality test. A test that asks ten questions on the use, durability and repairable. In terms of under the jacket, a bright shirt or a shirt with a favourite DJ. Many DJs have T-shirts and tops with their logos or tour art for sale online or in person at the festival. Festivals also have their own shirts and other tops, they can be purchased online beforehand or in-person at the festival.

Hip-hop/Pop

Hip-hop, pop and other mainstream festivals allow festivalgoers a lot of freedom when it comes to what to wear as a top. Being comfortable and expressing oneself is a top priority so T-shirts and flannel shirts are perfect. Depending on the weather, a T-shirt will keep you cool and a flannel shirt is perfect if there is a slight chill. On top, a light jacket or sweater can keep you warm.

Many artists and festivals have merchandise such as shirts and T-shirts online or in-person. Additionally, many fashion brands sell comfortable tops great for festivals, for example, Roots and GAP.

Pants

Regarding festival fashion, pants are crucial in defining the overall look while ensuring comfort and practicality. Different genres inspire unique styles and trends, making each festival experience distinctive.

Country

For country festivals, denim jeans are a staple. According to Festival Attitude, they evoke the rugged, all-American spirit often associated with country music. High-waisted, boot-cut, or skinny jeans all work well, depending on personal preference and comfort. Paired with cowboy boots and a flannel shirt, denim jeans complete the classic country look.

Adding a modern twist to traditional denim, distressed jeans or those with subtle embellishments like embroidery or patches are also popular. They provide a blend of classic and contemporary styles, making them suitable for festivals like Stagecoach or Austin City Limits.

EDM

EDM festivals are known for their vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Neon and holographic pants reflect the electrifying music and light shows. Materials like PVC or metallic fabrics add an extra flair, ensuring you stand out in the crowd.

Given the high-energy dancing at EDM festivals, comfort is paramount. Joggers and athletic wear, often in bright colours or bold patterns, are a practical choice. Brands like Adidas and Nike offer stylish yet functional options that keep festival-goers comfortable all day long.

The loose-fitting, lightweight “parachute pants” pants are making a comeback, blending 90s nostalgia with modern rave culture. They’re perfect for staying cool and moving freely during extended dance sessions.

Hip-Hop

Cargo pants, with their multiple pockets and relaxed fit, are a popular choice at hip-hop festivals. They offer practicality and a street-style edge, making them perfect for events like Rolling Loud or Wireless Festival. Earth tones and camo prints are particularly trendy.

Oversized, baggy jeans harken back to the golden era of 90s hip-hop. Paired with a graphic tee and chunky sneakers, they create an effortlessly cool look. According to Festival Attitude, track pants, especially those with side stripes, are also a common sight, blending sportswear with urban style.

Vogue/Emily Malan

Pop Festivals

Pop festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury encourage bold fashion choices. Printed and patterned pants, from floral to geometric designs, add a playful and vibrant element to outfits. They can be paired with crop tops or flowy blouses for a chic festival look.

While not pants in the traditional sense, high-waisted shorts are also a popular alternative at pop festivals, especially in warm weather, according to Harpers Bazaar. They offer comfort and style, allowing for easy movement while maintaining a trendy appearance.

For a more daring and avant-garde look, sheer and lace pants are becoming increasingly popular. They can be layered over shorts or bodysuits, adding texture and dimension to festival outfits. This style is particularly favoured by those looking to make a fashion statement.

Shoes

Country

Perhaps one of the most iconic symbols of Western style is also the perfect choice for a country music festival: the cowboy boot. The origins of the cowboy boot date back to the midwestern United States in the 1800s, a derivative of the vaquero boot brought over from Spain in the 1600s. With a taller, calf-hugging, leather upper, as well as a slightly elevated heel, the design of the cowboy boot is optimal for horse riding, providing protection and stability for the rider. Though they are still used today as utilitarian work boots, cowboy boots have also become a fashion staple in country and Western styles both for their looks, as well as their comfort.

Cowboy boots come in a variety of styles, so it’s easy to find a boot that caters to one’s specific style. They come in various leather colours and varieties – though cowhide leather in brown and black tends to be the most common. Each pair has unique stitching and design, different heel heights, toe shapes, and calf lengths. Whether they’re dressed up with a skirt, dress, or pair of slacks, or dressed down with a simple pair of jeans or shorts, cowboy boots are the perfect shoe choice to show off a bit of Western flair.

EDM

Staying comfortable at a festival is incredibly important, and many seasoned ravers and festival-goers swear upon a good pair of athletic shoes to keep themselves comfortable all day. EDM festivals typically take place in the form of a rave, which are dance parties that feature performances from EDM artists and illuminating light shows. They are typically a little more high-energy and involved than a typical music festival, which means comfortable footwear is key.

Some typical styles of athletic shoes that circulate on EDM forums and communities online include Nike Roshes, Nike Air Force Ones, and Adidas Ultraboosts. All of these athletic shoes are built for activity, and provide ample support for ravers on their feet all day. If a sneaker isn’t your style, some ravers recommend Dr. Marten boots or even Crocs as their preferred festival footwear. Some long-time EDM festival goers also recommend getting supportive in-soles as a flexible way to ensure maximum comfort, regardless of shoe choice. Comfort is key for an EDM festival, and no matter your personal style there is a comfortable shoe out there for you to keep your feet happy all day long.

Hip Hop

Sneaker culture and hip-hop culture are almost synonymous with each other at this point. Hip-hop artists over time, especially in the 1990s and early 2000s, are credited with catapulting certain styles of sneakers into popularity. In the 1970s, hip-hop artists started sporting similar styles of sneakers that they saw on basketball players, therefore blending basketball style with hip-hop, and making the connection with sneaker culture. Since then, many prominent hip-hop artists have gone on to do collaborations with major sports shoe companies, such as Jay-Z’s collaboration with Reebok in 2003, or Kendrick Lamar’s collaboration with Nike in 2018. Similar to EDM festivals – or any multi-day music event – festival-goers are typically on their feet for many hours in a single day, making comfortable footwear extremely important.

One of the most prominent sneaker styles synonymous with hip-hop culture is the Adidas Superstars. Created in 1969 as a low-profile, flexible alternative to more bulky basketball shoes, they were popularized in the hip-hop scene by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 70s. Again, if sneakers aren’t your style but you’re still looking to stay comfortable and stay on trend, Timberland boots may be the choice for you. Originally created as a work boot, Timberlands have been a staple of hip-hop culture after being popularized by artists in the hip-hop scene in the early 90s. So whether you prefer a low-profile sneaker, or a more sturdy boot, either of these options will have you fitting in with your favourite hip-hop artists.

Pop

Pop is the one category where you may find a mish-mash of the previous three styles. Major pop festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza tend to have a slew of major names, as well as smaller up-and-coming artists spanning across multiple genres. In the early 2010s, when festivals like Coachella started colliding with the rise of social media, a boho aesthetic seemed to be more popular for festival attendees, with celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens and Kendall Jenner popularizing the look online. Nowadays, concert-goers at pop festivals tend to dress more reflecting their personal style, rather than to match a cohesive aesthetic.

Above all else, comfort is key, and most people recommend a comfortable sneaker or boot fit for long hours on your feet. The most popular styles floating around are Converse (of any variety, so there’s room to shake it up) and Dr. Martens, which also come in a variety of styles to suit the personal style of each wearer.

Accessories

Country

If you’re headed to Austin City Limits, one accessory that complements cowboy boots perfectly is the cowboy hat. The REVOLVE Howdy Hat is just one option. Other styles range from pinched front hats and open crown hats to ridgetop hats. Another piece of headwear that complements a Western look is the trucker hat. Characterized by its rounded crown and mesh back, this style has seen a resurgence this past year. Sendero Provisions Co. is a popular brand known for its diverse designs. Round sunglasses pair well with either of these hats. The classic Ray-Ban Round Metal comes in a variety of lens colours.

A bandana is another accessory that adds a finishing touch to the look. Tying the bandana around your neck is a common style choice. Bandits Bandanas offers classic paisley designs as well as a festival collection.

aLIVE Coverage for Electric Zoo Festival

EDM

Prepare for hot weather with rave pashminas. These soft, scarf-like accessories are often draped over the head and then wrapped around the neck for full coverage. One Stop Rave offers a variety of vibrant designs, complete with fringes. Rectangle Sunglasses are also a great statement piece for your outfit. The Ray-Ban Teru is a great choice not only for its classic black option but also for its range of electric colours. If you’re looking to make a bold statement with jewelry, consider purchasing a hand-chain bracelet. This unique piece is worn around the wrist, extending across the back of the band to connect to an attached ring.

Hip Hop

Summerfest and Lollapalooza are just around the corner! Whether you’re catching SZA or Kendrick Lamar, dressing the part is key. Bucket hats are great for their laid-back style and functionality in providing sun protection. Another trendy accessory in fashion right now is AIRE Ursa sunglasses. With their rimless design, they add a touch of swagger. To finish off your look, a bag is essential. Small crossbody bags are both practical and sporty. Consider the Adidas Fest 3.0 Crossbody, favoured for its adjustable strap and sleek look.

Pop

Heading to Glastonbury to see Dua Lipa? Start your look with Y2K wrap-around sunglasses, which can be found on Amazon. This bold shape is often associated with pop music from the early 2000s, making it the perfect accessory. Another way to dress the part is by getting body glitter, which enhances any look when applied to your face, shoulders, and arms. To stay on the with sparkle, consider accessorizing with a sparkly belly chain from Edikted.

Festival Fashion has Changed Since the Era of Woodstock.

The flowery dresses and bell-bottom jeans are no longer the standard wear at a festival. Today’s festival-goer wears all sorts of different outfits and have a habit of dressing differently depending on the festival they are attending. Country festival goers are typically going to wear shirts, jeans, and cowboy boots. While an attendee of an EDM festival is more likely to wear futuristic clothing, shiny, metallic and bright. Mainstream festival sees a more diverse group of attendees, who will wear anything comfortable and expressive of their unique style. Sneakers, Canvas, and shoes of all kinds will grace a mainstream festival.

Regardless of the type of festival, attendees will be looking for outfits that are comfortable, reliable and fashion-forward. Festival goers need outfits that fit in with the genre of the festival and express their unique style. These outfits will also need to keep them clean, and dry and their items from becoming lost or stolen. It will need to be comfortable too, so that visitors can last the full day on their feet. By mixing and matching articles of clothing, visitors will be able to stay fresh and ready for brands like MuskOx, Patagonia and Bandits Bandana will be ready with quality merchandise to make sure visitors are prepared for the weather and the genre.