Music festivals kick off in March with SXSW, run though April with Coachella and into May with Jazz Fest. And then they continue well into the summer and early fall with events all over the country. If you are heading to your favorite music festival this year, you’ll want to make sure to pack all of the essentials you need plus all of the fashion you want! Because who isn’t posting pics with their best friends all over social media while watching their favorite artists? It’s just part of the festival experience. So don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the ultimate fashion guide for what to wear and the necessary guide on what to pack for music festivals this year:
FESTIVAL FASHION
Even if you aren’t in your 20’s any more, you can still rock festival fashion in your 30’s and 40’s. Anything bohemian and free-spirited goes! Just maintain your own sense of style and wear what feels authentic for you. Here are some fun ideas to wear or incorporate into your festival looks.
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GRAPHIC TEES & MAXI SKIRTS
Wear your favorite band tee or fun graphic with a maxi skirt. Try a crochet maxi or an animal print to mix it up and have fun. It’s your moment to let loose so why not play around?
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LAYER DRESSES OVER PANTS
The layered look is coming down the pike and if you like to be ahead of the trend, give this fashion statement a try. Layer a feminine maxi dress over long pants for a look that’s equal parts feminine and comfortable.
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FRINGE!
If you’ve been dying to wear fringe now’s your chance! From dresses to skirts to suede jackets, fringe is everywhere and is the perfect thing to wear to any music festival. If you don’t already own anything with fringe, head to your local vintage shop and find something amazing!
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CROCHET CROCHET CROCHET
You can’t go wrong with crochet pieces when it comes to outdoor music festivals. Matching sets, pants, shorts, skirts and tops all work great. If it’s sheer, wear layers under or over it or simply wear a bathing suit underneath in true summer style.
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CUTOFFS + COWBOY BOOTS
What is more iconic for summer music festivals than cutoffs and cowboy boots? Wear yours with your favorite tank tops, tees or frilly feminine tops. Whether you have ankle length or knee-high cowboy boots, you can rock any of them with this look.
Here are some more great western outfits to inspire your festival looks!
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NECESSARY ACCESSORIES
There are a few accessories that are not only fashionable but necessary to wear or pack for a music festival you’re planning to attend. A wide-brimmed hat completes any outfit plus shields your face from the sun. And a crossbody bag or a fanny pack / belt bag are great for your essential items and to keep your hands free. (Plus it’s always smart to have zipper pockets to protect all of your things in the crowds.)
FESTIVAL ESSENTIALS
Whether you are going for an entire weekend or just for one day, these essential items are important to pack for a music festival. Keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times to stay hydrated. I love this collapsible FP Movement water bottle to save space when you’re not using it. Shiseido face cloths are a great way to keep your skin clean, cool and hydrated. Festival weather can be all over the place. For outdoor festivals in the blazing sun, be prepared with Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen with SPF 50 and Necessaire’s The Lip Balm. And since you never know what Mother Nature might throw at you, pack some bug spray (like this natural insect repellent from The Entomologist) in your bag too!
Bringing a picnic blanket to sit on with your friends to watch some shows or eat lunch together is also a great idea. This waterproof blanket with carrying strap from Wolf & Badger is both beautiful and practical. If you’re planning to buy food, it’s always a good idea to bring a debit card or make sure your digital wallet is at the ready so you don’t need to carry cash around. And lastly this clear belt bag is a great option for venues that require them.
Related: These clean beauty essentials are perfect to throw in your travel makeup kit.
ADDITIONAL FESTIVAL CHECKLIST
If you are planning to camp out in your sleeping bag or on an air mattress, you’re going to want to have a few additional things on hand. Add these items to your festival packing list and you’ll have everything you need!
- Portable charger for any electronics – – this external charger can charge two devices at once and lasts up to 3 days. This is especially key to ensure your phone battery doesn’t die on you!
- First aid kit
- Rain Jacket
- Eye Mask
- Ear plugs
- Dry shampoo
- Extra blanket in case of cold weather
- Portable fan in case of extreme heat – this mini one is super compact to keep in your bag
- Small backpack
- Waterproof bag
