When I lived in Los Angeles, Coachella marked not only the kickoff of festival season but also the start of summer. It reminded us LA-dwellers that although our seasons never felt like they ever really changed (sunshine 365), the energy could at least shift and feel new. Because that’s what summer really brings, right? A type of carefree, optimistic mindset as you dream up bucket list worthy adventures, meet new people, and make memories that you’ll remember for years.
Which brings me to my next point. With all these new summer plans, it’s about time to begin preparing our wardrobes so we show up correct. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. StockX will be kicking off a new Occasion Shop series, which will feature selected picks and outfit inspo for any and all summer events.
First up: festival looks. When I’m preparing for festival season, I’m not only looking at the lineups but also the style trends. Because let’s be honest, the fashion is arguably as important as the music. Festivals are one of those places where there are no rules when it comes to style (including airports for better or worse), so the main takeaway is to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Below you’ll find the five biggest trends that will be dominating festival season this year and how you can start incorporating them into your own style with pieces from StockX.
’70s Western
I credit Daisy Jones and The Six for my latest obsession with everything seventies-inspired on my wishlist right now. But who can blame me. The decade was known for its freeing, rock ‘n’ roll spirit, and when you think about music festivals, that’s the energy you want to embody. Confident and carefree– both in your aura and outfit choices.
The best way to incorporate this winning combination is to go for the western bohemian vibe that defined the ’70s era. Think cowboy boots, crochet, and of course denim. To take this retro vibe into the modern era, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between cowboy and hippie. A fresh approach is switching out your blue jeans with white denim. The Jacquemus La Veste De Nimes Paneled Denim Jacket paired with the Jacquemus Le Short in the same wash looks effortlessly cool and on trend right now. And don’t forget the rocker classics: aviators, a scarf, and vintage cowboy boots. These accessories protect you from the sun but still give you that “this ain’t my first rodeo” type of heat.
Right On Track
When it comes to festival season, you typically think of extremely high temperatures and considerably less clothing. But don’t let the heat fool you. People sometimes forget that when the headliners finally come on, the temperatures drop whether you’re in the desert or the city. So moto mania is still gaining traction when it comes to festival dressing.
To style an all-leather look in a (literally) cool way, focus on incorporating the motocross aesthetic in your layers. That way you can always adjust based on the current temperatures. The recently released Aimé Leon Dore Leather Cafe Racer Jacket is an iconic statement piece that will rev up any look (and the King himself gave it his stamp-of-approval). Pair the jacket with leather shorts or distressed baggy denim to give your look that effortless edge. Finish off your festival fit with edgy moto-inspired accessories. The Prada Monolith 55mm Pouch Ankle Boots are a biker-staple while metallic accessories will give you that extra shine.
’90s Minimalism
Back in 2013 “festival fashion” used to mean a very specific style. The image that comes to mind is Vanessa Hudgens (OG Queen of Coachella) walking barefoot in a white set and flower crown. Bohemian styles, loud colors, and glitter galore used to be the signifier of a festival-goer. The good news is, festival fashion has evolved over the years. Now it’s refreshing to see more pared-back styles and casual everyday wear. Take Kendall Jenner for example – going for an “anti-Coachella” look at this year’s festival.
The ’90s were all about this kind of intentional minimalism. The Olsen Twin’s label The Row or Kate Moss’s street style outfits are the perfect examples of this low-key luxury movement. No logos, classic fits, and high quality materials. If you’re feeling like embodying that ’90s supermodel off-duty look this festival season, start with a fitted midi dress in a neutral color. The Skims Soft Lounge Slip Dress in Marble went viral for a reason, as the fit and material look good on every body type. To give your look more dimension, tie a button up shirt around your waist. We recommend a light blue or neutral color to still keep your look elegantly simple. Finish off the fit with a classic crossbody bag (no logo preferred) and ball cap for that “no pictures please” vibe seen on celebrities exiting LAX. The simple yet sophisticated look will definitely give you A-List energy at any festival party.
Denim Pairings
Looking cool and comfortable while dancing to your favorite artists is the ultimate goal at any music festival. And what better way to achieve this than with the timeless staple– denim. While denim has always been dominant at every music scene, this year it’s all about incorporating the common thread in your accessories.
As Y2K-inspired denim trends – including low rise denim and baggy jeans – are still as popular as ever, stand out from the crowd by adding blue jean in your sneaker selections instead. The New Balance 990v3 in Levi’s Denim taps into the early 2000s trend but in a cool, unexpected way. The sneaker combines blue hairy suede and denim for a next-level rich texture and fashion-forward look. If you’re looking for an accessory that is functional as it is stylish, opt for a denim bucket hat like the Prada version. The logo gives the hat a lux feel while still feeling casual in the denim wash, all while protecting you from the sun.
Festival Feet
It’s safe to say from experience– a festival is not the time to bring out your most beloved or rare pair of sneakers. Because after the first day of a festival, your shoes will get very dirty. Festival grounds are typically muddy and you usually have to walk far and long to get to where you’re going. So your sneaker of choice needs to be well thought-out.
We all want to show off our sneaker heat at a festival, especially since these places are more of a fashion show now than anything else. But when thinking of your festival sneakers, make sure to keep comfort in mind without sacrificing stand-out style. Thanks to the adidas Gazelle colorways, a big trend right now is going for bold and bright shades with your sneakers. The adidas Gazelle in Bold Orange is a fiery red hue that will warm up any look. If the bright colors are too much for you, try going for another trending shade: silver. The New Balance 530 in White Silver Navy has the trending normcore running shoe silhouette while still providing your feet extra cushion and comfort to help you last all night long.
