Festival Fashion.
Kim asked this week for a bit of help putting together some festival outfits, and she’s not alone! Festivals open up a possibility of really fun dressing, but that in itself can be a bit overwhelming and it can be tricky territory style-wise, you want to look fun and put together but you also need to be comfy and weather-ready. You can see her original post here.
So here’s my Joyfully Dressed take on festival fashion (and writing this has made me sad as I realise I need to book myself into a a festival next year!)
🌦 RULE #1: Dress for the Weather
UK festivals are either wet or blazing, there is rarely an in-between! Check the weather before hand, and have a plan for outfits for various different. Ideally you want to take breathable layers you can chuck on or off throughout the day.
If its wet, a lightweight waterproof jacket (or even better – a statement rain poncho) is your best friend.
Warmer days, but worried about it getting cool in the evening, think about a light jacket (denim or not) that you can wear easily wrapped around your waist.
If it’s hot, go for breathable natural fabrics (like we were talking about last week) otton, linen, viscose, that won’t cling if you get sweaty.
👟 RULE #2: Solid Shoes Only
This is not the time for your cute-but-useless sandals, you are probably going to be on your feet all day, walk loads of miles (and hopefully get some dancing in too)
There is a reason you always see celebs, rocking up to these things with seriously solid footwear on (even when its warm)
Go for chunky boots, wellies, or even chunky trainers you don’t mind getting muddy. If you know its going to be dry, sturdy sandals you know can handle a bit of action are a must!
Add a little ankle sock in a contrast colour for a fun pop!
🎒 RULE #3: Be Hands-Free
A sensible bag is a must and a crossbody bag, belt bag, or rucksack keeps your hands free for dancing, eating, and waving your gin in the air when the headliner plays your favourite song.
✨ RULE #4: Pick a Hero Piece
Feeling overwhelmed about where to start? Choose one standout piece you love and build around it. This can be something you already own or a secondhand gem from Vinted/charity store etc.
Festival fashion might not be the time to splash out on something brand new unless you know you’ll wear it again, but Vinted is full of great options!
Hero piece ideas:
A printed kimono or duster over a simple vest and shorts
A fun graphic tee
A sequin jacket
A vibrant co-ord set
A crochet waistcoat or fringed top for that classic festival vibe
Think of the hero piece as the cherry on top of a standard outfit 🍒
🎭 RULE #5: Embrace the Joy
Everyone dresses up for festivals. It’s part of the joy! This is your moment to loudly lean into your Joyfully Dressed self.
No one will bat an eyelid at bold lipstick, clashing prints, sequins or face glitter – so go for it if that feels good. This is the time where you push yourself out of your comfort zone.
🧡 RULE #6: You Do You
Yes, there’s definitely a ‘look’ we often see at festivals, boho goddess, denim shorts, cowboy boots, flower crown etc or their is the extreme maximalist colour clashing glitter everywhere crowd. But don’t feel boxed in.
You absolutely don’t need to go full fringe-and-glitter unless you want to.
Maybe you’re more colour-pop jumpsuit, gold hoops, and a sleek ponytail kind of girl. Or maybe you want to wear a graphic tee and denim shorts. Whatever makes you feel joyful, comfy and confident, that’s your perfect festival outfit!
Some festival inspiration
🫶 Today’s JD quote: “Sometimes the joy is the point of the entire outfit”