Summer Fashion
Summer music festival fashion guide: What to wear for a rockin' good time
Get ready, because summer festival season is upon us. As long as you have your CamelBak strapped on tight (hydration is key, folks), sunglasses secured with croakies (80 percent chance your Ray Bans will somehow disappear) and an Instagram-worthy outfit, you’re set.
If you are struggling with that last one, I’ll do my best to put my years of festival experiences to the test and help find you the perfect outfit.
Some pointers you may want to consider: Will sweat show in this? Is it flattering when I’m not sucking in and standing up my straightest? And of course you are dressing to have fun, but what would you do if you ran into an old teacher (yes, this has happened to me) or even your boss?
Let's get to it.
Jorts
Ah jorts, Austin's summer uniform. If you are showing any midriff, high-waisted shorts are an absolute must. They’re flattering — if you find the right fit — and pretty comfy. Feel free to steer away from the boring blue jean and go for a fun color or print if you’re keeping it simple up top.
Crop Tops
I keep highlighting this kind of top because I’m considering comfort here. Do you really want to be outside for eight hours in a long-sleeve garment? Of course not. Also, jump around a bit when you’re trying things on (do everyone a favor and make sure everything stays in place).
Sundresses
If you like to be a little more free, this light, flowy sundress is your perfect pick even when the sun's not shining. Floral prints can really enhance a summer vibe here. Also, if you plan on getting on anyone's shoulders, perhaps a fun romper like this one would be the smarter choice.
Shoes
If you're preparing for the rain, wear either something like an old pair of Converse or Vans. Now is not the time to break out your cutest pair of summer sandals, because the last place people will be looking is at your feet.
Fanny pack
My go-to accessory in life is the fanny pack. Laugh all you want, but I have never lost a purse at a big event or had the burden of carrying one around all day. It is the perfect place to keep your cash, phone, sunscreen, Chapstick, gum, you name it, without anything getting soaked. You can also attach a hat or cover up to the side of it if when the weather is constantly changing.
Rain Plan
My last pieces of advice when it comes to preparing for the worst:
- Wear clothing that won't draw eyes when wet, and perhaps pack an extra tank to change into for your post-festival activities,
- Invest in some waterproof eye makeup, no one wants raccoon eyes,
- Pack some extra plastic grocery bags or Ziplocs for your valuables,
- Flappy sandals will absolutely be devoured by the mud, and rainboots, although cute, will be way too heavy and a big burden. Go for something in-between that is really strapped to your feet but light,
- A small umbrella or even poncho can easily be strapped onto the side of your bag (but bring a cheap one, it will be the first thing you dump if it stops raining),
- If you're driving, pack beach towels in the trunk that you don't bring into the festival to protect your seats on the ride home.
So have fun, look cute and know that when it rains, the only thing you'll have to worry about is your hair.
Festival style has evolved over the past few years. Attendees used to dress according to the mood of the festival; now it's about fitting the mood of your favorite headlining artist. Paulina Valencia and Maria Julia showed up to Day One ready to party with Charli XCX. Photo by Kenn Box
Despite the unusual weather, Elena Hobbes managed to make a classic boho outfit work with some practical footwear. Photo by Kenn Box
If you couldn't tell from the first few images, sequins were all over the festival grounds. Caeil Hwang styled herself in an asymmetrical sequined top and some moto boots with a western flare. Photo by Kenn Box
If you remember the 2000s, then you'll remember the Canadian tuxedo was a style staple. Flash forward two decades and it seems to have made its return, now with a more modern and structured fit. Maria Dupont styled herself in her best denim set for the utmost comfort. Photo by Kenn Box
Christian Hatley showed up to Day Two of the festival prepared and stylish. Photo by Kenn Box
Bringing the mid-2020s party girl vibe, Nidhi Kashyap's look is not only trendy but functional.Photo by Kenn Box
Camo and baby pink is always a cute pair! Deanna Harris is throwing it back to the Y2K era with her cropped graphic tank top and mini skirt. Early 2000s meets country chic in this look. Photo by Kenn Box
It's easy to focus on recreational festival-goers' style, but what about those there to work? Photographer Ryder Cavazos showed up to take some photos in style this year. Photo by Kenn Box
ACL Fest fashion has always had a hint of playfulness to it. Kenley Dunawai sported a South Park mini skirt paired with a black tank top. Photo by Kenn Box
Festival-goers don't need to reach out for Coachella and Marfa; Austin has its own sense of style. Luke Bame's camo shorts and fur vest are a prime example of what Austin's youth are wearing currently. Photo by Kenn Box
"Whismy" is a word that's been trending for quite some time now, and it's the perfect one to use for Audrey Dahlkemper's ACL Fest fit, from her printed rain boots to the tulle skirt.Photo by Kenn Box
Neutral tones are here to stay. Sara Chaney rocks a pair of sturdy Doc Martens to help her trek through the muddy grounds.Photo by Kenn Box
Vintage pieces are a staple in Austin. Andrew Silvas was seen sporting a vintage graphic tank and a classic pair of denim pants on Day Three of the festival. Photo by Kenn Box
Carrington Joseph puts a fun twist on the denim trend with her denim vest. Of course, the look isn't complete without her beaded accessories. Photo by Kenn Box
Negin Nekoonam is the effortlessly cool girl in her white dress accessorized with mud.Photo by Kenn Box
The psychedelic rave combo is one of the best subcultures in ACL Fest street style. Jamison Schilling had the defining countercultural look — though it may become mainstream as the festival begins to book more rave-friendly DJs. (And how about that muddy ombré effect?)Photo by Kenn Box
Graphic tees, camo, and Hunter boots formed a combo seen all over the grounds. Hayley Sherman was spotted wearing all three in the most stylish manner. Photo by Kenn Box
Comfort was key this year. Chantel Smith managed to style comfortable pieces into a cohesive and unique look. Photo by Kenn Box
Trucker hats are making big waves in fashion at the moment. Arden Loss is seen wearing an "I Heart Hot Dads" trucker hat paired with a floral babydoll dress. Photo by Kenn Box
The best festival fits make good use of accessories, and Ashley Galvan is the queen of accessorizing. Photo by Kenn Box
For Baylee Tincher and Peter Jones this year, style was about attitude and performance.Photo by Kenn Box
The protective footwear micro-trend will go down in ACL Fest history.Photo by Kenn Box