During SXSW, the entire city is transformed for more than a week, featuring big events and special surprises. Thus, this is not your typical festival. We’ve gathered some style tips (with looks provided by Blue Velvet Vintage), based on years of riding the wave that is SXSW.
Comfort is key
It’s not uncommon to attend events in neighborhoods on the outskirts of downtown and then trek back to the heart of it all to get in line for your next event. Parties are spread all over, and parking is a nightmare. If you are wearing the right footwear, though, you can easily and comfortably get from one party to the next.
Low-top sneakers like Keds or shoes with little to no heel will make your life so much easier. Chicago native Michelle Rexilius pulls this off effortlessly by wearing slip-on shoes from Zara and a fun '80s print jacket to brave the cold. If you don’t plan on doing too much walking, wedges are another great option. They give your feet support and height, so that you can see over all those heads at the concerts.
Don’t try too hard
If there's one thing Austin has going for it, it’s the laid-back vibe. You can avoid looking overdone by browsing local thrift stores for fun T-shirts, skirts, and shorts. And don’t be afraid to wear color — it is March after all!
Accessorize with a purpose
Be prepared and stylish: Add flare to your outfit by pairing it with multifunctional accessories. Wear a wide-brimmed hat; you never know if a short shower will pass through or if the sun will be blazing.
Cross body bags and backpacks offer comfort when carrying all of your goods and swag around. Shades are a necessity too. They make you look instantly cool and keep out the harsh sunlight. Plus, if you bring your own, you won’t have to wear the free ones covered in logos.
Look like a tourist in your own city
SXSW is the perfect opportunity to break out your vacation gear, and pairing a fun vacation T-shirt with a straw hat is a cool, kitschy way to look like a visitor in your own city. The festival does transform the city after all.
High-waisted shorts from Blue Velvet Vintage paired with cross body bag.
DIIV's set was moody, but propulsive thanks to strong bass lines.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Zachary Cole Smith can always be counted on for a nostalgic 'fit.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Starcleaner Reunion singer Jo Roman keeps the beat.Photo by Brianna Caleri
From the looks of it, no one had a better time onstage than Wayne Coyne, frontman of the Flaming Lips.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The tinsel whip was one of many props.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Flaming Lips are known for touring with huge inflatables.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A joyful crowd reacts to being blasted with confetti during the Flaming Lips' set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Ty Segall was king of the guitar jams.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Segall's painted jeans were probably the most unique fashion statement all weekend.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Psych Fest uniform: Earthy shorts and calf tattoos.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thomas Attar Bellier of Al-Qasar plays a beautifully adorned electric saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The more mics, the better for Al-Qasar.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A closer look at the saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Lyrics in Arabic brought extra gravitas to the set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
How's that for a desert hallucination?Photo by Brianna Caleri
New Candys guitarist Emanuele Zanardo puts a physical flourish in his playing.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A portal opens...Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Black Angels interrupted the technicolor parade for a largely black-and-white set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Black Angels bassist Misti Hamrick-French basks in the cold glow of a strobe light.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Dumbo Gets Mad reminds us that Italians just get fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Luca Bergomi gets in on bassist Ivan Torelli's shot.Photo by Brianna Caleri
LA LOM bassist Jake Faulkner captures the sun.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Zac Sokolow danced for the whole set, which happened to be on his birthday.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's grandstanding added flavor to the show, which ultimately didn't need psychedelic visuals.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's howls cut through the air, hardly amplified.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Trish Toledo paid homage to mothers and couples in her romantic set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Not a practical shoe for a rainy weekend. We salute her sacrifice for fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thee Sacred Souls closed out the festival with a brass section.Photo by Brianna Caleri
This backup singer was exquisitely styled in blue.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Singer Josh Lane snapped a photo of an adoring audience. See you next time, Josh.Photo by Brianna Caleri