Spring is in full swing and that means summer is just around the corner. If you know how to have a good time, chances are you’re going to be headed to some festivals this season. You can’t just wear any old thing, you need duds that are going to make you stand out in the crowd. Just be sure to stand out in all the right ways and avoid those festival fashion faux pas like neon Native-American headdresses. Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself before you leave the hotel room to catch your favorite DJ:
Am I Prepared for the Weather?
You can’t go wrong with board shorts and a tank top from a fashion standpoint, but it might not be what you need to protect you from that blazing Indio, California sun. You won’t have to sacrifice fashion for practicality when you invest in a clean snapback or name brand baseball cap. Do yourself and the other attendees a favor; leave the bucket hat at home. This isn’t Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, it’s a music festival. Make sure you have plenty of sunscreen on before you leave—there is always a chance that security is going to confiscate yours as you come in.
Did I Over Accessorize?
Guys, keep it classy and simple. You don’t want to be that dude wearing oversized shutter shades or a goofy top hat with steam punk goggles. Keep it sleek and sexy with something like a quartz watch from MVMT. These quartz watches will have you turning heads from the stage to your wrist. Don’t be surprised if you hear, “bro where’d you get that watch?” 50 times a day.
Accessories are meant to be just that, accessories. If your accessories are turning into the main focus of your outfit than you’re doing it wrong. A silver chain or nice pair of sunglasses should be what you have in mind; picture what Ryan Gosling looks like walking his dog and go from there.
Should I Wear Jeans or Shorts?
Jeans are always a plus when it comes to style points but you might overheat depending on the festival you go to. Headed to Outside Lands? Jeans are going to be your best friend since the weather in San Francisco can be quite cold—even in August. If you’re Coachella bound, you can count jeans out of your festival wardrobe.
Sandals, Shoes, or Flip Flops?
Flip flops are great for the beach and barbecues—just not festivals. It might seem like a good idea but after the 10th person has stepped on your toes or jammed one of your nails you’re going to be living in a world of pain and regret. If you accidently kick one off in a crowd, don’t expect to find it again.
Sandals are a small step-up from flip flops as far as foot protection goes. As long as your sandals have plenty of support and are made from a soft quality material, they can be a viable option.
Shoes are always the best option for both style and comfort. Get yourself a fresh pair of Nikes with all the arch support you’re going to need to stand on your feet all day in a crowd. They will likely get covered in dirt, so make sure they can be washed after the festival with no damage to the materials.
Will I be Warm at Night?
Depending on the festival, it can be especially challenging to come up with an outfit that is going to keep you comfortable during both the day and night. The trick is to wear layers that can easily be carried. A flannel or long sleeve shirt that can be tied around the waste or stashed in a small backpack can be a lifesaver when the sun goes down. You don’t want to be faced with the decision of heading back to the hotel room for a jacket or suffering through the cold for the rest of the night. That sunburn is only going to make the decision even more difficult.
When it comes to festival fashion, you should have a little fun but don’t go too crazy. Moderation is key if you don’t want to scare off any potential dance partners.