I think everybody has come to terms with the fact that Coachella isn’t just a music festival anymore. It’s a cultural event, where the fashion, food, and fabulous parties are looked forward to just as much as the concerts.
Instead of the traditional post-event fashion recap, I thought this year it might be fun to offer outfit ideas inspired by years past as well as current trends to help decide your festival fashion. Who knows? With these tips, you could be the next Kate-Bosworth-in-an-American-flag-tee! (Don’t even pretend you forgot how much that picture circulated last year.) So read up and start packing! Coachella 2012 starts this weekend.
SHORT AND CHIC
Crop tops and short shorts are music festival essentials. They’ll keep you cool when you’re rocking out to Radiohead, and bonus: they’re super trendy this season.
Last year we saw a slew of variations on this look in Coachella fashion coverage. One of the most memorable? Vanessa Hudgens in a crocheted halter paired with high-waisted shorts.
This month on Chictopia, ChanelleNstuff styled a similar look with a Motel Rocks crop top, destroyed denim shorts, and a unique vintage jacket.
If you’re worried about being too exposed (you really won’t be, but still), try wearing a light cardigan, blazer, or utility jacket. Another option is to switch out the shorts for a sheer maxi skirt or a pair of high-waisted pants.
And if you don’t own a crop top or bralette, try making one with Syl & Sam’s simple DIY tutorial or even just wear a cute bathing suit top. That way, you’ll be prepared if there’s a pool at the celebrity afterparty you may find yourself attending.
For even more inspiration, check out these editorials:
> Anais Pouliot by Benny Horne for Oyster #98
> Ben Grimes by Nagi Sakai for Flair April 2012
FLOWER GIRL
For attendees who favor a more feminine style, all that’s required is a floaty dress and a handmade headband. This type of look is especially perfect if you want to express how bummed you are that Lana Del Rey didn’t make it in to the Coachella lineup this year.
Anyways, who doesn’t own a cute little sundress? Add some flat sandals or boots and BAM. Simplest look ever. Pick some flowers by the side of the road and weave them into a crown, or DIY one before you go.
At Coachella 2011, Alexa Chung wowed us in a simple white dress and flat sandals.
ariannaalexis here on Chictopia made a light maxi dress casual and totally festival-appropriate with a denim jacket and fringed boots.
Have a look at these editorials to get your creative juices flowing:
> Laragh McCann by Gemma Booth for Elle France
> Brynja Jónbjarnardóttir by Antia Pagant for Fashion Gone Rogue
PUNK PRINCESS
You know she’s really just here to see The Hives. This show-goer spices up their outfit with pops of neon and more than a few studs. The look is rare at a festival like Coachella where boho babes reign, but it’s sure to stand out.
An unnamed fashionista showed up last year in a neon yellow bandeau, equally bright red shows, and printed harem pants. Girl was ahead of the trend curve! Take note.
Chictopian DeVoreLeBeauMonstre wore a neon pink shift dress and a slouchy beanie with a simple backpack. Her creepers would be great shoes to wear for added height without sacrificing comfort.
You guessed it—here are some more great editorials:
> Josephine Skriver by Mark Kean for Wonderland April/May 2012
> Alyona Subbotina by Yossi Michaeli for Dazed & Confused Korea March 2012
BITS & PIECES
As I’m sure everyone knows, accessories can make or break an outfit. And when you’re tromping around in sunny and possibly muddy conditions, it’s important to be armed with the right ones. Namely, shoes and hats.
Because most of your time spent at Coachella will likely be outside, I recommend ditching your stilettos and instead opting for a pair of boots. A Chelsea boot is always popular, as is the cowboy and a pair of classic Hunters.
If you really must have the height of a heel, I recommend going for a low wedge or flatform so that you don’t sink into the grass! Try a comfy pair like the Ava from Chictopia rewards sponsor Kork-Ease.
A hat and sunglasses are also great to have to protect your eyes and face from ultraviolet rays. Be sure to wear sunscreen too, of course.
Try Forever 21 for inexpensive hats if you’re worried you may lose it in the mosh pit.
Invest in a nice pair of sunglasses, like these fun pink ones by Karen Walker.
Jewelry-wise…well, pile on everything you’ve got. Friendship bracelets, seeing eye rings—limb parties of all sorts run rampant. Don’t wear anything super cheap (cough, Forever 21 imitation metal) because it may turn your finger/arm/neck/earlobes green if you start to sweat.
Finally, now that you have your outfits picked out and appropriately accessorized, I bet you’re wondering what to do with your hair! Be sure to check out Blair’s super cute festival braid tutorials for ideas.
Are you going to Coachella? What will you wear? Leave a comment or send a tweet @everybodyisugly.
by Heather (headbandit)
main image via Posh 24
