It's getting to be that time of year. With Coachella around the corner, I get asked a lot what's best to wear at a music festival. And whenever I go to a music festival, especially in the summer, I see girls wearing completely wrong clothes that they end up dying in from the heat. I've been attending outdoor music festivals since I was 13 and I also deal with the Vegas heat every summer...so listen up. Here, I give you some examples of what to wear and advice on how to survive summer music festivals.
You're going to want to keep your outfits light, airy and fairly minimal. Comfort is key and what you really need to pay attention to when picking out an outfit because you're going to be out there wearing this for hours. Don't wear clothes that are really heavy; you'll regret it in the high heat. Also, don't wear clothes that you just bought. If it's new you'll either a) not know how it will hold up throughout the day, or b) will probably see a lot of girls wearing it too if you bought it from popular stores like Forever 21 or Urban Outfitters. You want to make sure the material breathes well. Stick with things that are sheer and with lighter colors.
High-low skirts and dresses are great because they are usually sheer, comfortable and still stylish. Shorts are classic and easy to pair with. You can't go wrong with shorts. I'm a fan of really comfortable, simple, light dress for festivals. Dresses are usually easy to match with. What I will probably be sporting at the music festivals I go to will be bralets and bandeau tops. I'm quite loving the aztec bandeau I put at the top right because of the light colors, summery vibe, and it seems like it's very light to wear. Pair it with some denim shorts, and you're good. If the festival you're attending will go on until the night, bring a light cardigan as the temperature drops.
You're going to want to protect yourself a lot from the sun. So, WEAR SUNSCREEN! I cannot stress that enough. Apply and reapply throughout the day! Also wear hats! Fedoras are cute and look good on everyone. Wide brim, floppy hats are better because they will keep your face in the shade. Don't forget your sunnies! Keep accessories to a minimum. It's all about simplicity. Don't wear necklaces or earrings that are really heavy to wear. Wear really comfortable shoes! Stick with flats, short combat boots, and even sandals that have a strap. Don't wear flip-flops because you'll most likely lose them or they will at least come off at some point in the day. If you're going to be in the crowd a lot, or even moshing, wear closed-toe shoes. Nothing worse than having your feet stepped on! I would even wear comfy converse. Whatever you do, don't wear heels. You don't want to be that girl at the end of the night who is walking around barefoot, holding her stilletos. If you're going to bring a bag, bring a small over-the-shoulder bag and keep essentials (wallet, keys, lip balm, gum, hand sanitizer, etc.).
As far as general tips, plan ahead. If it's like Coachella and a schedule is released ahead of time, use it to plan who you are seeing while leaving room to explore vendors, other bands and food. You'll never know if you may discover your new favorite band or food there. Make sure you have extra cash because you'll never know what will come up and vendors and food can get pricey. Go with friends and make sure you have a meeting spot incase you get lost. And make sure your phone is fully charged and ready to go for the day. I wouldn't use it too much, especially if your phone has a poor battery life. Bring a camera, you'll want to remember it all!
The most important thing to remember at music festivals is to STAY HYDRATED. Drink plenty of water throughout the entire day. If you can bring your own, do it! Water in the venue will probably cost a lot anyway. Some festivals supply refill stations for water bottles, so take advantage of that especially if the water is cold. Take breaks every now and then in the shade. Don't push yourself by staying in the heat the entire time...trust me (don't be like the idiot 14 year old me who did that and ended up with extreme heat exhaustion).
Overall, HAVE FUN! I'll be attending Warped Tour and EDC (this guide probably doesn't apply to EDC, haha) this year as far as festivals, and possibly more. Leave a comment with what music festivals you'll be attending this year and any additional tips you have! I'm sure we can all learn from it.
