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How to Build a Festival Outfit That’s Actually Comfortable (& Still Instagrammable)

Festival season always gives me that glimmer of hope that summer is right around the corner. Overnight, my Instagram feed is filled with blue skies and the first outfits of summer. But picking what you wear to a music festival can be a daunting task. With so many celebrity sighting and paparazzi pics, it can be easy to get carried away and spend your money on pieces you’ll never wear again. You can still be practical and budget-friendly when shopping for your festival ‘fits!

Not having to fidget with uncomfortable, impractical outfits allows you to focus on the music, friendship and energy of your favorite festival — TBH, that’s really what you came for. Here’s your guide from H2T of the festival essentials you’ll need to look fly, stay comfortable, and have the time of your life! 

 

Accessories

Pictured above: Brixton Joanna Hat, Forever 21 Shield Sunglasses, Hat Attack Crusher Hat

If you aren’t used to desert sunshine, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the high temperatures and beating sun that often come with. When thoughtfully planned, your festival accessories can offer some much-needed protection (but don’t forget the SPF). Unlike the tiny sunnies trend, shield sunglasses will actually keep the dust out of your eyes and wide-brimmed hats help shield your face from the rays. Let’s be real, nothing ruins a great day like a sunburn. 

Tops

Pictured above: Forever 21 V-Neck Swimsuit, Free People Mahalo Bodysuit, Privacy Please Cypress Bodysuit

Picture yourself sitting on top of your friend’s shoulders watching your favorite band. Great right? Now imagine your underwear are sticking out. Yikes! Moment ruined! By wearing a body suit you’ll be able to dance all day without coming untucked. You can make the most of your limited suitcase space by picking a one-piece swimsuit that you can wear straight to the pool party. 

Outerwear

Pictured above: Levi’s Trucker Jacket, Free People Spellbound Kimono, ASTR the Label Sawyer Windbreaker

When it comes to outerwear, you’ll want something lightweight and versatile. An eyecatching printed kimono is lightweight and breezy, making it the perfect beach coverup post ‘Chella. A lightweight windbreaker is easy for scrunching up and tossing in your backpack when you’re on the go. 

Bottoms

Pictured above: TNA Alix Pants, Levi’s High Rise Mom Shorts, Alo Bike Shorts

Comfort is key when it comes to the bottom half of your festival ‘fit. A pair of loose cargo pants or denim shorts won’t restrict you when you’re doing the shuffle. If you’re having on of those days where you cannot wear real pants, bike shorts are your go-to. Plus, you’ll use them at the gym sweating out all the delicious fried food you lived off of. 

Bags

Pictured above: Fila Neon Fanny Pack, Halogen Croc Embossed Bag, Opening Ceremony Corduroy Fanny Pack

There’s only one bag I’m using this summer! Fanny packs and belt bags, whatever you choose to call them, are a must-have for festival-goers. They’ll leave both hands free and gives you easy access to your phone, wallet, and (if you’re anything like me) snacks. You’ll only want to carry the essentials anyway when you’re hopping from stage to stage.

Footwear

Pictured above: Fila Trailblazers, Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Boots, Tevas Flatforms

The right shoes can seriously make or break your whole festival experience. Sounds dramatic, but when you’re on your feet all day, blisters can really ruin your fun. You can still make a fashion statement while keeping comfort your priority. Opt for a practical pair of comfy sneaks or thick-soled sandals or go bold in a pair of trendy Western boots. 

Now it’s almost time to dance in the sun, enjoy the music … and snap a few pics for the ‘Gram. Remember to tag @hercampusstyle on all your festival pics and have a blast! 

Sarah Maberry is a fashion writer based in NYC. She is graduating in 2019 with a dual degree in Fashion Business Management from FIT and Apparel Design and Merchandising from Seattle Pacific University. Sarah started her writing career at the SPU Chapter of Her Campus and has since worked with various publications for event coverage and style writing. When she isn't busy writing she loves running, watching That 70's Show, and finding the best $1 pizza in Manhattan.