While the Glastonbury line up is one of the most talked about topics in the lead up to festival season, close behind it is what are people wearing?
While there are some returning trends year after year – Hunter wellies and denim shorts to name a few – festival style has changed massively since the pandemic, with many now embracing comfort and everyday trends.
1. Boho chic
Boho has been back for a while, and while it may be petering out on the high-street, this year’s festivals are the perfect places to sport it.
“I love how boho has had a huge revival and in perfect timing for festival season,” says celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson. “Think the Chloé runway meets mud and fields. Crochet dresses, fringing, earthy tones – Vanessa Hudgens is your go-to for inspo.”
Bohemian style has drifted in and out of the fashion spotlight since its heyday in the free-spirited Seventies – but it truly caught fire again in the early 2000s, when icons like Sienna Miller and the Olsen twins made it their signature, teaming floaty blouses with oversized belts and studded boots.
Stylist Sian Clarke in partnership with Michael Kors, confirms that the boho trend is here to stay, noting an 83% spike in search interest.
“Crochet is super versatile,” she says. “Consider styling a crochet halter neck with denim shorts and cowboy boots for warmer festival days.”
New Look Dark Brown Metal Buckle Disc Belt, £17.99
2. Nineties jorts
While boho chic may be evoking the 2000s, the rise of baggy jorts – or jean shorts – is throwing festival fashion back to the Nineties.
“We are seeing a rise in the new summer staple, the jort,” says Ranson, “yes, the longline short, which is actually a great style for every body type, so that’s a win for any stylist.”
Schuh Cowan Sqaure Toe Hardwear in Brown, £46.99 (was £95)
3. Utility core
Another trend offering a more laid-back look in comparison to boho chic is utility core.
“Comfort is key, we aren’t here for being in pain for fashion when it comes to festival fun,” says Ranson, “oversized cargo pants, waistcoats, Timberlands, desert neutrals [are all the rage].”
Utility core is like a combination of Lara Croft and Euphoria, taking functional silhouettes and pairing them with suede or metallic finishes and face gems.
Timberland Brown Premium 6 Inch Boots, £106 (was £190), Urban Outfitters
4. Disco cowboy
While cowboy boots were in last summer, this season the ‘disco cowboy’ is making waves with metallic fringe and studded Western boots.
“Cowboy boots make everything look cool,” says Ranson, “Even if you are wearing a vest and denim shorts they can completely elevate your look.”
And if you’re facing unpredictable weather – which is likely during a UK festival – they’re a great pick. “Cowboy boot wellies have emerged from the western trend,” says Clarke. “These hybrid heroes give you the best of both worlds: practical for being weatherproof wellingtons and in trend.”
Metallics are the cherry on top. With searches for ‘metallic and fringe jackets’ up by 69%, they’re clearly the after-dark must-have.
Public Desire Brown Folklore Faux Suede Contrast Stitch Boots, £49.99, New Look
5. Timeless vintage
This year more than ever, festival goers are leaning into vintage gems.
“A main shift I would say is it being more about vintage finds,” says Ranson. “A vintage band tee is an easy safe option, teamed with a floaty skirt, fringed denim, or a dress over the top.
“It can work through any trend, year after year.”
Layered jewellery and a solid pair of retro trainers – a nod to the F1 trend – can give any outfit the edge it needs.
The key to making vintage look good is balancing your look. So if you’re going for an oversized T-shirt or jacket, pair it with a smaller bottom silhouette.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Clean Zip Denim Jacket, £54.99 (£80)
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Urban Outfitters Piper Bengaline Stripe Shorts, £36