Time to shine
My rails are a treasure trove of colour, print, sequins and faux fur. Here are my six top festival must-haves.
Take a hat
If you want instant impact a rhinestone captain hat is the answer. Not always the most practical for all day wear, it’s a good idea to also take headwear that will pack away easily and is waterproof. Enter the bucket hat. This will keep the sun out of your eyes and the rain off. If you’re looking for more of a boho vibe how about a cowboy hat or wide-brimmed straw hat. You can even customise it yourself with feathers, beads and flowers.
Choose your footwear carefully
If you can be sure of sun, take your sandals. They’re great for use in communal showers too. Wellies are perfect for muddy conditions but can be uncomfortable when worn all day so remember to have a back up pair of shoes. You’ll be standing, walking and dancing all day so cowboy boots, DMs, walking boots or trainers are all great choices. But make sure they’re broken in and this is not the first time you’re wearing them.
A functional coat is essential
In the UK you definitely need something waterproof. It’s tempting to choose style over practicality but there are lots of colourful jackets or ponchos that are lightweight and take up very little space. Layering works well rather than a big heavy coat. Think bomber jackets, fringed suede or faux fur and something fleecy can be very welcome on those cool evenings.
Essential sequins
Sequins are standard festival wear but not everyone wants to go full on sequin queen. A sequin bum bag will instantly add wow-factor to your outfit and it’s practical too. Jumpsuits look fantastic and are ideal for dancing. The drawback is when you need the loo. Something to consider. Other options are sequin shorts, mini-skirts, trousers or bombers. Pair with oversized statement tees. Balance glam with comfort. And don’t forget the face glitter.
Kimono
I never go to a festival without a kimono or two. They are perfect for layering, elevating a plain outfit and so versatile. Depending on your style choose sequins, floaty silk or lace, tie dye or sari hippie, florals, crochet, sparkle and tassels, velvet devore boho-chic Stevie Nicks inspired.
Mix and match patterns and textures
Leopard print works well with sequins. Lush velvet or embroidered vintage kimonos look a dream over camo pants for that feminine- meets-grunge look. A kimono looks good over anything whether it’s ripped shorts and graphic tees, a bohemian dress, wide legged palazzo pants or a psychedelic jumpsuit. On the other hand, you can just wear it over jeans and a white top.
Article also appears in Velvet Magazine
Photos: Method Studios Photography
Model: Liz Barker
