Sarah Young hunts down the essentials for partying in style
Festival season is well and truly underway with the king of them all, Glastonbury, kicking off from 21-25 June. But from the get-go, when it comes to festival dressing, what you wear matters just as much as the location of your tent.
If you head for the dedicated fashion aisles, you’re bound to be faced with a barrage of day-glo halter bodysuits, sequins and glitter-a-go-go. And, while dressing like a walking disco ball might sound like a good idea, it’s not very practical. With the Great British weather to contend with, it’s possible to experience all four seasons in just one day so the key here is to pile on the layers. Come rain or shine, these wardrobe essentials will help you survive summer’s most hedonistic party in style.
Rains Waterproof Jacket, £75, rains.com
An obvious one, but you’d be surprised at how many people forget and end up having to stroll around in a makeshift poncho, bin-bag style. Instead, shelter from unexptected showers or an evening chill with a lightweight waterproof jacket like this one from rains. Not only will this casual piece serve as functional garb but it will also earn you some serious style points too. Sleek yet basic, it’s easy and comfortable to wear and comes in a myriad of shades from classic black to bright yellow. Our favourite though is this muted moon shade that promises to go with everything in your wardrobe.
Orange Ditsy Floral Print Dress, £24.99, newlook.com
Whatever the weather, dresses will always have a place in the festival-goer’s wardrobe arsenal. For serious boho-style, we suggest investing in a floral number like this orange one from New Look. Not only does the vibrant colour and floral print mean it will stand out under a coat but if you’re lucky enough to see some sunshine you’ll stay cool in the summer heat. Pair yours with chunky socks and willies or a pair of ankle boots to finish.
Stud Leather Bag, £59.99, mango.com
While a roomy rucksack might seem like the best idea for a festival, when you’ve been out and about all day the weight will start to irritate your back. Instead, we suggest opting for a trendy cross body style that will always be in sight and leave your hands free for drinking or throwing your hands in the air like you just don’t care. Keep things classic with a design like this festival-ready number that’s covered in gold studs and comes with a handy adjustable strap. Also available in tan brown.
Ellis Chelsea Boot, £228, allsaints.com
Festivals require a fair amount of walking from stage to stage, not to mention dancing the night away so a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. That being said, if you’re in for good weather and want to look the part a pair of sturdy ankle boots will do the trick. Opt for a pair like these Chelsea boots from All Saints with a little height and studs ala festival queen Kate Moss. Crafted from super-smooth cow leather, they’re guaranteed to fit like a dream – just be careful not to get your toes trodden on mid-mosh pit.