Fashion for festivals should be creative, fun and liberating. However, as with other occasions, trends can blur and become, dare we even say, tired. Fringe vests, cut-off jeans shorts or both? Not exactly revolutionary. We’re looking to A-List celebrities to inspire our festival outfit ideas, instead of previous Coachella, Stagecoach and Burning Man looks. Where else can you find looks as spectacular as those on the red carpets, concert stages and front rows at fashion shows.
No, we’re not suggesting that you add the cost for a two-piece couture set to your Coachella budget. These eight celebrity-inspired outfits for festivals are not about copying and pasting but rather about conceptual trends which capture the spirit and energy of music festivals. They’re about creativity, celebration and the ability to endure all the fun your wristband allows you. The looks inspired by Dua Lipa, Zendaya and others will fill your festival fashion inspiration tank.
Hardcore Softness
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Dua Lipa, at the 2024 Brit Award After Party, was a master in mixing edgy outerwear and ultra-feminine underpinnings to create a look that was as rock ‘n’ roll as it softly romantic. The combination of layered lingerie with an oversized jacket will keep you warm in the evening chill.
Look for the Silver Lining
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We were stunned when we saw Jodie’s Gucci revealing outfit at the LACMA art+film Gala. It was because we had never seen two separates look so striking. A chainmail-inspired black maxi skirt and a bralette with a similar design. You can complete your festival look with a pair mud and dust resistant combat boots or mudboots.
Diamante is a girl’s best friend
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Ashley Graham’s mesh-and-crystal maxi dress is a great example of how you don’t have to be covered in diamonds to shine at a festival. Look for a dress that has a little stretch to allow for more freedom of movement. Graham also added a couple of body chains.
No Pants? No Problem
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We believe that festival season is the only time we can leave our homes without pants. So we’re going to take full advantage with a bodysuit. You may want to wear sheer tights and an outerwear layer with this pantsless festival look, or you may not. Kristen Stewart wore both at the Love Lies Bleeding premiere. We recommend adding boots and boobtap regardless of the weather or your personal style.
All That Glitters
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Accessories like elbow-length gloves and tights with embellishments can transform a basic look into something stunning. Zoe Lister Jones’s Wiederhoeft Oscars After Party outfit was not plain. But the sheer gloves, and crystal-encrusted thigh high stockings took it to another level. Glittering tights can make your festival look and feel more electric.
Fantastical Fringe
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Fringe is now synonymous with festival style. We don’t mean to disparage westernwear which will likely see a sartorial revival in the wake Cowboy Carter. But we prefer Miley’s metallic take on this trend. Miley Cyrus’s vintage Bob Mackie outfit, which she wore at the Grammys to perform, had all the movement and sparkle that this design element is known for.
Flower Power
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Rosettes are still the most popular floral embellishment in fashion, but we love the cool, ’70s inspired florals seen on Janelle Monae’s David Koma floral outfit worn at a pre Grammy’s event. This floral-forward festival outfit pays homage to the history’s most iconic music festival, without adding bulky adornments.
A Night of Shining Armor
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You don’t have to wear a full armor suit like Zendaya wore for the Dune Part 2 London Premier. There are many ways to capture the vintage Mugler Couture spirit while still being able move your arms and leg with ease. Silver metallic catsuits with body chains and layered bangles are a great way to achieve the same look with more flexibility.