As festival season arrives, it is time to start planning those outfits. But before you rush to the shops and contribute to the cycle of fast fashion, you can explore a more sustainable and affordable approach to festival fashion. Remember, the most sustainable thing in your wardrobe is what is already in your wardrobe.
Rediscover Yours Wardrobe & Your Friends Wardrobes
Before hitting the shops, take a closer look at what you already own. Chances are, there are hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Why not make it into a fun social event and turn it into a mini clothes swap. Set the atmosphere vibe by putting on some music, have some food and drinks. Experiment with different combinations, mix and match outfits, you will be surprised by the fresh looks you can create together.
Buy Second-hand
Not only does buying second-hand add excitement and variety to your festival wardrobe, but it also promotes sustainability by extending the lifespan of clothing. It is often cheaper than buying new as well as gives the opportunity more unique outfits due to the nature of buying one-off pieces versus mass-marketed product from stores. It is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Buying second-hand has come a long way from charity shops and boot sales. There are a number of resale platforms and auctions sites as well as independent retailers both online and instore that offer a carefully curated selection of pieces to suit all tastes, styles and budgets. These platforms offer a treasure trove of pre-loved and vintage items, perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind festival ensemble. By purchasing second-hand clothing, you’re giving these pieces a new life while reducing demand for new production. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and discover gems that are guaranteed to stand out in the crowd. The nature of shopping this way, rekindles the thrill and pleasures of shopping that is sometimes lost in this current age. Shopping second-hand can therefore leave you feeling good on the inside for more than one reason and looking good on the outside!
Seek Inspiration & Embrace Iconic Festival-Chic
If you are stuck on what to choose, take inspiration from past festival-chic icons like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Alexa Chung. These style influencers have left a lasting impact on festival fashion. Look to their iconic looks from the 90s and early 2000s, as the 90s trend is making a strong comeback. From bohemian dresses to denim cut-offs, floppy hats, and statement accessories, you can recreate their effortless and timeless whilst adding your own personal stamp on it. The fact that the 90s and 00s fashions have hit the fashion history cycle you may even find some vintage gems from these eras that make your look even better.
One of the most incredible aspects of festivals is the vibrant community that comes together. Take inspiration from the artists performing and the unique styles of fellow festival-goers. Let the atmosphere and creativity around you inspire your fashion choices. Festivals are a melting pot of diverse fashion influences, so do not be afraid to experiment and infuse your own personality into your outfits. Embrace the spirit of celebration, self-expression, and individuality.
DIY and Upcycling
Unleash your creativity by embracing DIY and upcycling projects. Transform old band t-shirts into crop tops, distressed jeans into stylish shorts, or add unique embellishments to plain garments. Personalise your festival outfits with patches, embroidery, or fabric paint. By repurposing and upcycling items. If you are not the best sewer, you can use iron-on patches, fabric glue and iron-on hemming tape to get the same effect.
Wise Investments and Rotating Wardrobe
When selecting festival clothing items, choose wisely and opt for pieces that can be worn beyond the festival season. Look for versatile garments that can be styled differently for various occasions. If you’re attending the festival as a group, consider sharing items on rotation with your friends. This way, you will all have access to a wider variety of clothing options without the need for individual purchases. Embrace the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone by trying new colours or styles, allowing your festival fashion to be a source of inspiration and self-expression.
Accessorise to Update and Elevate Outfits
Accessories play a crucial role in transforming and updating any outfit. They can breathe new life into old favourites and add a touch of personal style. Instead of splurging on a whole new outfit, invest in accessories that can be mixed and matched with different clothing items. Statement jewellery, hats, sunglasses, belts, scarves, and even funky socks can instantly elevate your look. These smaller investments can go a long way in extending the longevity of your wardrobe while adding flair to your festival ensembles.
Don’t Take It Too Seriously, Cherish the Moments, Not Just the Outfits
While festival fashion is undoubtedly exciting, it’s important not to stress about it too much. Remember, the primary reason you’re attending a festival is to have fun, enjoy the music, and create unforgettable memories. Don’t let the pressure of finding the perfect outfit overshadow the experience itself. Embrace the laid-back, carefree spirit of festivals and let your fashion choices reflect that. Choose comfort and practicality without compromising on style.
Keep in mind that the most cherished memories from a festival are often the incredible experiences, the people you meet, and the mesmerising performances you witness. When you look back on the festival, it is the emotions and connections that will stand out, rather than the specific garments you wore. So, while it is important to look and feel great, remember that the true essence of a festival lies in the joy and camaraderie it brings. Focus on investing your energy in creating wonderful memories rather than obsessing over your wardrobe.
Conclusion
Festival fashion can be both sustainable and stylish. By shopping your own wardrobe, hosting clothing swaps, exploring resale platforms, and drawing inspiration from past festival-chic icons, you can create memorable and eco-friendly outfits. Accessorizing with carefully chosen pieces allows you to update your look without breaking the bank and ensures the longevity of your wardrobe. However, it’s important not to take festival fashion too seriously. Remember, the true essence of a festival lies in the experiences and connections you make. Prioritise those moments over stressing about your attire. Choose wisely, be creative, and let your festival fashion journey reflect your personal style and the vibrant energy of the festival itself. Embrace the joy and freedom of festival fashion while minimising your environmental impact and making unforgettable memories.
Written by Heather Delaney, Founder of Recrea.
