An Ethical Shopping Guide to Festival Fashion in 2021

The Edit

An Ethical Shopping Guide to Festival Fashion in 2021

As COVID-delayed summer soirees make their return, it’s time to navigate the choppy waters of festival dressing—sustainably, of course.

By Lindsay Samson

Aug 3, 2021

Picking out the perfect outfit to wear to a music festival is hard because it has to be so many things: comfortable, able to transition from day to night, and, most importantly, stylish. And though great music, beautiful venues, delicious food, and the promise of gorgeous weather are often the draw, so is the opportunity to finally whip out (and thoroughly document via Instagram, of course) a range of perfectly styled outfits and celebrate the world’s tentative return to “normal”. All that’s left to decide is where to go and what to wear. Read on for our breakdown of the four festival style personas and their event of choice, and discover which one resonates best with you.

Boho Babe

We all know her. She’s the forest nymph found at festivals like Coachella, clad in floaty floral frocks, paisley crop tops, high-waisted jeans, summer sandals, and, of course, the requisite flower crown. Simple? Perhaps. Boring? Not a chance. Studio 189’s Aggie Crop Top and matching Aggie Alicia skirt possess all the touches one would expect of this archetype’s style. Its color (a marriage of tropical green with indigo), materiality (soft cotton), and shape (billowing and spacious) all come together to exude an air of carefree playfulness and easygoing glamour. Pair with the practical black Nafa Belt Bag by Bouswari, then finish the look off by stepping into a pair of Loza Maléombho’s classically chic sandals and allow its luxe take on casual to add an element of polish to your ensemble.

Art(sy) Angel

The return of festival season and the opportunity to get down in the desert is this style archetype’s raison d'etre. Boasting the eclectic tastes of a carefree art student and led by a love of tie-dye, oversized silhouettes, and more than likely bare feet, the Artsy Angel is no doubt a Burning Man or AfrikaBurn regular. And though she doesn't necessarily follow a set of prescribed rules when it comes to fashion, comfort is always a priority. The Parachute Top and Dress by Nkwo are tie-dyed statement-makers that feature adjustable drawstrings which allow the wearer to temper the oversized fit as they please. Pair it with a belt bag like Reform Studio’s Gonzo style that will easily ensure the safety of your belongings. And don’t forget to keep an oversized jacket close to protect you from late-night temperature drops!

Dancing Queen

Certain festivals were made for dancing (just look at the always-packed crowds of revelers that fill up festivals like Ultra Music Festival), so if that’s what you’re all about, your outdoor party uniform is likely one of loose, airy garments that are as easy to twirl about the dancefloor in as they are to bake in the sun. Let your imagination run wild when putting together your look but remember that functional, bright basics, prints in every style and color, and bold, statement-making jewels are your friends. The Nia Dress by Doreen Mashika is an electric pink peppered, party-ready fave, its flowing silhouette and semi-asymmetrical hem extending the relaxed playfulness imparted by its rosy pattern. Select a pair of flat sandals that’ll carry you through the night and accessorize with items in corresponding shades. Mykilim’s bubblegum pink tote, Sidai Designs’ beaded baubles, and Crystal Birch’s oversized boater are all you need to embody a spirit of jubilant refinement.

Practical Magic

For some—regardless of whether they’re attending a weekend-long music extravaganza, a desert dance party, or a variety festival like Bonnaroo—practicality is king. And considering the amount of standing and walking that often faces festival-goers, we can’t blame them. But don’t for one second that by practical we mean insipid: there are plenty of all-in-one, fuss-free pieces that are effortlessly chic and prove a day-to-night marvel. The utilitarian jumpsuits by well-loved Kenyan brand KikoRomeo are a popular and practical choice that feature internal elastic so you can adjust the silhouette as you please. Add a flat slip-on sandal and throw all your festival essentials into a handy backpack, and you’re good to go.