ADVERTISEMENT

Festival Fashion Trends: Stand Out At Coachella

ADVERTISEMENT

Coachella is more than music: It's a runway where glitter meets grit and bold wins the day. I've been scrolling, stalking, and saving all the inspo to bring you the ultimate guide to shine brighter than the desert sun. Whether this is your first time at Coachella or your seventh, these trends will make you the protagonist of every Instagram reel. Let's dive in!

Silhouette: One Is The New Three (With a Side Of Daring)

Are you even trying if you're not half-naked at Coachella? This year, sheer dresses, mesh tops and "underwear as outerwear" are omnipresent. Think floaty, sheer layers with cute bike shorts or sequin shorts underneath. It's edgy, cheeky, and exclaims, "I woke up like this."

Pro tip: Layer a neon bralette or metallic bodysuit under sheer fabrics to keep other elements playful rather dull.

Bold Prints: Clash Like a Chaos Queen

Who needs subtlety when you can wear a zebra-print bodysuit with floral bell bottoms? Mix stripes, tie-dye, and abstract patterns like a mad scientist. The louder, the better! Pair clashing prints with chunky boots or platform sandals to ground the look. Bonus points are all the rage if your outfit has a retro '70s vibe—fringe, crochet, and patchwork.

Statement Accessories: Go Big Or Go Home

Accessories aren’t just an afterthought — they are the whole mood. Stack oversized beaded necklaces, layer colourful bangles, and pile rings on like you're a disco diva. Wide-brim fedoras, rhinestone-bedecked bucket hats, or a bedazzled cowboy number are necessary. And don't sleep on face gems! Sparkling tears, star stickers or rhinestone freckles transform your visage into a magic art piece.

Neon All The Things: Days Gorgeous, Your Skin-Savvy

For daytime, neon green booty shorts and hot pink crop tops are only  acceptable at Coachella. Go monochrome with a neon set or remix neon hues for a pure-energy look. If you're shy, test the waters with neon socks, a belt, or a fanny pack. Remember: sunscreen is your best friend (unless you fancy neon burns… ouch).

Boho Vibes: Unleash Your Bohemian Soul

Flowy maxi dresses, embroidered kimonos, and lace duster jackets are Coachella classics for a reason. Blend two looks into one by throwing a denim jacket on top of a floral maxi and pairing it with ankle boots for a look that's part cosy, part chic. Tote it with a woven bag or a fringe crossbody to keep it practical.

Pro tip: Leave the heels at home — boho is about comfort. Think slip-on sandals, espadrilles or even barefoot (though perhaps bring a backup pair … rocks hurt).

Futuristic Flair: Reflect Like a Disco Ball

Metallics, vinyl and holographic fabrics are taking centre stage. 🌟 A silver sequined skirt and a cropped tank? Yes. A holographic trench coat atop bike shorts? Absolutely. Even a bit of metallic sneakers or a shiny belt will spice up your outfit. Remember: if you're not reflecting sunlight, are you even Coachella-ing?

Layer Like a Pro: Strive For Balance

And layering isn't only for winter! Throw a cropped mesh tank over a bikini top, layer a sheer kimono over a slip dress, or layer up a utility jacket over a neon bodysuit. The trick? Mix textures and lengths. A flowy scarf, choker necklace, or belt bag can create dimension. Don't go overboard — you're not a walking thrift shop (unless that's your vibe… no shade).

Shoes That Kill (And Can Endure The Desert)

Leave your delicate heels at home. Coachella is a marathon, not a sprint. Your best bets are chunky platform boots, strappy gladiator sandals, and bedazzled sneakers. Wear block heels or platforms that won't sink into the grass if you do wear heels. And for our sake, please break them in first. No one wants to watch you hobble over to Tame Impala's set.

Diy Details: Make It Personal

Coachella is the best excuse to get crafty. Decorate denim jackets with patches, make your T-shirt a design project or glam up your shorts with rhinestones. DIY is not only easy on the wallet — it's a talking point. I have seen someone turn a pizza box into a handbag—Chef's Kiss.

Sustainable Slay: Thrift Like You Mean It

Fast fashion? No thanks. Go to thrift stores, pillage your mom’s closet or trade clothes with friends. A secondhand fringe vest, repurposed scarf dress or vintage band tee isn’t just a sustainable choice — it’s Coachella gold. Also, you won’t risk arriving wearing the same outfit as 10 other people.

When All Glamour Comes Down To It: Pack Smart, Slay Hard

You should leave the house with sunscreen, a portable phone charger, a reusable water bottle, a small crossbody bag for your phone, and lip gloss. And remember: Your best accessory is confidence. People will follow suit if you rock that outfit like you own the stage.

Getting Ready For Coachella?

Whether you're team neon, team boho or team "I'm here for the chaos," this year's trends have everything to do with self-expression. So mix and match and make it yours. Now fly and own that desert strip!