
What to Wear to a Festival
Content editor
Dulcie Emerson
Festival style essentials
Whether you go for head-to-toe kaleidoscope vibes or just a pop of colour, bright shades are an easy shortcut to festival style. An oversized graphic T-shirt ticks a couple of trend boxes, or go all out by combining colour and sparkle with embellished or sequinned pieces. If you’re hesitant to wear brights, experiment with volume and texture instead, like a ruffled blouse or a suede gilet (both perfect for tapping the boho festival vibe).
Tie-dye and festivals go hand-in-hand: tie this ombré-effect slouchy sweater around your waist ready to slip on in the evening once the temperature plummets. Have fun by clashing your festival make-up and jewellery with your outfit for maximum impact. If you're planning to rave all night, high-visibility accessories will help you stand out after dark.

Dig out your trusty denim
A pair of denim shorts make a great base for a summer festival outfit – they work just as well with an oversized T-shirt and trainers as they do with a pretty ruched bandeau top and sandals. Our denim bermuda shorts come in light and dark indigo, white and black washes, and have a high waist and on-trend raw hems. Alternatively, go for a denim mini skirt – choose from a utility-inspired version with cargo pockets, a gorgeous beaded mini for added glitz, and lots more.
Double denim is everywhere right now, so pair your shorts or skirt with a denim jacket or overshirt. Choose different patterns and washes for a subtle take on the trend. We love this leopard-print jacket by French Connection – it’s the perfect festival layering piece for chillier evenings.

Weatherproof your look
Fingers crossed your festival experience will be a sunny event however we've all seen pictures of revellers wading knee-deep through mud. Stop showers from ruining your fun by taking your waterproof layers seriously. If rain is forecast then you'll need head-to-toe rainproof options: think a pull-on anorak or Stormwear bomber, plus quick-drying cargo trousers or sports shorts.
Details such as drawstring cuffs and hoods will help keep you warm and dry. Keep your essentials safe in a nylon sling bag. And of course, if the sun does show its face then you'll want to pile on the sunscreen and a brimmed hat – summer UV rays can be surprisingly fierce, even through cloud cover. With its concealed sweat band and air vents, Berghaus's bucket hat is ideal.

Rock a halter neck
Cool, summery and retro, a halter-neck top or dress is the ultimate answer to the question "what to wear to summer festivals", and luckily they're everywhere at the moment. (It’s best to avoid floaty maxi dresses at festivals, as they could easily get trampled on in muddy fields). Alternatively, try a crochet-inspired mini – we love this mini halter-neck dress layered over a bright bikini and teamed with rip-tape flatform sandals for a nineties-style look.
Finish off your outfit with a cream woven shoulder bag, perfect for transporting your essentials. When you’re in big crowds, opt for a cross-body bag to keep your valuables safe. Make sure you choose one that’s roomy enough to stash your phone, cash and water bottle.

What to wear to a rave
If you're a seasoned reveller who enjoys partying all night to dance music, then you're probably familiar with the concept of raving. Often taking place in warehouses or other non-traditional venues, raves require practical clothing to see you through to the early hours – so leave heels or heavy bags at home. Rave outfits vary depending on the weather and location, however it's the ideal opportunity to let your personality shine with a bold, expressive look. If you're planning what to wear to a rave, start with lightweight layers and comfy footwear then pile on the neon, sequins and psychedelic prints for stunning visual impact. Statement sunglasses will help protect your eyes from bright lights while looking cool.
Published 7.10.2025
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