It’s only a few days until Coachella begins, which traditionally marks the start of festival season! Coachella is where you see celebrities like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss showing off their latest summer wardrobe, thereby setting the fashion trends that will dominate the rest of the festival season. If you’ve grown a bit tired of denim cut-offs (we agree) or the Native American headdress (cultural appropriation?), read our tips below on how to accessorise your festival outfit to be ahead of the game this year!
1. Long beaded necklaces
Take your festival inspiration from Woodstock and accessorise your outfit with long, beaded necklaces. Until a few years ago, Janis Joplin was never seen as a fashion icon, but her casual, laissez-faire style has taken the fashion world by storm over the last couple of years. She’s especially known for her oversized, round sunglasses and layering long, beaded necklaces. To add some extra hippie vibes to your outfit, try making them yourself, because it’s incredibly easy! Just get some wire, some wooden beads or seed beads and attach clasps to hook everything together.
2. Hair Charms
Floral headbands have dominated the festival look for years now, but there’s a new trend that will make you look like a fairy from the forest: adding mystical hair charms to your hair! These ancient-inspired hair charms from Regal Rose will make your hair sparkle in the sun and will give your outfit a mysterious vibe. Instead of rings, you can also opt for iron-in hair charms that look amazing when they’re tucked into braids!
3. Floppy hat
One of the most famous photographs taken at Woodstock is that of the girl with the floppy hat and the teardrop eyes. A wide-brim floppy hat is not just glamorous and perfect to combine with a maxi-dress, it also protects you from both the sun and the rain. They’re therefore a real must-have at festivals, especially when the weather is as unpredictable as here in the UK.
4. Suede bag with fringes
So the 70s are back in fashion, which means we’re surrounded with fringes and tassels everywhere! From suede jackets to wispy dresses, the more detail, the better. Our personal favourite is this suede camel bag by ASOS that includes beaded fringes. Always opt for a mild earth tone, i.e. a timeless shade of brown, to retain that bohemian 70s vibe.
5. Tassel choker necklaces
Choker necklaces have made a huge comeback over the last year, but the classic velvet or Victorian choker might be a bit too formal for a festival. However, there’s plenty of ways to make your choker more bohemian and suited for summer. Choose one with tassels, pendants or crystals, layer them or add flowers. Another option is to go for the famous 90s tattoo choker, which has re-established itself in 2016.
To finish your look, add some trendy sunglasses and read our guide on how to choose sunglasses that fit your face shape.
Lisa van der Steen is a freelance writer based in Manchester, UK. With a passion for all things fashion and jewellery, she knows everything about the latest trends. Follow her on Twitter here.