Five Things I Wouldn't Wear to a Festival

 
 

 

Festivals are all year round but here in the Midwest most annual events occur April-October (with a few winter events). Between my time as a festival queen (with big poofy dresses) and filming annual events for 18 months on Finding Festivals, I’ve come to establish some wardrobe guidelines for the best festival time. Here are five things I wouldn’t wear to a festival:

Rompers

 
 


These are so cute but also the most inconvenient article of clothing when trying to use the restroom. Festivals have the added challenge of porta-johns. I wouldn’t wear these to an annual event.

Instead – opt for a 2-piece romper (yes, those do exist) or those cute “easy-peasy” dresses all over TikTok (as of April 2024). 

Tube Tops

 
 

The lure of tube tops is limited tan lines and staying cool. Spending a whole day or even weekend at a festival makes getting a sunburn the last thing I want to experience.

Instead – opt for a crochet top with thicker straps or a thin top with little ruffle sleeves (like the one in the picture). This will keep you cool and protect your shoulders. Trust me when I advise to protect your shoulders.

 Dresses

 
 

Unless it has pockets I am not wearing a dress. There is nothing worse to me than having to worry about carrying a purse everywhere just to have my phone on me.

 Instead – opt for a dress with pockets OR get workout shorts with pockets you can wear under your dress. Of course, if you like purses/bags that is a perfectly suitable option (I just don’t care for bags).

 Flip Flops and Heels

 
 

Both of these shoes are not a good option for annual events especially since many festivals take place in grassy areas. Weather is unpredictable and getting stuck in mud is not my idea of a good time.

 

Instead – opt for strappy sandals that hook around your ankle, cute platform shoes or old sneakers. All three options will limit you getting stuck in the mud (unless it’s really muddy then rain boots are the only option) and go with just about any festival wear.

 

 
 

At the end of the day, wear what you want to wear. Festivals are meant to be fun and celebratory. As long as you are mindful of what the weather has in store and you are prepared you are sure to have a wonderful time. Check out the Finding Festivals Blog and Finding Festivals Series.