The Festival Uniform
You don’t really need to check the blogs to see what people wore to Coachella. Ripped shorts, trendy sandals, some ray bans, a tiny top and probably some kind of Native American inspired headwear.
A “Flower Power” influence has taken hold of festival fashion and cease to let go, likely because of the 70’s undeniable influence on this type event. The average “Coachellian” made their way to El Indio to camp with friends, soak up some sun, hear good music, drink, and probably smoke a lot of pot. It doesn’t really get more 70’s that that; and if you are going to act the part you had better dress it.
This past weekend the Stagecoach Country Music Festival also took place in Palm Springs. Stagecoach likely drew a very different crowd than the hip stoned-out Coachella kids. However, minus the endless sea of cowboy hats and boots, the attire was more or less the same. It seems even the usual conservative country fan can’t resist letting their hair down (and their hem line up).
This “free spirit” look has been showing up year after year and it
doesn’t seem to be on its way out anytime soon. In an environment, where you are outside, walking around, standing up, sitting down and dancing, functionality is key. A pencil skirt is simply unthought of. A dress or skirt might work but usually only if it is floor length and high waisted. And heels? Forget about it, unless you are being commissioned to aerate the grass fields.
Festivals are somewhat of a ritual event. If you come once you’re likely to come again and again. Because many of the same people return year after year for the same kind of musical experience, why shouldn’t the fashion be the same? You can certainly bring your own flair to your festival wardrobe but overall there is somewhat of a uniform that is likely to remain for years to come. If you just can’t seem to channel your inner hippie, save yourself a couple hundred bucks and go see a show at your local venue, pencil skirt and all.
