STYLE GUIDE: FESTIVAL

The sun returns after sudden, quick showers, as you trek through a sprawling festival. You’re walking back from a burger van, bass rattling your bones, friends scattered around you as they head to the next set. You’ll probably lose each other once you get there, but everyone’s just happy the plans to buy tickets actually made it out of the group chat.

Dr. Martens boots surround you – Jadon, the OG 1460, Virginia lace-ups – stomping every which way, teamed with baggy cargos, sun-bleached denim and second-skin slips. There’s a carefree energy to it all – something stylist Jordan Dean Schneider knows all too well when it comes to styling Doc’s. Make use of what you already have, from that boxy T-shirt that’s on heavy rotation every summer to the frilly skirt, tags still on. No overthinking, just going with what feels good. Still stuck for ideas? Here’s some inspo.

No rules, just intuition. Whether it’s pairing the cornerstones of a festival wardrobe – a well-loved military jacket that could have been plucked from the runway, but is instead a vintage gem, and an everyday striped T-shirt – with a pair of sturdy 1460s or weathered denim together with an archive trucker hat. You’ll thank yourself in the morning for avoiding a sunburn that only a bottle of aloe vera could soothe.

Most likely to be found: Reading Hunter S in the Healing Fields

“He’s just thrown some things on without really thinking about it.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

This is the woman that’s been at the centre of moshpits long before skinny jeans and wellies became tried, tested and discarded. This is the final boss of festivals, and her wardrobe is full of ubiquitous pieces but also, one-offs you’ll spot and won’t stop thinking about long after your ears stop ringing. Don’t try to guess her favourite artist – you’ll fail – but what you will gain from watching her stage-hop, are some serious styling tips: expect a Jadon boot on rotation, coupled with a simple flirty black dress and a treasured leather jacket to toughen things up. You might even catch her in wrap-around shades at sunrise. A woman of duality, this one.

Most likely to be found: Mosh pit, Travis Scott

“We’re juxtaposing the all-black and the tough boots with a floaty dress.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

If there was ever a time to chuck on that tactile hat you scored from the bargain bin of a charity shop, it’s now. A melting pot of clashing prints and colours, throw caution to the wind and mix check prints with polka dots, or a carabiner skirt with an aubergine hoodie. Accessories deserve a moment in the spotlight, too. Try a pair of Bex Ambassadors, long socks and a raincoat, because the best part about being ahead of the curve is that there are no limits."

Most likely to be found: That hard-to-find spoon-whittling tent

“Festivals are all about being yourself and having fun. This is where you can try stuff out.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

Thematic dressing isn’t yawn-worthy, it’s efficient. If it’s not broken, why fix it? Your pals will be glad you’re the only one who brought a bag big enough to fit sunscreen, bug spray and several cans of *insert drink of choice here*. And naturally, you’ll be smug that you packed that one trench coat that’s surprisingly insulated come sundown. Fully embracing your inner Indie Sleaze, tactile camo shorts add a utilitarian edge, while a punchy slogan T-shirt or pop of colour will never steer you wrong. Finish it off with 1460 boots in Crazy Horse Cherry Red, sturdy enough to withstand a muddied field.

Most likely to be found: Oasis on the main stage

“This look has a few different aspects of festivals over the years... shorts with a boot, walking socks on, the classic festival trench, cross-body tie-dye bag....”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

Remember quiet luxury? This is how to tackle it, festival edition. Distinctive and with flair, this fit works for tastemakers obsessed with Issey Miyake, Comme des Garçons and other Japanese powerhouses, or for those who simply love to turn the contrast right down. All black – obviously– it doesn’t need loud detailing, just a textured top, some shorts with a toggle or two if you’re feeling particularly playful, and a pair of no-fuss, no-frills Ambassadors to further emphasise the slightly moody, colour-void outfit.

Most likely to be found: Front left, techno tent

“This is the grown-up goth. He wears high fashion but has still got that darkness to him.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

Babydoll dress where? Florals and the fields – groundbreaking, actually. While the bands you're scoping out might be sharp around the edges, it doesn’t mean your festival get-up has to be. Naturally, floralmaxxing is great paired with a striking, ditsy-printed top and a Virginia boot – a tried-and-tested style formula. If you really want to come into full bloom, experiment with layering and playful accessories, such as a silk scrunchie or sheer socks, all while headbanging to the internet's next edgelord obsession.

Most likely to be found: Edgelord stages at 2am. She contains multitudes.

“Think in layers: two cardigans, frills on flowers, add a scrunchie...”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

Making up your own fashion rules, letting loose and dressing to your mood is all part of the fun. It all starts with the staples that save you every time half your wardrobe is on the floor, from a light wash skirt to a denim jacket that you can whip out during a heavy down pour or wrap around your waist if it's a scorcher of a day. Flit between pastels and flowing silhouettes to accentuate a Quad Mid Pull-On boot, making your look stand out.

Most likely to be found: Hospitality

“This has got an LA influencer vibe to it.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist

A festival novice, sure, but a style chameleon always. Clean lines don’t have to be boring.

Preppy might feel out of place at a festival, but there’s an allure to an unpredictable outfit. Case in point: a bright anorak paired with an upturned polo, multi-pocket shorts (unexpected, but welcome) and PVC Rain boots. Simple but structured silhouettes are key when you’re in a beer-soaked field. Think Collegiate 2.0.

Most likely to be found: Queueing for rosé

“This is yachtcore, in a field.”

- Jordan Dean Schneider, Stylist