It's that time of the year! The UK festival season is right around the corner. Whether you're eagerly anticipating the groovy tunes at Glastonbury or lusting after the eclectic lineup at Bestival, one thing is for sure - you need to start planning your festival wear. In this context, an aspect that is often overlooked is the fabric of the clothing. Choosing the right fabric for your festival attire can hugely impact your comfort and overall festival experience. This guide is here to assist you in making the best fabric choices for your festival outfits.
The first fabric that should be on your radar is cotton. A staple in every summer wardrobe, cotton is a breathable fabric that allows heat to escape from your body. It is highly absorbent, which means it can wick away sweat and keep you cool and dry. On top of this, cotton is soft and comfortable - ideal for those long festival days.
When it comes to style, cotton is extremely versatile. You can opt for a cotton sundress for a feminine and chic look, or go for a cotton t-shirt with funky prints to show off your unique style. Pair your cotton outfit with a pair of stylish sunglasses and a black wide-brimmed hat to complete your festival-ready look.
The downside? Cotton takes a long time to dry. So, if you're planning to attend a festival known for its rain (we're looking at you, Glastonbury), you might want to consider other options.
Next up on our list is linen. This fabric is made from the flax plant and is known for its exceptional coolness and freshness in hot weather. Linen is highly absorbent and can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture before feeling damp. This makes it an excellent choice for those sweaty summer festival days.
When it comes to festival fashion, linen offers a relaxed and laid-back look. A loose-fitting linen dress in a vibrant color can make a fashion statement, while still ensuring your comfort. Complete your outfit with a pair of trendy sunglasses and a stylish straw hat to beat the heat.
The downside of linen? It wrinkles easily. But don't let that deter you. Remember, a little bit of wrinkle adds character and is part of the charm of linen.
While silk might seem like an unconventional choice for festival wear, it could be your best friend in the summer heat. Silk is a natural temperature regulator, which means it can keep you cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather. It is lightweight and has a smooth, soft texture which adds a touch of luxury to your festival outfit.
Silk dresses in bold prints or vibrant colors can make you stand out from the crowd. Or if you prefer a more subdued look, a simple black silk top paired with denim shorts can be your go-to festival look.
However, silk requires a bit more care than other fabrics. It is not as durable and can get damaged easily. So, if you're planning to dance the night away, you might want to save your silk outfit for a more relaxed day at the festival.
If you're conscious about your environmental footprint, hemp should be your fabric of choice. Hemp is a sustainable fabric that is grown without the need for pesticides or fertilizers. It is also one of the strongest natural fibers, making it a durable choice for festival wear.
Hemp fabric is breathable and has excellent moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal for the hot festival season. As for style, hemp clothing often has a natural, earthy look. A hemp maxi dress or a hemp t-shirt can add a touch of boho-chic to your festival look.
However, hemp clothing can be a bit stiff initially. But don't worry, it softens up with each wash and wear, so you'll be more comfortable the more you wear it.
Last but not least, let's talk about performance fabrics. These are technical fabrics designed for active wear, and they come with features such as sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and breathability. While they may not be the first choice for your festival fashion, they can make a huge difference in your comfort level.
Performance fabric clothing comes in various styles and colours, so you're not limited in your fashion choices. A performance fabric tank top or shorts can keep you cool and comfortable, while you enjoy your favourite bands.
However, keep in mind that some performance fabrics can have a synthetic feel, which may not be to everyone's liking. So, it's best to try before you buy.
Denim is a timeless classic and a festival season favourite. It is a sturdy fabric that can withstand the rigours of festival life, making it an excellent choice for your summer festival wardrobe.
Whether you opt for a pair of cut-off denim shorts, a denim jacket, or a denim mini dress, this sturdy fabric can keep you comfortable while offering a trendy look. Denim shorts are a staple in festival fashion and can be styled with almost anything - from a boho-chic crop top to a simple cotton tee.
A denim jacket, on the other hand, is perfect for those chilly evenings. Layer it over your outfit for a stylish yet practical look. If you're feeling a bit adventurous, a denim mini dress could be your go-to choice. Pair it with a silver tone belt and a bucket hat for a festival-ready look.
Just remember, while denim is durable and versatile, it's not quite as breathable as some other fabric types mentioned. However, its fashion versatility and durability often outweigh this minor downside.
This festival season, don't be afraid to embrace prints and patterns! Bold prints and patterns are always a hit at music festivals and can help you stand out from the crowd. Plus, incorporating prints and patterns into your festival outfits is a great way to express your individuality and personal style.
Opting for a dress, top, or shorts in a vibrant print can instantly elevate your festival style. From floral prints to geometric patterns, the options are endless. Pair your printed outfit with a pair of comfortable sandals and a bucket hat for an effortless festival look.
Water resistant prints are a particularly good choice for those rain-prone UK festivals. These fabrics have a special coating that prevents water from soaking in, making them a practical option without compromising on style.
Be mindful though, a head-to-toe print might be a bit overwhelming. Balance your look by pairing your printed item with solid colors.
In conclusion, the key to nailing your festival style lies in choosing the right fabrics and knowing how to style them. Cotton, linen, silk, hemp, performance fabrics, denim, and prints are all excellent choices for your festival outfits. Remember, the most important aspect of festival fashion is comfort. Choose breathable, absorbent fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable during those long festival days.
Additionally, don't shy away from expressing your personal style. Whether you're into boho-chic, grunge, retro, or street style, there's a festival look for everyone. Pair your outfits with the right accessories - think trendy sunglasses, bucket hats, and belt bags.
Remember, festivals are all about having fun and enjoying the music. So, embrace the festival spirit, express your individual style, and most importantly, have a blast! After all, what you wear to a festival should be a reflection of who you are. So make your fashion statement as loud or as laid-back as you wish. Get ready to rock your festival fashion this season!