How to pull off festival style (even if you’re not going to a festival)

how to pull off festival style becky kung

how to pull off festival style becky kung

With festival season upon us and Field Trip (Toronto’s annual music and arts festival) taking place this weekend, we’re sure figuring out what to wear is on the top of your list. But with festival style becoming summer’s go-to look, we’re not surprised if you find it harder to rock season after season. Sure, there are the crucial elements that all festival looks must include (think lace, crochet and denim everything). But if you live for this time of year, you’re probably running low on sartorial juice because the last thing you want is to blend into the crowd of flower crowns this summer.

One way to get style inspiration is to look to the most recent Coachella (fyi we’ve covered plenty of celebrity and street style for all). But if that isn’t enough to spark some ideas, Style Panel is here to give you some real Canadiana advice.

Not heading to a festival this season, but still want to get in the spirit? We’ve got that as well. Flip through for tips and tricks on how to pull off festival style in for everyday life.

Question 160: How do you pull off festival style? Read the answers now! »


how to pull off festival style becky kung
Becky Kung, 32
Calgary | Velvet & Vino

With festival season upon us, all I can think about is my favourite festival-inspired pieces including fringe, lace, leather and boho prints. I love to get playful with my looks for festivals, because it’s that one time of year when you can go all out and share some music expression.

I absolutely love to wear lace and crochet pieces, and these two-piece separates strike the balance of feminine with playful. To spice up the look I added a contrasting blue backpack and neutral heels. I can’t wait for the next festival!

Becky’s wearing: Top and shorts, Hudson’s Bay. Shoes, Le Château, Sunglasses, Steven Alan. Backpack, Pinkstix.


how to pull off festival style teresa yoo
Teresa Yoo, 25
Toronto | What T Loves

I like to keep things real, especially when it comes to summer outdoor events like music festivals. There are only few rules here: First, keep the headgear to minimum. Flower head crowns or feather accessories? Not only do they overkills but they are easy to loose in the middle of you dancing to your favourite music. Why waste money? Second, leave the designer stuff at home. Your cute and expensive suede booties? Well, it’s not guaranteed that they are going to come out looking the same as they went in. Third, layering is key. Often times, weather is not on your side and it plays naughty. Temperature might drop down drastically during evening and night or it might start to rain, so always have something to keep you dry and warm. This very casual outfit safely passes all the rules and I can totally see myself jumping around from festival to festival in this outfit with zero worries!

Teresa’s wearing: Jacket and shorts, Durumi. T-shirt, Forever21. Shoes, Converse.


how to pull off festival style kayla short
Kayla Short, 29
Halifax | Short Presents

When I think of festival style I immediately think billowy loose fabrics, and of course some bold prints and fabrics. I adore this effortless dress that nods to the ‘70s in its bold pattern and silhouette. Top it off with nothing but a pair of shoes (or not).

Kayla’s wearing: Dress, Mink Pink via Sweet Pea Boutique. Shoes, Forever 21. Bag, Lise Watier.


how to pull off festival style lee vosburgh
Lee Vosburgh, 28
Guelph | Style Bee

I like to keep my festival style relaxed and simple so I know I’ll be comfortable for a long day of good music, good food and good company. I always opt for some sort of wide brimmed hat to keep the sun off my face and neck. Then I’ll usually go for a lightweight white top, in this case a knotted V-neck t-shirt in super soft cotton paired with my favourite flared denim and vintage bag. My secret weapon for concerts is a pair of comfy but sky-high wedges. Then I can see over just about anyone’s shoulders!

Lee’s wearing: Hat, Janessa Leone. T-shirt, AMVI. Bag, vintage. Jeans, Madewell. Cuff, Young Frankk. Shoes, Nine West.


how to pull off festival style connie jespersen
Conni Jespersen, 35
Toronto | Art in the Find

One of my favourite styles to hit the streets this spring and summer is festival style. The laid-back, boho vibe seems oh so perfect when the weather warms up. Whether you can get to a festival this season or not, it’s easy to incorporate festival style into your everyday wardrobe. How? Add a great wide brim hat and a pair of lace of flats to your outfit and you’ve got a mix that has the vibe without the actual festival.


how to pull off festival style liat neuman
Liat Neuman, 39
Toronto | YomanChic

Festival season is just upon us, but even without attending to any festival this year, I have to admit that there is something in the air that makes me feel the urge to embrace my inner flower child. My ultimate boho look for all these music events can actually wear also in every day life. For me comfort is the key to nail this look, I opted for a midi floral skirt with this easy fitting silhouette and I paired it with one shoulder contrast stripe shirt, which create fun and bold combination. The hippie inspired accessories as the bohemian fringe bag, the lace up flat sandals and the belt gave the boho twist without feeling like I have gone overboard.

Liat’s wearing: Shirt, Club Monaco. Skirt and sandals, Zara. Belt, M for Mendocino. Sunglasses, Prada. Bag, Vannucci.


how to pull off festival style laura mitbrodt
Laura Mitbrodt, 31
Victoria | Laura Jane Atelier

I like to incorporate bohemian and vintage inspired pieces into my everyday wardrobe by adding items with fringe, embroidery and beading. This top from California Moonrise has that perfect festival ready look with its loose silhouette and embroidered details in the front. I styled it with a pair of loose boyfriend jeans and a crochet cardigan to complete the look. My Stephanie Kantis necklace is the perfect bohemian accessory that turns any outfit into a festival-ready look.

Laura’s wearing: Cardigan, California Moonrise. Top, California Moonrise. Jeans, Old Navy. Necklace, Stephanie Kantis.


how to pull off festival style mikayla kuehn
Mikayla Kuehn, 19
Toronto | MakStyle.ca

I won’t be attending any festivals this year, but that didn’t stop me from still playing with the festival trend. I decided to dress down my festival look with a pale pink cross body bag, big circular sunglasses and a pair of white and gold sandals. I don’t have a lot of “festival wear,” but this white tunic with lace detail was the perfect nod to the trend. This outfit is also great for wearing on a warm evening stroll down by the harbour.

Mikayla’s wearing: Dress, eShakti. Bag, Betsey Johnson. Watch, Michael Kors. Sandals, Sears. Sunglasses, Calico.


how to pull off festival style jameela ghann
Jameela Ghann, 25
Calgary | Jam and Tea

I love prints, patterns and light fabric when it comes to festival season. While wearing white patterns help to stand out in a crowd, maxing out on prints adds interest to a black and white ensemble. Stacking bracelets is also a nice addition. Finally, wedge heels help me gain those crucial three inches to look over the crowd to see my favourite band while still looking stylish.

Jameela’s wearing: Dress, Front Porch. Bracelets, Alora Boutique. Shoes, Target.

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