How to Stay Savvy and Stylish at a Music Festival

If your phone isn’t already glaring at you from the palm of your hand, take a second and open your Instagram explore page. As you scroll, chances are you’ll see countless pictures of long-haired, blissfully happy girls in some variation of fringe, lace and flowers, sharing their experiences with thousands of followers.

As I write this, day three of Coachella just wrapped up and those boho-clad Instagrammers have begun to retreat from the desert, with a lifetime of concerts and probably a hangover.

Although Coachella is over, this is only the beginning of the festival season, and as more shows pop up, more people flock to see their favorite artists. Music festivals have become not only a part of the summer culture in America, but also fashion shows. Every year the outfits get wilder–and skimpier.

Herein lies the problem: all festivals are generally in hot, humid weather, they are long, full day events that last a number of days, and there is a lot of waiting and walking. If you aren't properly dressed and prepared, it doesn't matter how bohemian and edgy you look, you will be miserable. Here are a few tips to help you make your festival experience as stylish and comfortable as it can be.

1. Maximize your carry-on. Just like an airplane, festivals won't accept a bag that can't fit under the seat in front of you. Opt for a smaller, cross body bag or backpack so you’re hands-free and don't have to worry about a large tote whacking other people while you "try to find your friend by the stage." Also, be mindful of what you are putting in your bag. First remember the essentials: sunscreen, water, a snack, a hair tie and your wallet (make sure you bring some actual cash, you never know when you might need it). After all the essentials, pack whatever else you may need but don't make your bag too heavy or your back and shoulders won't be happy.

2. Protect your feet. Everyone thinks, ‘summer, sun, speakers, sandals.’ If you are going to a festival for a couple of hours or a short day, wear (and werk) those lace-up sandals with fringe and pompoms. But if you’re going to be outside at a festival for a full day or longer, buy some crappy, cute, close-toed shoes. Sandals expose your feet to sand, dirt, sunburn, spilled drinks, and other people stepping on your feet. Most importantly, remember that whatever shoes you wear will likely be wrecked. Take some time and look for a cheaper pair of close-toed shoes that find a balance between practical and cute.

3. Beat the heat. Whether you’re in Chicago for Lollapalooza or Tennessee for Bonnaroo, it's going to be hot. For your own health and enjoyment it’s imperative that you take precautionary steps before, during and after the festival. Beforehand, follow rule number one and pack sunscreen. Immediately before you leave for the festival, apply sunscreen everywhere. Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes and if a hat won't bother you and goes with your outfit, wear one. For your own comfort, dress in light, breathable pieces. You don't need to wear a bathing suit, but take advantage of bralettes, sheer details or lace. During the festival, reapply sunscreen to your face whenever you think of it. Wear sunglasses and drink as much water as you can. Bring a hair tie in case you get too hot and want to pull your hair back. After the festival, keep drinking water and treat any sunburns with aloe vera.

4. Simplify your look. This is a good time to observe the age old saying, "before you leave the house, take off one accessory." More doesn’t always mean better It may look cool to stack bangles up to your elbow, but after about 20 minutes, you’ll want to frisbee throw them to the opposite coast. Festivals are all about the music and having a good time, not worrying about if your western belt buckle is situated perfectly on your waist. Wear something that is stylish but that you feel comfortable in. If you are constantly adjusting your outfit and worrying about the way you look, you won't enjoy the music and the experience. If you plan to buy a new piece or outfit for the event, wear it a few times beforehand so you feel comfortable and you know if it will bother you.

5. Stick to your style. If you wouldn't wear a fringe fanny pack with circle sunglasses and a lace maxi skirt in any other setting, don't wear it to a festival. Remember when you scrolled through Instagram earlier? How many of those Coachella looks do you think those girls would wear on a day-to-day basis? I'd bet close to none. If you aren't a boho person, don't worry and don't pretend to change your style. The only way to be truly comfortable is to embrace your style and explore different looks within it. There is nothing wrong with experimenting with different pieces and styles, but remember to always stay true to your style.