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Comfortable yet classy: how to nail festival fashion over 40
Denim hotpants? Fringe jackets? Absolutely not! This is Good Housekeeping’s ultimate festival fashion guide for grown-ups
From music to food and drink to arts and culture, festivals are working hard to woo the over-40s, but if you’re not Kate Moss in hot pants and cowboy boots catwalking in a field of mud, what do you wear? Pretty but practical is the answer.
Let’s face it, if you’re heading to a festival in the UK (day-tripper or camping weekend), you can probably expect rain, so it’s important to think about reliable waterproofs. Whether that’s via a cool pair of wellies or a stylish raincoat (or both), practical dressing can still be glam if you team function with fashion. Make sure your outfit’s not 100% practical, though, or you run the risk of looking incredibly boring. Festivals are all about having fun, so add some frivolity via a playful skirt, swishy midi or ruffle blouse – ‘high/low’ styling feels effortlessly modern.
You’ll be surprised how many people don’t pack a mac when they go to a festival. Don’t be that person who has to wear a bin liner fashioned into a poncho. If you’re a festival first-timer, it’s the little details that will make a big difference to your experience. Midi lengths are better than maxis – no muddy hems, look for dresses and skirts with handy pockets, only wear super-comfy shoes (for all-day dancing), always take a hands-free handbag – leave the tote for the office and avoid open-toe shoes (Portaloos, say no more).
Whatever your age, festival dressing is a balance of practicality and playfulness. Nothing evokes effortless ‘festival chic’ quite like feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. Jo Whiley, who can always be found at Glastonbury in her comfy oversized sweaters and glam dresses worn with her ‘ancient’ trainers or DMs (Dr. Martens boots), is a true midlife festival fashion muse. See our top picks below for how to master festival dressing at any age.
Festival fashion: the Good Housekeeping edit
A packable rain poncho is arguably the most essential item to bring to a unpredictable British festival, compact enough to carry around with you to every stage.
A classic summer blouse that will style perfectly with shorts or trousers for unlimited outfit combinations.
Merry People x Obus Fergie Tall Wellington Boot in Golden Hour Dawn
This year’s weather has been on the unpredictable side so far, so in case of a rainy summer, these platformed wellies from Merry People x Obus will be a festival essential.
A compact and sleek leather case that will hold all your festi essentials, such as your phone and cards. And its trending burgundy shade will style seamlessly with any outfit combination.
Cargo utility trousers are a great laid-back option that’s perfect for slipping on when you need to pop out of your tent for your morning coffee. Pair with your trusty white slogan tee.
You can’t go wrong with a pair of almost knee-length linen shorts — flattering on every body shape and size, and a versatile staple you can wear everywhere from post-festival lounging to holidays and beyond…
Birkestocks get a glossy upgrade in these double-strapped gold buckle sandals, perfect for maximum ease and cool factor. When it’s chilly, be bold and go for socks and sandals.
Never underestimate how cold festivals get at night. This funky fleece will be your best friend at your festi of choice this year. Thank me later.
When it comes to allowing for maximum moving and grooving, a jumpsuits beat a dress hands down. This gingham print is perfect for pairing with denim and pops of red.
Cowboy boots are the ultimate chic accessory to bring to festivals as an adult. Top tip: make sure you douse them in suede protector first!
A light layer that will provide comfort and warmth but still thin enough to fit under top layers, such as a bigger fleece or raincoat. They will add a laid-bag edge to maxi dresses.
Ganni is the cool Scandi brand, adding an instant dose of fun to your festi wardrobe.
Protect your hearing in style with Loop’s noice-filtering technology.
Sorry M&S - I had to find new knickers
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This one-piece has transformed my whole look!
The unsung hero of our wardrobe rotation for £35
