How to dress for a music festival if you’re not a teenager

Music festivals have become an integral part of the summer experience. Young or old, many of us flock to various parts of the world to engage in live music with like-minded concert-goers.

Somewhere along the line, what you wear became an equally important aspect of the experience. The defining characteristics of “festival style” are decidedly bohemian. It’s a youthful esthetic that often involves cutoff shorts, fringe crop tops and floral crowns (but no headdresses!)

But what if you’re not 21 and the idea of setting foot in a Brandy Melville store is at best, cringe-inducing? You want to fit in but not if it means being uncomfortable.

The good news? You can tailor your festival style to exude a more polished, adult appropriate look. This is how:

Trade cutoff shorts for flared jeans

Getty Images

Cutoff shorts are a staple at music festivals but not everyone feels comfortable baring that much leg. Try swapping out shorts for a trendy pair of high-waisted flared jeans in a dark denim. After all, the ‘70s are back in a big way this season so you won’t have trouble finding a great pair of updated bellbottoms online or at your favourite store.

You can’t go wrong with a long maxi dress

Maxi dresses are a win-win on so many levels. They come in a variety of styles with something to suit everyone’s taste and they’re comfortable, which is important when spending a full day outdoors.

Avoid “it girl” trends

I always say, if you’re comfortable wearing a particular outfit and it makes you feel good, do it. However, if your goal is to look music festival appropriate while still looking your age, I’d avoid “it girl” trends. Fringe crop tops, nose rings and floral crowns have all had their moment in the sun.

Less is more

Diane Kruger/Instagram

German actress Diane Kruger, who happens to be 38, is a fixture at Coachella almost every year – and she always manages to look exceedingly cool without resorting to outrageous trends or showing too much skin. Take a cue from her and show a sliver of skin, whether it’s your enviable legs with western boots or your tummy in a cute crop top.

Throw on a great jacket

Have you ever noticed how a jacket can help round out a look? It’s like the last piece of the puzzle when you think something might be missing. While you outfit plan for your next big music festival, don’t forget to bring your favourite versatile jacket (or poncho if you want something a little trendier).

Patterns and florals over slogans and cartoons

Rachel Zoe (Getty Images)

At the end of the day, it’s important to feel good in what you’re wearing so this style guide contains loose suggestions and nothing set in stone. I’ve always found that slogans and cartoons emblazoned on your clothing sets a more youthful tone, not to mention some slogan shirts can be offensive (uh, remember that “Eat, Sleep, Rape, Repeat” gem?) Patterns and florals, on the other hand, create the opposite affect. A floral romper or a patterned skirt can still give off that stylish festival vibe without making you feel like you’re the festival chaperone.

What’s on your packing list for a summer music festival? Let us know by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.