No brand does festival fashion like Free People. Since it was founded in 1984, it’s had the vintage-inspired, boho glam corner of the market covered. Think airy maxi dresses for wafting around the house in, fringed jackets that would make Jimi Hendrix proud and Joan Jett-esque bell bottom flares — all with more tie-dye, sequins, crochet and beads than you can shake your pint of lukewarm cider at.
So with the festival season already in full swing, what better time to rifle through Free People’s 2023 festival edit and style some looks for any weather and every occasion you’ll face, from putting up the tent to a sudden downpour. You may find yourself stomping through a sodden field but these outfits will put you in a sunny, boho-glam state of mind.
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Free People festival outfits for putting up the tent
Trust me, you’ll want a distinct outfit for carrying all your stuff from the car park to the campsite and pitching your tent. Once you’ve dragged all the bits and bobs that make your festival set-up and wrestled with the guy lines, you’ll be one big pool of sweat — even if the sun isn’t shining. This outfit should be practical (comfortable, easy, with no complicated ties or waistlines that dig in) but that’s not to say you can’t also look great. We love the combination of shorts, a tank top and a button-down — simply throw off the shirt when the argument about tent poles gets too heated. Alternatively, these lightweight, cotton overalls are a comfy all-in-one outfit that you can easily move around in.
Free People festival outfits for sun
British festivals aren’t known for their sunshine but when it is sunny, boy does it get hot. If it looks like the temperature will be high, we want to be wearing as little as possible; think camisole tops and shorts, strappy mini dresses and light layers that you can easily stuff in your bag. We’re tying all our warm-weather outfits together with a bright, sunny palette of yellows, oranges, tans and browns, offset with rich textures like crochet.
Free People festival outfits for rain
Wearing jeans for a rainy day at a festival is a no-go. Bare legs will always dry faster so we’ve opted for shorts and mini skirts. Layer up with jumpers and, of course, a rain jacket. Finish off with sturdy rain boots that will keep your feet dry and warm, and accessories that won’t get sodden – like this Rains waterproof backpack or a leather bum bag. Worried about cold legs? Remember that you’ll probably be in and out of crowds, dancing and marching between stages all day. For the evening, simply roll up a pair of lightweight leggings in your bag.
Free People festival outfits for wind
So it’s not raining but it’s not quite sunny; it’s cloudy and there’s a strong wind blowing. You need outfits designed for warmth here, which means covered legs and plenty of layers that you can pull on or tie around your waist. We love cool, printed trousers that elevate a simple graphic tee and sweatshirt. Comfort is key so choose sturdy boots or a pair of sneakers you don’t mind getting a little beaten up. When the wind’s blowing, hands-free bags are a lifesaver.
Free People festival outfits for making a statement
Festivals are the perfect opportunity to go all out with vibrant colours, clashing patterns, unique details and interesting materials. It’s all about having fun with your outfit, whether that means swapping your baby blues for zany, printed jeans, layering up with a dramatic kimono jacket or slipping into patterned cowboy boots instead of your trusty Docs.
Festival outfits for sleep and on the campsite
For sleep and on the campsite you want comfort and warmth; sleepwear that you can layer up for the cold nights and strip off for hot mornings in the tent. Sliders are key for trips to the loo and you’ll want a hat, scarf and leg warmers for evening chats around your imaginary campfire.
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