The Coolest Festival Threads for Summer 2011

I’m never sure how the likes of Alexa Chung, Daisy Lowe or even Katy Perry for that matter, always manage to look amazeballs come the final day of any music festival (case in point at last months Coachella) although I’ve a sneaky suspicion that staying in the closest five star hotel helps A LOT! Their hotness aside, any festival wardrobe it’s about getting the right balance between style and practicality. Fear not, the ‘P’ word in no way means you need to sacrifice your eye for style. So here’s my guide to some sartorial essentials to stand out from the crowd with a look that screams I-slept-in-a-sleeping-bag-three-nights-in-a-row-and-still-look-fab!

Easy to wear, lightweight sweaters, t-shirts, shorts, skirts, maxis and tea-dresses are all a must. Not only are they super easy to wear but all are great for layering so you can adjust easily as the temperature rises or falls from day to night. Keeping the materials light also means quicker drying should you, God forbid, happen to get wet.

Florals, feathers, animal prints, tie-dies, fringing & tassels will all inject instant festival fashion kudos to your style. For instance, simply team a floral tea dress with a tan cross body bag with some fringing and a pair or rocking wedges for a super easy look to pull together. Jackets in khaki, denim or leather will add contrast to the prettiest of florals and give a look just the right amount of edge. I’m seriously hearting Topshop’s denim fringe jacket at the moment…you see, more fringing! Festival favourites such as cut-off denim shorts always go down well for a laid-back look. Go for printed ones or a pair in a bold colour. Tesco have a mint green pair for only €12 and Penney’s have some nice printed ones. Linen is another great festival choice. This pair of linen khaki shorts, from Awear is bang on trend.

Ultimately it’s all about accessories so accessorise to the MAX with a hat or trilby, scarves, bangles, belts and whatever else takes your fancy. The aforementioned unpredictable nature of summertime means it’s a good idea to pack both a pair of light trainers along with some water resistant footwear. A simple, stylish pair of converse or canvas plimsolls are just the ticket. If you’ve the cash at hand a pair of Jimmy Choo crocodile print Hunter wellies would go down a treat. Alternatively some stylish boots – Awear have some rocking boots in store at the mo.

Remember, there’s nothing worse then returning home from a weekend of festival frivolity looking like a lobster. So don’t forget your factor 50, those statement ‘sunnies’, and above all else, bring baby wipes!

Regular readers of WestCoastCooler.ie will recognise this article from their site where I write a monthly guest post with all the latest fashion and style news. You’ll also find lots of cool make up tips, competitions and latest news on tastings & WestCoastCooler events! Make sure to pop over (here) and check it out.