Splendour Fashion for Newcastle Festival-Goers!

by Sophie Nixon on July 20, 2011

It’s that time of year again… the lead up to the major music festivals in Oz begins and kicking it off is Splendour in the Grass on the 29th July. I’m sure most of you already have your tickets to this super three day festival featuring Kanye West, Coldplay, Architecture in Helsinki, The Panics… Ahhh I could go on forever.

Now I know we all go to festivals for the music but festival fashion has become an important part of the experience for many. So here’s a guide to key festival trends for this Winter so you’ll will look the part whether you’re dancing up a storm in the Tipi Forest, checking out the markets in the Small Mall or sipping on cocktails in the Smirnoff Cocktail Bar. We have also included a mini-guide so you know just where to shop if you’re stuck in a pickle.

If your wardrobe needs an update before you set off up the coast, I’d recommend checking out Darby St. There is a range of local boutiques that will have something to your fancy. I like Abicus, Intake Boutique, Rag & Bone and Guanabana. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, General Pants Co. and Glue stock great brands such as Alice in the Eve, Sass & Bide and Cheap Monday.

Must Have Fashion Items, starting from the bottom up!

• Shoes:

Gumboots - Although strappy sandles are cute I can guarantee that they will be ready for the bin by the end of the first day! Unfortunately cold weather + occasional rain + thousands of people = swampy, muddy ground. This season gumboots are in fashion - hurrah! I have recently been eying off Hunter Gumboots, that come in nearly every colour, with a neoprene lining to make them extra comfy and warm. If you’re not prepared to fork out for exxy wellies you can usually pick up a pair from department stores like Target or check out the shoe shops in Newcastle. If your feet get tired of tramping around in gumboots everyday and the sun comes out to shine, make sure you have some canvas shoes to get you by. Whether they are lace-up cheapies or a pair of Cons - be sure to pack them.

• Bottom:

Denim cut-offs. An old festival staple that is still in fashion. High waisted mini cut offs are my pick but choose your favourite style that suits your body shape. aA high waisted skirt would also be perfect. Something comfy with an elastic waist and short enough so it doesn’t drag on the ground. Stick to natural hues or a pretty floral print.

• Top:

Flanno - Not your Dad’s old flanno with holes in it - choose a smart shirt with a design inspired by the traditional flanno. Roll up the sleeves and layer it over a white singlet. If a flanno is a little tomboy for you a simple, white button down or tee would be the go. Avoid heavy materials and stick to something light so you don’t overheat!

• All-in-one

Thanks to the style of Alexa Chung the sundress has become a must-have fashion piece. But if your wearing a dress you have to consider your choice carefully. It’s important not to wear a dress that makes you look like you should be out at night prowling the city - avoid embellishments, sequins and heavy material. Think lace, sleeves and maybe a little collar. Pair with some print stockings and you’re on your way! If you’re little miss practical and worried about flashing the crowd when you’ll be up on your mate’s shoulders, a playsuit should be your pick. Playsuits are super cute and comfortable.

• Accessories:

When it comes to accessories, keep it simple. Sunglasses are a must and so is a bag big enough to hold your phone, money, pawpaw and ID but small enough to not get in the way. Try a pouch bag with a long strap to sling over your shoulder.

• Tips:  Drink loads of water, pack sunscreen and wear enough clothing to still look fashionable without freezing when the sun goes down.

• Avoid festival fashion faux pas: no fluoro under any circumstances, long dresses/skirts will drag in the mud, definitely don’t dress up as a policewoman, fairy etc, swimmers are not clothes (unless worn as a bodysuit with cut-offs) and thongs will get lost so if you want to wear them pack a pair for each day.
• Be yourself. Trends like these are great to keep in mind because they cover some of the practical issues you face at a festival. Festivals are a great opportunity to show off your own individual style as well, so have a play around with them and see what works for you.

Right, I think I’ve covered the basics. Have fun!