It’s been a major, largely devastating year for the Australian festival industry but as we barrel headlong toward the summer events season, things are looking up.
Some of our favourite shows have bucked the trend and are back for another year, including Beyond the Valley and Lost Paradise. If you’ve got your tickets sorted then the next step is, inevitably, planning your looks.
Putting festival outfits together requires balance: you want to be comfortable and—especially during summer—cool, while still looking on-trend and, let’s be real, hot. There is nothing worse than a blister on the first night of a three-day festival, or ruining an especially-bought top with sweat.
Luckily for you, dear Cosmopolitan Australia reader, this office is packed with veteran festival attendees. We’ve rounded up all of the trends set to take hold in the 2024/25 summer festival season, along with advice on how to *actually* make them comfy, practical and part of a cohesive festival outfit.
festival fashion trends 2024
Scroll on for a full break down but at a glance, these are the festival fashion trends to know in 2024 and 2025:
- micro shorts
- crochet sets and dresses
- cowboy boots
- running trainers
- swimwear
- sporty sunglasses
- rompers and jumpsuits
Music Festival Outfit Ideas 2024 & 2025
Teeny-tiny shorts and a singlet
Last year was all about jorts and baggy sports shorts but in 2024, festival fashion is taking notes from Brat style and favouring the micro short.
For a simple, Charli XCX-inspired look, pair your tiniest shorts with a simple tank top, and chunky sneakers or boots.
A crochet set & boots
The boho renaissance is upon us and we aren’t complaining! Crochet—a hallmark of the trend—is not only cute but super breathable, making it the perfect base for summer festival outfits.
Opt for a dress or matching set for an easy, breezy look (Akoia Swim has a variety of beautiful option). Pair it with some comfy cowboy boots and jewellery to jazz things up.
Swimwear, a sarong and sneakers
Not only is the underwear as outerwear trend still going strong; we’ve graduated to swimwear as festival-wear, it seems!
Forgo a top and pair a top with shorts or a sarong-style skirt, and festifal-ify the ensemble with some sporty sneakers and accessories. Shop more of Cosmopolitan Australia’s favourite swimwear brands here.
A romper and sporty sunglasses
A festival isn’t exactly the place for a little black dress but you can still keep things sleek with a little black romper.
A tight, short jumpsuit is the perfect base for a simple, comfortable look. Accessorise with a sporty sunglasses, combat boots (the classic festival shoe is undoubtedly a Doc Marten) and a headscarf or hat.
Music Festival Fashion Essentials
While you can sub out parts of your ‘fits based on trends, some items are non-negotiable when it comes to planning festival outfits. Be sure to factor in the following:
- A really good hat—be it a bucket, cap or wide-brim
- Sunglasses
- Thick socks (bye-bye blisters)
- A bum bag or secure shoulder bag
