How to Opt for the Right Accessories for a Summer Festival in the UK?

Summer in the UK brings a delightful blend of sunshine and music festivals. You've booked your tickets, dusted off your tent, and started the countdown. But what should you wear? As you start to plan your festival wardrobe, you might be wondering which accessories are essential for the ultimate festival experience. Let's explore some top accessories that will elevate your festival style, ensuring you're on-trend, comfortable, and prepared for any weather scenario.

1. Embrace Sunglasses: Style and Necessity

When it comes to festival fashion, sunglasses are arguably the most essential accessory. Not only are they a style statement, but they also shield your eyes from the potentially harsh summer sun.

Choose a pair that suits your face shape and personal style. Retro styles, such as cat-eye and round frames, continue to be a popular choice. For a bolder look, opt for oversized frames or brightly coloured lenses. Remember to ensure they offer UV protection and consider a sturdy pair, as festivals could be a rough-and-tumble affair.

Don't worry about splurging on an expensive pair. You can shop around for budget-friendly options. Remember, festivals are all about having fun, and the same goes for your choice of sunglasses. They are the perfect opportunity to experiment with styles that you might not usually wear.

2. Hats: A Must-Have Festival Essential

Another festival essential you definitely don't want to forget is a hat. It's not just about the style, it's also about protecting yourself from the sun's rays.

A wide-brimmed hat, such as a bucket hat or a boho-inspired floppy hat, is typically the best choice. These hats provide a good amount of shade and can also be a cool addition to your festival outfit. Bright colours, patterns, or even hats with text or logos can add an extra touch of fun to your look.

Despite being on-trend, baseball caps and straw cowboy hats also offer practical benefits. They're lightweight, easy to pack, and can protect your scalp from sunburn.

3. Dressing Up Your Outfit with Jewellery

Jewellery can make or break your festival outfit. It's the perfect way to express your personal style and to add an extra touch to your look.

Layered necklaces, statement earrings, and chunky bracelets are all excellent choices for festival wear. You can also opt for body chains, anklets, and toe rings. Don't be afraid to mix and match metals, or to pair bold pieces with more delicate ones.

Remember, festivals are the perfect opportunity to experiment with your style. So, feel free to wear that big feather necklace or those long, dangling earrings you've been saving for a special occasion.

4. Bags: Balancing Style and Practicality

Choosing the right bag for a festival can be a bit of a balancing act. It needs to be stylish, but also practical. You'll want something that's big enough to carry your essentials, but not so big that it's cumbersome to carry around all day.

Crossbody bags and backpacks are typically the best choices. They're hands-free, which is a must when you're navigating crowded festival grounds or dancing to your favourite band. Consider a bag with multiple compartments to keep your belongings organised.

Opt for bags made from durable materials, as they will likely take a bit of a beating throughout the festival. Remember, this is a summer festival in the UK, so consider a waterproof bag to protect your belongings from unpredictable weather conditions.

5. Footwear: Comfort Above All

Lastly, let's talk about footwear. While you might be tempted to dress up your feet in the latest summer styles, remember that you'll be on your feet most of the day, dancing and walking around the festival grounds. Comfort should be your top priority.

Wellies are a festival staple in the UK. They're perfect for muddy conditions and are quite comfortable for all-day wear. A sturdy pair of trainers can also be a good choice, especially if they have good arch support and cushioning.

Remember to break in your festival shoes before the big day to avoid blisters. Also, consider the colour of your footwear. Light colours might not be the best choice as they can easily get dirty. A darker colour, like black, might be a more practical choice.

6. Layering Up: Plan for the UK Weather

Every summer festival goer in the UK knows to prepare for the unpredictable weather. Layering is a clever way to stay both comfortable and trendy. It will allow you to add or remove clothing according to the weather and your comfort level.

Starting with a basic outfit, like a mini dress, tank top or t-shirt and shorts, you can add a lightweight jacket or a long-sleeved shirt for when the temperature drops or in case of the occasional summer shower. A trendy flannel shirt tied around your waist is not only a fantastic fashion statement but also a practical addition to your festival outfit.

Keep in mind, the UK's summer festivals often continue well into the night, and temperatures can significantly drop. Therefore, it's a good idea to bring a warm hoodie or a thick sweater. Another practical accessory is a scarf. Lightweight silk or cotton scarves can add a pop of colour to your outfit and provide warmth when needed.

Lastly, don't forget a waterproof poncho or a raincoat. Opt for lightweight and foldable options that can easily fit into your bag. These are festival essentials that are easy to forget but incredibly handy when a sudden rain shower hits mid-gig.

7. Camping Gear: A Festival Home Away From Home

If the festival you are attending spans over multiple days, camping becomes a vital part of the experience. It's crucial to pack useful and durable camping gear that will withstand the elements and provide you with a comfortable place to rest.

A robust tent is, without a doubt, the most crucial item. Ensure it's weatherproof and spacious enough for you and your gear. A good quality sleeping bag is equally essential. Opt for one that's rated for the coolest temperature you expect to encounter.

In terms of accessories, a portable camping chair can be a lifesaver when you need to rest your legs. A headlamp or a torch is essential for navigating the campsite during the night. For meals, pack a portable stove, stainless steel utensils, and a water bottle.

Remember, you'll want to keep your campsite tidy to respect the festival grounds and the environment. Pack some biodegradable rubbish bags and make an effort to clean up after yourself.

Conclusion: Your Personal Style is Key

Getting ready for a summer festival in the UK goes beyond just planning your festival outfits. It involves considering the unpredictable weather, the active nature of the festival, and the camping experience. But don't let this intimidate you. It's all part of the adventure!

When choosing your accessories, remember, comfort and practicality are just as essential as style. Whether you decide to opt for a bucket hat, invest in a sturdy pair of wellies, or experiment with a bold chain necklace from Urban Outfitters, your personal style should shine through.

Festival fashion is all about expressing yourself and having fun. There's no right or wrong look - your festival style should be a reflection of who you are. So, experiment with different looks, take advantage of discount codes, and most of all, enjoy the festival season!

As you pack your bag, go through your festival essentials checklist one more time. Sunglasses? Check! Comfortable footwear? Check! Fashionable and practical clothing? Check! Camping gear? Check! With these in mind, you're all set to have the best festival experience. Enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the fun that summer festivals in the UK offer.