Planning your festival outfits? These are the three key trends taking over this season – and how to shop them at every budget
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There’s a certain point in April when festival season stops feeling theoretical and starts feeling very real – and with Coachella kicking things off this weekend, that moment has officially arrived.
While it might be a fallow year for Glastonbury, the UK’s festival calendar is far from quiet. From countryside weekender escapes to city-based lineups, there are still plenty of reasons to start planning your outfits now – tickets pending or otherwise.
And if you’re wondering where to begin, the smartest place to look is the data. According to Lyst, this season’s festival style is being shaped by a mix of practicality and statement dressing – pieces that work hard and look the part. From standout accessories to heritage outerwear, these are the three trends dominating right now (and exactly how to shop them, whatever your budget).
1. Oversized sunnies
Jimmy Fairly
If there’s one shortcut to looking instantly put-together in a field, it’s a great pair of sunglasses – and this summer, bigger really is better.
As per Lyst’s latest data, demand for oversized aviators continues to accelerate (+42 per cent), with boho styles from Chloé, Gucci and Tom Ford leading the bestseller podium. Think tinted lenses, chunky frames and that slightly retro, slightly mysterious energy that makes even the muddiest campsite feel a little more cinematic.
At the top end, Gucci’s statement frames bring full fashion credibility, while Jimmy Fairly offers that sweet spot between design and wearability. For something more budget-friendly, Next and H&M have nailed the look for under £15 – proof that you don’t need to spend big to make an impact.
Shop the trend:
2. Cowboy boots
Zara
We called it during last year’s tour season, but now the data is catching up: cowboy boots aren’t just a moment – they’re a movement.
Fuelled by mega tours (from Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter era to The Eras Tour), Lyst reports that searches for cowboy boots have risen by 19 per cent since February – and as festival season approaches, that momentum is only building. The appeal? They strike that perfect balance between fashion and function – durable enough for unpredictable terrain, but statement-making enough to elevate even the simplest outfit.
The hottest brands in the category right now include Acne Studios, Steve Madden and Maison Margiela, but there are plenty of strong options across every price point.
Shop the trend:
3. Forecast-proof jackets
Barbour
Festival dressing wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging one universal truth: the weather will do whatever it wants.
Enter the forecast-proof jacket – arguably the most important piece you’ll pack. And while it might not sound groundbreaking, the data says otherwise. Lyst recently highlighted Barbour as a breakout name in its Q4 Index, with a +147 per cent rise in demand across the quarter – and that interest is still climbing (+6 per cent month-on-month).
The takeaway? You can’t go wrong with a classic. Whether you opt for Barbour’s heritage silhouettes or turn to high-street alternatives from M&S, John Lewis or Joules, the key is choosing something that works with your outfit. Think lightweight layers, practical finishes and just enough polish to take you from drizzle to golden hour.
Shop the trend:
If this season’s data tells us anything, it’s that festival fashion is becoming more considered. According to Lyst, it’s no longer just about one-off outfits, but pieces that balance style with longevity – oversized sunnies for instant impact, cowboy boots that go the distance, and a jacket you’ll thank yourself for bringing. Consider your packing list officially sorted.
