The question of what to wear to Coachella hits differently when you’re a 30-something-year-old. Somehow the music festival has become synonymous with flower-crown-wearing, glittery-eye-shadow-loving tweens. But Coachella isn’t just for the kiddos. In fact, it’s those concertgoers with at least three decades under their belt who are really defining things. Remember when a then 36-year-old Beyoncé in custom Balmain gloriously forced us to rename the concert #Beychella? Even Paris Hilton usually stays true to her style, wearing four-inch stilettos in the desert.
Both ladies prove that there’s no need to deviate from your go-to ensembles. Instead of trying to adapt and wear predictable Coachella outfits, I’m approaching festival dressing by staying true to my own style. This weekend you can spot me taking in Snoh Aalegra’s set in a Cult Gaia knit dress and pretty strappy sandals. It’s a look that I might also wear to weekend brunch or a summertime party; in short, my Coachella dressing philosophy is not to wear anything I wouldn’t normally wear.
By the age of 30, you know exactly what you like and what makes you feel great. If you’re a minimalist at heart, a pair of crisp cargo shorts (Bassike makes a few exquisite pairs) and a classic tank top are all you need to get into the festival spirit. Or if you gravitate towards sophisticated bohemian touches, add a Wales Bonner knit set to your suitcase and pair it with Chloé’s colorful crochet sneakers for a comfortably chic look.
If you need more ideas on what to wear to Coachella, below you’ll find those and more outfits to inspire you this year.
The Knit Fit
You can never go wrong with a matching set, especially if it’s from Wales Bonner. Bring the neutral outfit to life by pairing it with eye-catching accessories. This Loewe bag earns bonus points for its hands-free, wrap-around-your-wrist silhouette.
The Sleek Sportswear
A lightweight unitard will feel great in the sweltering heat. But remember the Palm Springs desert is known to get a little chilly in the evening, so be prepared by wrapping a cardigan around your waist.
The Grunge Glam
Yes, graphic T-shirts pair well with denim shorts, but they look even better with an equally playful skirt, like Paco Rabanne’s zip-up number.
The Best of Y2K
Relive the best of the early 2000s with a psychedelic Prabal Gurung top and low-slung jeans from—wait for it—H&M.
The Elevated Bohemian
A fuss-free dress won’t take up too much space in your luggage. Look for options with playful prints and hypnotizing colorways similar to this Etro gem.
The Minimalist Magic
Sometimes less is more. Turn to tried-and-true silhouettes with modern twists, like a beloved K.ngsley tank top and luxe Birkenstock slides.
The Neon Dream
Give your denim shorts and raffia bags a nice zhuzh by pairing them with a head-turning, textured top.
The Reveal and Conceal
Play peekaboo by pairing an unbuttoned blouse with your favorite swim top. The outfit will look especially cool atop a dreamy miniskirt.
The Wonderful Windbreaker
Think outside of the denim-short box and reach for unexpected fabrics similar to Staud’s taffeta set.
