JUMP TO: FESTIVAL TYPE | CLOSET CHECKLIST | BOHEMIAN | ROCKER/GRUNGE | STREETWEAR | RETRO/VINTAGE | FESTIVAL CHIC | ATHLEISURE | HIPPIE | MINIMALIST | COWBOY/WESTERN | URBAN EXPLORER

Okay men… so you got your festival tickets, inflatable couch, kazoo, and that winning smile. But now you're scratching your head at what you’re gonna actually wear for the next 3-10 days.

There’s lots of things to consider when rummaging through that closet of yours. 

Where’s the festival?

When’s the festival?

How many days is the festival?

Will you be attending any parties or VIP events?

Are you camping? And if so, will it be car camping? Tent camping? RV camping?

Or will you be a bit bougie and rough it at a local hotel?

As soon as you are clear on all the details, it’s time to open that closet of yours and take a look at what’s inside. 

That’s right, get in there. Really take a long hard look around. Shine a flashlight if you need to. Don’t worry, I’ll wait. 

Now, once you sort out all your skeletons…I’m looking at you Brad (my ex from College, who I may or may not have changed his name to protect his identity) then grab that suitcase and open it up and get ready to throw some of your belongings inside. It’s now time to see what you have in your possession or what you need to beg, borrow, or steal (please note that SpiritHoods does not in fact condone the act of thievery unless it's stealing hearts. And if that’s the case, then I am Guilty. As. Charged).

Now whether you sit on blow up furniture at your campsite all day and play a musical instrument “for people who can't be bothered to learn one” (all my kazoo players out there…step it up!)

And lucky for all you gents out there, I can help you with the first. And assist you on the second. I can only make suggestions that will accentuate what your momma already gave you. 

First things first. We have a few things to consider…

Festival Type

What type of music festival are you going to?

Is it a rock festival? A chill indie festival? A country music festival? An EDM festival? A jazz festival? A folk music festival? An art festival? A hip-hop music festival? Your own backyard karaoke music festival? You get my point. The type of music and crowd can significantly influence your outfit choices. And don’t think your Great Aunt Sally Sue isn’t gonna expect some pizzazz to your outfit while you belt out your patio solo. Whether that’s "I Want It That Way" by Backstreet Boys, "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond, or "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, you’re still gonna want to look swanky.  

Rock festivals often lean towards edgy, darker attire, while indie festivals might embrace more bohemian and relaxed styles, and country music festivals will have you wanting to don your cowboy boots and denim. Whatever kind of festival you're going to, read on. I got you covered.

Weather Considerations

Weather is your best friend or worst enemy at a festival. Always check the forecast ahead of time. If it’s going to be hot, think lightweight and breathable fabrics. For cooler weather, layering is key. Remember that just because it’s hot during the day, doesn’t mean it will be so at night. Lots of places, like the desert for instance, can be much colder once the sun goes down. And never underestimate the unpredictability of rain.

Location

Will you be spending your time in the desert, the mountains, a beach, or a forest? If it's a multi-day festival, where will you be sleeping? What’s the terrain like? The nature of the festival grounds, such as whether they are flat, hilly, grassy, or muddy, can influence what you wear and what you bring (e.g., comfortable walking shoes, blankets, chairs).

The ease of getting to and from the festival location is also crucial. Consider the distance, transportation options, and any logistical challenges. No one wants to be stuck in a smelly car with dirty clothes. Or a dirty car with smelly clothes. You’re gonna need options. 

Festival Buddies

Who are you going with? Are you heading out on the open road with a longtime partner? If so, then maybe you can be a bit more relaxed with your attire? Or not? Maybe you still want to dress to impress after all these years. Or is it a new relationship? If so, maybe they haven’t seen you in all your fashionable threads and you’re looking to get a few much needed points. Or are you traveling with friends? Can you share clothes with them? Do they even care about what you look like? Do you even care about what you look like? Will others even care about what you look like? Will you even look like what you care about? Look about you like care even will what you? What’s happening? Why am I even here? Are these my hands? Where do I end and the universe begin? Why do we even need words? Why do we even need hands? Why do we even need clothes? Let’s just stop talking and take off all our clothes and hang free!  AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Cut to: “Sorry officer. I’ll put my Schlong (or Schlort or Slightly above Shlaverage or extra Schmedium) away.” 

Now that we have a better idea of the Who, What, When, and Where. Let’s decide on the WEAR. See what I did there? 

CLOSET CHECKLIST

Remember when I told you to open up that closet of yours? Here’s where we are gonna create a checklist. Make note of everything you already have and if you have any of these items, grab em’ now. 

Essential Clothing Items

Tops

• T-Shirts: You can’t go wrong with a classic band tee or a simple graphic T-shirt. It’s a staple that’s comfortable and stylish.
• Tank Tops: Perfect for hot days. They’re breathable and give you freedom of movement. 
• Lightweight Shirts: Button-downs can add a touch of style while still being lightweight and comfortable. Opt for linen or cotton. You never know when you might be pulled into a VIP party and you’re gonna need something sharp. 

Bottoms

• Shorts: Denim shorts are a solid choice, but consider cargo shorts for extra pockets and utility.
• Jeans: Durable and versatile. They’re a great option for cooler weather or evening performances.
• Joggers: Comfortable and trendy, joggers are perfect for a more laid-back vibe.

Basics 

• Underwear
• Socks
• Bathing suit

Footwear

• Sneakers: Comfortable, versatile, and perfect for a day of dancing and walking.
• Boots: Great for muddy or uneven terrain. Go for something sturdy yet stylish.
• Sandals: Ideal for hot weather, but make sure they’re comfortable and provide good support.
• Water shoes: Don’t forget those lakes, rivers, beaches, and water parks!

Accessories and Extras

Headwear

• Hats/Caps: Protect yourself from the sun with a stylish hat or cap.
• Bandanas: Versatile and cool, they can protect you from the sun, wind, and dust.

Bags and Backpacks

• Small Backpacks/Fanny Packs: Keep your hands free while carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and your phone.

Sunglasses and Jewelry

• Sunglasses: A must-have for daytime events. Choose a pair that complements your style.
• Jewelry: Looking to keep it simple? A cool bracelet or necklace can add a nice touch without being too much. Feel like going overboard? Then grab all your kandi bracelets and necklaces!

Miscellaneous Items

• Light jacket or hoodie
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle
• Blister Pads: Keep these handy for any unexpected discomfort.
• Portable Fan: A small, portable fan can be a lifesaver on hot days. This one even has a misting option!
• Hydration Packs: Consider a hydration pack to stay hydrated without carrying multiple water bottles.
• Toothbrush
• Toiletries 
• Eye mask
• Earplugs
• Your ID
• Lunchbox fanny pack
• And if it's humid and you’re camping. This is great for your tent. 
• A cooling blanket
• Phone chargers
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Extra batteries
• Coolers
• Food and beverages
• Gum
• ChapStick
• Hand Sanitizer
• Bugspray 
• Umbrella
• Baby wipes
• Face mask
• Bandana
• Ibuprofen
• Personal medication
• Contraceptives
• Shower Flip Flops
• Extra Socks
• Tissues
• Towels
• Vitamins 
• A good attitude

Put all these things on your bed and get ready for the next step. Where are there any holes in your wardrobe? Not literal holes. But categories of clothing that are missing. Any key pieces that you don’t have from the list above? If so, let’s take a look at some of my favorite options that are perfect for layering and creating multiple looks. And some key pieces that you will be able to wear for years to come! Festival or not! 

Now I wrote a very detailed blog on The Best Festival Fashion for Men. So please check that out because I go into much greater detail there. Plus, my friends are sick of me sending them everything I write so help a gal out and read her friggin blog already! 

Okay let’s start creating some outfits.

But wait! What kind of outfits am I putting together? I’m so confused. I hear people call festival clothing so many different things and when I search online, I’m not sure what to look for? I hear everything from rave wear, men’s rave clothing, rave styles for men, men’s festival wear, men’s rave outfits, party wear for men, men's rave, goth, and cyber clubwear, futuristic clothing, EDM clothes, techno festival fashion, men’s rave gear, Men’s festival costume, Men’s festival apparel, Coachella outfit, Burning Man outfit, Electric Forest outfit, Glastonbury Festival outfit, Backyard bbq karaoke outfit, ANNNNNNNND….

I hear all your thoughts. And I get that it can be overwhelming. What to search for is endless. 

But worry not, my hunky bewildered bloke. Your loveable and extremely knowledgeable fairy godmother of fashion is here to help.  

Now, I have broken down my favorite looks into these 10 categories below.

• Bohemian (Boho)
• Rocker/Grunge
• Streetwear
• Retro/Vintage
• Festival Chic
• Athleisure
• Hippie
• Minimalist
• Cowboy/Western
• Urban Explorer

Let’s explore a little deeper and take a closer look at my personal favorite pieces for each category. And as a bonus, I will pair something from SpiritHoods in each! Win win!

Bohemian 

Think flowy shirts, patterned shorts or pants, beaded accessories, and wide-brimmed hats. This is for the guy that likes to incorporate earthy tones and natural fabrics. If you love cotton, linen, hemp (wearing not smoking), bamboo, silk, tencel, and lyocell then you will most likely be drawn to the bohemian style. There are so many great slow fashion brands that are eco-friendly and sustainable AND will keep you looking your best. 

Right now I’m loving this 100% natural linen fabric jumpsuit from Chintamani. The material is antibacterial and breathable, so you can easily wear this without any underwear. It comes in four hand dyed colors, gray, black, dusty rose, and red ochre. It features ¾ length sleeves and calf length bottoms and will pair nicely with sneakers, sandals, boots, and flip flops. You will literally be so comfortable in this piece and won’t have to do much to accessorize it. Maybe add some bracelets, a head wrap, and sunglasses. This is definitely a garment you will wear long after the festival is over. 

And from SpiritHoods, this grey fox poncho is the perfect piece to layer over the jumpsuit or to wear with a pair of cotton pants and a plain tank top. It's a versatile piece and will be perfect for cooler festival evenings once the sun goes down. 

Rocker/Grunge 

Here’s where you get to pull out all your vintage band t-shirts, ripped jeans, leather jackets, flannel shirts tied around the waist, and your combat combat boots. And if you don’t have any vintage tees, no worries. I have bought so many vintage concert t shirts on Grailed for great deals. You can’t go wrong in this category. Look like you’re not even trying, even though you’re trying.

And from SpiritHoods, try this ultra soft black panther hoodie. It’ll be perfect for hanging around the campfire at night. The only thing that might drive you a little crazy, is that everyone is gonna wanna cuddle up and pet you.

Streetwear

This is where you get to have fun and let your own personal style show a bit. Pull any graphic tees, hoodies, joggers/sweatpants, sneakers, snapback hats, and bold accessories like chains and oversized sunglasses that you may have. Now if you need a new pair of sneakers, I can not recommend VEJA enough. Veja, which means “look” in Portuguese, is all about transparency. They are an incredible company that works hard at paying workers fair wages. They care about the planet and it shows with their use of fair trade and organic crops. Read here for more on this totally eco friendly and sustainable company. In the meantime, check out these kicks for your next festival. Not only will you be so comfortable dancing the day away, but you’ll look like an urban legend (the good kind) and the color is great for any kind of weather. So if it gets muddy, worry not. Just keep dancing.

And from SpiritHoods, these ultra soft sweatpants will look great paired with almost anything you have. Just don’t wear them with a frown, although that’s gonna be hard to do cuz you’re gonna totally love the way you look. 

Retro/Vintage

Hit up your dad, your stylish grandpa, your cool uncle, or any local vintage stores and rummage through for vintage jeans, colorful windbreakers, fanny packs, and retro sneakers. You really can’t go wrong. Technically if it’s older than 20 years it can be considered vintage. So have fun! If there isn't a vintage clothing store near you, check out Ragstock. I love all these recycled 90’s windbreakers that they have right now. Plus what’s so cool about shopping here is that you get to be one of a kind in a sea of thousands of people! 

And since none of our stuff at SpiritHoods is technically vintage, the closest thing I could come up with is an original SpiritHood. It’s the garment that launched the brand. Back in 2009, the original SpiritHood was worn at Burning Man and then the rest is history. Check out or Gray Wolf ultra soft Faux Fur hood, perfect for late night campfire sing a longs. 

Festival Chic 

Okay. Let’s go big or let’s go home! Bright, bold prints, matching sets, open shirts, shorts, sunglasses, and lots of accessories like bracelets and necklaces. This is where all my  “more is more”  men are gonna shine. And if you don’t have anything already in your closet that’s bright and bold, please let me introduce you to Warrior Within Designs. They are a small family run business that makes all their clothes in San Francisco, California. They are committed to giving back locally to their community. Read all about the cool things they do and their mission statement here. I love this tie dye bright roses shirt. Pair it with jeans, shorts, or joggers. Just make sure the bottoms are BRIGHT. Remember this is about standing out.

And this onesie from SpiritHoods was made for the bold man. And if the bright neon colors aren’t enough for you, take it to the silent disco underneath the black lights and watch yourself glow. 

Athleisure 

Okay, so this is  my  category. I live in athletic wear. I can easily go from the gym, to work, to a dance class, and then meet up with friends (maybe not in that order). Everything in this category is comfortable and sporty with tank tops, gym shorts, sneakers, and baseball caps. These pima cotton long sleeve shirts from Modetta are perfect for pairing with bottoms. They come in four different colors, white, black, chocolate brown, and a bright blue. They are on sale right now for only $21, so stock up. They’re a great basic to have in your wardrobe year round. Plus they have a cool trade in program where you can earn credit when you shop with them.

And they will look great with these SpiritHoods ultra soft leopard shorts.

Hippie 

This is another category that I love. To be honest, anything that is comfortable I love. Play some Grateful Dead and grab your tie-dye shirts, loose pants, sandals, headbands, and peace symbol accessories. Let’s make Jerry Garcia proud. If you don’t have anything that feels “hippie” enough for you, check out the endless styles and colors at Harem Pants. Like these purple rainbow harem pants. The folks over at this clothing company are supporting local charities and giving back to local hospitals and schools in rural areas that need help. So not only are you gonna look great when you wear these, but you’ll be supporting great causes. 

And at SpiritHoods, we give back too. 10% of net profits go to helping save endangered animals and their habitats. So go ahead and grab a pair of these super soft ink spot sweats and get cozy during festival evenings. 

Minimalist

Does the thought of planning any of your outfits make your head spin? I get it. Me too. I’m definitely not one of those women who has her fairy wings, long wigs, or cute festival outfits picked out a month in advance like all my friends do. I kinda just go with it right before I’m about to leave. And if you’re like me, then this is where we win. All you need is simple, clean lines with plain t-shirts, shorts, minimal accessories, and neutral colors. Bam. It’s that easy. Why complicate things? I say this to my NBB (my Non Boyfriend Boyfriend) all the time. In fact, just this morning when he had trouble committing to weekend plans, I said “Hey, let’s keep things easy. No need to make it difficult NBB. We’ll see each other when we see each other.” You catch what I’m throwin’ down? I mean… Who wants commitment these days? Right? I mean just cuz he "can’t seem to find the time to see me,"  doesn’t mean it’s a bust. We live in times when it's cool to be "autonomous." Have the freedom you want to just "be yourself" "untethered and independent." Off in the world "flying high" like a "sovereign solo one man show." You know. Exploring uncharted territories with a "table for one." Liberty and justice and the pursuit of whatever we want whenever we want it. Just out there "doin our own thang." No need for commitment to "the woman who has been your best friend and has supported your hopes and dreams and everything in between." You'd rather just be a "leaf blowin' in THE F%$#ING WIND!!!"

Sorry about that tangent. Nah I’m not bothered at all by having an NBB. It’s cool. I’m cool. Totally cool. Yup. Sure is. It’s great. It makes things easy. 

Wait. What were we talking about? Oh yeah simple clothes and not making it difficult. Somehow I forgot THAT was the subject and I started venting about my non committal NBB. Ooooops. My bad. 

So yeah...as far as minimalist clothing goes. Just literally wear  anything  in your closet. Open up your drawers and put it all in a bag and head out the door.

Easy. See you at the festival. 

Oh! And here is a simple ultra soft faux fur bomber jacket from SpiritHoods that is great for layering and evenings once the sun goes down. Super easy. No commitment. It won’t even ask you to take it off. That will be up to you to decide.

Cowboy/Western

For all my CMA Festival, Stagecoach Festival, and Faster Horses Festival, and Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival people, this category is for you. Lasso up all your cowboy hats, denim shirts, jeans, cowboy boots, and leather belts. Just leave your horse at home. Check out this cool eco friendly and sustainable cotton denim shirt by Mavi. This company has been around for 30 years and has figured out how to use less water, energy, and chemicals and uses only sustainable materials in their production. Pair it with jeans (theirs or yours) and a pair of boots and a hat and you’ll look like a sizzling saddle stud.

Now SpiritHoods doesn’t technically have anything in this category…BUT here me out on this one. I’m thinking let's juxtapose this genre and pair that cowboy hat of yours with a sweet pair of holographic rainbow snakeskin foil leggings? You in? Cuz we have some festivals to attend. And remember don’t squat with your spurs on. 

Urban Explorer

Okay all my hikers, campers, planners, adventurists, trailblazers, seekers, pioneers, and voyagers. We have to make sure that not only are you prepared for your festival, but we need to make sure that you do so as efficiently as possible. So pull out those utility vests, cargo shorts or pants, sturdy boots, bucket hats, and functional backpacks. We have some wanderlusting to do. And these cargo pants from Patagonia will come in handy. There is plenty of room to store maps, flashlights, snacks, fake mustaches, extra socks, a can of beer, pinecones, binoculars, and a small sandwich. Plus they are made from Iron Forge Hemp™ canvas, which is 25% more abrasion resistant than conventional cotton duck canvas. If that doesn’t turn you on, then you’re in the wrong category. Perhaps try the hippie group? They’re a little more free to be you and me.  

And try this SpiritHoods bucket hat! Let’s spice it up a bit, shall we? Give those cargo pants of yours a run for their money.

Here's to you, men.

Without you, I couldn't do what I do. I'd have no one to educate. And I do love to educate men. That's the truth. Lying I will not. Your mere existence makes it possible for me to continue to be employed.

So I wanna thank you for trekking through the tapestry of festival fashion with me.

Whether you’re a tie-dye troubadour, boho bandit, dapper denim dude, a floral fanatic, a neon knight, or a cargo pants connoisseur, there’s a look for every festival fella. Festivals are all about expressing yourself, having a blast, and occasionally losing yourself in a sea of glitter and questionable fashion choices. So, go forth, conquer the festival grounds with your killer style, and don’t forget to dance like nobody’s watching (but they totally are). Thanks for reading, and may your festival season be as epic as the styles we just put together. Maybe you’ll even start a trend or two?

Check out my other festival blogs for up to date info and insider tips! A guide to  some of the World's Best Music Festivals, Your Guide To This Year's Electric Forest Music Festival, Your Guide To This Year's Top Pride Festivals, Your Festival Guide To Lightening In A Bottle, and Your Festival Guide To  Electric Daisy Carnival.

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