Fashion

8 Basic Coachella Trends You Need To Avoid This Festival Season

by Dia F.
Stocksy

Much like birds fly south for the winter, bitches fly to the mall for festival season.

Coachella is arguably the most fashionable festival in the country, boasting two weekends in the vast Colorado Desert of Indio, CA. It attracts celebrities and common folk alike with its variety-filled lineup, art exhibits and stylish reputation.

Although Coachella nabs high-profile musicians, in recent years, the venue became more known for its fashion. Individuals from all over the world don their most coveted pieces for the elaborate photo op.

From H&M to D&G and head crowns to headdresses, you'll see it all — which means you'll also want to avoid most of it.

Here are the top 10 trends to steer clear of at Coachella if you want to stand out from the crowd:

1. Typical Spring Florals

It's finally April and spring has sprung. Unless you're from a state with copious amounts of sunshine, you're jumping for joy after a long, harsh winter.

You've made your way to sunny California for the holy mecca of festivals, and you're looking for a way to set yourself apart.

But, one thing you should rule out now for your festival wear is typical spring florals. The “typical spring” part of that is important, as I'm referring to pieces with high concentrations of small flowers, often done in soft colors.

They infest store racks as soon as the calendar hits February, and there's no shortage of them at thrift stores, so you best believe every Joni Mitchell wannabe will be pulling them out.

This year, large florals in darker, contrasting hues have been a staple transition item from winter to spring. Avoid delicate pieces and opt for something edgier, like this.

2. Flower Crowns

Now that we've knocked florals off the list, let's slash their head-adorning counterpart: flower crowns.

As music festivals are deemed the most appropriate place to rock them, flower crowns have become cliché and overdone.

The Internet is filled with memes mocking girls for their lack of originality for wearing these every year.

3. Hats

I know this is a broad category about which most readers will disagree with me, but hear me out.

Although Coachella tops the list of music festivals that people often don't attend for the music, these events should, theoretically, revolve around movement.

I attend a good amount of shows and festivals, and I have witnessed the issues surrounding hats.

Falling off peoples' heads while dancing, brims being so wide the wearer requires additional space or people literally all wearing the same style (see: floppy). Opt for bandanas (a la Jessie James Decker) or a creative headband or turban.

4. Expensive Footwear

Between the cost of tickets and flights, gas or hotels (for some), Coachella can rob a girl dry. It is important to remind yourself that you are in a desert and that there is, in fact, dirt.

Don't ruin your $300 Jeffrey Campbell X Free People tall gladiator sandals. Try a timeless, inexpensive flat in a bold color like these, from Express.

5. Lace/Crochet Maxi Dresses And Skirts

I will never knock this look, as it is effortless and beautiful and it captures the essence of festival fashion.

However, if you're looking to stand out, this option may fall short as you look around and notice everyone else hopped on the Stevie Nicks "Gold Dust Woman" train, too.

If you want to keep the relaxed feel of the maxi, go for something with an unexpected punch, like this Wildfox maxi that reads, “Wild Thing."

6. Rave Gear

Popularized by the EDM community, bedazzled bras, fuzzy boots and cheeky bottoms can be seen far and wide at festivals.

If you're someone who stands by this look for your show and festival attendance, try to switch it up this year with something less PLUR.

Still want to show some skin? Athletic companies are offering a wide array of sports bras, spandex shorts and other pieces in insane patterns, which will appeal to the rave culture.

Not to mention, you can then wear it outside of the festival to the gym (hello, efficient). Try to tell me this one from H&M isn't completely dope.

7. Boho Overload

Music festivals are our generation's chance to escape the pristine, blazer-wearing life we know and enter the laidback vibe of the 60s and 70s.

With this notion comes a blast of bohemian get-ups: stacked, ornate rings; paisley jumpers; destroyed overalls paired with dusty suede ankle boots; tie-dye, high-waisted everything; peasant tops; and tousled waves and braids.

The list goes on infinitely. I appreciate this in full and think it's one of the key elements that makes festivals their own little world, but I think it's time we give things a modern spin.

Instead of relaxed, beachy hair, go for a classic bun or slicked low pony tail. Pair a wild, vintage tie-dye with something fresh, like a pair of Jordans, or something structured and proper, like equestrian boots.

Rock a Nike sports bra with a pair of bell-bottoms.

Also, know that hippie culture is not the only option if you want to keep things laidback. Channel your inner island goddess and throw some tropical elements in to your look.

Think palm tree prints, gold jewelry and sandals, bright colors — the works. Try a monokini with a flowy, skater skirt. Relaxed, glamorous and festival ready.

8. Conformity

Altogether, just ditch the overarching label of “festival wear.” Trends come and go, but individuality lasts forever.

Wear what feels comfortable and what feels like you. Remember it's about the music, not the Instagram photos.