What to wear to a festival
Dickies has always been close to the music scene, from hip-hop’s baggy fits to punk and metal’s rugged looks. But if you’re headed to a festival, you probably want to know one thing: what to wear so you feel comfortable and look stylish.
Here’s our guide to building a festival outfit that’s ready for anything.
Festival fashion essentials
There are no guidelines or rules. We aren’t the gatekeepers, so you’re not going to find a ‘Hip Hop or Pop Punk starter kit’ here. But for some festival outfit ideas, we can shout out products that have been much-loved festival fits over the years.
01 Pants with Pockets
If there’s one thing that always comes in handy at a festival, it’s pockets. Whether it’s for your phone, wallet, or just somewhere to stash your essentials, having extra storage is a game-changer. Enter the Double Knee Work Pants - a hardwearing classic with added durability and deep pockets for practicality. These have long been a staple in workwear and street style, making them the perfect blend of function and fashion.
For a more relaxed festival-ready look, consider carpenter pants, or shorts in warmer weather. With utility pockets and a comfortable fit, they’re easy to move in and effortlessly cool. Pair them with a loose tee or cropped work shirt to complete the vibe.
For a more relaxed festival-ready look, consider carpenter pants, or shorts in warmer weather. With utility pockets and a comfortable fit, they’re easy to move in and effortlessly cool. Pair them with a loose tee or cropped work shirt to complete the vibe.
02 874 work pants
The staple of all staples. We have to start with the 874 pants. If you could only buy one piece, you need to consider the 874. It’s a classic that spans genres and subcultures and has emerged as a street-style must-have.
It's always recommended that you size up on the 874, but one size may not be enough depending on your style. Go true to size for a classic look, or size up if you’re after a relaxed, hip-hop-inspired fit.
It's always recommended that you size up on the 874, but one size may not be enough depending on your style. Go true to size for a classic look, or size up if you’re after a relaxed, hip-hop-inspired fit.
03 Shorts
In terms of other favourites, shorts are always out in force at warm-weather festivals, with our 13 Inch Work Shorts being the standout option. Just like the 874, you can either keep the default slim fit or make them your own and size up for an oversized look.
You also have several colour options here to ensure you can pair them with anything.
You also have several colour options here to ensure you can pair them with anything.
04 Short sleeve work shirts
Like the shorts, the Short Sleeve Work Shirt is a really versatile piece. It’s an icon, designed for comfort and manufactured from consciously-sourced recycled fibres. So, a bit of peace of mind to go with the exceptional comfort. Consider sizing up for an oversized look, perfect for a festival and very popular in the streetwear scene.
05 Long Sleeves & Jackets
We might be able to control how your clothes behave, but we can’t say the same about the weather, which is why sometimes, you just need to bring out the sleeves.
A loved piece in hip-hop style is the checked button-down look, which our Flex Flannel Shirt does to perfection. It’s timeless and available in great colour options.
If you want to keep to the long sleeves but are looking for a jacket option check out the Duck Canvas Chore Jacket. With it, you get two quintessential Dickies hits in one; our famous hardwearing Duck Canvas fabric and the workwear stylings of the Chore Jacket.
It will take anything you chuck at it and has enough pockets to store all your festival bits. These are available in women’s and men’s options too.
A loved piece in hip-hop style is the checked button-down look, which our Flex Flannel Shirt does to perfection. It’s timeless and available in great colour options.
If you want to keep to the long sleeves but are looking for a jacket option check out the Duck Canvas Chore Jacket. With it, you get two quintessential Dickies hits in one; our famous hardwearing Duck Canvas fabric and the workwear stylings of the Chore Jacket.
It will take anything you chuck at it and has enough pockets to store all your festival bits. These are available in women’s and men’s options too.
06 Dungarees & coveralls
Coveralls, dungarees and bibs, from Dickies’ classic Duck Canvas Bib to the Pacific Coveralls, there’s not much that needs to be said. Great for layering, and with a front chest pocket to drop your essentials into.
Dungarees are fun ones to customise too. Chuck a sweatshirt under them, drop a shoulder strap off one shoulder, grab a cross-body bag and pull on some funk socks! We have an entire guide on what (and what not) to wear with dungarees.
Dungarees are fun ones to customise too. Chuck a sweatshirt under them, drop a shoulder strap off one shoulder, grab a cross-body bag and pull on some funk socks! We have an entire guide on what (and what not) to wear with dungarees.
Festival fashion tips to nail your outfit
Now you’ve made your picks; it's time to nail your festival look:
- Socks & Footwear: Knee-high socks look great with shorts if you’re channelling that punk style. Travis Barker’s been doing it for years, and it still works.
- Play with colour: Festivals are your chance to experiment. A bright tee under a neutral work shirt brings your outfit to life.
- Layer Up: Button-down shirts or lightweight jackets offer an extra layer if the weather turns.
- Accessories: A crossbody bag or a small backpack is a smart way to keep your phone, wallet, and other must-haves within reach.
What festival clothes and styles should I avoid?
Even though festival style encourages self-expression, there are a few choices that can make your weekend more hassle than fun. Here’s what to avoid:
01 Heavy, fussy fabrics
We’re looking at you suede, fur, or thick leather - these don’t handle heat, rain, or spilt drinks well. If you love the look, try smaller accents like a bag or belt instead.
02 High heels
They might look great in the mirror, but dancing (and trudging) around festival grounds in heels is painful and impractical. Pull out your most reliable trainers, boots, or anything that will keep you comfy on your feet.
03 Tight or overly bright
Ultra-restrictive clothing can get uncomfortable fast, and blinding neon hues can be distracting. Try to keep your style relaxed - it will still shine without these highlights.
04 Excessive UV/face paint
A few dots or a subtle design is cool but coating yourself head-to-toe can turn messy. Less is more when it comes to festival body art.
Your festival Essentials checklist
Right, you’re almost ready to hit the festival, it’s time to grab your festival essentials. From day tripper to mainstage headliner, make sure you’ve got everything you need:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Cross-body bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Suncream
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Money (cash will come in handy)
- Phone
- Portable charger
- Ticket! Don’t forget your ticket!
Ready to go?
Dickies is proud to be part of festival culture, and no matter what style you’re into, we’ve got you covered.
Now that you’ve got the gear, take it to the next level with our Festival Fits collection. Here you’ll find everything you need to stay comfy, look great, and soak up every moment of the music.
See you in the crowd.
Now that you’ve got the gear, take it to the next level with our Festival Fits collection. Here you’ll find everything you need to stay comfy, look great, and soak up every moment of the music.
See you in the crowd.
