Knowing what to wear to a festival in the UK is mostly about expecting the worst and hoping for the best. Festival weather changes by the hour. The best outfit is one you can adjust without leaving the field.
What to wear to a festival in the UK: layers first
Start with a tee, add a hoodie, then keep a light jacket or gilet in your bag. You will use every layer at some point. A morning can start at 8 degrees and a sunny afternoon can feel like a different country. If you want more on the idea, our capsule wardrobe guide shows how a few pieces can do the work of many.
Footwear
Old trainers or boots you do not mind losing. Avoid anything white. Bring spare socks, and keep them in a bag so they stay dry. Wet feet ruin a day faster than anything else.
Bottoms
Dark joggers or relaxed trousers dry quickly and hide mud. Avoid heavy jeans, which stay wet and get cold once the sun drops. Shorts are fine in July, but a pair of trousers in the bag is smart.
Pockets matter
Zip pockets keep your phone, cards and keys safe in a crowd. A small crossbody bag works too. Wear it in front of you when it gets busy.
Cap and sunglasses
A cap handles sun and rain. Sunglasses help more than you expect after a long day. If you are unsure about sizing, read how to choose a cap that fits.
Colour
Dark colours hide spills. Add personality with a bright cap or a graphic tee underneath.
Three easy festival outfits
- Sunny day: graphic tee, relaxed shorts, old trainers, cap, sunglasses.
- Grey and mild: tee, zip hoodie, dark joggers, boots, light jacket in the bag.
- Proper rain: long sleeve, hoodie, waterproof shell, dark trousers, spare socks.
Common mistakes
Wearing brand new shoes all day, packing too many outfits and forgetting something warm for the night. Test everything at home first.
Pack light
Fewer, flexible pieces beat a full wardrobe in a tent.
Before you go
Check the forecast the night before, charge your phone and put a bin bag or a small waterproof pouch in your pocket. Wear your outfit for a full day at home first if you can. Anything that rubs or itches in the kitchen will be miserable by midnight in a field.
Layers for every forecast are in the shop.
MORE LUV.