27 Festival Season Essentials, From Face Gems to Cowboy Boots

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Updated on April 13, 2025 at 10:55 AM

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For some, festival season style essentials like crop tops and vintage denim are kept at the ready all year long. But for spring and summer 2025 in particular, it's no surprise that '90s fashion is heavily influencing shopping habits. Fans of the fashion era have a newfound affinity for baggy cargo pants, oversize jeans, naked dresses, and — of course — corsets. Y2K-inspired looks are also trickling into the festival realm, so if classic bohemian staples like cowboy boots, fringe, and crochet aren't for you, you have slightly more contemporary options.

We scoured many of our favorite labels known for festivalwear to see what's selling ahead of the concerts to come and can confirm that wardrobes are skewing more and more toward personal taste, whether it's decorative makeup products and face gems or the best sneakers for getting around. That being said, there are plenty of universally versatile essentials such as face SPF, affordable, hands-free bags, collapsible water bottles, and even handheld fans that you simply can't go without when you're hitting up a music festival in the sweltering heat.

Ahead, check out some of our go-to products for festival season, some of which have been recently rated and reviewed by our editors, then shop the best Levi's jeans and sunglasses if you need to round out your wardrobe even more.

A Bandanaamazon.com

A Bandana

Cotton Paisley Pattern Bandanas, Pack of 3 ($6, originally 7)

Whether you tie yours into a top, wear it in your hair, or wrap it around your arm, a bandana is a go-to festival add-on. And it certainly comes in handy when trying to protect yourself from illness from inhaling too much dust otherwise known as Coachella cough. Consider this affordable option from Amazon, which comes in three neutral colorways to complement any outfit you pack.

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Face Gemsamazon.com

Face Gems

Teenitor Self Adhesive Face Gems and Pearls For Makeup ($6)

This pack of face jewels comes with two sheets of rhinestone stickers, one sheet of hair pearls, and one sheet of multicolor gemstones. Once your skin is prepped with makeup, you can add these to your look to achieve a beauty moment that's even more done up. These face gems are made from high quality ABS material without odor, and they don't irritate your skin.

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A Belt Bagamazon.com

A Belt Bag

Packism Clear Fanny Pack ($10)

Going hands-free at a festival is a reasonable preference, but while '80s-inspired waist bags were popular in previous years, a slightly more functional crossbody that's a little larger will likely feel more secure while you're walking around. This one is also a top pick on Amazon, and it's clear, which is helpful for stages that require see-through bags.

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Colored Lashesulta.com

Colored Lashes

Lilly Lashes Multicolored Individual Faux Mink Lash Flares ($14)

Get creative with your beauty look this festival season and decorate your eyes with accent lashes, blending them with your shadow for a prismatic effect. While you might not expect it, these are reusable up to three times with proper care, but they come with a whopping total of 32 clusters, so they should keep you occupied for all of the concerts you've got on the agenda.

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Packable DeodorantPS Photography | Anvita Reddy

Packable Deodorant

Billie AHA pH Adjusting Deodorant Gel ($14)

This roll-on AHA deodorant is getting plenty of hype for its promising formula that works to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, block odor-causing bacteria, and even out the skin's texture and tone. Available in three different scents, it's perfect for those with sensitive skin on the go. Our editor gave it four stars in her Billie AHA Deodorant review.

Editor Quote: "From workouts to stuffy subways, or anything that typically makes me break a sweat, I still can't smell any trace of my body odor. Plus, the formula goes on clear and dries quickly, so you don't need to worry about staining clothes or getting the gel everywhere." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant editor, Shopping

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Facial Sprayamazon.com

Facial Spray

Evian Facial Spray ($14)

There's a reason Evian facial spray is a bestseller: it conveniently offers micro-droplet mist to hydrate and nourish your skin at the exact time you need it. It will definitely come in handy for long days in the sun or desert heat, and is available in travel size as well: Evian Facial Spray Travel Size Pack of 3 ($23).

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A Mini Fanamazon.com

A Mini Fan

Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan ($15, originally $18)

This small pocket fan will come in handy when you're out all day in the sweltering heat. It's rechargeable with an accompanying power bank, and it even doubles as a flashlight when the sun goes down. Shop it in five different trendy colors and get up to 19 hours of cooling time.

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Moisturizing Lip OilPS Photography | Anvita Reddy

Moisturizing Lip Oil

Ami Colé Hydrating Lip Treatment Oil ($20)

This lip oil is formulated with baobab-seed oil, camellia-seed oil, passion-fruit-seed oil, and vitamin E to deliver antioxidants and deep hydration on the lips. Available in six unique shades to fit whatever vibe you're going for, the look is supposed to be mostly sheer, with a subtle tint. Read more in our editor's review of Ami Colé's Hydrating Lip Treatment Oil.

Editor Quote: "At first, it may seem like the product is just sitting on your lips topically, but within minutes, the hydration penetrates, slowly softening the lips for a healthier, nonsticky feel. Because of its thicker texture, the hydration is actually pretty long-lasting — I can go a few hours without reapplying." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant editor, Shopping

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A Bralettevictoriassecret.com

A Bralette

Victoria's Secret Posey Lace Curvy Bralette ($25, originally $35)

A pretty, comfortable bralette is a lingerie staple for any festival outfit, whether you're wearing it under a sheer dress or as a top by itself. Go for a Bohemian-inspired floral print or solid color — this style is available in six different colorways.

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A Portable ChargerPS Photography | Kyley Warren

A Portable Charger

iWalk Portable Charger 4800mAh Power Bank ($25, originally $30)

As someone who once lost power after getting separated from the group at Coachella and had to hop a fence, walk 3 miles, and wait 2 hours for an Uber back to the rental, I can assure you: a portable charger goes a long way. This option stands out from the rest with its conveniently tiny size, fast-charging power bank, and cordless design. Our editor raved about the tech find in her iWalk portable charger review.

Editor Quote:: "This isn't your typical clunky, tricky-to-use iPhone charger that takes forever to charge or, even worse, takes up a ton of space in your bag. Within the span of only an hour, the portable battery can be fully charged and ready to use as needed. With this tool, I can forgo a charging cord altogether as the product can be inserted straight into my iPhone's lightning port, which is fantastic because it's one less thing for me to have to worry about carrying around or transporting when I'm on the go." — Kyley Warren, former assistant editor, Shopping

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A Bucket Hatfreepeople.com

A Bucket Hat

Free People Essential Beach Hat ($28)

A casual throw-on-and-go look, this bucket hat is ideal for keeping cool and protecting your skin from the sun's harmful ways all while adding a Bohemian flair to your look. When styling this hat, don't overthink it: add it to everything from a crochet dress to denim. Added bonus? You can pull it out for mornings spent at the pool, too.

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A Graphic Teenordstrom.com

A Graphic Tee

Merch Traffic Johnny Cash Rodeo Boyfriend Graphic T-Shirt ($29)

Vintage-inspired graphic tees are selling at an all-time high this festival season, but we especially love styles with prints that speak to our favorite artists. After all, that just makes your look so much more special — especially when the shirt can be considered a collectible.

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Hot Pantsamazon.com

Hot Pants

Uratot Cotton Sports Shorts ($30, originally $36)

Jump on the hot pants trend with this perfect pack of seven mixed-color shorts, each pair replete with white piping for a sporty vibe. The material is breathable and sweat-absorbent, ideal for when you're in the summer heat at a music festival.

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Face SunscreenPS Photography | Jessica Harrington

Face Sunscreen

Kosas DreamBeam Silicone-Free Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 ($40)

This mineral formula face sunscreen with non-nano zinc oxide provides SPF 40 protection and features ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides to moisturize and soothe the skin. It blends easily with makeup, if you're going that route for your music festival, but the Sunlit shade also provides a natural bronze if you choose to wear it alone. Get more details in our editor's Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 review.

Editor Quote: "I've tried countless face sunscreen formulas over the years, but the ones that make it into my skin-care routine long-term have to feel good on my skin (not greasy or heavy) and layer well under makeup." — Jessica Harrington, senior editor, Beauty

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A Water BottlePS Photography | Marisa Petrarca

A Water Bottle

Owala 32-Ounce FreeSip Stainless-Steel Water Bottle ($43, originally $52)

It's safe to say these Owala FreeShip water bottles everywhere. During festival season, they're perfect for stowing away in your waist bag or tote until you get a chance for a refill. The leakproof valve means you won't dampen the rest of the belongings in your bag. Plus, you can shop from plenty of different colorways to match your outfit. Our editor reviewed the Owala Water Bottle and gave it 5 stars.

Editor Quote: "Beyond its aesthetics, I fell in love with the dual-function straw. What makes it so great is that you can either sip through the built-in straw (ideal for avoiding spills when it's full) or swig from the spout opening when you need a lot more water at once (perfect for those intense Sculpt classes). [...] It's been my go-to emotional support water bottle for the past six months. Trust me, you won't regret buying it." — Marisa Petrarca, PS contributor, Shopping

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A Naked Dressfreepeople.com

A Naked Dress

Bali Cleo Maxi Slip ($50, originally $168)

The naked AKA sheer dress trend is here to stay, and that includes festival season. Grab this embellished, sheer slip dress and experiment with the styling: you can wear a swimsuit, bra and boy shorts, or even denim underneath. The options are endless.

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A Corsetnordstrom.com

A Corset

Edikted Sloane Faux Suede Halter Top ($59)

The corset routinely gets reinterpreted for festival season each year, whether it's updated with splashy florals, animal print, or metal grommets. We love the halter neckline of this top, which can be teamed with everything from denim cutoffs to cargo pants and a pair of tough-looking combat boots.

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A Pair of SunglassesPS Photography | Jessica Andrews

A Pair of Sunglasses

Quay Call the Shots Sunglasses ($85)

A pair of sunglasses makes for the perfect accessory, especially in a bold, solid black shade. These also come with a soft pouch, which is perfect for stowing away in a smaller bag while you're at the festival. Plus, the cat-eye style is still trending and super flattering no matter your face shape. Our editor raved about these sunglasses in our Quay sunglasses review.

Editor Quote: "There's nothing I love more than a pair of black cat-eye sunglasses — and this is my favorite style yet. The oversized shape is classic and glamorous, while the cat eye gives the shades a sexy, modern touch. They feel so comfortable on my face thanks to the nose pads, and I get a ton of compliments every time I wear them." — Jessica C. Andrews, senior content director, Shopping

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A Crochet Setrevolve.com

A Crochet Set

More to Come Alcie Crochet Skirt Set ($88)

Crochet is emerging as one of our favorite festival trends this year: it's Bohemian-inspired, lightweight and airy, and gives your wardrobe a flirty, alluring vibe. This colorful set will turn heads everywhere from Coachella to Governors Ball, and it looks especially cool paired with sunglasses and Doc Martens.

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Denim Shortsnordstrom.com

Denim Shorts

Good American Good '90s Denim Shorts ($99)

Denim shorts are a festival season staple because they're comfy and go with literally anything, from distressed tees to floral blouses. Get playful with different washes to find a look tailored to your style. The distressed details on these shorts, which are offered in regular and plus sizes, make for a lived-in '90s feel.

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Barrel Jeansrevolve.com

Barrel Jeans

AFRM Rhett Carpenter Barrel Pant ($108)

The oversize jeans trend is there to stay, and festival season is proof. Style these barrel jeans with a bralette or crop top. The key is to go fitted and abbreviated on top to balance out proportions.

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Platform Sneakersnordstrom.com

Platform Sneakers

Adidas Gazelle Bold Platform Sneaker ($120)

A pair of platform sneakers is practically an essential during festival season. Opt for a pair in neutral colors so that they can be worn with multiple outfits. The elevated height during a concert doesn't hurt, but in a trusty shoe like the Adidas Gazelle, you can rest assured you'll stay comfortable while walking from stage to stage.

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A Cowboy Hatbootbarn.com

A Cowboy Hat

Wrangler Rhinestone Wool Cowboy Hat ($130)

Cowboy hats are truly the best for making a style statement at a music festival, while shielding you from harmful sun rays. This black version comes in white or red, and it features rhinestone detail that makes it really pop.

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Durable Chelsea Bootsfreepeople.com

Durable Chelsea Boots

L.L.Bean Chelsea Boots ($159)

Any festival devotee will tell you: you're braving the elements during the concerts and your commute. The best way to tackle this is to invest in a durable pair of boots that can weather dust, dirt, grass, and the occasional puddle. These boots can handle it all — and with style. They boast a chain-tread outsole to provide traction, and a waterproof rubber boot bottom to ensure your feet stay dry. Style it with flirty, romantic pieces for a fun contrast.

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Fringe Ponchorevolve.com

Fringe Poncho

Luli Fama Here Comes The Sun Long Poncho ($187)

Whether you wear fringe from head to toe or on a single statement piece is up to you. For festivals, something like this tie-waist poncho offers a lot of mileage and is a go-to staple to keep nearby when it gets cooler at night. Being that it comprises so many different colors, it should wear well with everything from your cutoffs to cowboy boots.

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A Braletteforloveandlemons.com

A Bralette

For Love & Lemons Rhinestone Heart Bralette ($298)

While it may not make for the type of street style trend you wear for the rest of the year, a midriff-baring top like this embellished bralette is a perfection choice for festival season, especially when paired with cargo pants or oversize jeans.

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Cowboy Bootsfreepeople.com

Cowboy Boots

Jeffrey Campbell Finn Tall Western Boots ($358)

With the release of Beyoncé's album Cowboy Carter, the Western aesthetic is more inspired and relevant than ever. You'll want a trusty pair of cowboy boots to take you through festival season, and we love the classic details of this tall Jeffrey Campbell silhouette, which is also available in silver crackle, washed black, gray, light blue metallic, and dark blue. They're a top-rated style at Free People, so shop them quickly before they sell out.

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Sarah Wasilak (she/her) is the associate director of Shopping at PS. With plenty of experience in the commerce market, a keen interest in SEO, and 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle and health-and-fitness categories. She has bylines at PS, InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit and aims to amplify minority voices in all her work.

Jessica C. Andrews (she/her) is an award-winning editor and writer who works as the senior content director of PS Shopping. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She's appeared on "Good Morning America," NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.

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