Style Tips For Summer Festivals

Sunshine, free-flowing beer, summertime jams...yes, music festival season is upon us. But unlike most carefree al-fresco events, these epic outdoor gatherings take some serious planning. One miscalculated clothing item or forgotten beauty product and you could end up spending your time in the medic's unit with cases of dehydration, sunburn, and extreme fugliness. But we've figured out just the right combo of elements to help you stay cool and looking cooler. All you have to do is follow these eight simple tips to make the most of the great (musical!) outdoors.

1. Printed dress + Belt = An easy perfect outfit—It's a fool-proof look that's got plenty of punch. Nothing keeps you cooler than variations of a thin-leather belt and a pretty, off-the-body dress.

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Above, from left: Feature Floral Print Dress, $98, available at Pixie Market; Staring At The Stars Chiffon Sundress, $58, available at Urban Outfitters; American Eagle OutfittersSkinny Braided Belt, $19.50, available at American Eagle Outfitters; Rachel Pally Buckle Elastic Belt, $92, available at Dear Fieldbinder; Rachel Comey Multi-Hinge Belt, $235, availabel at Frances May; Steven Alan Parker Dress, $248, available at Steven Alan.


2. Use protection—Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Whether it's on your body, your lips, or in your makeup, products packing some major SPF are your best friend.




Above, from left: Vincent Longo SPF20 Pearl Lipstick, $23, available at Beauty.com;Clinique Almost Bronzer SPF15, $28.50, available at Lord & Taylor; J. Crew Spring Lookbook Photo; Dermologica Oil Free Matte Sunblock SPF20, $45, available at Ultra Beauty;Walgreens Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF70, $7.99, available at Walgreens.


3. Store your crap in a utilitarian vest—If a purse is too much to handle, opt for a lightweight vest with plenty of secured pockets to keep your hands free for more important things!




Above, from left: National Jean Company Army Vest, $92, available at National Jean Company; American Eagle Outfitters Soft Military Vest, $34.95, available at American Eagle Outfitters; J. Crew Twill Utility Vest, $98, available at J. Crew.


4. Top it off with a hat—on't forget your cranium! Hats do double duty by shielding your eyes and preventing your scalp from too much sun. Lightweight straw hats with air vents keep your head happy.