What to Wear to ACL: Part 1

Austin is the self-proclaimed live music capital of the world and, over the past 15 years, Austin City Musical Festival has become an iconic symbol of our city and what music truly means to us. Musical acts will be traveling from near and far to perform at one of Austin's largest annual events. 

But, of course, it's not just about the music. Festival fashion has expanded and evolved over the past decade into a show of style and personal expression. What you wear to this event can easily dictate how present and excited you feel to be there. 

For this year's festival, there is one key thing to keep in mind: CREATIVITY.

Music is about creative expression. Fashion is too. 
Music is about freedom. Fashion is too.
Music is about celebrating the human experience. Fashion is too. 

The two are intrinsically tied by these facts, thus with the kick off of the festival a week away, it's time to think about exactly what you'll wear.

Here's 7 tips to create outfits you'll love for the festival ahead. 

1. CONSIDER THE WEATHER.

It's not the most exciting fact to consider, but comfort is key, so knowing how you're going to be comfortable means knowing the weather ahead. And right now, it's looking like 80 degree temperatures are here to stay. 

2. CHOOSE ONE ITEM TO BUILD YOUR OUTFIT AROUND. 

To think creatively about your wardrobe, you must take a fresh perspective on your wardrobe. Don't choose a whole outfit you've worn before. Instead, choose one piece from where you want to build your outfit. 

3. EVALUATE THE PROPER PAIRINGS.

If you've chosen a dress, romper or jumpsuit, you've picked the easy way. Certainly not a bad thing though! It just means there will be less moving parts to your outfit. If you're eyeing a top, choose a bottom by length. Long tops balance well with jeans. Short tops will be complimented skirts or shorts. 

4."GIVE A GIRL THE RIGHT SHOES AND SHE CAN CONQUER THE WORLD." -MARILYN

Don't just settle on flip flops or old sneakers. There are lots of comfortable options for a day of walking in the park. My personal favorite for this occasion is a sturdy cowboy boot. They make it easy to trek through the dirt and if you've broken yours in, the level of comfort has no limits. If western isn't your thing, try a fashion sneaker. While blush is great for work, dark colors like black and grey make you less likely to ruin them during the day-long event. Other options include booties and statement sandals. Go back to your outfit and see which of these blends well with your the style and colors of your clothing choice. 

5. HATS OFF TO YOU!

Why not kill two birds with one stone? A hat gives you sun protection on the hot day and adds style to any outfit. Try an embroidered ball cap for a sporty, romantic look, a burgundy floppy hat for a boho finish or a flat-brim black hat for an edgy touch.  

6. JEWELRY IS A MUST.

You can’t have an outfit without accessories. Not only do they show the complexity of the outfit, they show the complexity of who you are. For ACL, don't worry so much about the rules, focus on the creativity and playfulness of your look. Mix silver & gold, layer necklaces, try wooden bangles with metal ones, or add an arm band. The event is eclectic. You should be too. 

7.PLAN YOUR PACK.

Backpacks are trending right now, but make sure to treat yours like another layer of your outfit. If your outfit is sporty, go with a utility sack. If your look is edgier, try a leather pack. If you don't have a ton of goodies you want to bring the festival, a crossbody is the way to go. Apply the same principals to a handbag as a backpack: your style should be reflected in this piece and connected to the rest of your outfit.