To begin, if you haven’t read our Osheaga To-Do List, do that before coming back to figure out how to look snazzy for the festival.
Festival de la musique et des arts Osheaga, simply known as Osheaga (Music and Arts Festival) is around the corner.
Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montreal will be filled with lovers of art, music and sunshine on August 1st to 3rd.
It’s one of the biggest parties of the summer where emerging artists get to perform with the big guns of the music industry.
This year’s line-up includes OutKast, Arctic Monkeys, Lorde, J.Cole, Sam Roberts Band and many others on 5 different stages. With names like “River Stage,” “Mountain Stage,” “Green Stage,” “Trees Stage,” and “Zone Picnik Electronik” it’s no wonder the crowd is so blissfully diverse.
The big question is: what will you wear? You want to look like your favourite rock stars, right? So floppy hats, leather jackets, oversized sunglasses, designer bags and killer heels are the order of the day. NOT.
Pretty much anything goes, but it will be hot and you will be dancing—you can’t help it. Even if you’re not, Mother Nature will be smiling, so the sun will be out for a guaranteed “sweat fest.”
Find ways to show off your tan and still be comfortable. Here’s our recommended wardrobe list for both men and women.
Let’s start off with the girls.
Crop tops, light tanks and colourful bandeaus will keep you covered while you dance, without suffocating you. If you’re afraid it might get cold at night, bring layer pieces, like light sweaters and jackets. Don’t overcommit and try to choose items that you could easily tie around your waist or toss into your bag.
Nothing goes better with crop tops than a pair of high-waisted jean shorts. Not a fan of denim? Opt for a flowing maxi skirt to give you that festival vibe, or even a cute mini skirt. If you’re pairing it with a crop top, try and stick to high-waisted bottoms to balance out your mid-section. Less is more ladies!
Looking good at a music festival is important—but so is comfort. Ditch the heels and go for a pair of strappy sandals or your favourite runners (sports luxe is in). If height is an issue, substitute heels for something comfier. Wedges are a great replacement and platform boots are super trendy.
It’s summer, so sunglasses are a must. This one’s pretty straight forward—anything from your favourite Ray Bans to a pair of cool vintage aviators will do the trick. If you’re not usually daring, this is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone a little bit. Go to your local thrift shop and find the funkiest shades you can!
Headpieces aren’t for everyone, but you’re guaranteed to look super chic and cool if you do happen to wear one. If you’re a hat person, we recommend wide-brimmed fedoras. Other cool hair trends to try are head jewelry and head scarves.
Now, moving on to the boys. The basics stay the same, but with a twist, of course.
We know you want to show off your muscles, but try to keep the tops loose fitting. You’ll thank us later when your shirt isn’t completely stuck to your body. Go for tanks and t-shirts. If it gets cool at night, a light flannel will do the trick.
Bottoms are easy. Shorts are probably your best bet, but if you’re prone to bug bites, light cotton pants are your best friend. If you’re ready to bare your legs however, go funky or go home. Now’s the time to bring out the short shorts and crazy patterns—we won’t judge.
Although flip-flops are easy, they’re often easily stepped on. To avoid being tripped by the crowds of people, go for sturdier sandals, like Birkenstocks or your trusty leather boots. For all the sports guys out there—yes, you can wear your gym shoes.
Sunglasses aren’t just for girls. With so many popular styles being unisex shades, you can easily pick up any pair of tinted glasses and make it work (make sure they have UV protection). We know you’re tempted, but don’t bring out the Tom Fords just yet. You wouldn’t want to drop them and have them get stepped on.
Most guys are familiar with them already, but hats are a great essential at a music festival. It blocks out the sun and keeps you looking stylish. We’re currently loving boater hats and the modern take on the bowler hat.
The lists may seem simple, but it doesn’t mean you can’t stand out or funk it up. Your tanks can boast cool prints or you can don graphic or rad band tees. Ladies, those jasmine pants with crazy prints will simply rock. Try combat boots or studded kicks. Headgear ranges anywhere from cowboy hats, fedoras, boaters, ascots and snap backs to buckets, schoolboys and floppy hats (we’ll make the exception here). If possible, wear something with pockets (less responsibility) otherwise find yourself a small crossbody to hold your beer cash and minor “must-need” necessities.
Remember to keep all clothing material light and don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour. This goes for the boys and girls.
See? Easy and breezy can be beautiful.
