Dressed for the Desert
Coachella 2025 is upon us. If you’re scrambling for some last minute clothing hauls, never fear. Here are 15 of my go-to items and ways to style them. I’ve included plenty of photos - so even if you don’t like the item, the inspo should get your creative fashion wheels turning.
The Lineup
1. Textured Mesh Dress
Material can do a lot. In the desert, breathable material like mesh is a fun and stylish option. You can find regular mesh, floral mesh, or lacey mesh material on shirts, dresses, skirts, and pants. Any material with interesting texture and visual dimension will be eye catching.
2. The Cowl Neck
I’m loving the cowl neck style on dresses and tops. Cowl necks hang effortlessly around the neck and cut an elegant deep neckline, making a simple top that much more striking. Again, breathable. Cowl neck dresses or tops with carpenter shorts will create the perfect elusive elegance. You’ll want to secure these with some pins or stickies ladies.
3. The Mini Slip
Every year I’ve worn some version of the mini slip dress. This would be any mini dress made of thin material, and it’s often layered with bloomers, bralettes, or shorts. Mini slip dresses with embroidery, sequins, lace, or a mix of material, are more dazzling and decorative (almost like they weren’t meant to be worn under clothes). Get your booties on, and you’ll be ready to strut the festival grounds.
4. The Chain Belt Combo
Let your chains hang low. Chain belts are a simple accessory that can be styled in various ways. Pair a cute chain belt with a maxi or midi skirt, buckle it around a dress, or loop it through some shorts. These are super affordable and add some shape to your clothes (or lack thereof).
5. Denim Bling
I love denim in the desert, but beware, it is hot. However, with the right cut and combo, you’ll be styling without risk of heat stroke. Denim rompers, denim top and bottom set, or a denim mini dress. Oh the variety of combinations. Spice it up by finding a cute denim piece that’s embellished with some bling. Diamonds and denim are a personal favorite combo.
6. Almost-Modest Microshorts
Little shorts for the scorching desert heat is never a bad idea. Go for a fun pattern like beaded, ruffled, or fringe shorts, and simply throw on your favorite artist T-shirt or camisole. Wearing a fun leather or chain belt can also enhance your outfit with more of a “whimsical Western” essence. I’d be wary of micro-skirts unless they’re skorts, because sitting in the grass and dirt will not be pretty for your bum.
7. Carpenter Shorts
You’ve heard of the little top, big bottom combo? Iconic and not going anywhere. Find a pair of shorts that are a size or two too big and generous in length, then pair these with a bikini top, lace corset, or crop top and some cowboy boots. Easy.
8. The Embellished Cami
The subtle festive look. It’s relaxed with a touch of pizzazz. Definitely a piece with some personality. Throw this over a bralette and shorts or a midi skirt, and you’ll be
9. Golden Age Head Scarf
The head scarf is classy and offers protection from the sun, heat, and dust. You can reuse this piece as a scarf top, belt, or around the neck like a boho bandit.
10. The Sequin Bikini
If you’re over crop tops, a level up from festivals is bikini tops with unique materials and textures. Sequin bikinis can be paired with shorts, pants, and skirts. My advice: carpenter shorts for a nice balance of risque and relaxed. Go for earth tones over neon colors to keep the style more tasteful and less shoddy. DO LAB here we come.
11. Midnight Maxi Slip Dress
Another annual favorite of mine. Nothing says enchanted and whimsical like a barely-there, maxi slip with some embroidery, lace, or sequins. I usually pair mine with cowboy boots and call it fits. These are super fitting for Coachella and have a free flowing fit that’ll be comfortable all day long.
12. Cowboy Boots
If I had a dime for every time I wore cowboy boots, I’d have about $22.00. Comfortable boots have to be the best thing since sneakers. They’re more versatile, festive, and will look great with dresses and skirts while not compromising the comfort. What better kicks for the desert?
13. On the Fringe
Another great way to make a statement: fringe. I love fringe when it’s done right. Fringe on a kimono, bandeau top, denim bottoms, bodysuit, or even on a cute jacket will make for a fun festive outfit. It’ll definitely say “desert prima donna.” Talk about adding some dynamic design to your look.
14. Kimonos & Cover Ups
If you’re outfit is looking a little too simple, throw on a billowing cover up to make yourself look ready for the festivities. These can look tasteful, rather than overdone, if you pick the right patterns and colors. Skip the neon tribal colors and boring cuts and opt for earthy tones with some mesh, ruffle, and fringe. Interesting cuts and shapes will be your best friend here.
15. The Modern Midi Skirt
I am so glad midi skirts are back from their prime in 1960’s. They’re flowy, frisky, and won’t get dirty dragging across the dusty grounds like maxi skirts will. You can style these with little tanks or flowing tops and add chain belts for a very suitable ensemble. Cowboy boots are the best kicks to pair with midi skirts.
Well, that was fun. Hopefully you’ve gained some Coachella creativity for your festival attire. 3 days and 3 outfits to show off your personality and style. And remember, choose comfort always. It’s a long weekend ahead. Stay cute, stay hydrated. Happy Coachella.
Sincerely,
Hannah
