Coachella is an annual festival held in Indio, California. It is known for its high-profile performers and signature style (think flower crowns and flowy dresses). From Friday 10th April to Sunday 19th April 2026, thousands donned their festival attire and hit the desert.
This year, I came across a lot of criticism of Coachella. Among other things, people complained about its commercialisation, with Sophie Wilson explaining that: “With the rise of Instagram in the early 2010s, Coachella fashion was no longer just about the clothes. It was about content.” There were also discussions about whether the standards for female performers are higher. Take Sabrina Carpenter, who dazzled in her costumes, and Justin Bieber, who wore a nonchalant hoodie.
Despite this, people are clearly still interested in Coachella. Not only did thousands attend, but millions more watched the livestream at home. It has been popping up all over social media. So, even if Coachella does have its downfalls, I think it is still worth looking at and getting inspired by. From the star-studded to the unbothered, let’s unpack the festival fashion together from the California desert to mizzly Britain.
Bras and Lingerie
Firstly and most notbaly, bras and lingerie pervaded Coachella outfits this year. Performing as a guest with Addison Rae, Olivia Rodrigo’s outfit was one of my personal favourites, sporting light pink bra with a bow in the middle and a pair of jeans. It was the perfect mix of Addison’s burlesque and Olivia’s rock-chick style.
Hailey Bieber went for a vintage Dior summery silk slip-dress in bright pink and yellow with a subtle floral pattern. She paired it with light-blue vintage satin slip-on mules. The ‘slip’ components of this outfit made it look effortless and the shimmering fabrics called to mind Hailey’s brand and signature glossy look.
Kylie Jenner sported a vintage white bra with sparkling fringe and a pair of jeans, accessorised with a body chain. So 2016, in the best way.
BOHEMIAN: A FESTIVAL CLASSIC
Cowboy boots have been trending for years and continue to be crowned the essential festival attire. Chappell Roan paired them with a white flowy skirt and a waistcoat. This was classical Coachella, bohemian and vintage! It also felt very reminiscent of Catherine Earnshaw’s style in the new “Wuthering Heights” movie. Similarly, Lisa from Blackpink went for a desert-chic look with cowboy boots, a crocheted see-through dress, and a leather jacket. She brought a pop of colour with a pink shoulder bag. The geometric pattern of her dress alluded to her futuristic performance with Anyma.
SURPRISINGLY CASUAL?
After the discussions of the pressure women feel to present themselves as a spectacle, I was surprised to see so many women wearing casual outfits at Coachella. Zara Larsson took the stage with PinkPantheress in a minimal makeup look, wearing a t-shirt and glitzy purple jeans.
Some trends are becoming apparent and predictable. Sparkle, comfort and bohemian. If you are going to a festival this year, then it’s best to be practical. Wear something that you will feel comfortable in all day and make sure to layer up for the unpredictable British weather! Finally, have fun with it. Festivals are a unique environment in which you can explore your style, just like these celebrities did. Olivia Rodrigo wore something daring, Chappell Roan and Lisa rocked their cowboy boots in all their glory. But if you prioritise comfort, a hoodie like Justin Bieber is Coachella-approved too. Oh, and has anyone seen Madonna’s costume?