No spring transition is complete without the bursting beats, grassy fields and the flashy fashion of festival season. Coachella fashion conjures up select images: short skirts, tiny denim shorts, fancy tanks and patterned tops. But for us hijabis, when we dress more on the modest side, it can be challenging finding that perfect desert-vibes outfit. Muslim women who choose to wear hijab – whether that means fully covering their hair and body, or just dressing more modestly – may be affronted by the more revealing fashion that’s commonly worn during festival season. But, since music invites different people from all walks of life, that means the fashion can and should be just as diverse! That’s why we have the ultimate guide to festival style for the hijabi girl (or even the general modest dresser) that’ll make your outfits eye-catching and totally on-trend for the big weekend.
Bell-sleeved tops
Whimsical and flowy, bell-sleeved tops are already a fan favorite of the festival scene. These airy adornments let you breathe in the outside rays of sun without revealing too much. For a dressed down look, pair your bell-sleeve top with some light-wash blue jeans and your favorite chunky sandal! For something more bohemian chic, pair a bell-sleeved top with a maxi skirt, and you’re set.
Patterned and plain hijabs
With a music fest as colorful as Coachella, those patterned scarves can finally be put to good use! Usually, a hijab has to be plain in order to coordinate with a patterned outfit, but festivals encourage experimentation and fun color. Try out one of your statement scarves with brighter colors and floral prints to really play up the boho look. You can even wear a tie-dye scarf as a hijab if you want to take it to that next level!
Of course, if you do a lot of pattern-playing with your outfit, you’ll want to pair with plain colored hijabs so as not to overdo it – but again, keep the colors fun! This is the one time you can break out of your normal hijab routine and wear something vibrant.
Hijab Accessories
Accessorizing hijabs has become a huge trend among hijabis, and we can see why. Your hijab is probably the most unique and stunning accessory to your outfit, so don’t be afraid to go that extra mile to make it look bolder for this special occasion.
If you happen to have some accent pins with gems, stick those on the front, back, or sides of your hijab. Want to bring a street-wear feel to your look? Wear a snapback for something more next level. And of course, nothing says Coachella like a classic flower crown, so wear one with petals that match your hijab. Your hijab deserves some extra love for this weekend in the desert – just be sure it stays put as you bop to Beyoncé on the mainstage!
Maxi dresses
Maxi dresses are a modest dresser’s best friend, but they’re also a beloved acquaintance of Coachella fashion. Find a bright patterned maxi dress that fits your style and pair it a cute pair of flats for a look that lasts all day. These dresses come in a huge range of dynamic patterns and prints, and if sleeveless, are easy to cover up with thin cardigan.
Long cardigans
No hijabi’s wardrobe is complete without a gorgeously long cardigan. Long cardigans are especially wonderful for Coachella outfits by providing that extra layer while adding extravagance to your ensemble. Pair a long robe with a maxi dress and waisted brown belt, or wear with your favorite jeans and ruffled top for an elegant outfit worthy of any music fest.
Patterned pants
Patterned pants are another staple that just scream Coachella, and of course, they’re hijab friendly. Pair funky flared pants with a white long-sleeve top, and combine the look with a plain colored hijab that offsets the designs in the pants. Your hijab works as the perfect accent piece to the outfit without being too revealing.
Your own cultural wear
Now, we can’t ignore the obvious issue with Coachella fashion: some attendees dress in the clothes and accessories of other cultures besides their own. Cultural appropriation is one of the biggest Coachella fashion sins, but if you yourself want to rep your own cultural heritage, then you totally should (and you’re the only one who rightfully can, anyway). Many pieces of cultural-wear you may own and love are what you’re already used to wearing. So whether you want to reclaim your culture or want a modest option you’re already comfortable in, cultural-wear can be another weekend outfit option too.
Style options for hijabi and modestly dressed women can seem scarce at times, especially for occasions like Coachella. Luckily, Coachella is all about experimenting with different fashion trends, and modest clothing is no exception!