The Coachella Capsule: The Only 9 Pieces You Need to Pack
Coachella newbies and seasoned veterans alike know they're in for a weekend (or two) of great music, toasty temperatures, and, most important, trendsetting festival style. So if you're starting to plan what to pack for Coachella this year, we're here to help. While in years past, it was boho details that dominated, things are shaping up to be different in 2018. With trends like leather jackets and dad caps dominating street style, we can expect these staples to trickle down to festival dress as well.
Below we're highlighting nine major trends we consider to be the clothing styles to try this festival season. Each has a practical purpose, but it manages to offer up some major style, too—how can you say no? So whether it's Beyoncé or the Bleachers you'll be dancing the night away to, you'll be doing it in style.
Check out our nine must-wear pieces for Coachella below.
1. Leather Jacket
Since things can get chilly in the evenings, you'll want to pack a jacket. Leather jackets feel effortlessly cool, and trying them in a bold color or unexpected shape is especially fresh this year.
Swap a standard black jacket for a bold hue instead.
Available in sizes 00 to 10.
A jacket that's perfect with a grungy band tee.
Available in sizes XS.
2. Chic Backpack
When you're out all day at the festival grounds, you'll want to be prepared. A stylish backpack will come in handy when it comes to carrying water, sunscreen, and snacks.
This isn't your average back-to-school style.
A streetwear take on the backpack.
Okay, who can resist cute cats?
3. Baseball Cap
Keep your face out of the sun, while also making a fashion statement in a cool but under-the-radar dad hat.
You'll be sunburn-free in this hat.
Swap your wide-brimmed hat for this sporty style.
Want a high-fashion take on the baseball cap? This hat will do the trick.
4. Denim Shorts
No festival would be complete without a pair of denim shorts. This year, keep an eye out for higher-waisted styles that you can easily wear with boots or sneakers.
Side-striping sets these shorts apart.
Available in sizes 25 to 32.
Swap your standard denim for these white shorts instead.
Available in sizes 27 to 29.
For an edgier look, try a high-waisted black pair.
Available in sizes 12 to 20.
5. Lightweight Top
A relaxed yet feminine white top is a 2018 respite from the more bohemian styles of past years.
Show a little shoulder with this pretty top.
A lightweight white top is perfect for warm weather.
Available in sizes 14 to 18.
Channel French It girls with this light top.
Available in sizes 0 to 12.
6. Printed Spring Dress
When it comes to festival dresses, opt for loose-fitting floral styles.
This lightweight dress will help you dance the day and night away.
Available in sizes 14 to 28.
Stand out from the crowd in this fun blue dress.
Available in sizes XS to L.
Throw on sneakers and sunglasses, and you'll be good to go.
Available in sizes S to L.
7. Relaxed Jeans
For a day when only jeans will do, swap out your usual skinnies for a relaxed cut instead. Styles with a high-waist and loose fit will be especially appropriate for a day outdoors.
A light wash feels just right for daytime.
Available in size 24.
These wide-leg jeans will be comfy all day.
Available in sizes 24 to 28.
Pearl embellishment adds a delicate twist.
Available in size 16W.
8. Statement Earrings
If you're ready to retire your flower crown, consider going for statement earrings instead. They stand out but feel refreshingly fashion-forward.
Pair these cool hoops with a dress or floaty top.
These earrings are sure to make a statement.
If you want your earrings to be your main style statement, pair with a white tee and denim cutoffs.
9. Western Boots
When you're spending a long weekend dancing in the dust, there's nothing that can compare to a great pair of Western boots.
Suede can stand up to a day in the dirt.
Available in sizes 5 to 10.
These boots look great with denim shorts.
Available in sizes 5 to 8.5.
If you need a little heel, this style is chic, but it will still be comfortable.
Available in sizes 5 to 12.
Need more packing advice? Here are five festival trends to avoid this year.
This post was updated by Aemilia Madden.