Yesterday we rounded up our must-visit film festivals, which included South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. In addition to having a film fest, SXSW also has a 6-day music festival and conference featuring about 2,000 musical acts from all genres that perform on more than 90 stages throughout the city’s downtown. Artists like Fiona Apple, Norah Jones and John Mayer, and bands like Kasabian and Metro will be performing this year. Keeping in mind Austin’s sunny and hot (with temperatures around 27 degrees), we pull some must-have pieces to beat the heat and stay stylish.
1. Marni for H&M maxi dress, $149, hm.com.
We’ve already declared our love for the maxi dress, but considering the temperatures will be scorching and comfort is a big factor when it comes to concert dressing, this Marni dress fits the bill. Plus you can’t get much more on trend than this pattern combo.
2. Cutler and Gross oversized round-frame acetate sunglasses, $475, net-a-porter.com.
While there’s nothing like a pair of classic tortoise shell or gold-rimmed aviator’s, there’s something playful about a pair of coloured shades like these vintage-inspired shades in a mango-orange hue.
3. H&M leather bag, $149, hm.com.
Cross-body bags are great for concerts, especially because you want to be hands-free. We love the southwestern feel of this bag and the stitching detailing around the edges. It will pair perfectly with jeans and a tee or a cute dress.
4. Sass and Bide Bite The Dust printed jersey T-shirt, $220, net-a-porter.com.
Keeping with the southwestern style, this Aztec-inspired top is the perfect tee to keep you cool and comfortable while you watch your favourite bands play. We also are fans of the subtle raspberry hues that you can play off easily with a pair of brightly coloured shorts.
5. Rag and Bone/JEAN The Cutoff Shorts, $149, shopbop.com.
With the Austin temps soaring, keep cool with a pair of bright cutoffs. These magenta shorts will look great paired with a printed top or even a plain tank.
6. American Eagle Women’s Teller Moto Boot, $25, payless.com.
You don’t have to break the bank when it comes to style. Case in point, these lightweight ankle boots we spotted at Payless. When it comes to concert dressing, a boot saves your feet from being trampled and no stress if something gets spilled either. Plus they look great with anything from a dress to jeans.
7. ASOS Straw Fedora Hat, £15, asos.com.
Daytime concert? Keep your face extra protected with a cute fedora. We can see it being paired with a maxi dress and boots for an effortless look that will have people doing a double-take.
8. AG Adriano Goldschmied Stilt roll-up jeans, $245, dealuxe.ca.
Sometimes all you need are a great pair of jeans. This cropped pair is easy to wear with any top and when the evenings get cooler, you’ll still be comfy, yet chic.
