Coachella: an annual music festival which allows participants to express themselves through fashion. For many years, the unconfined Boho-Chic style– in which is often described as a free-spirited fashion look that embodies textured fabrics, embroideries, flowy maxi skirts, suede boots and more– prevailed over many others. It is no surprise this style remained the norm of the music festival; its earthy and neutral-toned colour palette rhymed perfectly with the Colorado Desert the event is hosted in. However, in more recent years, celebrities have toned-down their once snazzy outfits into a new idea: quiet luxury. Instead of embracing Coachella’s iconic aesthetic, they prioritised the versatility of clothing rather than overworking outfits with accessories and layers. Contrarily, several influencers online continued to include fringe boots, chunky leather belts, and micro skirts into their outfits; in which are all elements of Boho-Chic. As Coachella is often considered to be the largest and most anticipated music festival in the world, the public frequently takes inspiration from participating celebrity and influencer fashion choices. Let’s dive deeper into how different Coachella fashion and styles influence our society:

The design of cleanliness, and the rise of minimalism. Monochrome fashion is growing apparent: Kendall Jenner’s outfit, simply white with a touch of a black belt, consisted of a plain tank top and jean shorts. Jenner was later seen in a white ruffle blouse and light-washed straight jeans with a silver belly chain. In contrast to the familiar boho layers, certain celebrities now lacked fun accessories, colours, and patterns, as usually found in previous Coachella festivals. Their empty white clothing could resemble a cleaner look and the inclination towards the growing purity culture hidden behind fashion. This also could be seen as a rise in simpler, more straightforward clothing in society as reflected in celebrity fashion; a surge of preferability for convenience that could be interpreted as diminishing creativity.

Boho-Chic, the reigning aesthetic. In the 2010s, the music festival was all about suede vests, skinny jeans, and leather shorts, paired with a blouse and–of course–the iconic flower crowns. Now, many participants and influencers opt for styles including cowboy and fringe boots, crocheted tops, halter and tank tops, intricate western belts, skirts, and infinite flowy layers of fabric. Others decided on a more creative approach and handmade their own outfits. For example, Kalita Hon (@kalitaku) went viral on TikTok for creating and wearing a dress made entirely out of jewellery. Though different from the boho aesthetic, she was recognised for her artistry. Another creator, Dazed (@dazeddollll), also gained attention for her DIY top made with hundreds of pieces of glow-in-the-dark stars. As DIY Coachella outfits continue to gain attention online, viewers may find themselves inspired to incorporate self-expression into their own outfits as well.

The stark contrast between celebrity and influencer fashion perfectly describes the variety of styles and aesthetics present at Coachella festivals. As celebrities are often scrutinised and seen as inspiration, their fashion choices are incredibly important and may hold subconscious meanings meant to shift our society’s perspective. For instance, the absence of excessiveness, though once prevalent, may now act as an encouragement to focus on the wearability and convenience of clothing rather than its appearance. However, other participants of the music festival who continued the Boho-Chic aesthetic or used their own creativity to express themselves advocated artistry and the representation of one’s identity. Whether it is the increase of simplicity and minimalism in celebrity fashion, the steady presence of Boho-Chic in influencer styles, or the DIY that serves a distinct uniqueness to participants, they all affect society and have one message: fashion is an expression of your identity, and it should be used to inspire more.