Photo courtesy of Forever 21.

Fashion

How To Pack A Killer SXSW Wardrobe

on the road for festival season

by Jenna Igneri

South by Southwest—the annual festival that takes place in Austin—has just begun, kicking off our favorite time of year: festival season. However, unlike festivals occurring over the next few months, SXSW is a place where the best of new music, film, and technology merge together. While the conferences and film segments started at the end of last week, the music portion kicks off tomorrow—which means some of the most fashion-forward street style stars will be about town catching the latest buzz bands.

Known for some of the coolest and non-typical festival fashion, attendees of SXSW tend to be a bit edgier than the typical bohemian looks we see at other festivals. Think: Coachella boho mixed with trendy accent pieces and urban-approved accessories.

Temperatures will range from 60 to 90 degrees (and dropping to the 40s at night) this year, so you’ll want to make sure you’re fully equipped for all weather—rain or sunshine, scorching or chilly—especially since you’ll be hopping around from venue to venue. We’ll be lugging a denim jacket and leather bomber to bring our summery daywear well into the night. If you attended last year, you also know just how much rain Austin can get, so don’t forget to pack rainproof gear—a cute pair of rain boots and a rain jacket will do. 

And of course, practical accessories are always a must. A cute sandal is ideal for the hot, hot heat, but a boot is better if you’re going to be dancing close to stage—nobody likes getting their toes stepped on. A comfy yet chic slip-on sneaker is also a great choice for a busier schedule, and your feet will thank you for this precaution at the end of the day. Backpacks are an ideal carryall to ensure you’ll be hands-free to dance to your heart’s desire during your favorite band’s set. 

Click through the gallery to check out our packing must-haves for a killer SXSW festival wardrobe.

Photo courtesy of American Apparel.

American Apparel, Vintage Denim Fringe Short, $58, available at American Apparel.

Photo courtesy of Forever 21.

Forever 21, Distressed Denim Overalls, $27.90, available at Forever 21.

Photo courtesy of Free People.

Free People, Look Into The Sun Maxi Dress, $98, available at Free People.

Photo courtesy of Guess.

Guess, Denim Culotte Jumpsuit, $128, available at Guess.

Photo courtesy of ShopBop.

Jack by BB Dakota, Correll Dress, $75, available at Shopbop.

Photo courtesy of Madewell.

Madewell, The Jean Jacket in Ellery Wash, $118, available at Madewell.

Photo courtesy of Nasty Gal.

Nasty Gal, Atomic Vegan Leather Jacket, $118, available at Nasty Gal.

Photo courtesy of NYLONShop.

Shop Librett, Moon Phase Crop Top, $28, available at NYLONshop.

Photo courtesy of NYLONShop.

Nana Judy, Athena Dress, $125, available at NYLONshop.

Photo courtesy of Reformation.

Reformation, Augie Two Piece, $198, available at Reformation.

Photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters.

Urban Outfitters, Basic Bandana, $6, available at Urban Outfitters.

Photo courtesy of Zara.

Zara, Transparent Raincoat, $69.90, available at Zara.

Photo courtesy of ASOS.

ASOS, Mystical Charm Swing earrings, $14, available at ASOS.

Photo courtesy of Jennie Kwon.

Jennie Kwon, White Diamond Long Curved Bar Stud with Black Diamonds, $369, available at Jennie Kwon.

Photo courtesy of Minor Obsessions.

Minor Obsessions, Cactus Necklace, $365, available at Minor Obsessions.

Photo courtesy of Modern Citizen.

Modern Citizen, Half Moon Marble Cuff, $38, available at Modern Citizen.

Photo courtesy of Axel Arigato,

Axel Arigato, Slip-On Sneaker, $185, available at Axel Arigato.

Photo courtesy of Dolce Vita.

Dolce Vita, Delila Sandals, $90, available at Dolce Vita.

Photo courtesy of & Other Stories.

& Other Stories, Fringe Detail Suede Boots, $145, available at & Other Stories.   

Photo courtesy of Le Specs.

Le Specs, Nefertiti Sunglasses, $119, available at Le Specs.

Photo courtesy of NYLONShop.

Lazy Oaf x Poppy Lizziman, Biscuit Black/White Sunglasses, $68, available at NYLONshop.

Photo courtesy of Baggu.

Baggu, Backpack in Natural Grid, $38, available at Baggu.

Photo courtesy of Le Sportsac.

Le Sportsac, CR Large Weekender, $200, available at Le Sportsac.

Photo courtesy of Chris Habana.

Chris Habana, The Engagement Pearl Septum/ Ear Cuff, $50, available at Chris Habana.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.

Jeffrey Campbell, Clima Chelsea Rain Boot, $54.95, available at Nordstrom.

Photo courtesy of Need Supply.

Loeffler Randall, Drawstring Backpack in Natural, $495, available at Need Supply.