What To Wear To Gov Ball This Weekend

Coachella and Bonaroo may be legendary when it comes to music festivals, but this weekend's New York-based Governors Ball has a charm all its own. Between an impressive lineup of performers ranging from the dulcet tones of Washed Out to the electronica of La Roux, and the unlimited supply of partially coherent music lovers gathered to collectively celebrate their adoration, it's the the event of the season for festival-going New Yorkers. It appears that concert attendees can look forward to sunnier weather this year, which leaves only one question: What does one wear to the modern-day Woodstock that is Governors Ball?

Concert fashion must adhere to a particular set of fashion rules if you want your ensemble to be chic and comfortable over the course of an eight-hour day. And for those who don't have access to air-conditioned seats at whichever sponsored lounge is in vogue this year, it's important to err on the side of caution when it comes to clothing that may be intolerable by sunset. Thankfully, past Governors Ball experience and some celebrity style inspiration has contributed to my personal festival style principles, so read on for how to dress in chic comfort for what is bound to be an epic weekend.

1. WEAR SUNGLASSES AND/OR A HAT

Last year's festivities may have left my apartment covered in a thin film of mud, but this year's weather will be less damp and more sunny. If you have any regard for the effects of over-sunning (or squinting continuously for five-plus hours), a good pair of sunnies and/or a brimmed hat will serve you well this weekend. Choose non-reflective shades and a chapeau that shades at least a bit of your face for maximum sun protection.

2. WEAR (OR BRING) CLOSE-TOED SHOES

As tempting as it is to show off your newly minted spring pedicure, it's not worth it when someone accidentally jumps backwards during a favorite tune and lands squarely on your toes. While close-toed shoes won't prevent such an occurrence from hurting, they will at least soften the blow. In addition, festival grounds tend to be relatively mucky, rain or no, and the more your feet are shielded from whatever trash may be on the ground, the better.

3. BREATHABLE LAYERS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND

It may seem utterly obvious to wear removable layers to Governors Ball, but it nevertheless, breezy clothing is essential for a comfortable concert experience. A linen jacket or a cotton sweater over shorts and a silk blouse will last you from dawn until dusk at Governors Ball, regardless of the temperature.

4. COTTON T-SHIRTS ARE A GOOD CHOICE

There's a reason why the humble concert tee and jorts are a uniform among Hollywood's youth for music festivals: Their easy, relaxed feel.

5. BLOUSON-STYLE DRESSES EMBODY FESTIVAL STYLE

A slightly loose, bohemian dress isn't simply fashionable for the Governors Ball, though it certainly will make a statement. The style is also roomy enough to allow your skin to breathe, even when you're pressed again a thousand other eager fans.

6. LEAVE THE UBER-TIGHT SKINNY JEANS FOR ANOTHER TIME...

Yes, skinny jeans are incredibly flattering and adorable, but when the mercury is rising and you're directly in the center of a perspiring crowd, those cute jeans are going to feel awfully restrictive.

7. AND CHOOSE A PAIR OF BOYFRIEND JEANS OR CUTOFFS INSTEAD

Any type of trouser or short which doesn't adhere to your skin is a safe bet for concert style. Try a pair in cotton or linen, which are light, breathable fabrics for ultimate concert comfort.

8. BRING A LIGHTWEIGHT CROSS-BODY BAG

Music festivals are not the time for your suitcase-sized tote or a designer bag covered in heavy metal hardware. A light, cross-body bag ensures that all of your valuables are secure, and that you won't suffer a dislocated shoulder from lugging around an overly heavy duffel all day.

9. WHEN IN DOUBT, WEAR A MAXI DRESS

If you're truly at a loss for what to wear to Governors Ball, a light, printed maxi dress covers all of your bases. A good maxi dress is breezy enough for a hot day, provides sun coverage for legs, and you won't have to worry about matching your entire ensemble.