Coachella is always changing, and that’s part of the reason why thousands come back each and every single year. Asides from the amazing music that gathers everyone together, Coachella is the time and place for people to have the most freedom and express themselves through fashion.
Coachella originally started on October 9th and 10th of 1999. The first Coachella featured a combination of alternative, rock, and electronic music. It took place in California and headlined Tool, Rage Against the Machine, and Beck. They had worn low-rise denim shorts, button downs, visors, and baseball caps.
As the music evolved, so did the fashion. Coachella started as something known as more simple and casual. Along with these lighter Spring and Summer fits, they also wore denim corsets and leather skirts.
Around the mid to late 2000’s, Coachella outfits began taking off. When social media grew, the fashion aspect immediately followed. Fashion took no time at all to keep up with the latest trying trends. During the 2000’s, a lighter and more creative look was born. The styles consisted of Baby Spice, powder and sky blues, soft pinks, and platform sneakers. The next style was Y2K; microskirts, mini bags, cropped tank tops and low-rise pants.
After that was Space Age Silver; this is specifically for accessories, and only in silver. Following afterwards was Electroclash; Electroclash is gold lamé clothing. Lamé gold is flexible and thin fabric which is also high gloss. This makes you shine and stand out from all of the rest with having and wearing the right glow with this gold. Headbands were especially big during this time as well, along with brimmed hats.
As the 2010’s were right around the corner, so was the new fashion sense.
Coachella fashion during this period of time was very largely characterized as a Bohemian style. This Bohemian look consisted of floral prints, fringe, crochet details, flowy fabrics, large belts, flower crowns and distressed denim. The look for this time was as maximalist as can be. These outfits were worn by some of the most popular celebrities such as Katy Perry, Vanessa Hudgens and Zoe Kravitz. To go into specifics, let’s talk about each style:
To begin, we have the “boho basics”; these were flowy dresses, maxi skirts, wide-legged pants, crop tops, all in earthy tones and with crochet elements or lace.
Next, we have the floral patterns; bold floral prints on everything, from tops to accessories and dresses.
Fringe detailing was a big deal; fringe would be included on bags, headbands, jackets, and skirts.
Distressed denim is another influenced choice; denim jackets and ripped jeans with a relaxed fit.
After that, we have wide-brim hats; these are large floppy hats that are often paired with bohemian type outfits.
Statement jewelry was huge for Coachella and still is even in 2025. Statement jewelry are large chunky earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that hold cultural influence to the individual.
Flower crowns as are still super popular in regard to music festivals in general, specifically, Coachella. Flower crowns are viewed as a higher stance of class for Coachella, made even with real flowers.
Platform sandals are comfortable sandals with a chunky platform sole.
The last fashion choice from the 2010’s, eclectic patterns mixing with vibrant colors, also known as, bold colors and prints.
These styles didn’t come out of nowhere, however, as big influences for these sensational fashion statements were Katy Perry, Vanessa Hudgens and Kylie Jenner. Many were influential for this “new to the time” Coachella fashion.
Coachella today, has become just as popular for the fashion as much as its popular for the music. Vogue themselves has made their own statements regarding Coachella’s fashion as well.
As stated by Vogue, “Coachella has evolved to become an event where one goes simply to be ‘seen’; celebrities, in particular, have shown up in the crowds wearing the best, flashiest ensembles. In honor, Vogue is taking a look back at some of the most memorable trends to have come out of the festival.”
Coachella is about self-expression overall, you are there to be you, and not just another trend. Remember, next time you go, party like you mean it, and remember who you are and how good you look while doing it. Dress in your own unique style and maybe you will set a trend instead.