Festival season is here—and whether you’re heading to Glastonbury, Green Man, or your favourite local weekender, the right outfit can be as memorable as the headliners. Summer festivals aren’t just about music and muddy boots—they’re about self-expression, community, and creativity. And there’s no better way to stand out in the crowd (sustainably) than with vintage.
At Clothes to the Edge, we believe that great style shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. That’s why we curate vintage clothing that turns heads and tells stories. From ‘70s denim to ‘90s ravewear, our festival edit has you covered—literally—with one-of-a-kind pieces that won’t cost the earth.
Why Vintage is the Ultimate Festival Look
Festival fashion has always had its roots in rebellion, colour, and carefree individuality. Think Woodstock, think early Glastonbury, think Kate Moss in a shredded tee and Hunter wellies. The best looks aren’t polished—they’re personal. Vintage clothing offers the texture, character, and authenticity that fast fashion just can’t fake.
Each vintage piece carries history. A 1980s embroidered waistcoat. A faded band tee with perfect wear. High-waisted shorts that once danced through another summer. When you wear vintage, you’re not just choosing a look—you’re embracing a lifestyle that values creativity, circularity, and originality.
The Festival Essentials Edit
We’ve styled hundreds of looks for festival-goers over the years, and some staples never go out of season. Here’s our go-to edit for vintage festival dressing in 2025:
1. The Statement Jacket
Even in summer, UK festivals get chilly at night. A bold bomber, military surplus jacket, or embroidered denim number adds instant personality to your look and keeps you warm when the sun goes down.
2. Denim with Edge
Cut-offs, flares, boilersuits—denim is a festival essential. Look for vintage Levis, Wrangler, or unbranded pieces that fit you perfectly and show signs of life. Style with a crop top or crochet bralette and you’re good to go.
3. Band Tees & Graphic Tees
An original band tee—especially one from the actual era—is the holy grail of festival fashion. Whether it’s Bowie, Blondie, or Blur, it’s the easiest way to anchor a look. Oversized styles also double up as a dress if paired with fishnets or cowboy boots.
4. Print and Texture
Paisley, tribal prints, psychedelic swirls, vintage camo—festivals are the perfect place to clash and combine textures. Look for silky shirts, oversized patterned dresses, or retro co-ords. Our shop is full of tactile treasures made to dance in.
5. Footwear That Lasts
From Doc Martens to ‘90s platform boots, vintage footwear is made to go the distance. Choose sturdy, worn-in boots or comfy trainers from a trusted era—no one wants a broken sandal by Friday night.
Festival Styling Tips from Clothes to the Edge
Vintage isn’t just about wearing old clothes—it’s about creating something new with them. Our styling approach is simple: mix eras, layer boldly, and accessorise like a pro. Here’s how we recommend building your perfect summer festival look:
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Mix old with older: Pair ‘80s sportswear with ‘70s flares. Add a ‘60s scarf to a ‘90s crop top. Breaking the “rules” is the whole point.
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Layer smart: Think lace slips under oversized tees, or mesh tops beneath band shirts. Layers give flexibility for changing weather and longer wear.
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Accessorise with character: Don’t forget vintage sunglasses, crossbody bags, or a beaten-up army belt. We stock a carefully chosen selection of accessories that finish the look without overdoing it.
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Think about comfort: Dancefloor-friendly isn’t always festival-friendly. Make sure your outfit feels as good as it looks.
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Plan for the long haul: Choose pieces that can be reworn beyond the festival gates. A great vintage jacket will get use all year.
Sustainable, Stylish, and Seriously You
Fast fashion has jumped on the festival trend—but the soul of true festival style lies in individuality, not imitation. When you shop vintage, you’re saying no to throwaway fashion and yes to pieces that are made to last, sourced with care, and styled with confidence.
We hand-pick every item at Clothes to the Edge, and we love helping customers find pieces that feel right—not just for the weekend, but for who they are. Whether you’re channelling 1990s raver energy or 1970s folk goddess vibes, we’ll help you build a look that’s unique, wearable, and ready for the field.
Final Thoughts: Vintage is More Than a Vibe
This summer, step into the festival season with purpose and personality. Vintage clothing offers a route to authentic style that’s kinder to the planet, supports circular fashion, and guarantees no one else at the tent next door will be wearing the same thing.
Our online shop is updated regularly with curated vintage pieces perfect for festival season—check back often, as stock moves fast. Follow us on Instagram [@yourhandle] for styling inspo, behind-the-scenes finds, and fresh drops all summer long.
See you in the fields—dressed to dance, and dressed to last.