Getting the Biggest Trends for Festival Season Just Got Way Easier—Here’s How to Do the Desert Right with Amazon

It’s no secret that Western-inspired styles are back for the 2026 festival season, but I have a feeling you’ll be seeing them now more than ever. Think tons of embellished or embroidered cowboy boots, fringe details on everything from handbags to jackets (I’m swooning over this find from JW Pei), along with details like studs and plenty of suede fabrics. One of my favorite things about this trend is that it can easily be dressed up or down—go all out or tone it down with just a graphic tee and studded jeans, so you can look the part while still being comfortable (and feeling like you).

No matter how you feel about it, there’s no arguing that 2016 is back when it comes to fashion, and it’s working its way into festival wear, too. I wouldn’t be shocked to spot more than a few outfits à la Vanessa Hudgens with plenty of vests, flowy maxi skirts and, yes, flower crowns. Just remember, if you’re packing a pair of cutoff denim shorts to pair with the cute top you found, you’re going to want to add some Megababe Thigh Rescue to your cart, too, to stop any chafing before it starts. (Because who wants to deal with that when the only thing you should have to worry about is finding the best viewing spot for all your favorite sets?)

Speaking of 2016, the boho vibe never really went out of style when it comes to festival outfits, and there’s no doubt that it’ll be back yet again this year. To fully embrace the trend, I’d opt for breezy pieces like this backless maxi dress, floral patterns, matching knit sets and plenty of lace and crochet. You might even want to toss in a slouchy handbag and a fun, but functional, pair of sneakers to pull it all together.

When it comes to tackling your festival beauty looks, you’ll obviously want to pack the essentials like face masks, lip balm and a good cleanser. But when it’s time to play around with makeup, I’d suggest opting for something sparkly that will stand out if you want to feel right on-trend. Whether it’s a hydrating lip oil, intricate eyeshadow combo or Taylor Swift’s go-to glitter patches—festivals are the perfect chance to try out all of the fun makeup you don’t typically use for your everyday looks.

Whether you prefer an all-over look or just a pop of pattern, I’d definitely consider working some animal prints into your desert-bound outfits. Personally, I love the look of a fun sneaker that stands out, like this leopard pair from Blowfish Malibu that reviewers rave over for its cushy footbed (which you’re sure to appreciate while standing all day). Or, you could go all out with a bold dress or snake-print pants. Either way, it’s worth packing at least a couple animal-print styles this year, especially since they can easily transition to everyday wear.

Being the water-loving Cancer that I am, there’s no question that the mermaid trend I’m seeing more of is a favorite. From subtle accessories like a pretty pair of seashell earrings to full sequin skirts that practically look like they could be scales, I’d bet on seeing a ton of outfits inspired by the trend—and beauty looks, too. Dry shampoo is a must for sweat-proofing your mermaid waves, but if you want to go the makeup route, lean into metallic eyeshadows and glowy blushes. (This Charlotte Tilbury palette has both cheek and eye products included, so you can save on packing room.)

One thing I noticed while reading through Reddit threads is that plenty of festival-goers are planning to keep their looks casual this year. Simple outfits like jeans and a band tee with a functional pair of shoes that can stand up to the elements definitely won’t feel out of place. And if you want to go for something low-effort that still looks chic, matching sets made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton are always a good bet. 

But no matter what you decide to wear to your next festival—whether it’s one of the trends on this list or something else entirely—I’d definitely make sure you pack some Liquid I.V. as well, because that desert weather is sure to be as scorching as your look.