It feels shameful to admit as a 30-something, that I have just attended my very first large-scale music festival, especially as music lover, and someone who lived mere miles from Lollapalooza in Chicago for over a decade. I’ve been presented with the opportunity to attend Lolla and Coachella several times over the years but was always hesitant for some reason. Maybe it was fear of the crowds, the days spent in the hot sun or the micro-mini outfits so many people wear. But the chance to attend BottleRock in Napa Valley and see the Backstreet Boys and Teddy Swims perform over the same weekend finally got me onto festival grounds.
The thought of attending a festival in Napa, California which is known for its beautiful scenery, world-class wine, temperate climate and elegant lifestyle seemed like the right place to take the plunge into music mayhem. And while BottleRock was executed exceptionally, it certainly still had its moments of mayhem, as any festival would. But it was worth the crowds and the micro-mini outfits. The music was incredible, the exposure to beloved artists as well as new artists was so convenient, and the fashion was in full force.
Music festivals have long been known for something far beyond the beats they produce, they have been a hotspot for fashion. And while there were still plenty of micro-mini ensembles donned by teenagers at the festival, there was also an array of eclectic styles showcased by people of all ages. I very much enjoyed sitting on the lawn, listening to the performers and just watching everyone walk by, seeing what they wore. The journalist in me had to know more, so I met some of my fellow fashion lovers and found out why they chose their ensembles and who they were most excited to see at BottleRock Napa Valley 2026. You might guess that just like me, Backstreet Boys was a huge draw, but also like me, it seems fellow festival fans were equally as excited about planning their looks as they were to soak up the sun, sip the wine and dance to the music.
Sarah Meyer (you know I had to inlude myself)
Los Angeles, CA
What Inspired Your Festival Fit: I wanted to be comfortable as I knew I would be standing a lot and sitting on the ground. I also wanted to be cooll during the day when the sun was at its hottest and I brought layers for the evening. You can see that with my Day 2 look. A hat was a must to keep the sun off my face. While I am normally a bright color wearer, for a music festival I wanted to be a little more subdued. I still dressed like me, but it felt like the right color scheme for the event.
Act You Were Most Excited To See: Backstreet Boys & Teddy Swims
Kumo & Niko (@discoballslive)
Bay Area California
What Inspired Your Festival Fit: People having a good time on the dance floor.
Act You Were Most Excited To See: California Honey Drops
Mayara, Pauline, Tatiana & Bruna
Brazil
What Inspired Your Festival Fit: The music of the festival, especially the Backstreet Boys
Act You Were Most Excited To See: Backstreet Boys
Emily
San Francisco, CA
What Inspired Your Festival Fit: Feeling the disco vibes for this festival.
Act You Were Most Excited To See: Backstreet Boys
Christine
Marin, CA
What Inspired Your Festival Fit: I’m a mom, so it’s functional. And a dress is so much easier for the festival bathroom situation.
Act You Were Most Excited To See: Sombr
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2026 BottleRock Napa Valley Fashion Trends:
- Band & Festival T-shirts
- Sneakers (paired with everything)
- Big Belts
- Micro-Mini Denim Skirts
- Crochet Shawls
- Denim Jackets
- Flowy summer dresses
- Wide-rimmed hats
Tips for Dressing for a Music Festival:
- Wear something long enough that will make it easy to sit – because it’s usually on a lawn or park bench
- Dress in layers, as it will likely be hot during the day and cool in the evening
- Represent your favorite band on your T-shirt
- Bring hats that work well with your festival looks, so you have a glare-free view of your favorite bands
- Use your time at the festival to express yourself and wear fashions from your favorite decade – you won’t be alone in your 60’s, 70’s or 80’s garb, just as you won’t be judged for dressing in your own unique way
- The bathrooms will likely be some form of portable potty – which you won’t want to be in longer than needed. While a jumpsuit might look great, do you want to have to deal with that in a small, smelly bathroom?
All the festive fashions at BottleRock already have me excited for next year, regardless of who the headling acts will be. (Is it too soon to start planning those outfits now?) And I think it may be time to tread into new waters and check out some other festivals too. Any place you can go big with wardrobe and get inspired by the fashions of those around is a place I want to be!
For more info on BottleRock Napa Valley 2026, check out these articles I wrote for Splash Magazines Worldwide:
Sarah In Style 