Photo of clothing by Chloé via Vice
Yes, you’ve seen the look, now here’s how to get it
By Morgan Hannah, Life & Style Editor
Folks, it’s summer music festival season and now that you’re in college, it’s time to take festival fashion more seriously. Say no to fur hats, neon underwear, and topknots, and introduce yourself to hippie modernism. No, these are not opposing concepts but rather a growing fashion trend for the spring/summer 2019 season, according to Elle.
“Hippie modernism” refers to a blend of ’60s and ’70s fashion and more modern casual and business wear. This isn’t an official definition of the fashion trend but rather a startlingly accurate description. The look really is as simple as it sounds: Hippie-flavoured flared trousers, fringe from the ’70s, pāreo skirts in clashing geometric prints, and twisted silk belts; all in neutral tones, particularly various shades of beige and sun-kissed creams.
Having taken a look at Elle’s hippie modernism starter pack, I’ve gathered that the fashion industry likes to peddle the idea that this look is achievable for a whopping $2,900. From metallic crochet-knit dresses and slips to macramé bags and birthstone amulet jewellery, the numbers thrown at these staples and statement pieces are alarming. For those of us who can’t afford to spend our annual pay on looking hip, or should I say, hippie, there are ways to nab this essential Burning Man look without burning through your bank card.
Start with shoes. Footwear can almost always be the most expensive part of a look, as it should be! Protecting your feet helps for a strong foundation, both in health and fashion. Check out Le Château or Call It Spring for fabulously priced frayed canvas wedges to mimic those triple-digit-dollar espadrilles. Companies like these are almost guaranteed to have year-round sales, and if you’re a member shopping on your birthday, enjoy an extra discount!
Let’s move onto the body, which is arguably the most eye-catching part of one’s look. Pair together ribbed maxi dresses and metallic halters, tan trousers with wide legs and sleeveless turtleneck tops, round, rose-coloured glasses and silky scarves tied in a bohemian knot around the hips—the crazier the pattern, the better. I’d recommend first taking a peek in your local thrift stores and Salvation Army stores; finding old fringe vests and floppy hats should be a fairly easy experience there. If you’re not interested in second-hand, stores such as LOFT, Wander, and even Aritzia will have a variety of bohemian styles that can be incorporated into the hippie modernism trend.
A great way to personalize your look is with long metallic chain necklaces and amulet cordage necklaces containing flower patterns or birthstones. These add texture in layers as well as sentimentality, making your look one you’ll love. Additionally, feathered accessories are still quite popular for 2019, says Elle, and those are easy to find in most accessories shops as well as at the accessories bar near the checkout at your favourite retail location.
These fashion tips, as well as many more—including handkerchief hems and bold-printed tank-dresses—are sure to be a hit with the flower child crowd that’s bound to be found in the festival grounds. What’s more, they can be worn with black slacks to the office for any other day. Say goodbye to glitter, rainbow wedgies, and wacky sunburns and say hello to hippie modernism.
