Coachella 2025 transformed the desert into a vibrant runway, with festival-goers showcasing a spectrum of styles, from minimalist chic to bold, to crazy belts and fashion statements. The scene sparked diverse reactions among many students, who are keen observers of these trends. Many are questioning whether these outfits enhance or detract from the festival’s original spirit.
“I appreciate the creativity, but some outfits seem more about getting likes than enjoying the music,” freshman Heather Czekai said. “It feels like Coachella is becoming more of a fashion show than a music festival. I miss when the focus was on the performances and the shared experience, rather than all the expensive details that seem unnecessary.”
This year’s fashion highlights included a resurgence of bohemian styles, with flowy maxi dresses, fringe jackets and many layers of belts making a strong comeback. The 70s bohemian look embraced the free-spirited, laid-back vibe of the era, featuring earthy tones and natural materials. These bold choices have sparked discussions about the evolving nature of festival fashion.
“The boho look is timeless, but it’s refreshing to see it updated with modern touches,” freshman Lana Gamoura said. “It’s about blending nostalgia with current trends. I think it adds depth to the festival’s fashion scene. I also like to see new trends come out of Coachella, it normally sparks a lot of microtrends that take over the internet.”
Beyond individual outfits, broader trends have emerged. Sustainable fashion made a notable appearance, with attendees opting for upcycled clothing, plant-based fabrics and ethically sourced accessories. This shift could demonstrate a growing awareness of environmental issues among festival-goers.
“It’s pretty cool to see sustainability becoming a trend at such a high-profile event,” Czekai said. “Fashion has a huge environmental impact, so this is a step in the right direction. I hope it’s more than just a passing fad.”
However, some students express concern over the commercialization of Coachella fashion. Reports suggest that certain styles are becoming overly homogenized, leading to critiques that the festival is becoming more about content creation than genuine expression. This practice has led to debates about the authenticity of festival fashion.
“When everyone is wearing similar outfits, it loses the individuality that festivals are supposed to celebrate,” Gamoura said. “It’s like watching a curated Instagram feed come to life. Authenticity seems to be taking a backseat, I wish more people didn’t care so much about the material aspect of the festival as well, I think it more enjoyable to live in the music.”
As Coachella continues to evolve, its fashion scene remains a topic of debate. While some celebrate the creativity and innovation on display, others yearn for a return to a more music-centric experience. The festival’s future may well depend on finding a balance between these competing visions.
“Fashion will always be a part of Coachella, but it shouldn’t overshadow the music,” Gamoura said. “At the end of the day, you are there for the performances. The outfits should complement the experience, not dominate it. Everyone just seems to care more about what they post on Instagram.”
