2016 Style Is Back—and So Is Festival Fashion
3 min readI remember 2016 like it was yesterday—mostly because people won’t stop posting their flashbacks, so it’s fresh in my mind. This nostalgia-fueled collective reminiscence has been fun and all, but how serious are we? Are we committed to this bit?
As you might recall, Coachella was still the hottest event of the year back in 2016, and festival style was at its peak. I’m talking King Kylie, Nasty Gal, and choker necklaces. Over the last few years, buzz around the annual music festival has died down a bit, leading us to ponder whether Coachella had become, well, irrelevant. But then! This year’s lineup was announced with Justin Bieber as the headliner, and just like that, Coachella is back, baby.
People are actually excited about attending it for the first time in years, so that has me wondering: Does this, combined with the 2016 “trend,” mean that festival style is back, too? Indeed, I predict that Coachella will have a bit of its chaotic 2016 energy once again. So, I’ve rounded up a few trends that just might come back this festival season.
Bikini Tops
In the bright sun of Indio, California—the place Coachella calls home—this one is just as much about function as it is style. Festival season is perfectly situated during that time of the year when everyone is ready for winter to be over. Eager to shed the layers and catch some rays, I can easily imagine this trend making a return.
Tropic of C Universo Bikini Top
Pucci Printed Triangle Bikini Top
Crochet
You didn’t think I’d leave out Vanessa Hudgens, did you? Nothing says “boho” quite like crochet—and boy, did this trend have a chokehold on fashion back in 2016. This time around, skip the flower crown and oversized sunglasses.
Marlies Grace Vesta Crocheted Cotton Jumpsuit
Staud Magdalena Skirt
Now 60% Off
Magda Butrym Crochet Cotton Scarf
Low Effort
I know calling this one “low effort” sounds kind of shady, but I mean it in the nicest way possible. In fashion as a whole (not just festival style), the effortless look is having a big moment—and the easiest way to accomplish it is to throw caution to the wind and put something together without overthinking it. You can’t go wrong with denim cutoffs and a tee, but I also suggest one-and-done pieces like rompers and dresses.
Levi’s 501 Original Cutoff Shorts
Now 35% Off
By Malene Birger Marciel Strapless Jumpsuit
Now 60% Off
Alémais Tie-Dye Mini Dress
Animal Print
From deer and tiger to zebra and leopard, the whole damn zoo is on trend these days. I think we’re doing a better job at elevating the look in 2026 than we did a decade ago. No offense, Emma Watson.
Damson Madder Minimal Quinn Bag
Guizio Paillette Mini Skirt
Side Boob
Maybe I’m manifesting this one, but whatever happened to side boob? Why did we let it fade into obscurity? It’s so sexy and flatters everyone. Join me in my crusade to revive this trend, won’t you?
St. Agni Open-Back Halterneck Top
Bananhot Sunny Maxi Dress
Mikuta The Low Back Base Tank Top
Maxi Skirts
In 2016, I had a robust collection of maxi skirts. From tiered prairie styles to micro-florals, festival fashion simply wouldn’t be complete without these.
Same Los Angeles Maxi Skirt
Long Bubble Skirt
Now 49% Off
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