Fashion takes a cue from summer music festivals

The season's music festivals, starting with Coachella, are clearly influencing spring and summer ready-to-wear. Multiple brands have drawn inspiration from the rock, hippie and boho looks seen in the crowds to produce collections with fringe, lace, mini-shorts and denim.

After emerging a few years ago, the festival-inspired fashion trend is reaching a new level this season. Ready-to-wear and accessories brands are emphasizing boho styles that fashionistas can wear at outdoor concerts as well as in everyday settings. 

Sheer fabrics, lace, embroidery, maxi dresses, short shorts, denim, animal prints, floral patterns, fringes and leather: these are some of the defining characteristics of the current festival-inspired fashion trend. The looks range from ultra-sexy to subtle, and there are plenty of opportunities for accessorizing thanks to a wide array of hats, bags, flat lace-up sandals and colorful round sunglasses.

H&M partners with Coachella

The Swedish retail giant led the charge this year with H&M Loves Coachella, its first official collection co-branded with the celebrity-studded Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. In line with the festival's esthetic, this ready-to-wear collection for women, men and children includes short playsuits, flowing wide-legged pants, long floral-print dresses and sheer mini dresses. Fringe, floppy hats and 60s-inspired patterns abound. The collection is available at 350 of the brand's stores worldwide, at hm.com and at an H&M pop-up store on site at the festival, which takes place from April 10-12 and April 17-19.

H&M is not the only apparel brand to combine festival styles with fashion this season. Mango and Forever 21 are also on board with the trend. The former brand has introduced the folk-inspired Desert Festival collection, which includes jewelry, handbags, long dresses, caftans, jackets and flowing skirts, all in black and earthy brown tones. Simply titled Festival, Forever 21's hippie-inspired collection features long and sheer dresses, denim, shorts and white lace dresses, accessorized by hats and strappy flat sandals.

Meanwhile, Claire's offers a way to dress up these looks with its Katy Perry Forever Festival line, designed in a tie-up with the American singer. In the mix: floral headbands, earring studs in natural shades, sequined clutches with tribal patterns and brightly colored sunglasses.