Guest post by Danni Slater

First of all, let me come clean... I’m a festival virgin. As much as I pine over television coverage of Florence rocking her socks off and perfectly undone fashionistas putting us all to shame, I have never got the opportunity (or rather, never had the guts) to don my festival frocks (my love for alliteration has turned me into an 80 year old woman apparently) and find my inner hippy. One simple factor has repelled any festivic motivation from me, and that’s camping. I’m an unashamedly clean-loving, tent-hating, camping sceptic and yet the idea of getting into the festival spirit is purely enticing. With this in mind, I’ve come up with five of the best reasons to become a festival chick and hey, maybe by the end I’ll have persuaded even myself to go next year...

1. Music

An obvious one really. I mean, what would a festival be without it other than a muddy, tent-clad field confettied with the occasional doughnut stand? Hmm... not exactly my idea of fun. Throw in some live artists though, and you’ve got yourself a party.

2. Celeb spotting

In light of my (recently proven) inability to cope with the sheer excitement of spying even the slightest celebrity, this may perhaps be only a personal favourite. Even so, everyone knows only the coolest names go to festivals, and they’re usually insanely fashionable; totally obliterating and creating fashion trends in one swift move. Admittedly though, I’d be the cool kid ready and poised with my point-and-click, trying desperately to be subtle and failing miserably. Ah well, I’d be prepared to risk my dignity for a snapshot of Alexa/Kate/Florence. Jeesh, I’m beginning to sound like a member of the paparazzi; perhaps I’m career-confused?!

3. Festival Chic

As someone who enjoys minimum input and maximum output (at least where fashion is concerned) I reckon the carefree festival style would suit me down to a tee. Let’s face it; most of us would welcome an excuse to look a little rough around the edges without the risk of facing questionable glances. Well this is our perfect opportunity. Smudged eyeliner? That’s so Alexa daahling. Fraying shorts? Jameela Jamil rocks it. Bed head? Just don the trilby and BAM...you’re a festival fashionista my friend.

4. The ever elusive wristband

We’ve all come across them before; the cool kids with twenty three festival bands wrapped around their arm, looking positively exhausted yet tanned, satisfied and exceedingly mellow. They’ve refused to take off their colour-faded, wilting bracelets because, well, they just look too darn cool. Secretly, I long to be one of those infamous festival frolickers. Sauntering on without a care in the world whilst constantly reminding myself of the rad summer I just had, maan. What’s more, I’ve got the evidence to prove it right there on my wrist. I don’t know what it is about those grimy armbands that’s captivated me; perhaps it’s that childish rascality of wanting the free gift more than the thing itself. Whatever the reason, it’s a sure conversation starter and I might just be able to wangle myself [a short, but meaningful] cool-kid status for once in my life.

5. Living free and easy

Let’s face it, we’ve all dreamt of being that girl with flowers in her hair, running bare-footed through meadows (or is that just me?) and although festivals are renowned for their muddied reputation (literally and metaphorically speaking) there’s something quite appealing about the idea of enjoying few days of outdoorsy bliss. I’m definitely not condoning camping here; I can think of nothing worse than being stuck inside what is essentially a cleverly re-assembled parachute, but the other aspects of being outdoors seem rather freeing. Seriously, you can pretty much wear anything, approach anyone, and dance in any way you see fit. Which, in my case would resemble having a fit. That opportunity to truly let go is something you just can’t get from being stuck at an indoor arena (sorry NEC, you just don’t make the cut) and it seems that the fresh air does wonders for ridding you of those constraining inhibitions. So for anyone who’s fortunate enough to be going to a festival this year, promise me just one thing. Dance like no-one’s watching; I’ll love you for it.

Guest post by Naomi Thorne

The confession that I am about to make is probably going to lose me quite a few friends, but I’m going to do it anyway: at the age of twenty-two and a half, I have never been, nor ever want to go to a music festival. I love live music, and the idea of getting to see so many of my favourite acts in just one weekend is an appealing one, but the accommodation arrangements have always left something to be desired. I’ve never really been a camper, and the recent trend for somewhat high-end accommodation at such events is sure to leave a sizable dent in the pocket. The legendarily disgusting portaloos alone are enough to put me off, although it doesn’t help that I am a self-confessed clean freak. Mind you, a part of me thinks I might be right to be frightened, if the story of the girl who fell down the toilet at last year’s Leeds festival is anything to go by.

HERE

This got me thinking; there are loads of festivals that happen every summer in the UK that don’t require a tent, stinking toilet facilities and a crate of lager, why not give them some credit too? Given that essential festival style forms such an integral part of the summer look in Britain, I thought it was only fair to show you a few more possible opportunities to break out that new maxi or those denim shorts.

Henley Royal Regatta – June 30th-July 4th

Held in Henley-on-Thames every year, this first occasion ventures slightly out of the festival field and into the sporting event paddock, but deserves a mention for its excellent sartorial credentials. From natty rowing blazers to tea-dresses with wellies (normally essential for the less-than-perfect summer weather), Henley provides ample opportunity to show off your best preppy get-up. At the same time, there’s plenty of boat racing to get excited about and normally Pimms aplenty!

The Secret Garden Party – 22nd-25th July

Held in Cambridgeshire, this is arguably the most ‘typical’ festival listed in this guide, although even this one comes with a twist. Guided by eco principles, right down to encouraging guests to arrive by main roads so as not to disturb local residents, the theme for this year’s party is ‘Fact or fiction: dreams, invention and discovery, the twilight, the future’. Although the only accommodation available at the party is camping, luxury tents are available for the more discerning festival-goer, and with acts such as Gorillaz, Marina and the Diamonds and the Mercury Rev performing, it may well be worth it!

Bristol Harbour Festival – July 30th-August 1st

Before Banksy and Skins, Bristol made its name as one of the world’s most important trading ports, and this festival aims to celebrate Bristol’s rich maritime history as well as incorporating elements that bring it bang up to date. This year’s festival looks set to include an Eco Zone as well as the usual music and dancing, markets and food stalls. Of course, you mustn’t forget the boats. Over 225 attended last year’s event including Matthew, a replica of a Tudor merchant ship captained by John Cabot, one of Bristol’s most famous sons who actually discovered America before Columbus did!

Brecon Jazz Festival – 6th-8th August

Organised by the same people responsible for the Hay Literary Festival, Brecon Jazz brings the world of music to the otherwise sleepy town of Brecon in the Welsh mountains. Jamie Cullum cut his teeth and got the attention of the music industry here in 2003, and this year’s festival will see the arrival of other newcomers, who share the bill alongside the legendary Buena Vista Social Club and the Pee Wee Ellis Funk Ensemble. The surroundings are beautiful too, if you are something of an outdoorsy type!

Vintage at Goodwood – 13th-15th August 2010

‘Celebrating five decades of British cool’ is the tagline for this exciting exploration of all that is good in art, music, film, design and fashion. With plenty of places to stay nearby that do not involve sleeping under canvas and do involve an en-suite, and an ethos that any discerning BSB reader could happily live by, this is the ultimate fashionistas party. With vintage catwalk shows and shopping, hair and beauty salons, burlesque shows, classic British cinema AND music from the Noisettes and Paloma Faith (amongst others), I really do wonder whether just three days would be enough to take it all in! Alternatively visit their Twitter

After compiling this list I became painfully aware of how all the events I had chosen were in the south of the UK, and I had a pang of guilt towards my northern sisters (having lived in Leeds for the last three years, I feel like an honorary northerner at least). With this in mind, I would like to draw your attention to Efestivals, a very comprehensive site listing happenings all over the country, and would love to hear your suggestions via entry comments or Twitter for events you think are worthy of a shout!

Guest blog by Louise Hendy

Image: HERE

So, we’re already into June now, the sun has started to show its face and the festival season has kicked off! This year maybe the first year you’re off to one of these music festivals and you may be sat worrying a little about what to expect and what it will be like. But, worry no more! I am here to tell you exactly what is in store for you as well as give you useful advice and of course, some festival fashion tips.

I do have some firsthand experience of this as I have myself been to Leeds Festival last year, and I went to Radio 1’s Big Weekend and few years ago for the day and I think if I had someone to tell me the things I will tell you, I think my festival experience would have been even better.

First thing you need to know... do not over pack. This is much easier said than done and especially if, like me, you feel the need to take clothes suitable for any weather possible on every holiday. I’ll tell you a little story. When I went to Leeds last year, I packed a few dresses, tops, leggings, tights, cardigan, 2 hoodies, shorts and skirts. I actually wore about 3 different outfits. My bag was so full with all that and lots of other things that on the way to the park, my bag burst and my friend had to fix it with duct tape (which didn’t really help very much.) So yes, take a pair of leggings and/or tights, 2 or 3 tops, a hoodie, a pair of shorts and/or a skirt and that will be plenty!

Also, remember you underwear, something warm to sleep in and have a waterproof jacket/coat with a hood. The weather may be really hot but make sure you always have your jacket and hoodie with you. You will regret it if you have to leave the arena to trek back to your tent to get it.

Image: HERE

Your best friend for the weekend! Next, you must take a can of dry shampoo. It will be your best friend and life saver for the duration of the festival. You can now get dry shampoo for brunettes/black hair in Superdrug as well which is really good if the normal stuff leaves you with grey hair. They do have showers at festivals, however, after seeing what these showers look like I decided I was better off not washing for the 5 days I was there.

Yes, this sounds disgusting but there was no way I was subjecting myself to that! The toilet situation was bad enough (more on that in a bit.)

To resolve the shower issue, all you will need is a pack of baby wipes. These will be your other best friend for the duration. Also, you’re outdoors and everyone is in the same boat... nobody will be able to tell how much you smell or how unclean you are...until you get home anyway! Plus, nobody actually cares, just enjoy yourself and don’t worry about personal hygiene so much ;)

Sleep. Yes, sleep. You better enjoy as much as this as you can before you leave for your festival because you will not be getting any whilst you’re in a tent in the middle of a field. I found that this did not affect me at all until the very end of the last day, and it seemed to be the same for most people. Once the music for the night has finished, people head off to dance tents or whatever else is on, or just go back to the camp and have their own little parties... you lose track of time and the next thing you know it’s 6am so you decide to try and sleep but end up waking at 8am once the sun comes up and thousands of people are walking round, shouting and singing. It’s all part of the fun though, and it means you get to sleep loads when you get home!

No, I’m not asleep here! It was sunny! – Leeds festival 2009

One of the best things I can tell you about going to a festival seems pretty obvious but, get your money’s worth of the experience! Make sure you do everything. Just because you’re at a musical festival doesn’t mean there’s no other things happening. At Leeds/Reading they have an Alternative tent where they have comedians on – I saw Jack Whitehall and Tim Minchin last year. Also, go see bands you have never heard of; you may just end up really liking them. So yeah, don’t just hang around main stage. Go see at least one band from every stage/tent!

I’ve already touched on a few items that are absolutely essential to survive in a field for a few days and I will just repeat two words... Dry Shampoo.

Other things you will need are a pair of wellies. You just need one pair and you most probably will not need any other shoes. I wore my wellies on the train to and from and whenever I wasn’t (attempting) sleep. Also, just get a cheap tent. We used Tesco tents and split between 5 of us, it wasn’t exactly breaking the bank so we just left them all there at the end of the weekend. And again, don’t take too many clothes. You will seriously regret it. You might also find a pair of sunglasses useful, even if it’s not sunny... a good way to disguise the lack of sleep!

Image: HERE

Now just a couple more little tips and advice...

Stick together! From watching festivals on TV you can tell there is a lot of people going to be there, however when you are there it seems as though there’s a load more people there than you could have imagined. Make sure that you are always with at least one of your friends at all time. Hold hands to drag each other through crowds – that works!

Have a meeting point – On the first day, find places that stand out and can be easily found by everyone and if anyone gets separated find your way to the meeting point and hopefully you’ll be reunited!

Don’t waste your phone battery on the first day. Keep your phone turned off as much as possible. My friend had quite an old phone and took a spare battery so that she could always have hers on if anyone got lost, so that’s a good idea.

Don’t take anything you would like to lose. If you have an iPhone or a Blackberry, I’d suggest taking an old phone. It’s not worth the risk. Also, don’t take iPod’s. Besides, why would you need an iPod at a music festival?!

Finally... make friends! It’s about socialising as much as it is about the music. If you’re walking around and see a group of people with a gazebo, they often don’t mind people chilling around with them.

A few little fashion tips...

Try out a straw hat. Trilby or bowler hat styles will make you fit right in with the festival vibe. This one is £5 at Peacocks.

Have a cute floral dress with you. This is £19.99 from Republic. You can easily team it with tights or leggings and a denim shirt. You’ll look effortless cool teamed with your wellies, big sunglasses and straw hat.

You must invest in a pair of good wellies! Matalan have amazing choice and these Union Jack ones are just £10! Bargain!

I hope that all this information has/will help any future festival-goers. Enjoy yourselves and stay safe! Thanks for reading.

Louise

(http://ladderedtights10.wordpress.com)

xoxox

Guest Blog by Naomi Thorne

Image: HERE

It is mildly hilarious to me that I am sat here writing a piece on the theme of ‘keep calm and carry on’; intending to cheerlead BSB readers the world over through the horrors of May, whilst my revision and unfinished essays glare at me. Just two weeks away from the end of my degree, May Day Bank Holiday 2010 will go down in history as the day that ‘Naomi’s Work Avoidance Strategy’ reached new levels of ridiculous. Well-known as a procrastinating last-minute type within my circle of friends, I am frequently the girl who starts an assignment late and pulls an all-nighter, only to cheerfully turn it in, on time, with a half-decent mark to show for it. Terribly irritating for the careful planners amongst you, I know. I must confess though, I’ve been having a crisis of late. As the vice-like pressure of final year has started to grip, I have started to feel guilty about my behaviour, wondering if I deserved the marks I have received given my slightly dubious working practices.

I confided in a friend, explaining to her that I was concerned that my methods were less than honourable. A fully paid-up member of the ‘plan, plan and plan again’ camp, she delivered her verdict to me in typically blunt terms. “Since when did you care about honour? This isn’t the Navy! It works for you; stick to it!” Another early bird friend concurred: “It’s not like you’re paying someone else to do it... Why are you worried?” Much comforted by their words – tough love does it for me every time – I have continued in this way ever since, loving the feeling of deadlines coming at me like an express train.

I know you’re probably wondering how this meander through my essay-writing technique can possibly help you to ‘keep calm and carry on’ in May, but my miniature-crisis certainly got me thinking. Motivational speaking clichés tell us that “If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you always got, and you'll always feel what you always felt”. But what if that’s worked for you so far? If, like me, you’ve spent the best part of a decade knowing that staying up all night and working right to the wire will get results that you’re happy with, then why change now? Dissertations, coursework and finals are all stressful enough without having to contemplate a total overhaul of your working practice as well, and the chances are you’re set in your ways by now. The trick, as with most things in life, is confidence. Whether you have a neatly colour-coded set of flashcards or something slightly less co-ordinated sat in front of you, have faith in your methods and embrace their quirks and you’ll never be disappointed. Especially if, like mine, your quirks involve YouTube gag reels and an addiction to Twitter. Does anyone fancy swapping clips of people falling over?

Guest post by Bunny of Bunny Habits

 Fashion Icons. A topic discussed on many a fashion blog and in many a glossy magazine, for many a year. 

Grace Kelly. Jackie O. Audrey Hepburn. James Dean. Marilyn Monroe. Who can argue with any of these classics?

To me, an icon is someone who makes a significant impact in their field, going above and beyond to change the way we look at things. They stand out. They break new ground. They have influence that transcends generations. 

The people listed above certainly filled these criteria. They helped popularise certain styles, inspired creations by world renowned designers, pushed boundaries and upset the status quo to change the face of fashion. Each did so in their own personal way – an icon isn’t someone who follows, but who leads and innovates. 

So who is around today that will have such a bearing on future fashion? Who will be remembered for their individual contribution to sartorial style?

I suppose that contemporary inspiration has to be subjective, so here I am going to give my personal choices of who I believe could be looked back upon as fashion icons in years to come.

 
Image: HERE  

AUDREY TAUTOU – For me, the personification of modern French chic. She wears stunning clothes and looks amazing in them, whilst appearing completely effortless. But chic doesn’t mean dull with Audrey, who mixes the classics with a statement necklace, a jaunty shoulder, or a leather skirt.

Image: HERE

CHLOË SEVIGNY – Dressed up or down, she is always distinctive and eclectic. She has modelled for major labels like her namesake Chloé and high street store Uniqlo, but it’s her own outfits that get her noticed. In fact, she always looks so fabulous it can be a little heartbreaking to watch her play a Mormon polygamist in HBO’s Big Love, kitted out in austere prairie-style garb.

Image: HERE

JOHNNY DEPP – Scarves, beads, cuffs, hats, glasses - now here’s a man who knows how to accessorise. Rarely seen on the red carpet in a ubiquitous tuxedo, Johnny is inspirational for any guy wanting an eye catching wardrobe.

Image: HERE

KATE MOSS – Whether rocking head-to-toe Chanel or skinny jeans and a t-shirt, Miss Moss is one of Britain’s most popular and enduring supermodels. Her own line at Topshop has flourished with her canny understanding of what elements of her look can be translated for the high street, imbuing staples like denim hotpants, flowery dresses and leather jackets with her personal style.

Image: HERE

MICHELLE OBAMA – America’s First Lady has the privilege of being one half of the world’s ‘most powerful’ couple. Being so visible a role model, it’s important that she looks classy yet approachable. Her striking beauty and penchant for bold colour and prints ensure that she always outshines the guy on her arm in the fashion stakes.

Image: HERE

PHARRELL WILLIAMS – Part of the team behind luxury clothing brands Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream, Pharrell looks super sharp in timeless jeans, shirts, waistcoats and vests, but always adds some personality with killer accessories. Another one for the boys to emulate if they’re after something out of the ordinary.

Image: HERE

QUEEN ELIZABETH II – Just look at the Queen in these black and white shots. Animal print, socks and boots, lace mid-length dress… talk about a trend-setter! And even today, no one on the planet can co-ordinate an outfit or sport a silk scarf like Liz.

Quick note from Amy: please don't forget to express your opinions about the BSB meet-up idea! :)