Radio 1’s Big Weekend: The Festival Edit

27 May

Leather, tassels, and brown suede – find out how I brought a slice of the Wild West to the North East for Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

The moment the news dropped that BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend was heading to Sunderland, there was no question about it: I had to be there. What I didn't predict, however, was that we’d be treated to cloudless skies and a glorious 26-degree heatwave. For a brief, brilliant moment, Herrington Park was transformed into our very own slice of the California desert, giving way to what can only be described as our Coachella of the North East.

Find out how I styled a glorious day of sun-soaked live music at Sunderland’s Big Weekend.

Desert Chic: The Outfit Breakdown

When it comes to festival attire, I’m instantly thinking of the western aesthetic: worn leather, dramatic tassels, and all things boho. Naturally, my ultimate style muse was the queen of Coachella herself, Vanessa Hudgens, who reigned over our Pinterest boards with her 2010s desert chic. I knew I wanted to channel that classic festival style, and with the rarity of May sunshine, there was no better chance to bring some of the California desert straight to Herrington Park.

Woman standing outdoors at an event, wearing sunglasses, a sleeveless brown leather top, denim mini skirt, boots, and jewelry, with sunlight casting shadows on the ground. — *Channeling western-boho chic at Radio 1’s Big Weekend.*

The Basics

For the look, I styled a brown faux-leather halter top with my go-to denim skort, which was the ideal combo for keeping things cute yet practical. This pairing served as the perfect canvas for adding boho accessories and extra layers…cue the poncho.

From the get-go, I knew I needed a poncho to complete my festival uniform. Ponchos have made a major comeback this season, and I had my heart completely set on this open-knit ASOS Design piece from the moment I saw it. Its tasseled hem and asymmetric silhouette brought a gorgeous layer of texture to the outfit and, crucially, kept me warm as the sun began to set.

A woman in sunglasses, a white poncho, denim skirt, and boots stands holding a drink at an outdoor music festival with a large stage and crowd in the background. — *The open-knit poncho was the perfect bohemian statement piece.*

The Details

As always, the magic was in the details. I styled the base with a Western-style medallion belt, classic sunglasses, and a simple cream handbag, elevated by a khaki and burgundy paisley scarf knotted around the strap. For jewellery, I layered on my favourite gold pieces – including a statement flower pendant, a boho bangle, and a variety of chunky gold rings.

To complete the look, I wore a gorgeous pair of brown suede biker boots. Not only did they anchor the Western aesthetic beautifully, but they were also incredibly comfortable. They proved to be the ultimate festival boot, and miraculously, I made it home with them completely unscathed.

Safe to say, the Vanessa Hudgens blueprint never fails. Bringing that nostalgic desert energy to the park was the perfect way to welcome the sunshine, and I can’t wait to restyle these pieces this season. Hello, summer!