Express & Star

Festival fever: Giving it your fest shot

Festival season is upon us, and as we pack many of us are beginning to accept that our skincare routine will go out of the window, our hair will be a tangled mess and make-up will be a no-go.

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Be the best fest – look good during festival season

But enjoying your favourite music doesn’t mean your style needs to go by the wayside. Woman has some top tips to help you feel fashionable and flawless, even in the middle of a field. . .

WIPES, WIPES, AND WIPES

Face wipes will be your most used item during festival season. Unfortunately most festivals don’t have shower facilities for you to scrub your muddy body, and wipes will be your saviour. To avoid breakouts and leave your body feeling fresh, choose a natural brand free of chemicals.

STICK TO A LIGHT BASE

When you’re getting ready for a day of dancing and very little sleep, stick to a light and breathable base foundation to feel comfortable while still looking great. Find one with added SPF for that all-important sun protection.

ADD SOME COLOUR

A creme blush in a pink or peach shade will instantly breathe life into your sleep-deprived face, and last through the festival weather. Just dab a little onto your fingers and gently tap into the apples of your cheeks to brighten your complexion in seconds.

LOW MAINTENANCE LIPS

Keep your lips simple and sleek for an effortless and exciting festival look. Pack a moisturising lip balm with SPF to take care of lips and give them a touch of colour. It’s easy to touch up, and will suit any look.

DITCH THE WATERPROOF

For statement eyes without the streaks, opt for a silicone-based mascara rather than a waterproof one. A silicone-based formula will ensure the colour doesn’t smudge or run, and you can easily wipe it away with an oil-based remover at the end of the day.

SALTY LOOKS SWEET

The best tip for festival hair is to keep it looking natural. Add texture and mattify your hair with a sea salt spray. Simply spritz the spray all over your hair for a wavy, effortless look. This can also be achieved by keeping your hair in plaits overnight or during the day, depending on when you want wavy locks, which also keeps your hair comfortably off your face.

INVEST IN MULTI-TASKING MAKE-UP

Two-in-one blush and lip tints will be your best friend. Or how about a concealer stick that doubles up as nude lippie? These savvy products will save you space in your festival bag, so you can pack other important essentials while still remaining glam.

GLITTER IT UP

Creating a dramatic look is as easy as carrying with you a pack of stick-on face/body gems and some loose glitter eyeshadow pots. They are easy to travel with and can create totally different looks with some selective placement. Glitter can be a pain to remove, so pack a roll of sellotape to trap any stray sparkles.

BANDS AREN’T JUST FOR THE STAGE

Wearing a headband or bandana will not only make you look festival ready, but also hide a bad hair day. Try a floral bandana for the day and mix it up with a metallic headscarf at night. Covering your hair also means it gets that much-needed protection from the hot sun.

PACK THE BASICS

We all love to stand out at a festival, and some clothing basics can help you create an eye-popping look while still remaining comfortable. Simple denim shorts and a band or slogan tee suit any occasion, and a pair of tights are great if the temperature drops. The reason this outfit works, is it’s easy to slip into when you’re trying to get changed in a tent. Tights are also lightweight and take up little space in your rucksack.

LAYERS ARE YOUR FRIEND

It could be hot one minute and freezing the next – you just never know at an English festival – so layering your outfits can help you stay prepared throughout the day. A light cotton T-shirt coupled with a shirt and hoody can keep you warm in the cold or if it does get a little bit breezy when the sun shines or you find yourself in the shade at all.

LOOKING FOR A FESTIVAL TO TEST YOUR NEW BEAUTY TIPS AT?

  • BLOODSTOCK FESTIVAL: Get your devil horns ready for Bloodstock Open Air, that heads to Catton Park from August 9 to 12. Heavy metal acts rocking the stages will include Birmingham icons Judas Priest, Gojira and Nightwish. Standard weekend tickets cost £152.

  • MOSELEY FOLK FESTIVAL: Birmingham will be filled with the sound of music when Moseley Folk Festival returns from August 31 to September 2. With tickets starting from just £22, you can watch The Levellers, Teenage Fanclub, Nick Mulvery, Stever Harley and Cockney Rebel, King Creosote and more.

  • SHIIINE ON FESTIVAL: Birmingham’s Genting Arena will be turned into one giant rave on September 8 when Shiiine One Festival descends on the NEC venue. Orbital, Shed Seven, Happy Mondays, Casr, Glasvegas, Black Grape and Embrace are among acts announced for the day, with tickets starting from £59.50.