Body Movements Festival returned to London last weekend, bringing with it not just a vibrant queer line-up (love you Romy) but also a wave of fashion experimentation. I love festivals as they are a snapshot of what's bubbling up style-wise, and this year’s crowd leaned hard into the Y2K revival but with plenty of twists. Crop tees, cargo pants and skinny shades were present but there were a few curveballs I didn't expect.
Sami (below left), who had just flown in from California and made a solo style statement with a headscarf and oversized green sunnies. Then I spoke to Jasmine (below right, in red), a London-based tattooist, who – along with ten friends – took clown-core to another level; adding a scarlet Elizabethan neck ruff just added to the theatre.
For me that's exactly what I love about festivals, is the theatre. It's a stage to showcase your finest self, and show the world who you really are without any limitations and away from the day-to-day work life. I personally worry about going through London in an outfit that is too out there (wish I didn't care…), but some of the people I spoke to arrived with a small bag and simply changed at the festival, which is unfortunate, but if it means you get to have a moment to express yourself in a freeing environment, then I'm here for it.
1. Grunge 🤝 Medieval
Whether this is just a festival trend or not remains to be seen, but there's no denying that chainmail coif headpieces were the surprising trend that is well and truly on the map. Paired with patterned tights and black textural tones, it's a trend that brings a match made in the Middle Ages of heaven but for today. If this is too much, we also spotted knitted versions for a softer aesthetic, or use coloured rings for a more playful vibe.
2. The Labubu/soft toy-as-an-accessory trend isn't going anywhere
You wouldn't think it, but the demon-looking Labubu does pair well with the grunge Medieval look. Other soft toys are available and were seen on many a look at the festival.
3. Bakerboy caps are a wardrobe staple
Whether you're rocking the Prince look with a classic bakerboy cap as seen on Sharon (above), or looking for a more 00s R&B fluffy bakerboy look (see below, second from right), it's the ideal cap to go incognito so the paps won't catch you.
4. Having fun is always a trend
Ultimately, having fun with fashion is the best kind of trend. Be playful like Amanda, Kiki and Natalia above. Drape your pearls, paint your face, wear your crochet and let your light shine through.
This is Body Movements Festival's energy through and through and I cannot wait to head back next year.
See more pics from the festival below…
