Soho House Festival has become a real highlight of my summer, and this year was the best yet!
I went with a group of friends and family, which made the day even more special. There’s something about a festival that brings everyone together. From the moment we arrived at Gunnersbury Park, the atmosphere was brilliant. Everyone was ready to enjoy themselves, the sun was shining and there was music coming from every direction.
The line-up included Basement Jaxx, The Charlatans and Roger Sanchez, alongside a full programme of comedy. Basement Jaxx performing live with dancers and a full band was a real highlight. It’s impossible to stand still when the music starts and the whole crowd is dancing.
Soho House certainly knows how to put on a festival. Alongside the music and comedy, there was an endless supply of food and drink, from its classic barbecue and Dirty Burgers to Cecconi’s. There was even a Beauty Tent offering manicures, hair styling and treatments. Music, sunshine, fabulous food and the chance to have your hair done in a field. What more could you want?
Of course, choosing what to wear is a huge part of the fun for me and, when it comes to festivals, I love the freedom and eclectic mix of outfits – anything goes. Remember when Coco Chanel famously advised, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off”? Well, whilst I love Coco Chanel, in this instance, I ignore and add the necklace, wear the sparkle and throw on the oversized sunglasses. Festivals are made for having fun with your clothes.
A dress is always one of my favourite festival choices because it’s comfortable, easy to wear and can still make a real statement. Think floaty maxi dresses, playful shorter styles, vivid colours and anything that shimmers, swishes or comes alive when you dance. Fringing is everywhere at the moment and it couldn’t be better suited to a festival. I chose a fringed dress that moved beautifully and was perfect for dancing and soaking up the atmosphere. I paired it with boots so I could stay comfortable throughout the day while still feeling properly dressed up. There’s nothing fabulous about limping home or wanting to take your shoes off after the first hour – I’ve learnt the hard way!
I always love Soho House Festival, where everything and anything goes, style is to the max and they certainly know how to put on an unforgettable party. I loved the short dresses, sparkly skirts, bright colours and statement looks worn with boots or trainers. Some people went for relaxed, floaty styles, while others embraced head-to-toe glamour. That’s the joy of festival fashion. Anything goes.
Let’s not forget the gorgeous weather – where most people’s most important accessory was a hand fan!
I also accessorised with a small cross-body bag, sunglasses and SPF, which is always non-negotiable. It’s easy to lose track of how long you’ve been outside when you’re chatting, dancing and enjoying the music, and cocktails – and getting burnt is not a good look.
This year at Soho House Festival was the best yet in my opinion, everything came together: sunshine, brilliant music, fabulous food, lovely friends and family, and the perfect excuse to wear an outfit I’d been saving for the right occasion. I really didn’t want it to end.
If you are heading to a festival – reach for the colour, embrace the outfit and add the accessory you’d usually talk yourself out of wearing. Bring comfortable shoes, plenty of SPF and, then get out there, dance and enjoy every minute.
For those asking where I got my outfit from – you can find it here
