These Are the Polarizing Trends That Have Defined Coachella
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This weekend, the 2025 Coachella music festival kicks off in Indio, California. On the impressive roster for weekend one are headlining performers Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone, as well as a special guest set by Travis Scott. These top musical acts are obviously the main draw, but the people-watching and street style are just as widely-anticipated. After all, since its inception in 1999, Coachella has evolved to become an event where one goes simply to be seen; celebrities, in particular, have shown up in the crowds wearing the best, flashiest ensembles. In honor, Vogue is taking a look back at some of the most memorable trends to have come out of the festival.
While Coachella took off in the 2000s, it’s the early 2010s where the music festival truly became a star-studded street style event. Coachella regulars such as Katy Perry, Vanessa Hudgens, Zoe Kravitz, and championed the event’s sartorial spirit that is all about boho maximalism. The trending pieces? Think distressed denims, big belts, and—yes—those signature flower crowns. (Other fads, however, have not been as innocent: Feathered headdresses and bindis also hit a peak at Coachella during the 2010s, but luckily have since subsided in popularity, especially as discussions around cultural appropriation continue to come to light.)
The question is: What will this year’s Coachella attendees wear? Will they remain true to past trends, or bring forward new style concepts? Only time will tell. But based on last year’s celebrity sightings (including stars like Kendall Jenner, Megan Fox, and more), we’re bound to take in an array of fashion-forward looks.
Below, find the top 10 polarizing trends that have defined Coachella over the years.
Photo: Getty Images1/10Statement necklaces
Coachella is all about maximalism—so it’s no surprise that attendees have piled on the bold, chunky necklaces. Kendall Jenner paired her layered crystal necklaces with a cropped vest and ripped jorts.
Photo: Getty Images2/10Studded boots
There’s no shoe more Coachella-ready than the studded ankle boots (remember the Chloe Susanna boot?). Sleek, but a little rock and roll, it’s been the go-to footwear for adding some edge to your look. It’s even Kate Bosworth-approved.
Photo: Getty Images3/10Grungy plaids
A punky tartan—whether it be on a dress or flannel shirt—has been a Coachella mainstay, nodding to the festival’s inception in the late ’90s. Zoe Kravitz opted for a summer slip dress style, paired with platform boots.
Photo: Getty Images4/10Ripped tights
There’s always a nonchalant, even slightly disheveled, style vibe to Coachella—and what better way to embody this than with tights that are ripped and shredded? Katy Perry embraced the trend, pairing her black stockings with a sweet floral dress.
Photo: Getty Images5/10Distressed denims
Denim is debatably the most-worn material ever at Coachella. Whether it’s jeans, cut-off shorts, jackets, dresses—Coachella attendees can’t get enough of the all-American look. Model Alessandra Ambrosio is a repeat denim wearer.
