What to wear to Parklife festival
From rave-inspired looks to mermaidcore outfits, scroll on to discover our style guide & must-have pieces.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for styling purposes only. Primark is not affiliated with, endorsed by or associated with the artists listed in any way.
Parklife is one of the biggest festivals in the UK, drawing in thousands of electronic, hip-hop and pop music fans every year. Specifically, a non-camping event, it's a firm favourite of those who want to show off multiple weekend looks without the worry of storing them! This year’s lineup includes Skepta and Sammy Virji headlining on Saturday 20th June, followed by Calvin Harris and Zara Larsson on Sunday 21st June. No matter your favourite artist, we’ve got outfit ideas and styling tips to match every mood. Plus, some must-haves to survive the Mancunian weather! For more festival inspiration, be sure to also read our guides on how to style a band tee and what to wear to Download Festival!
Rave outfit ideas
If your playlist features DJs like Chris Stussy and Kettama, you’re likely looking for rave outfit ideas. Think bright colours, statement prints and chunky accessories. To curate a head-turning womens look, style a rara mini skirt with a waist chain, a crop top and boots. Feeling bold? Add a pair of oversized sunglasses and glittery makeup.
For mens rave outfits, start with shorts. Then, add a relaxed men’s football shirt featuring vibrant colours for high impact. Alternatively, go for a lightweight co-ord set featuring cool graphics. To make sure your festival experience is as comfortable as it is stylish, don’t forget a pair of supportive trainers and a bucket hat.
Mermaidcore outfits
Ever since her hit record Midnight Sun, Zara Larsson has been serving mermaidcore and beachy Y2K extravagance. We’re talking ocean-inspired hair accessories, whimsical belts and baby tees in tropical shades. Want to channel this fantasy fever dream? Set your base with a bikini top and a pair of shorts, then add a crochet mini dress on top. For those who prefer something a bit more covered up, choose a pastel matching set and accessorise with a charm necklace and strappy sandals to complete the look.
Streetwear style for Skepta
Known as a pioneering figure in British urban fashion, Skepta has brought the local subculture to the global runway. His personal style doesn’t follow any conventional rules, blending zero-effort streetwear with premium, tailored minimalism. Men can copy his aesthetic by wearing a plain T-shirt with cargo shorts and a faux leather jacket. Then, add chunky running trainers. Women can opt for a sporty women’s hoodie, jorts and a pair of oversized sunglasses for a casually cool vibe. Want to keep things low key? Vest tops and graphic T-shirts are easy alternatives.
Crochet meets cowgirl
When in doubt, wear crochet. Over the years, this boho-chic look has become synonymous with music festival fashion. Its signature open-weave texture keeps you cool in crowded spaces and is great for layering over bralettes and bodysuits. To elevate your look further, add cowgirl-themed pieces like a hat or boots. Their ruggedness balances the delicate crochet textile. Denim shorts and a mini rucksack paired with a crochet top offer a Parklife outfit that is both chic and practical.
All that glitters
If you want to bring Parklife’s fun, high-energy vibe to your outfit, add some glittery hair accessories, makeup or clothing. They’ll reflect the stage lights and take your look to the next level. A sparkly hat as part of a western-themed outfit, shimmering eyeshadow for Zara Larsson’s set or a metallic mini skirt for your rave look, there are endless ways to shine throughout the festival weekend. Simply mix and match pieces until you find something that feels truly you!
Layer your way
While we can't predict what the Manchester skies have planned, we can recommend dressing for every possibility. Over the years, gusty winds and heavy rain usually make an appearance, this means wearing raincoats or waterproof jackets is just as important as looking fashionable. On the rare occasion the forecast predicts clear skies, keep a lightweight jacket or a bomber handy for when the evening chill sets in.
Style tip: tie a denim jacket around your waist. It’ll earn you some style points while keeping your hands free.
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