Fashion trends that defined Coachella through the years

Far beyond music, Coachella has become a true fashion playground. Since its debut in 1999, the California desert festival has turned into a global hotspot not only for live performances, but also for iconic outfits that shaped an entire generation's way of dressing. With each edition, the Empire Polo Club becomes an open-air runway — and many trends born there have echoed far beyond.

From indie sleaze to modern streetwear, here's a nostalgic dive into the styles that marked Coachella's fashion history:

Indie Sleaze (2000s)

Early Coachella was all about that messy-cool vibe. Think studded bikinis, satin shirts worn unbuttoned, distressed denim and tousled hair. The aesthetic felt like a mix of grunge, electro parties and zero-effort cool — as if you rolled out of a rave straight into the desert.

Flower Crowns & 70s Throwback (early 2010s)

Boho Deluxe Era

As time went on, the boho look became more polished. Lace dresses, fringes with rhinestones, bold boots and oversized belts took over. Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber made it their signature festival look.

Grunge Revival

Some celebrities, like Zoë Kravitz and Katy Perry, went grunge instead. Plaid rompers, platform boots and ripped tights brought edge to the desert, offering a rebellious alternative to the boho aesthetic.

Streetwear & Comfort

In more recent years, Coachella style turned casual and comfy. Streetwear took over with parachute pants, oversized hoodies, and chunky sneakers — Rihanna being a prime example of stylish ease.

Effortless & Personal (2020s)

Today, the main trend at Coachella is personal style over performance. Think basic tanks, vintage denim, clean sneakers and low-key glam. In 2023, Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner nailed it: comfort, simplicity, and coolness in one.

From fashion extravagance to self-expression minimalism, Coachella continues to reflect — and shape — the spirit of our time.