What to wear to a country music festival

Start with denim — jeans, shorts or a skirt — then layer a fitted tee or vest under an open plaid shirt. It photographs beautifully, and the shirt doubles as a warm layer when the sun drops. A denim or suede jacket with a bit of fringe finishes the look and traps heat without swamping you.

Cowboy boots are the country uniform for a reason — they look the part and they handle mud far better than trainers. Break them in before the weekend. If yours aren't waterproof, pack a second pair of chunky boots or wellies for the walk between the campsite and the arena.

The single item people wish they'd packed is a lightweight waterproof. A cropped rain jacket or a stylish parka in a neutral tone sits under a denim shirt without ruining the look. Add a wide- brim hat (felt for cold, straw for sun) — it doubles as sun cover and rain deflector, and it's the fastest way to signal country without trying too hard.

• Denim shorts, tucked graphic tee, plaid shirt tied at the waist, ankle boots.
• Prairie or midi dress with a leather belt, denim jacket, tall boots.
• High-waist jeans, bandana top, suede fringe jacket, felt hat.
• Slip skirt, band tee, cowboy boots — comfortable enough to dance in all day.

• Fringed suede jacket over a slip dress with cowboy boots.
• Leather trousers, western shirt with pearl snaps, silver bolo tie.
• Sequin top with jeans and boots — a proper Friday Night Party outfit.
• Long duster coat over an all-black base for the walk back to camp.

• Thermal base layers — nights get cold even in July.
• Two pairs of boots so one can dry out.
• A small crossbody bag or bum bag to keep hands free.
• Sunglasses, sun cream, a bandana for dust and sweat.
• A cosy oversized hoodie for the campfire (or the queue for coffee).