How to Rock an 80's Band Tee at Coachella

Coachella is the ultimate vibe - sun-soaked days, electric nights, and a chance to unleash your inner rockstar. Nothing screams festival chic like an 80's band tee, with its bold graphics and rebellious spirit. Whether you're channeling Joan Jett's grit or Madonna's flair, here's how to style your vintage-inspired band tee to turn heads at Coachella.

1. Crop It, Knot It, Personalize It Transform your 80's band tee into a festival-ready show-stopper. Grab a pair of scissors and crop it just above the waistband of your high-waisted denim shorts/skirt for that perfect carefree look. Length is personal so be sure to try on your t-shirt with whatever you're planning to wear, and mark it with a piece of chalk where you want it cut. But don't be fooled! Leave the length one 1/2" longer than you want it to be to allow for the shirt to naturally curl up when washed. Alternatively, knot it at the side for a playful, more fitted vibe. Pair with a studded belt to amplify the rock'n'roll edge. For either of these options, we suggest buying a t-shirt one size bigger than you would normally wear to master the look. If you're having trouble knotting, consider using a hair tie to just gather the extra material to one side like a pony-tail, and then tuck the gathered fabric under.

2. Layer with Boho Flair Coachella is all about eclectic layers and so are we at The Twisted String. Throw on a flowy kimono with fringe details over your favorite band tee for a boho-rock fusion. Add a wide-brimmed hat and round sunglasses to nail that festival aesthetic. Keep the bottom half simple with a leather mini skirt or ripped black jeans to let the tee steal the show, or go all out and pile on the extra with studs on your skirt/shorts/jeans.

3. Accessorize Like a Rockstar Elevate your band tee with bold accessories. Stack chunky silver rings, layer chokers, and toss on a crossbody bag with studs or embroidery. Ankle boots - think combat or cowboy style - add swagger to your step. For a touch of 80's glam, weave a colorful bandana into your hair or tie it around your wrist. Metallica tee? Add a leather wrist cuff for extra grit.

4. Play with Textures and Prints Mixing textures is key to standing out. Pair your Rolling Stones tee with a suede skirt or velvet flares for a tactile contrast. Animal prints, like a leopard skirt or snakeskin boots, bring a wild edge that complements the 80's vibe. Keep the color palette neutral or stick to jewel tones to let the band tee's graphic pop.

5. Nighttime Glow-UP When the sun sets, Coachella turns up the heat. Swap shorts for a sequined skirt or metallic leggings to make your Bon Jovi tee stage-ready. Add a lightweight duster jacket with embroidery for that extra festival flair. Glow sticks, body glitter, or LED jewelry? Yes, please - lean into the 80's excess for a look that lights up the night.

6. Footwear That Rocks Your shoes need to handle dusty fields and long hours of dancing. Chunky sneakers in white or neon nod to 80's trends while keeping you comfy. For a grungier vibe, go for Dr. Martens or platform boots. If you're feeling the boho spirit, try strappy sandals or cowboy books with a Poison or Blondie tee for a softer edge.

7. Confidence Is Your Best Accessory The real secret to rocking an 80's band tee? Own it! Whether you're vibing to modern beats or channeling the era's icons, wear your tee with attitude. Strike a pose, dance like nobody's watching, and let your outfit tell a story. After all, Coachella is YOUR stage!

Shop the Look Ready to rock Coachella or your next concert? Check out our collection of 80's band tees - think Aerosmith, Def Leppard, and more. Each one's designed to bring the best of vintage vibes to your festival wardrobe. Pair with our curated accessories and denim to create a look that's uniquely you.

Rock on, festival queens - see you at Coachella!