There’s a certain kind of magic in the air when Austin City Limits rolls around. The city hums louder, the streets feel like a runway, and somehow—despite the heat—we all manage to look like effortlessly cool desert fairies and indie dreamboats.
If you’re prepping your Austin City Limits outfit, whether it’s your first festival or your fifth, you’re in the right place. As ATX locals, we’re breaking down exactly what to wear to survive the Texas sun and shine in every photo.
1. The Essential ACL Outfit Formula
(Comfort + Statement + SPF + Dust-Friendly Shoes)
Austin in October can still feel like August. So, rule number one: dress like it’s 115 degrees, even if the forecast lies to you. Your ACL outfit should move with you, breathe easy, and look cute from day to night.
Key outfit pieces:
- Flowy matching sets (bonus points for linen or gauze)
- Statement sunglasses (the bigger the better)
- A hat you won’t throw in a porta-potty
- Crossbody bag or belt bag (hands-free is key!)
- Comfy boots or broken-in sneakers (RIP white Converse)
2. ACL Outfits for the Indie Girlies
You’re here for Hozier and that one band from TikTok. Lean into soft grunge meets prairie core:
- Slip dress + cowboy boots + denim jacket tied around waist
- Oversized band tee + bike shorts + chunky sneakers
- Sheer maxi over a bodysuit with tiny sunglasses
🌿 Pro tip: Add a vintage scarf around your neck or in your hair for that effortless, “I thrifted this in Marfa” vibe.
3. ACL Outfits That Say “I Live Here”
Locals have a look—and it’s usually equal parts unfussy and fire.
- High-waisted denim shorts + cropped tank + Tevas or Blundstones
- Minimal sundress + claw clip + retro shades
- Men’s button-up worn as a dress with bike shorts peeking underneath
Keep it breathable. Bonus points for anything thrifted on South Congress or plucked from Pavement.
4. Accessories That’ll Save You
ACL isn’t just about looking good—it’s about surviving long days in the sun, dust, and possibly beer mist.
Here’s what not to forget:
- Refillable water bottle (CamelBak is peak festival)
- Mini SPF stick for touch-ups
- Sunglasses you don’t mind losing
- Bandana or scarf (for fashion and filtering dust)
- Hair ties + extra for friends
- A portable fan if you’re dramatic (hi, it’s me)
Follow us on Pinterest @chasingsoftnessblog for festival-ready fashion that’s soft, sun-kissed… and just a little sweaty.
Final Tips Before You Go
- Don’t wear something you just bought. Dance in it at home first.
- Layer light—you’ll thank yourself when it cools off at 8pm.
- Pick one bold element (print, color, hat) and build around it.
- Your outfit should feel like you, just turned up 15% for the camera.
Whether you’re going full Coachella-core or Austin casual, remember this: the best ACL look is one you can dance, sing, and sweat in all day long—and still want to post photos of afterward.
See you at Zilker with dusty boots and good vibes. 💛
