Get Festival-Ready: Your Style Guide for Alberta’s Summer Events

Summer in Alberta isn't just about mountain views and sunny hikes—it's also festival season. From the Canmore Folk Music Festival to Banff’s Performance in the Park, the Rockies are alive with music, art, food, and community. But while your itinerary might be booked, the real question is: what are you wearing?

Whether you're grooving at a folk concert or browsing local crafts with a cold lemonade in hand, your summer event outfit should strike the perfect balance between style and comfort. Here’s your essential style guide to look effortlessly cool while soaking in the good vibes and how Elk & Owl can help you show up in festival-ready fashion.

🌿 1. Layer Like a Local

Mountain weather is known for its mood swings: sunny one minute, breezy the next. Layering is the secret to surviving an outdoor festival in Alberta. Start with a light cotton tee or tank, throw on a denim jacket or soft flannel, and carry a packable windbreaker or oversized scarf for the evening chill.

🧣 Our Recommendation: Try our locally designed knit wraps and breathable linen button-downs easy to mix, match, and layer throughout the day.

☀️ 2. Hats, Shades & Sun Smarts

No one wants to be squinting at the stage or dealing with a sunburn. A wide-brimmed hat and stylish sunglasses aren’t just functional, they're a festival fashion statement.

🕶 Our Recommendation: Explore our collection of boho straw hats, upcycled sunnies, and artisan-made caps that bring both charm and coverage.

👟 3. Footwear that Goes the Distance

Even if you're not dancing in the front row, you'll still be doing a lot of walking across grass, gravel, or maybe even mud. Prioritize comfort, but don’t sacrifice style.

👟 Our Recommendation: Check out our eco-conscious sneakers and buttery-soft leather slip-ons that are made for long days and spontaneous twirls.

🎒 4. Bag It Right

You’ll need something to stash your water bottle, sunscreen, wallet, and maybe that cool handmade trinket you bought at a vendor booth. Crossbody bags or mini backpacks are your go-to.

👜 Our Recommendation: We love our minimalist sling bags, artisan canvas backpacks, and recycled-fabric totes designed to carry what matters, stylishly.

💫 5. Add Personality with Accessories

From handmade jewelry to enamel pins and funky socks, your accessories are where your personality shines. Plus, they can turn a basic outfit into a conversation starter.

✨ Our Recommendation: Browse our lineup of Canadian-made statement earrings, stackable rings, and handcrafted accessories with little details that make a big impact.

🎟️ Festival Style, the Elk & Owl Way

At Elk & Owl, we believe that style should tell a story about your story, but also the story of the community around you. That’s why we focus on ethically sourced, locally inspired, and sustainably crafted items that go beyond trends. When you shop with us, you're not just getting dressed for a festival, you're supporting a movement rooted in conscious fashion and mountain town spirit.

So this summer, as Alberta fills with music, laughter, and sunshine, come find your perfect festival look at Elk & Owl. Whether you're dressing for the dance floor or the day market, we’ll help you show up authentically.