Alright Railbirds. We’re just T-minus 10 days out from the biggest music festival in Lexington, and it’s time to start planning our outfits.
To get inspired, we asked a few local vintage shops — if they could style any artist from the Railbird lineup, who would it be + what would they wear? Also, what pro tips do they have for the attendees? Here’s what they had to say.
Kaylee of Noir Nook Vintage
Artist pick: “If I had the chance to style any of the acts, I would style Elle King.
I love the contrast of girly outfits with some edge to them, and I think her tattoos are a great accessory to edge up all her outfits. I would style her in a ‘Edgy Cowgirl/Bohemian’ look to play into her personal aesthetic and, of course, the country side of Railbird.”
Attendees: “I think going cute, but comfy, is 100% the best way to go. Dress down skirts and dresses with big t-shirts — have flowy tops, short shorts, and crop tops to beat the heat. I also think doing a more simple comfy outfit, but adding a lot of accessories + jewelry makes every outfit 100x better.”
Charlotte of Malynda Vintage
Artist pick: “There are a couple of people I would love to dress, starting with Abby Hamilton. We love a Kentucky local, and the '#1 Zookeeper (of the San Diego Zoo)’ is on repeat when I’m driving. I took inspiration from her latest album cover art and her affinity for the color red. I’d see her in vintage 1970’s red and white polka dot maxi dress with white cowboy boots.”
Attendees: “Comfort and style can coexist. Wear comfortable shoes like cowboy or motorcycle boots. They’re still fashionable and complimentary to any festival look and perfect for trekking through the festival grounds.
Also, sleepwear, but make it fashion. The lingerie dressing trend is not going anywhere, and slip skirts and dresses will keep you cool for an easy, breezy, beautiful day at Railbird.”
Madison of Street Scene Vintage
Artist pick: “We would style our hometown hero, Abby Hamilton, of course. Abby is effortlessly cool so it doesn’t take much to add to her presence on stage. Her music is intimate so we chose a romantic white top and paired with a fringe suede skirt to lean into her country roots.”
Attendees: “You can never go wrong with vintage, baby. It’s unique and will always help you stand out in the crowd. Vintage basics like denim cut offs and lacey slip skirts are a festival staple, but we also love the look of a mini sundress or a funky baby tee. A simple look can be made totally unique with the right accessories as well. Don’t forget your fun sunnies — we have plenty for you.”
Vintage Therapy
Aaron’s artist pick: My pick would be Dwight Yoakam no question. I would style him to show off his Kentucky roots along with his Bakersfield sound. Think white acid wash denim, vintage white v-neck tee, 50’s Hawaiian (unbuttoned), vintage rockabilly boots, topped off with a vintage tobacco warehouse trucker hat. (A different look from his normal cowboy hat)
Scott’s artist pick: “I would love to style Chris Stapleton. You can never go wrong with an all black outfit, and its super simple. I would have him in a Black 70’s Wrangler Pearl Snap shirt. One with some minimal embroidery across the chest to still offer some uniqueness. Black Levis and black cowboy boots. Top it off with a bolo tie showcasing some turquoise, and his signature cowboy hat.”
Attendees: “We styled some Railbird fits to showcase a style of Americana, and country, with a rock n roll flair. Picture yourself toasting some ice cold beers while dancing in the sun to Counting Crows and Elle King. Then capping off the day sipping a bourbon underneath the Kentucky moonlight listening to a little Chris Stapleton and Wynonna Judd duet.”
Wearhouse
Artist pick: “We have worked with Abby Hamilton for her past tours and music videos so we hope to work with her again for Railbird. If we could style any other performers, Elle King would top that list, followed by Kaitlin Butts, Allison Russell and Sam Barber as our honorable mentions.”
Attendees: “Keep it light but have fun with patterns. Pairing bustiers with floral maxi skirts or wearing cool graphic tees under vintage slip dresses are my all time favorite looks. Large scarves worn as a top with a good pair of distressed denim shorts never fails to look amazing on everybody. Have fun with your looks, play with patterns and textures and don’t be afraid to stand out.”
