It’s SXSW time again, y’all. Whether you’re in town for film, music, interactive, or the whole enchilada, you’re going to want to look fresh but also keep it highly functional –which is why me and the homies put together some looks for your SXSW 2016 inspiration board.
Austin is hot, as in you’re going to sweat all damn day hot, so the real key here is to keep it simple, breezy, and fun. You can look amazing and still be chill and comfortable.
Don’t: Worry about extensive layering or wearing fancy heels during the day.
Do: Go all out with your looks, your makeup, y todo. Have some fun, take some risks, wear some stuff you feel fly in.
Below, me and six of my stylish local friends to show you how to keep it cute at SXSW this year.
Photos by Andie Flores and Ivan Alonso.
1
Andie Flores, 25
My wardrobe is eclectic and a little bit flashy—imagine Pee-Wee Herman meets Solange Knowles on a secret budget.
For this look, all you have to do for this look is throw some boots on under your ex-boyfriend’s pajama shirt. I’m growing my short hair out, so this bright wig is a real confidence booster. Don’t forget your favorite pair of sunglasses. Your whole week will be like a Kali Uchis music video.
This is what I’m wearing to evening and night events (like Remezcla’s Perreo NYC showcase!). A little sparkle with lots of color. I’ll stow my celly and some tiny snacks in this fried egg purse.
SXSW feels like a celebration of easy springtime in Tejas. Pair a lightweight dress with classic sneakers and don’t forget a hat to protect that beautiful skin.
2
Anthony Obi, 27
What do you do?
Anthony Lawson Jude Ifeanyichukwu Obiawunaotu is my full name, but I go by Anthony Lawson Obi for short. I am a musician and writer from Houston, Texas; lowkey a “creative director” type, a “tastemaker.” I’m professionally known as Fat Tony and online everywhere as @fattonyrap.
Tell me about your outfit.
It’s lit. I got the shirt from Trey’s Vintage in Houston. It’s an antiquated Ralph Lauren brand named Chaps. The shirt caught my eye instantly and reminded me of a painting. It’s truly a unique design and I rarely pass on Ralph. The jeans and shoes are Volcom. I released a 7″ vinyl with Volcom so they keep ya boy laced.
How do you decide what to wear to SXSW?
Since SXSW usually consumes a week of my life I have to plan my outfits carefully. I always dress based on my mood and my agenda for the day. When I’m feeling Richard Hell I’ll wear all black. When I’m feeling like a real Hip Hopper I’ll throw on something Ralph related. Every day is a different feeling and if I don’t dress accordingly I feel foolish. It’s like walking around with egg on your face.
How would you describe your style?
Definitely 90’s vintage inspired via band t-shirts (2Pac, Big Mike / Rap-A-Lot, Aaliyah, Marilyn Manson, and Metallica are a few favorites in my collection) and classic casual American looks via Polo, Tommy, Nautica and more. I’m especially into Polo rugby shirts and all-over print pieces.
What will you be up to during SXSW?
I’m performing an official showcase on March 17th at 11 pm sharp at Sledge Hammer and I’ll be rapping my ass off again on March 19th at 2 pm. Hit my line if you’re about that life. I’m here to inspire.
3
Victoria Tyner, 24
What do you do?
I work in San Antonio and sell clothes online.
Tell me about your outfit.
The first outfit is a more relaxed and comfortable t-shirt and shorts look. The second is one of my favorite matching sets I’ve ever found at a resale shop and the best clear bag I’ve ever had!
How do you decide what to wear to SXSW?
I’ll wear whatever is comfortable, stylish, and cool—especially since it’s already so hot in Texas.
How would you describe your style?
I try to have looks that are different from what everyone else will be wearing. I want to wear something that might strike up conversation about where I got it from or how rare it looks. I do a lot of shopping on eBay and at places like Texas Thrift.
What will you be up to during SXSW?
Basically I’ll be anywhere that is free. I’ll probably walk around 7th and Red River and scope out flyers, events, and people’s Instagrams to see what cheap fun is happening.
4
Jesus I. Valles-Morales, 29
What do you do?
I’m a fronterizo, a Cd. Juarez baby, raised in El Paso, living in Austin. I’m an educator, performer, and local desmadre.
Tell me about your outfit.
I like to stay well-ventilated and prevent inner-thigh chub-rub, so leggings or skirts are the stuff of dreams for me. I am also broke and the only thing I purchased is the leather harness (shoutout to the leather daddy who made it for me at Chicago’s Jackhammer). All of the other items of clothing are gifts from people I love or hand-me-downs from generous hook-ups. I like to carry my people with me.
How do you decide what to wear to SXSW?
I usually choose my looks through necromancy. I also like to figure out exactly how much I will be sweating that day and how fast will I have to run away from something or someone. I like shiny things, tulle, and things that highlight my calves.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as “What if I flunked out of Hogwarts?” or “What would I look like if I was eliminated on the second episode of Project Runway?” I like to think of my aesthetic as budget brujerias.
What will you be up to during SXSW?
During SXSW I’ll be on Growlr, in my bedroom. I’ll probably be eating a concha or polvorones on my bed, listening to (me llamo) Sebastian. Who knows?! So many possibilities! …. I’ll probably be at La Mexicana bakery, though.
5
Anya Reyes, 26, and Amelia Reyes, 5
What do you do?
I’m a local theater artist, born and raised in east Austin.
Tell me about your outfit.
My mother brought this dress back from Mexico in the late 70’s or early 80’s. This piece is special because it has so much history.
How do you decide what to wear to SXSW?
I like to feel protected and empowered by what I’m wearing—especially for big events. It’s like donning a superhero cape to enter the fray or looking fresh and entering a crowd of unsuspecting “South By-ers.”
How would you describe your style?
I describe my style as India chola and naturalista urbana, and I’m always with my trusty partner-in-crime, India Blanca. We’re always moving forward with our eyes toward the future and our hearts and souls deeply rooted in our past.
What will you be up to during SXSW?
I like to hit up the old school Austin homies and show love to them. I feel pride for how long so many have worked to make a name and build up a rep for the Austin art scene. I will be camped out at Empire Control Room dancing from sun up to sun down. It’s bound to be a reunion of old friends and new ones.