Although it's not quite summer yet, my calendar is already dotted with summer rendezvous - particularly festivals. Off the back of Coachella weekend, I’ve been deep in outfit-planning mode ever since. Festival dressing is a fine art, and if there’s one piece I’ve always sworn by, it’s the gilet. Traditionally, within the context of festivals, the gilet comes with a fringe detail - a nod to the cowboy-core trend that’s had fashion in a headlock - but this year, the vibe has shifted. We’re seeing a departure from the equestrian aesthetic in favour of something a little more utilitarian. It started with barn jackets, and now, the utility gilet is taking centre stage. Case in point: Marks & Spencer’s Cotton Rich Utility Gilet - a piece that ticks the functional and fashionable boxes with ease.
Available in two different colours, a light neutral and black, the M&S gilet has an oversized, boxy fit that holds its shape. The patch pockets aren't just for show, they're big enough for your phone, lip balm and whatever other items you're trying to avoid losing at the bottom of your bum bag. Plus, the gilet is made from the same material as M&S' best-selling trench coat, a fabric the brand refers to as 'Stormwear', which means it's waterproof enough to take on the inevitable shower at Worthy Farm, but looks so much chicer than any raincoat - or worse - poncho.
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
The first of the two shades, light natural, is so close to a white it will pretty much go with anything in your wardrobe. The four pockets at the front only add to the gilet's practical design, and it can also be cinched at the waist for more styling possibilities.
There's a reason why a gilet has earned its place in the wardrobes of fashion editors and festival-goers alike - and it's largely down to its tran-seasonal appeal. Layer up in the winter with a roll-neck and tailored trousers, or keep it breezy come summer with linen shorts and a tank top. You can also wear the M&S gilet open over a maxi dress and suede biker boots, or cinch it at the waist and style with a retro pair of Adidas shorts - practical, polished and festival-appropriate.
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
If you prefer to keep your outfits entirely monochrome, the M&S gilet also comes in black. Style this version with anything from jeans, to mini skirts, to shorts.
I've never been one to want to douse myself in full body glitter before heading to a festival, so it's refreshing to find a festival top that's not entirely made up of rhinestones or sequins. Whether you're heading to Glastonbury, a rooftop gig or just trying to nail the art of layering, the M&S Utility Gilet delivers on all fronts, and the best part? You'll still be reaching for it long after the last tent is folded away.
Main image credit: Instagram/@junabanda_
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look - yes, she can tell you exactly where a specific coat is from. When not writing, shopping or scrolling Instagram (find hers here), Gemma will likely be dreaming up her next holiday (and what she's going to wear).