The Daring Style of Gen Z at Auckland’s Laneway Festival

On a scorching Waitangi Day, Auckland’s Western Springs played host to the eagerly awaited Laneway Festival. While the day began with some ticketing glitches, the event quickly transformed into a vibrant celebration of music and bold fashion, especially among Gen Z attendees.

Ticketing Issues and Festival Highlights

Earlier in the day, many fans encountered difficulties accessing their tickets through the Ticketek app, leading to frustrated queues. Laneway later apologized for the inconvenience via Instagram. Despite the initial hiccups, the festivalwent on to feature a lineup of renowned artists, including Charli XCX, Beabadoobee, Clairo, BICEP, Remi Wolf, and Barry Can’t Swim.

The Influence of Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ Album

The day’s style was a testament to Charli XCX’s cultural influence, particularly her recent album Brat. Gen Z festivalgoers donned outfits that reflected her rebellious aesthetic, characterized by short skirts, bike pants, and high boots. Grace, 22, succinctly summed up the style ethos, stating, “I want to be as naked as legally possible.”

Her sentiment echoed among many attendees, who prioritized coverage while still showcasing their edgy style. The festival became a canvas for self-expression, with attendees like Shawn McWhannell making a political statement through his fashion choices.

Showcase of Brat Fashion

Shelly Liang and Kelsey Wilde.
Photo: RNZ / Serena Solomon

Kelsey Wilde and Shelly Liang exemplified the festival’s bold fashion, opting for baggy jorts and bikini tops. Liang emphasized the empowering message behind Brat, saying, “Girls can wear whatever they want and she [Charli XCX] is showing that.”

Jag Hax and Emma.
Photo: RNZ / Serena Solomon

Jax Hag and Emma approached fashion with the spirit of ‘Brat,’ choosing pieces for their comfort and the joy they brought. Emma noted, “The idea is not to buy anything new. It’s a bit brat.”

Andy Olive, left, and Francis McWhannell.
Photo: RNZ / Serena Solomon

Francis McWhannell and Andy Olive took their fashion choices a step further, using them as a form of protest against the threat to LGBTQ rights in the US. Olive shared, “I wanted to look gay as…” while McWhannell added, “I have felt increasingly empowered in recent years to dress how I feel.”

Taylor Nobbs and Mat.
Photo: RNZ / Serena Solomon

Taylor Nobbs and Mat embraced minimal, comfort-driven fashion in keeping with the ‘Brat’ theme. Nobbs explained, “My outfit is basically swimwear, standard for a rave party, though I’m sad I don’t have pockets.”

Sophie Patterson, left, and Sophie Hilton.
Photo: RNZ / Serena Solomon

Sophie Hilton and Sophie Patterson, 18, hailed the festival’s inclusivity, particularly its fashion. Patterson noted, “Whatever you want to wear, you can fit in,” while describing the chunky boots as the epitome of the ‘Brat’ aesthetic.

Grace, 22.
Photo: Serena Solomon/RNZ

Grace’s sentiments echoed throughout the festival, capturing the essence of self-expression and rebellion. She shared, “I wanted to be protected from the sun… but also project my inner Brat.”

A Celebration of Uniqueness and Rebellion

Laneway Festival was not just a musical event but a vibrant celebration of style, self-expression, and rebellion. From the bold fashion choices to the empowering messages, the festival showcased how fashion can be a tool for personal expression and political commentary.

As attendees left with memories of a day of music and fashion, it was clear that the festival had succeeded in its mission to bring people together through shared experiences and creative expression.

What does Laneway Festival mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join our community for more insights and updates on upcoming music events!