Photo by Kara Smarsh

Fashion

the 15 looks that took sxsw by storm

festival fashion done RIGHT

by leila brillson

Do you remember—back when we were young and bushy-tailed—SXSW 2015? We hardly do, even though it ended, well, yesterday. South By always presents the most interesting of challenges when it comes to style: For bands, they’ve been on the road for a bit. For visitors, they have to pack outfits in advance. And for everyone, the changing weather of Austin in March is a bit of a conundrum: One day, it is 70 degrees and skies are blue, the next, you are in the middle of a severe thunder storm. (Though, “severe” in Texas feels a whole lot different than it does in New York.) So when people nail the SXSW style, they really nail it. Ahead, the well-heeled festival-goers we spotted who traversed Austin with true aplomb.

Photos by Ben Sklar and Kara Smarsh

Photo by Ben Sklar

Julie knows the secret to packing light: A retro-patterned jumpsuit. 

Photo by Ben Sklar

Jane told us she was super excited to see Basecamp. We don't blame her!

Photo by Ben Sklar

Just look at Alyssa's pants. They are magical.

Photo by Ben Sklar

Erin takes a break from seeing bands like Keeper, and demonstrates that black doesn't need to be heavy or boring.

Photo by Ben Sklar

There is so much right about Lucy's outfit, from the matchy-matchy red to the knee socks. (Knee socks are a powerful thing, and should not be used lightly.)

Photo by Ben Sklar

Leah has the perfect South By trifecta: A short, flowy dress, some vintage cowboy boots, and a super-poppy wall to stand against.

Photo by Ben Sklar

Meet Shyvonne, who is making a serious case for the two-piece.

Photo by Ben Sklar

We loved her look so much we had to catch some details.

Photo by Ben Sklar

Be Forest's Erica proves that the cool kids can wear bright colors. She told us she was thrilled to see Ibeyi.

Photo by Kara Smarsh

Dear Oh Land: Please send us your overalls. Thanks in advance.

Photo by Ben Sklar

Scarlett makes her layers look light and ethereal.

Photo by Ben Sklar

Ugh, Olivia is just killing it with the summer vibes. How lovely is her necklace?

Photo by Ben Sklar

We mean, like, seriously. Those people who don't think that "perfect" exists have clearly never seen Nicole's bold and brilliant look.

Photo by Ben Sklar

No worries! When the rain comes down, Melanie is all set with a toasty hat.

Photo by Ben Sklar

If we could summarize South By Southwest in one look, it might be this bright number (with the shades and braids) worn by Nancy.