Baby rabbits are back, students are out and about, and white tents are being set up all across the Lakefill. All signs point to one thing: Dillo Day is approaching.
Recent campus chatter has been filled with discourse about what people are planning to wear to what many consider the biggest event of the year.
With less than a week until Northwestern’s beloved annual music festival, it’s officially time to curate the perfect Dillo-fit – or fits, if you’re feeling particularly inspired.
This year, the theme for Dillo Day is “camp” – a theme that has left some students wondering: what is camp exactly?
If you’re anything like me, you may have thought about the 2019 Met Gala, which also famously had camp as its theme. In that case, camp referred to an exaggerated, over-the-top aesthetic style.
Looking at the official Dillo Day Instagram page and their outfit inspo, however, it seems that Camp Dillo is meant to be taken a lot more literally.
So whether you’re sorting through a million items in your shopping cart, or still trying to assemble something from your closet, here are some ideas by fellow students on how to make camp cute.
Remember, even the most basic of outfits can be camp if you accessorize the right way.
Hairstyles and hair accessories
For those looking to spice up their hair, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to experiment with:
1. Claw clips
Claw clips aren’t just for keeping your hair out of your face. By opting for summer/spring designs like daisies, cherries or sunflowers, they can be a cute addition to the rest of your outfit.
2. Hair rings
Hair rings are super affordable and you can order them practically anywhere. Perfect for that extra flair.
3. Hair tinsel
Now, hair tinsel may have been a thing during middle school, but that doesn’t mean they can’t still be cool. Once you learn how to get them in your hair (definitely not as easy as advertised), they’re a subtle way to get in a festive mood.
4. Hair clips
Charming and versatile! You can wear one or ten; the sky is the limit.
Courtesy of Pinterest
5. Bandanas/headbands
A nostalgic nod to the 2010s, bandanas just scream outdoorsy. You can’t look up hiking fits on Pinterest without running into some variation of a bandana.
Medill first-year Olivia Teeter, School of Communication first-year Leila Dhawan and Weinberg first-year Grace Bray plan to sport different-colored bandanas as tops.
For those who aren’t as comfortable with bandana tops, the bandana could also be used as a side scarf or belt, Dhawan said.
Courtesy of Leila Dhawan
6. Sunglasses
Practical, funky and they protect your retinas – need I say more?
7. Hats
In terms of hairstyle, braids and pigtails, or even braid pigtails seem to be the go-to for this year.
“I think braids are definitely the vibe. Very campy,” Medill first-year Hannah Webster said.
But, if hair arrangements aren’t quite your forte, hats are always a great option.
Teeter, Dhawan and Bray have made adorable custom trucker hats. Bray designed the hat on Etsy before ordering for the group.
Courtesy of Grace Bray
Cowboy hats are also a popular option for those leaning toward the Western element of camp.
Body accessories
Other accessories to consider include:
1. Body tattoos or body glitter
Stand out with some shimmer. There are so many to choose from and you can get matching ones with your friend group.
2. Colored socks
Don’t underestimate the power of a striking pair of socks.
3. Fun earrings or necklaces
Think seashells, chunky amber, pearls, pastel beads, etc.
4. Belts/belly chains
Add some flair to your waistline. They make all the difference when wearing a short-cut top or simple jeans.
Courtesy of Pinterest
5. Friendship bracelets
A huge part of Dillo Day is enjoying the festival with friends. Friendship bracelets are the best way to celebrate that love and add some color to your outfit.
“Summer camp is probably closest to the way we interpreted [Dillo]. Everyone is out there hanging out and it’s good fun,” Dhawan said, who is currently making bracelets with her close group of friends.
Shoes and footwear
No matter how much fun you’re having, Dillo Day can be exhausting. With a good amount of standing and lots of dancing, you’re likely to be on your feet for most of the day. But, with the right shoes, you can look cute while feeling comfy.
Simple tennis shoes or sneakers would work well with a casual outfit. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a more vintage look, boots can add just the right touch.
“I’m wearing Bean boots because that’s what everyone wore when I went camping,” Dhawan said.
However you choose to interpret camp — whether it’s boho summer, ‘80s camp counselor, beach day or something entirely different — you’re bound to look good as long as you feel it too.