What to Wear to the County Fair: 5 Outfit Ideas
There is a magic to county fairs — the smell of popcorn and cotton candy, the colorful lights of the Ferris wheel and the thrill of winning a stuffed animal at the game booths.
Whether you go to a small-town fair or a state fair, it’s still a summer highlight.
But let’s be honest with ourselves: half the fun is finding the right outfit.
You’re looking for something that’s comfy enough to take you from the walking tour to dinner to the bar to brunch, but chic enough to get you that Instagram pic.
So we’re giving you five county fair inspired outfits to wear your best looks while soaking up the carnival fun: The county fair.
1. The Casual Cool Look
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of a day at the fair is comfort. But that doesn’t mean you must forgo style.
The casual cool outfit is simply the right amount of relaxed and stylish, making it perfect for spending the day walking around the fairgrounds.
Begin with a pair of perfectly fitting denim shorts — they’re a summer classic that doesn’t really ever go out of style.
Choose a mid wash with minor distressing for some edge to your look.
The combination of shorts and a graphic tee with your favorite band or a slogan you love, or an interesting design that shows something about your personality.
If graphic tees aren’t really your look, a fitted tank top or a classic white tee can do just the same.
Add a flannel shirt for a dressier casual look.
Not only does it bring texture and color to your outfit, it’s also practical for those cooler evening temperatures.
It’s a flannel you can tie around your waist while the day is still nice, then pull on when the sun sets.
Footwear and Accessories
For a day at the fair, comfortable footwear is a must. Sneakers are an excellent option — they’ll give the support you need for all day walking while still looking fashionable.
And there is something about a fresh pair of white sneakers that just seems to go with everything.
For something more casual, think slip-on options such as Vans or Toms.
And for accessories, keep them simple but useful.
A crossbody bag is ideal for having your hands free while toting all your necessities.
Pick one in a neutral hue or a whimsical print to infuse a touch of personality.
And remember a pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and cool out your look even further.
2. The Boho Babe Vibe
A boho babe vibe is perfect for a day at the fair if you gravitate toward free-spirited fashion.
This style definitely calls for boho materials, natural colors, and casual silhouettes, and easy chic.
Wear a maxi dress or skirt made from a light, breathable material.
Seek earthy tones, such as olive green, rust or mustard, or a petal pattern to romance up your look.
The secret is to wear something that flows with your body so that when you are get up to walk around the fairgrounds, that vibration stays flowing.
Team the dress or skirt with an off-the-shoulder blouse or a loose-fitting top.
The off-shoulder style is ideal for showing off a little bit of skin, even while staying laid-back and comfy.
A peasant blouse with flowing sleeves can also convey that bohemian attitude if you want something more covered.
Footwear and Accessories
Footwear should be gladiator sandals or ankle boots.
They’re as comfortable as sneakers, though, and give that extra pop of bohemian flair. If you’re aiming for something a little more low-key, you can also go for plain leather sandals.
You can accentuate your boho style through accessories.
Wide-brimmed hats boost elegance, and also gives you shade from sun One large elegant hat adds levels to the outfit and keeps off the sun.
To complete the look, layer necklaces, wear some beaded bracelets and oversized earrings.
And don’t forget a slouchy bag or a fringe purse to hold your essentials in proper boho style.
3. The Country Chic Style
Get your cowgirl on with the country chic style.
This is denim and plaid with a sprinkling of Western glamour — appropriate for a day at the fair.
Begin with a ripped denim jeans or shorts.
The distressed look adds some character to your fit and gives off a no-fucks-given vibe.
Match your denim with a plaid shirt or an adorable, embroidered blouse.
Plaid is a great classic that will never go out of style, and embroidery helps you add a little texture to your look and get some visual interest.
For a more modern take on this country combo, throw on a denim jacket or utility vest.
Ideal for cooler evenings, it also provides that little extra elegance to your outfit.
Footwear and Accessories
You’ll need cowboy boots for this look.
They’re not only comfortable and practical for walking around the fair, but they also impart that benificent country charm.
Ankle boots with a low heel are a nice substitute if you don’t have cowboy boots.
Accessorize your country chic attire with a few select accessories.
The leather belt works great to make you stand out with a statement buckle that makes it stand out as well and makes a statement.
Add a bandana around your neck, or wear it in your hair for a pop of color and style.
And, of course, don’t forget a straw hat to complete your look.
4. The Sporty Spice Ensemble
So if comfort is a must but you don’t want to miss the style, the sporty spice ensemble is a good way to go.
This outfit is about taking activewear and mixing it with casual items for an outfit that looks chic but will keep part of you on this planet.
This look is best created with high-waisted leggings.
They’re easy to wear, and versatile, and can be dressed up or down based on what else you have on.
Pair your leggings with a crop top or a fitted tank for a sleek, sporty vibe. You can also wear a lightweight jacket or a hoodie to when the temperature decreases.
Footwear and Accessories
Athleisure shoes like running sneakers or slip-on athletic shoes are the best way to finish off your sporty spice outfit.
They’re comfortable enough to wear for a full day of sightseeing, and they tie your entire look together.
This look is perfectly accessorized with a backpack.
It’s useful for carrying all your stuff and extends the sporty vibe.
A neutral colored design for a minimalist look would work, but you can also choose a vibrant design with colors that contrast with the rest of your outfit.
5. The Vintage Vibe
There’s just something about the nostalgia of a county fair that goes so well with a retro-inspired outfit.
A must-have look for vintage fashion fans.
Think of high-waisted jeans, knotted blouses and statement accessories that recall the fashions of decades ago.
Pair with a high-waisted jean or a dress with a vintage look.
The high-waisted silhouette is flattering, as well as being a decidedly retro look.
Create this look by pairing jeans with a knotted blouse or graphic tee on which a band you loved in the past is printed.
If you want to wear a dress, go for one with a vintage-inspired print or silhouette.
Footwear and Accessories
Pair it with a retro sneaker or platform sandal to finish the vintage vibe.
They’re comfortable enough for a day at the fair, and give an extra bit of nostalgia to your outfit.
Finish with a set of cat-eye shades and a strong red lip for accessories.
These little things add up and really bring that vintage feel together.
A small structured handbag or vintage-chip crossbody bag will finish off the look.
If you do want to go all out, layer up a silk scarf tied around your neck or in your hair for an extra elegant touch of retro glam.
Final Thoughts
You should never take what you wear to a county fair too seriously.
So whether you’re more of a casual cool, boho babe, country chic, sporty spice or vintage vibe kinda gal, these outfit ideas will have you looking your best while you enjoy all that the fair has to offer.
Comfort is paramount, just not at the expense of fashion.”
So take your most special outfit, head to the fairgrounds, and let the summer memories commence!
