To sum up the vibe at the South by Southwest festival, which took place in Austin, Texas from March 8 to 17, one only need look to the city’s motto: “Keep Austin Weird.” With fashion that ranged from trendy to outrageous, the hundreds of thousands of festivalgoers did not disappoint. Just as diverse: the music, which included hordes of unsigned artists alongside veterans (Stevie Nicks, Depeche Mode, Rick Springfield); indie rockers (Vampire Weekend, Parquet Courts, Afghan Whigs), and bona fide megastars (Prince, Justin Timberlake). As things heated up, the Lone Star State contingent represented in — what else? — cowboy boots and fringe, while the hipsters bared their tats in short shorts and minis, topped off with the essential cool shades, distressed booties and edgy motorcycle jackets.
