The Ultimate Festival Outfit Guide for EDM Newbies
Headed to your first rave and wondering to yourself “What should I wear to my first EDM festival?” Well stop rummaging through your closet like a frantic raccoon and pick yourself off the heap of discarded clothes on the floor, because we’ve got your back! You see, getting glammed up for a rave doesn’t need to be difficult; it’s meant to enhance the experience, not dampen it. Here are some handy tips on bringing your A-game without breaking the bank.
1. Holo-Win
EDM concerts are all about making a statement, so don’t be afraid to be seen. Stand out from the crowds like the shimmery god/goddess you are! Spruce up your favorite basic tee with a holographic pair of sweats that’s sure to turn heads as you break out your signature move. And girls, it’s time for your old ribbed rainbow top from 2007 to make a comeback – just make sure you pair it off with a bold silver mini-skirt or shorts. Think skater chic.
Or, if you want to go for something a little more toned-down, add holo panels to a pair of old skinny jeans and opt for a sheer jacket that’ll make them pop. And you have nothing holo lying around, don’t sweat it – just pick up some funky aviators from the mall and you’re good to go. Consider holo-ing up with some shiny, silvery eyeshadow and lay on that highlighter real thick to make your cheekbones pop. Remember: the secret to a good holo look is having one statement-piece and working an outfit around it. So go holo this rave season, and have even Beyonce singing “I can see your holo, holo, holo…”
2. Skin is In, Honey!
Keep the layers to a minimum. It’s going to get hot and heavy in there, and you don’t want to be sporting ugly pit-stains on the dance floor now, do you? So ditch the heavy denim jacket you cling onto like a fashion safety blanket and opt for those booty shorts instead. Bare your midriff with a cute, strappy top or repurpose your bikinis by wearing them with trusty old fishnets. Crop tops are in, the baggy sweatshirt you stole from your boyfriend is out! If you’d like a little more coverage, then give your favorite skirt a makeover by throwing in some sultry slits for some of that peek-a-boo action.
And guys, give that tank top you’ve only worn once to the beach another try! Paired with some funky denim cut-offs and your favorite snapback, it’s sure to keep you looking sharp. You don’t have to lose sight of your comfort zone entirely – just a few tweaks here and there, and you’re good to go. Throw on a loose silk button-down but leave all the buttons undone so you can rock that summer bod. When in doubt about what to wear to an EDM concert, do yourself a favour and skip the gym shorts for some distressed denim, so you can look as good as the TikTok routine you’re about to set the dance floor on fire with.
3. Colorful = Wonderful
Shed your all-black gear for a fresh breath of color! Dodge the dull greys and neutrals for some bold neon instead. The bolder, the better; trust me. If you’re a self-proclaimed goth who dreads wearing anything bright, pick one colour and try a more monochrome look instead of going full-on rainbow.
Lend a pop of color to your outfit with a pair of cheery, colorful boots, or hold your hair back with a vibrant bandana. When thinking of what to wear to an EDM concert, you’ve got to think a little out of the box. Customize an old tee for the event with some fabric paint, or try on some pastel prints to pack a punch out on the dance floor.
4. The Art of Accessorizing
Not sure what your outfit is missing? Throw on a chunky gold chain and some funky shades to complete the look. Remember the kandi bracelets you’d trade with your friends back in elementary school? Well they’re back in style, so don’t be afraid to dig up your favorite beaded beauties and sport them proudly at the rave.
Pack an oomph with some body chains to (literally) tie your outfit together and let your inner gladiator take the spotlight. And when in doubt, go for the body glitter. I promise you it’s your friend. Besides, accessories can be functional too – your old neon fanny pack will keep you from losing your phone and being stranded without your friends even after you’ve downed a few beers. Stick some craft-store gems on your strappy hydro-pack to dance the night away without having to worry about passing out from exhaustion and waking up confused in a puddle of someone else’s puke.
5. Go Big [So You Don’t Have to Go Home]
At a rave, there’s no such thing as “too much”, so feel free to unleash the crazy side you have to keep under wraps when dressing for work. Go all out with your hair and make-up. Try recreating one of the bold looks you bookmarked on Insta but never thought you could pull off. It’s all about confidence, darling! Spend less time racking your brains about what to wear to an EDM concert, and more time using this opportunity to live out your childhood dreams of becoming a fashion designer. Your excitement should be reflected in your clothing, you should be drippin’ in it from head to toe. Think fun textures like leather, lace or silk.
If you want to stick glowsticks in your hair to make your own makeshift crown, then do it and never look back! If you feel like making your own DIY headgear or throwing on a feathery boa, just go for it! The last thing you want to look like at a rave is a snooze-fest, so really commit to whatever look you put together to truly own it.
Yep, you never have to sweat what to wear to an EDM concert again. So, what’re you waiting for? Start planning your next music festival studded summer right here!
