This blog post shares helpful and creative ways to create the best summer rave outfits.
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Summer is the season of warm nights, electrifying music, and most importantly, the iconic rave festivals that bring together a vibrant community.
Your outfit at these events is not just attire but a form of self-expression. It’s a way to connect with the pulsating energy of the rave and embrace the P.L.U.R. (peace, love, unity, respect) culture.
Crafting the perfect summer rave outfits requires a mix of creativity, boldness, and an understanding of the essentials that blend comfort with style. It also creates a welcoming opportunity for people to dress up, have fun, and feel good about themselves without any judgment. It’s a true ‘come as you are’ or ‘how you want to be’ environment.
Whether you’re attending EDC in Vegas, Hard Summer in L.A. or Tomorrowland in Belgium, here’s how you can create truly hypnotic summer rave outfits that will make you stand out from the crowd.
The Essentials of a Summer Rave Outfit
The foundation of any rave outfit centers around a few key elements: comfort, movement, and, of course, an unforgettable visual impact.
Essential pieces like crop tops, jeweled bra tops, shorts, skirts, and bodysuits form the backbone of your rave wardrobe.
If you’re interested in a more nostalgic look, a mix of baggy pants, neon colors, and chunky boots will give you the ’90s rave vibe.
But no matter what style you choose, it’s crucial to keep in mind the heat at these Summer festivals. Fabrics like cotton, mesh, or spandex allow your skin to breathe while dancing.
Now, let’s check out some perfect rave outfit ideas that are not only practical but also let your style shine bright under the electric sky.
Shoes That Can Endure
Let’s face it, raves involve a lot of dancing and moving around. So it’s important to choose shoes that provide both comfort and durability. Sneakers, boots, and even platform shoes are all popular choices for rave footwear. The main thing you want to look for is the heel height and support.
While you might think platforms aren’t comfortable, a style like this from Nake Wolfe offers a flatter footbed. This design means your foot won’t be arched as high, making it easier to dance and wear all day.
For a chunky boot option, you’ll either want a combat boot style or a motto style. I always recommend a “chunky boot” that offers great ankle support. Try out some styles like these:
If sneakers are more your style, I’ve listed some of the most comfortable sneakers for festivals like these here:
If you love to shuffle, these shoe options below will let you move all night in comfort and style.
A fan favorite rave shoe to try is a style you can easily find from Amazon. I’ve linked it here for you to check out. The reflective option (called Charcoal online) isn’t only going to be a head-turner, but they’re also some of the most comfortable shoes you can wear to a rave.
Overall, wear shoes that offer support, that you don’t mind getting dirty, and ARE BROKEN IN!
Embrace Bright and Bold Colors
Summer raves are all about vibrant colors, neon lights, and energetic vibes. So don’t be afraid to incorporate bold and bright shades into your outfit. You can mix and match contrasting colors or go for a monochromatic look with different hues of the same color.
Neon colors not only stand out in a crowd but also reflect the dynamic energy of the music and the people around you. These vivid hues can elevate your mood and enhance the overall experience, making you feel more connected to the event.
You can easily find great rave wear like this on sites like Etsy. I have it linked here that you can check out.
You’ll find more unique festival clothing like this (3) piece rave outfit set from sellers on here. Plus it’s a great way to support small businesses.
Add Some Sparkle
Raves are full of sparkle and shine, so why not incorporate it into your outfit? Glitter, sequins, rhinestones, or holographic materials can add an extra wow factor to your rave look.
You can choose to go all out with a sexy rave bodysuit or bra top and comfortable booty shorts. Victoria’s Secret has some great options that you can shop for online or in person. Below are some of my top recommendations:
You can also add fun touches of shimmer with holographic accessories like body makeup, fanny packs, or jewelry.
But remember to keep the glitter and sequins away from your eyes and mouth for safety reasons. Opt for body-safe glitter and adhesive to prevent any potential harm or irritation.
Highlight with Reflective Clothing Elements
Reflective elements have a stronghold in rave clothing. Since raves typically take place at night, reflective clothing allows you to stand out and catch the light in all the right ways. From reflective shirts to shorts and shoes, there are endless possibilities when it comes to adding a reflective touch to your Summer rave outfit.
These are just some options available to incorporate into your “ensemble”.
- Reflective Joggers: Ideal for those cooler evenings, these can keep you warm and highly visible. Plus, it’s a comfortable choice that doesn’t compromise on the rave aesthetic.
- Reflective Bodysuits and Sets: For a more fitted look that shines under the rave lights, opt for bodysuits, sets, or even graphic tees with reflective patterns. They’re perfect for dancing the night away and look stunning when hit by light.
- Accessories with Reflective Details: Incorporate reflective shoes, hats, or fans into your outfit. For a DIY option, reflective tape can be added to any part of an outfit. It can instantly transform it into rave-ready attire.
Whether it’s through clothing or accessories, reflective elements are a must-have in your rave wardrobe. It ensures you’ll look just as stunning under the night sky as you do under the sun.
Incorporating Summer Elements into Your Rave Outfit
A nod to the summer season is a super easy element to inspire your outfit. Incorporating summer staples such as swimwear, crochet pieces, and lively summer prints can elevate your rave look while keeping the vibe fresh and in tune with the season.
- Swimwear: A versatile and bold choice, swimwear can serve as the perfect base for your rave outfit. Bikini-like crop tops paired with high-waisted shorts or a one-piece swimsuit worn with fishnet tights can make for a comfortable yet daring ensemble. Swimwear is not only practical for the summer heat but allows for ease of movement as you dance the night away.
- Crochet: Crochet sets bring a bohemian flair to your rave attire. This texture adds depth to your outfit and is perfect for creating a laid-back, yet eye-catching look.
- Summer Prints: From tropical florals to abstract designs, incorporating summer prints into your outfit can add a playful and vibrant energy. Whether it’s a full outfit or subtle accents, these prints are sure to make your rave attire stand out in the crowd. Some prints to consider are: floral, nature, tie-dye, or psychedelic patterns.
By adding these summer elements to your rave outfits, you not only pay homage to the summer rave season but also create a look that you can easily wear again.
All-Black Rave Outfits
While incorporating summery elements into your rave wear can be refreshing, sometimes an all-black outfit is just what you need for a sleek and edgy look. Here are some ways to rock the all-black rave attire:
- Mesh: Mesh fabrics provide breathability while also adding texture to an all-black outfit. Consider a sexy rave bodysuit or bottoms with cutouts for a rebellious touch and dramatic look.
- Sequin/Sparkle: Add some dark shimmer and shine to your all-black rave attire with sequin or sparkle accents. Take inspiration from the night sky in a cute celestial set like this:
- Statement Accessories: Another way to make an all-black outfit pop is by incorporating statement accessories. This could be a unique hair accessory, rave hoodie or even cloth face masks. These add an element of interest and personality to an otherwise monochromatic look.
I love using Amazon for accessories like this. It really helps keep the cost down!
By combining different textures and accessories can make your all-black rave outfit truly stand out. It’s a fun contrast to the more traditional, colorful rave attire.
Other Rave Gear and Accessories To Consider
Accessories are the cherries on top of your rave outfit cake. They can take a basic look and elevate it to a captivating ensemble that captures the essence of rave culture. Here are some to consider for any rave events you’re attending:
- Kandi bracelets: Kandi bracelets are a rave staple, and they come in all sorts of designs and colors. These handmade beaded accessories not only add color to your outfit but also serve as a way to connect with others at raves. You can trade them with fellow ravers or even make new friends by giving them out as gifts.
- Rave masks: Raves can get crowded and dusty, making it essential to have a cloth face mask on hand. They come in various designs and styles, adding an element of personalization to your outfit while also keeping you safe.
- Fanny packs and utility belts: These functional accessories not only add a touch of style to your outfit but also allow you to store your essentials such as phone, wallet, and keys. Plus, they keep your hands free for dancing!
- LED accessories: Nothing screams rave more than LED accessories. These light-up items add a fun and colorful element to your outfit while also making it easier for friends to spot you in a crowd.
- Sunglasses and goggles: Protect your eyes from the bright lights and lasers at raves with a pair of sunglasses or goggles. They also add an edgy touch to your outfit, especially if they have unique designs or colors.
Have Fun and Be Yourself
At the end of the day, raves are all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don’t be afraid to let loose and dance like no one’s watching. Most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident!
Summer raves offer a special opportunity to celebrate music, community, and personal style. By focusing on comfort, making bold choices, and adding personalized touches, you can create an outfit that’s not only visually stunning but truly hypnotic. Don’t be afraid to experiment and express yourself. And remember, the best rave outfits are ones that resonate with you.
I’d love to know what you’re go-to festival outfits and accessories are! Share below, and subscribe to my blog for more style insight.
