What to Wear to a Rave or Music Festival

Shay wears a black cat costume at EDC 2021

So you’re planning on attending a music festival. You’ve bought your tickets, you’ve ordered a new fanny pack, and you’ve checked out the set list. However, you still have one problem- what are you supposed to wear to a rave or music festival?

For men, it’s easy to put together an outfit for a rave- anything goes! However, women have far more options- and it can get really overwhelming.

Our style guide will help you narrow down the perfect outfit to wear to a rave or music festival.

Women

1. Activewear

When getting ready to attend a music festival, one of my go-to outfits is a colorful activewear set.

At a music festival, expect to spend a lot of time walking. You’ll be walking long distances from parking to the festival, between different stages, and to visit different amenities inside the festival grounds. You’ll also probably spend a lot of time dancing. Attending a festival is basically a long workout!

Since activewear is made up of special sweat-wicking fabric, it’s a great choice to wear to a rave. It’s also comfortable, which is another bonus!

2. Rave Outfits

A classic look for a music festival is a rave outfit.

From shiny metallic skirts to LED fabrics, these OG rave styles will help you stand out from the crowd.

3. Swimwear

In recent years, many EDM DJs have begun playing at pool parties, making swimwear the perfect fashion choice for those venues.

Swimwear is also a great option for summer raves in warmer areas.

4. Costumes

Shay wearing a Harlequin costume at EDC 2021

If you’re attending a rave during spooky season, why not wear a Halloween costume?

Some music festivals are Halloween themed, like Escape Halloween in Southern California. However, any rave that occurs in October is bound to see most festival-goers dressed in fun costumes. When I attended EDC in October 2021, I wore a couple costumes.

These costumes are cute, comfortable, and affordable choices for any spooky rave.

5. Onesies

If you’re attending a rave in a cold climate, a fun fashion choice is a onesie.

Onesies are warm, adorable, and are bound to be a great talking point to help you make friends with fellow ravers.