How to Design a Rave Costume

Many rave outfits incorporate lights and "candy" jewelry.

When the Capitol Records Tower was lit up in recognition of the release of DJ David Guetta's album, a strong message was sent to the world: dance music is here to stay (for now, at least). Electronic dance music festivals like Las Vegas' Electric Daisy Carnival and Europe's Love Parade boast attendances in the six to seven digits and feature both pop-influenced DJs like Guetta and less mainstream artists like Deadmau5. Attendees at these massive festivals or their smaller rave cousins often create costumes and outfits to complement the energetic atmosphere.

Instructions

1. Find the theme of the rave. Many raves have themes with which you can coordinate your outfit, such as "Believe in Love" or "Kandieland."

2. Check the weather. Find out what the expected weather is so you don't end up dressing in a Tigger suit in 90-degree weather or wearing a skimpy top and fuzzy skirt in snow.

3. Find the location. What you wear may change depending on the venue; you might not want to wear your fuzzy boots to an outdoor rave on dirt or mud, or pants to a rave with a pool.

4. Channel your inner child. Many ravers sport clothing, costumes and accessories that relate to children's TV shows or other aspects of "kid culture" or are pleasing to touch such as those with fuzzy fabrics.

5. Pick comfortable articles of clothing. At a rave, you'll generally be on your feet, dancing, sweating and in close quarters with many other people for hours, so choose clothes and shoes that will keep the experience enjoyable.

6. Check your storage. Make sure you have a backpack or adequate pocket room for toys, light sticks, water, snacks, money, ID, phone, camera and anything else you might wish to take.

7. Consider going neon. You want your outfit to stand out and many raves have black lights, so wear clothing that will respond well to such lighting or stand out in the absence of it.

8. Accessorize. Whether using glow sticks, electronic finger lights, stuffed animals, wigs, backpacks, "candy" jewelry or other accessories, more is often better when you're at a rave, especially if you bring things you can share, such as lights or jewelry to trade.

Tips & Warnings

• Some raves don't allow bags or outside food and drink into the party. Have a Plan B for addressing such a situation if it applies to you.

• If the location of the rave is secret until right before the event, consider packing a few extra layers and extra pair of shoes.

• Pay attention to the crowd when you go to a rave, especially if you're wearing a skimpy outfit. Keep an eye out for potentially dangerous situations and people.

References

• "The Hollywood Reporter"; David Ghttp://www.fantazia.org.uk/Scene/ravefashion.htmuetta's 'Nothing But the Beat' Lands in Hollywood (Video); Sofia M. Fernandez; August 2011
• "SPIN"; The New Rave Generation; Philip Sherburne; September 2011
• "SPIN"; 19 Dead, Hundreds Injured at Germany's Love Parade; Peter Gaston; July 2010
• Street Parade: The Official Street Parade TV Show 2011

Resources

• Fantazia: Rave Fashion - What Sort of Raver Are You?