When looking at conventional fashion, trends are continuously changing, and what is desirable today could be deemed outdated by tomorrow. Although this can be true in some niches, the rave culture works a little differently.
Sure, things change as time goes by, but the rave community is about embracing what is different and quirky and truly making it their own. As such, rave fashion is a vast and diverse niche that offers clothing for every type of personality and interest.
The following is an overview of some of the statements made within the rave community, as well as an overview of what trends have become popular in the 21st century.
The 1990’s and First Fashion Trends
Although the first rave occurred in the late 1980s, it was the 1990s when rave attired became a niche of its own. Many elements of the 1990s still exist today, but it is fair to say that practicality was at the forefront of designs.
Given that the rave culture was only starting to take shape, there was not as much choice as there is today. As such, a lot of conventional clothes were mixed to create innovative outfits. Mainstream brands offered vibrancy such Adidas matched with colourful visors and spikey hair.
Some of the trends born during the 1990s phase of rave fashion remain prevalent today, such as smiley face t-shirts and thigh-high socks. There are even ravers that clash trends together to create more fashion movements that showcase just how unique and diverse the rave culture is.
The Millennium Movement of Rave Fashion
The secretive nature of the rave scene became more mainstream during the noughties, meaning that outfits would sometimes adopt a more conventional dress code. However, those still in love with the personalisation aspect of rave continued to build on the foundations initially laid out.
Ravers in Southern California were referred to as ‘Kandi Kids and introduced their personality into rave fashion. These additions included but were not limited to colourful bracelets, awesome armbands and fashionable face masks.
The rave culture continued to grow throughout the noughties, with further traction being gained thanks to the thriving dance music scenes where acts like Benny Bennasi and Martin Garrix enjoyed global popularity.
Nowadays, the rave culture continues to grow and thrive, with the main difference being the availability of different clothing and footwear that has been designed exclusively with the rave culture in mind.
In addition to the many items of clothing available, there are also many accessories available. Some celebrate the cyber age of the rave culture, while others do a stellar job of transporting ravers back to the 1990s.
Although the rave culture of today is more advanced than that of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the foundations of the rave culture are still firmly in place. Regardless of whether you’re interested in modern-day EDM or want to dance to the music of yesteryear, the rave community is one that allows people to do both with ease.
Although a look can be modified and updated, the rave community is about being who you are, so the choice is yours at the end of the day.
