Neon Colors

Some believe that EDM festival style was inspired by Holi, the festival of colors. Whether or not that is true, these festivals look like a sea of neon, and Hard Summer will be no different. Stock up on highlighter brights at discount stores like Walmart or Goodwill. You can cut up oversized, bright T's that you find at a secondhand store and retie them to fit them to your figure.

Accessories

Whenever you're shopping on a budget, accessories are the way to go. For Hard Summer, especially, this is the place to load up. Add-ons are cheaper than full on outfits, end up being conversation starters, don't add weight, and are not too tight and uncomfortable. Bracelets are a classic for EDM festivals, commonly worn stacked on the arm and beaded. Fishnets are a great addition if you don't want to feel overexposed (which is often the case with EDM festivals), adding style and making you feel protected.

Bralettes

EDM festivals tend to be filled with lots of bare skin. If you want to show off, do it on top. That way, you can go on your friends' shoulders wearing more than just your underwear.

Wild Makeup

You wear your Naked Palette to your internship every day. Use the weekend to have some fun with your beauty routine! Sweat makes black eyeliner and mascara run, so turn to full-on theatre paint. Glitter is a hot EDM trend that will sparkle in the stage lighting. Neon eyeshadow draws attention back to your face.

Glow Paint

Glow paint is reusable and cheaper than committing to clothes you can't wear anywhere else. Have fun with a glow paint pre-party where you and your friends can come up with cute designs or even a group theme. 

Backpack

You need to carry a bag, but this isn't the place for your Louis Vuitton Neverfull Damier. Go ahead and raid your little sister's closet, because now is the time for a backpack. Wearing a backpack means a cute, childlike addition to your outfit and free use of your hands. Another plus is that your day won't be ruined if someone gets glow paint on your precious cargo. Any backpack will do, but those with cartoon prints or in fluffy, animal shapes are the top option, fitting with the 'forever young', Neverland theme of EDM festivals.

Light Scarf

At the end of the night, around 1:00am, crowds rush to board the Metro. Once you have left the venue, Exposed skin and glow paint draw unwanted attention and force you to feel the night air. Bring a shawl/summer scarf to wrap around your shoulders on the way home.

Rave Boots

Although you may have seen raver fluffies at other Hard events, Hard Summer will be way too hot for this fashion. To beat the heat, it is best to go with slip-on sneakers, (such as Vans or Toms), that will protect your feet from the dirt without being oppressive.

Pleather

Pleather may be a hot EDM style, but not in the blaring sun. Stay away from anything that attracts sweat and you will have a far more comfortable experience.

Printed Leggings

Printed leggings are another popular rave style. They are an unfortunate look for almost anyone; most people look bad in them, and those who ok oe good in them would look great in anything else. The weather this weekend will be sunny and pleasant, with temperatures in the high 70's/low 80's. Even so, if we have learned anything about music festivals, it is that crowds equal body heat, and body heat equals discomfort. The tight fabric and full-coverage will only add to your pain.