Festival season is a great time to experiment with new hairstyles, but some festivals (especially camping festivals) can leave your hair in rough shape. Braid hair extensions are the ultimate way to slay with style and flair. Whether you're a braid newbie or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve flawless braided extensions.

Lunita x iHR Ultraviolet Pastel Hair Extensions

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Before we get started, it's crucial to prep your hair properly. Here’s how:

Comb: Start by gently combing out any tangles. Use a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage.

Wash: Clean hair is a must! Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Moisturize: Hydration is key. Apply a leave-in conditioner or your favorite hair moisturizer to keep your strands soft and manageable.

Dry: Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer on a cool setting. Your hair needs to be completely dry before you start braiding.

Lunautics Ghost Me Glow Hair Extensions

Step 2: Part Your Hair

Decide where you want your part to sit. Use a rat-tail comb for a clean, precise part. Whether you prefer a middle part, side part, or zigzag, make sure it's neat and even.

Step 3: Separate Braiding Hair Sections

Grab your braiding hair extensions and separate them into 7-8 equal sections per braid. This will ensure you have enough hair to work with and keep your braids looking uniform.

Step 4: Braid the First Section

Time to start braiding!

1. Start at the Root: Take a small section of your natural hair and divide it into three equal parts. Position your braiding hair extension over your natural hair section, aligning it with the middle piece.

2. Begin Braiding: Start a regular three-strand braid, integrating the extension hair with your natural hair.

3. Tight and Secure: Keep the braid tight and secure, but not too tight to avoid pulling on your scalp.

Step 5: Add Sections Every Half Inch

As you braid down, add a small section of braiding hair every half inch. This method ensures that the braid stays thick and consistent from root to tip. Continue this process until you reach the desired length.

Step 6: Finish the Braid with an Elastic

Once you’ve braided down to the end, secure it with a small elastic.

Nowadays there are plenty of brands that offer options for everyone. When you're about to choose the perfect glitter, make sure this one is safe for you and for the environment. Once I spotlight this… Welcome to the glitter world!  

Starlight Sprinkle Sequin Outfit

Chunky glitter 

As I already said, when we get into the glitter trend, there is freedom of choices, but one of the most popular is the chunky glitter. This type of shimmer is thicker than the normal, adding a powerful shine on every look. It’s common for them to add cute shapes to it: Hearts, stars or just a couple of flakes to add texture and make it strong. 

I would recommend using this type of glitter specially on the hair. You can put it directly to the roots to upgrade any hairstyle; space buns, pigtails and braids are good options, but it will also look fantastic with loose hair! Chunky glitter is perfect to highlight. Another option is to add it to specific parts of your body. What about your cheekbones or collar bones? Take the risk, it looks beautiful. 

In most cases, this kind of product comes ready to use, but if not… My favorite trick is to mix it with clear hair gel and apply it with a brush. It’s completely safe and once it dries, it’s timeless approved for the rave. Btw, you can use this tip everytime glitter doesn’t have a way to stick. 

Lunautics Zenon UV Reactive Glitter

Eyes and lips 

The fierce combo! One of my favorite things about glitter is that it’s easy to use. I’m really bad at makeup, but adding it to my natural look changes literally everything and makes me look like a pro. You can wear the twinkle applying it directly to your eyelid or tear duct, try with funny colors as neons to enhance the look and to add depth. Same story with the lips, either if you prefer full glittery or just a thin coat on some colorful base, matching the shine of eyes and lips is a good way to improve the whole style. 

iHeart Lunautics Supernova Glitter

Body glitter

Let’s get covered in fairy dust! A shimmery skin looks gorgeous, give your body a special glow using glitter. This is the best way to complement your rave outfit, standing out for the parts that are not covered with clothes. Your shoulders, chest, arms and legs are good to go, but in case you want to give a sexy taste, you can also apply it on your booty. 

Rave glitter was made for cosmetic use, so in case you are too worried about the removal… It’s just as easy as regular makeup. Use your creativity and dare to try! Festivals are a  safe place to express yourself.

Heaven's Dust Outfit

Buy a Base Brand New and Thrift the Rest of the Outfit

Starting with a brand-new basic piece can set the tone for your entire look. Think of it as your outfit's foundation—a plain white tee, simple bodysuit, or those perfect high-waisted shorts. Once you've got your base, dive into the thrift shop jungle to find the rest.

Layer on a vintage jean jacket, score a funky belt, or snag some retro sunnies. This approach lets you ensure part of your outfit is fresh and new (and fits just right!), while still letting you flex your creative muscles with second-hand gems. Shop our rave basics to get rave ready with a base that you can add to! 

Pro Tips:

• Fit is Key: Make sure your new base piece fits perfectly. It’s the anchor for your thrifty additions!
• Quality Over Quantity: Choose a well-made item that will withstand festival frolics and beyond.

Thrift a Staple Piece and Create an Outfit Around It

Sometimes, one epic thrift find can inspire an entire outfit. Whether it's a sequined top, a fringe leather jacket, or a pair of vintage boots, let that statement piece be the star of your show. Build your outfit around this, keeping the rest of your look a bit more subdued to let your thrifted treasure take center stage. This method not only saves money but also gives you a unique piece that can’t be duplicated by every other festival-goer.

Pro Tips:

• Hunt with Patience: Good thrifting takes time. Don’t rush it!
• Mix Eras Thoughtfully: Pairing your staple with modern basics can give your look a timeless yet trendy feel.

Thrift Accessories

Accessories are where you can really let your personality shine and they often come with less sticker shock than clothing. Hunt for funky bags, statement jewelry, cool hats, and unique sunglasses to elevate your festival ensemble. These items are usually less in demand than clothing, so you might find some real bargains!

Pro Tips:

• Look for Quality: Cheaply made jewelry can break easily. Look for sturdy pieces that can handle a weekend of fun.
• Layer: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and textures. More is more in the world of festival fashion!

Reuse Old Festival Outfits in Your Closet

Before you go out and buy anything new, raid your own closet (and maybe your friends’!). That outfit you rocked last year? Remix it! Swap accessories, add patches, cut it up—whatever it takes to breathe new life into it. This is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally friendly. Plus, it’s a fun creative challenge to see how many different ways you can wear the same piece.

Pro Tips:

• Get Crafty: Customizing your old outfits can be a great afternoon DIY project.
• Swap with Friends: Exchange pieces with friends to keep your festival wardrobe fresh without spending a dime.

Thrifting your festival outfits isn’t just about saving money—it’s about expressing yourself, recycling the old, and crafting a look that’s as unique as you are. So, get out there, find some thrifted gold, and dance the night away in your fabulously frugal finds! 

1. Start with a Base 

First things first, picking your base is essential. Think of it as the canvas for your art! You can go two ways here:

• Color Scheme: Whether you're feeling pastel vibes or neon brights, choose colors that make you feel good. Neon can literally light up your presence under a blacklight, and pastels are sweet and dreamy—a perfect contrast to the wild rave scene.

• Staple Piece: This could be anything from a trippy print bodysuit to a shiny, metallic jumpsuit. Choose one key piece that feels super fun and build from there. It’s like, the heart of your outfit.

Netherworld Nightlife Outfit

2. Add Color or Texture to Create a Unique Fit

Now, let’s amp it up! Mixing textures and adding layers of color can transform your look from simple to jaw-dropping.

• Textures: Think glitter, sequins, faux fur, or mesh. These aren’t just fun to wear but also catch light beautifully, making you look like a walking disco ball.

• Layering: Pair a plain mesh top with a neon bralette or throw a holographic harness over a black crop top. Layering different materials can add so much character to your look!

Rolita Couture x iHR Floral Frenzy Outfit

3. Accessorize

Accessories? Absolutely necessary! They add that chef’s kiss to any rave outfit.

• Jewelry: Go for chunky, funky, and fluorescent. Large hoop earrings, chunky necklaces, or anything that’s bright and bold.

• Goggles and Sunglasses: Beyond just looking cool, they can help keep dust out of your eyes at outdoor venues.

• LED accessories: Why not literally light up the night? LED gloves, glow necklaces, or light-up shoes can be both functional and super stylish.

Acid Storm Outfit

4. Add Dimension with Body and Face Gems and Matching Hair

This is where you can really sparkle and shine!

• Body and Face Gems: These are perfect for raves. Apply shimmering stones around your eyes, on your cheeks, or anywhere you want a bit more sparkle.

• Hair: Think bold! Temporary hair colors, glitter, and braids all make for rave-ready hair. If you’re up for it, match your hair color with your outfit’s color scheme to totally own your look.

Butterfly Realm Glow In The Dark Outfit

5. Get Rave Ready with Comfortable Shoes, a Backpack, and a Pashmina

Last but definitely not least, think about your comfort and needs throughout the event.

• Shoes: Opt for comfort. Cool sneakers, cushioned boots, or anything that you can dance in for hours without hurting your feet.

• Backpack: A small, secure backpack is perfect for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and your wallet. Plus, there are so many cute ones out there!

• Pashmina: Nights can get chilly, and a pashmina or a light jacket can be a lifesaver. Plus, swirling it around while you dance? Major vibe.

Rainbow Reflective Daisy Outfit

The history of pashminas is a tale of timeless elegance and enduring craftsmanship that traces its origins to the rugged terrain of the Himalayas and the skilled artisans of Kashmir. From royal patronage in centuries past to their global appeal today, pashminas have evolved from traditional shawls to versatile fashion accessories, captivating hearts with their luxurious texture and intricate designs. Despite facing challenges, efforts toward sustainability and ethical sourcing aim to preserve this cherished tradition for generations to come, ensuring that the allure of pashminas continues to weave its magic, bridging the past, present, and future with elegance and refinement.

Shop Pashminas Here

Not totally sold on this trend yet, or still a little confused? Here are a few things you can do with your pash:

Upgrade your outfit

A pashmina is an awesome accessory. If you have the perfect outfit but feel like it's missing something, a pashmina could be just what you need. This Baby Pink Pixie Dreams Pashmina would be the perfect addition to your dreamy, pastel look. If you’re going for a more psychedelic feel, try this Dark Nirvana Pashmina. No matter what vibe you give off, there’s a pash to compliment your style!

@tabiitha.lynne

Protect yourself from the elements

Pashminas are great for all types of weather. They are pretty thin, but the extra layer of fabric can work magic in the cold. When the temperature drops at night, wrap a pashmina around yourself for extra warmth, I promise it makes all the difference. You can also use it to protect your face and shoulders from the sun during the day. When you’re dancing and the air gets thick with dust, try wrapping your pashmina around your face as a dust mask. No matter what mother nature throws at you, look to your pashmina for protection.

@summermariah.

Create your own safe space

Festivals can be stressful. There is a lot going on and you are surrounded by unfamiliar faces. If you’re feeling overstimulated, try wrapping yourself in your pashmina or throwing it over your head. A lot of people swear by this method because it helps them calm down and focus on the music. It’s easy to get overwhelmed in a crowd, so use your pashmina as your security blanket when you’re feeling uneasy. 

@maddi_mac

Play with your personal style

A pashmina is a great starting point if you want to experiment with your personal style. It can easily be added or removed from any outfit without ruining the look. You can start with a look you already love, like the Sexy To Infinity Outfit, and make it even more special with a pashmina. This outfit would look awesome with a black or neon green pash! You can also pick a pashmina that shows off your personality and build an outfit around it. Get creative with colors and patterns or rep your favorite artist, the choices are endless!

@destinyalvarezz