If it's your first time heading to Boomtown, you might be wondering what people actually wear. A quick search will bring up plenty of festival fashion guides full of glitter, sequins and outfits that look great for a photo but probably won't survive four days of walking around Matterley Estate.
The reality is a bit different.
Boomtown is huge. You'll be walking miles between stages, spending hours on your feet and dealing with whatever the British weather decides to throw at you. Most people choose comfort first, while still showing a bit of personality through their clothes.
Whether you're there for the drum & bass, jungle, garage or everything in between, here's a practical guide to dressing for the weekend.
What's the Weather Usually Like at Boomtown?
Boomtown takes place in August, so you'll usually get warm afternoons, but don't expect sunshine from start to finish.
Daytime temperatures often sit somewhere between 20°C and 26°C, although hotter days aren't unusual. Once the sun goes down, it can feel surprisingly chilly, especially if you're still out until the early hours.
Rain is always a possibility too. Even if the forecast looks perfect, it's worth packing for wet weather just in case. A muddy Boomtown isn't exactly rare.
The best approach is to wear layers that you can add or remove throughout the day.
What Do People Actually Wear?
Forget trying to plan Instagram worthy outfits, that's not what you're there for.
Most Boomtown regulars end up wearing clothes that are comfortable enough to dance in all day, survive a bit of mud and still look good.
For men
You'll probably see plenty of:
- Graphic T-shirts
- Football shirts
- Cargo shorts
- Loose fitting shorts
- Football shirts
- Lightweight hoodies for the evening
- Windbreakers if rain is expected
- Bucket hats
- Crossbody bags
Oversized T-shirts have become especially popular because they're comfortable, breathable and easy to pair with almost anything. Cargo shorts are another festival favourite thanks to the extra pockets, although plenty of people still stick with simple shorts.
For women
Women's outfits tend to vary more, but comfort is still the priority.
Common choices include:
- T-shirts
- Football shirts
- Cargo trousers or shorts
- Cycling shorts
- Sports bras with an open shirt
- Lightweight hoodies
- Comfortable trainers
By the second or third day, most people care a lot less about looking perfect and a lot more about being comfortable.
Footwear Matters More Than Anything Else
If there's one thing worth getting right, it's your shoes.
You'll cover a surprising amount of ground over the weekend, so this isn't the place for brand new trainers.
Good options include:
- Comfortable trainers you've already worn in
- Trail running shoes
- Walking trainers
Try to avoid:
- Brand new shoes
- Expensive white trainers
- Flip flops outside the campsite
If rain is forecast, expect at least a few muddy areas. Your trainers probably won't come home looking brand new.
Accessories Worth Bringing
The little things often make the biggest difference over four days.
A few essentials include:
- Crossbody bag or bum bag
- Portable charger
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Bucket hat
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Earplugs
- Sun cream
- Portable hand fan if it's particularly hot
You'll probably end up using most of these far more than you expect.
Outfit Inspiration
You don't need to overthink it.
Classic DnB Festival Outfit
- Graphic T-shirt (maybe from LBA174 *wink wink*)
- Cargo shorts
- Comfortable trainers
- Bucket hat
- Crossbody bag
Hot Weather
- Lightweight tee
- Shorts
- Running trainers
- Sunglasses
Cooler Evenings
- Oversized T-shirt
- Zip-up hoodie
- Cargo shorts or trousers
- Trainers
Simple works.
Drum & Bass-Inspired Festival Clothing
If you're looking for clothing that reflects the music you actually listen to, there's now more choice than ever.
At LBA174, we create oversized T-shirts inspired by drum & bass culture, festivals and rave life. Rather than generic festival graphics, our designs are made for people who spend their summers at events like Boomtown, Liquicity and WAH.
If you're putting together your Boomtown outfit, take a look at our collection of oversized festival tees. They're designed to be comfortable enough for long days, while featuring artwork inspired by the scene that brings us all together.
Whether you're after something subtle or a graphic that stands out in the crowd, you'll find designs that fit right in at a drum & bass festival.
Final Thoughts
There isn't a right or wrong way to dress for Boomtown.
The people who enjoy the weekend the most are usually the ones who planned for comfort. Wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit dusty, choose trainers that won't destroy your feet and always pack an extra layer for the evening.
See you in the crowd.
