What to wear at Afrikaburn: Fashion advice for festival-goers

From comfortable footwear to embracing nudity, Afrikaburn's fashion is all about self-expression.

From comfortable footwear to embracing nudity, Afrikaburn's fashion is all about self-expression.

Image by: Burn Out Bizarre

Published Apr 17, 2025

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The iconic Afrikaburn festival and the fashion around it has become an annual date in many people’s diaries.

Dressing up is of course not mandatory.  You’ll find a lot of people just chilling in shorts & t-shirts, and that’s totally OK.

General outfit advice for Afrikaburn

  • Prioritise comfort when it comes to footwear. You’ll be doing plenty of walking on dusty terrain, so sturdy hiking boots, trainers, or supportive walking shoes are ideal.
  • Daytime temperatures can be scorching, while evenings get surprisingly chilly—so pack light, breathable clothing for the day and warm layers for the nights.
  • Don’t forget a scarf or buff to protect your face in case of a sandstorm.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses are absolutely essential.
  • Pack relaxed, comfortable clothing for the journey there and back, as well as for slow mornings around camp.

And if you’re feeling brave, embrace the spirit of radical self-expression—nudity is completely accepted at Afrikaburn. Just don’t forget to apply sunscreen to all your bits!

@astrid.chdl #Afrikaburn #afrikaburn2023 #southafrika #fyp #tiktoktravels ♬ original sound - Keltro

If you are still shopping around for an outfit then Cape Town’s most imaginative pre-Burn market is back this Saturday, on April 19th, with a day-to-night immersive experience that blends sustainability, performance art, and visionary fashion.

The Burn Out Bizarre takes place indoors at Glow Photo Studio at15 Wembley Rd, Gardens and runs from 1pm to 10pm, rain or shine.

Burn Out Bizarre is a fundraising initiative for the Peace Dragon and Phoenix art projects being created for Afrikaburn.

At the heart of this edition is a theatrical fashion show (2.30-3.30) that tells the mythical story of the Phoenix transforming into the Peace Dragon—a living metaphor for the rebirth of fashion into a more conscious future. 

Designed by Shona Macdonald, founder of both Burn Out Bizarre and Peace Dragon Apparel, the performance critiques fast fashion and celebrates a global movement toward sustainability. 

Expect bold silhouettes crafted entirely from upcycled T-shirts, alongside pieces from Thursdays “A Wave of Change” zero-waste collection.

After the show, the runway opens up to a curated selection of South Africa’s most cutting-edge festival designers, showcasing one-of-a-kind looks that will be auctioned live to raise funds for the cause.

Beyond the runway, the market is a feast of locally made and sustainably sourced treasures—from festival gear and accessories to food, drinks, and unexpected experiences in the Peace Dragon’s lair.

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