An Introspection on The Inherent Romanticism of a Rave

Image Courtesy: Hanaa Sabir

I’ve always been fascinated by the very concept of inspiration. I believe that the idea that we can observe things in nature and translate them into art is a core part of humanity. The direct replication of ancient artifacts through painting, reproducing the colors of fall into cosmetics, or using the structure of sunflower seeds to inspire architectural marvels—our ability as a species to be so deeply consumed by love for the world around us that we model our creations around it is nothing short of beautiful. 

Image Courtesy: Hanaa Sabir

I find myself—both consciously and unconsciously—dissecting this fondness in my day-to-day life. Sometimes, I taste memories in the nuttiness of lattes. Other times, I think about the lust for escape held by fantasy authors. That burning infatuation is a comforting constant; a reminder that I am one with the people around me. 

Our current age of abundant consumerism, micro-trends, and social media algorithms brings a sort of anxiety about who we are. How much of us is genuine, and what parts of us are mirrors of our social media feed? What spurs my interests? Am I nothing more than a pit of what's trendy and what’s cool and what I’m being told to buy? 

Am I a poser? 

The burning question of our generation. While I think the answer is probably not, I still find myself wondering what makes people inclined to express themselves in certain ways. All signs point to a similar culprit: music. Why is it that when I see someone in tight ripped jeans, with a side part teased to the gods, I can tell that they resonate with emotionally charged lyrics layered over bouncy guitars? Why is it that Victorian silhouettes and dark color palettes have me humming along to The Cure? Why do people spend months trying to find the perfect outfit that flawlessly embodies their favorite Taylor era for her tour?

Why do we feel the need to wear what we listen to? 

I thought the best place to explore that idea would be an intimate celebration of music. One where there are no boundaries, just people and sound. Therefore, I set out to explore the relationship between music and fashion at a DIY electronic production by Orlando organizers, 4resonance.

Image Courtesy:

Hanaa Sabir

I felt that my first step was to look at designers that have been heavily involved in the DIY ecosystem. Visual Impulse has played a pivotal role in Orlando’s electronic music scene. More than just a fashion brand, but a growing realm of art, Visual Impulse’s vivid, unique designs centered around artist Kiana Tomlinson’s original characters, act as a love letter to early 2000s fashion subcultures across the world. Her designs are reminiscent of decora kei, gyaru, and cyber goth aesthetics, with bright colors and unique textures. 

I spoke to Kiana while she was vending at the show. 

“It really brings me in my element.” 

“It’s why I choose to vend here,” She said, “At the raves. I always work on art while I’m here. Being around all the cool people and fashion and... everything.” 

This sentiment isn’t only held by Kiana. The words “I like your outfit!” reverberated throughout the walls of the warehouse more times than I could count. A subtle undertone of harmony resonated throughout the building despite the lack of light. It was more than just a party or a concert. It was a celebration of self-expression. For 4 hours, all that mattered was music, dancing, and a sense of intimacy with the space and the people in it. Even mildly shy, or extremely socially awkward people like me couldn’t escape what almost felt like euphoria. 

Image Courtesy: Hanaa Sabir

And that’s when I felt it. Sure, the syncopated percussion, the clothing worn by people around me, and the artwork by the vendors stimulated creativity, but they were all shards in the mosaic of human connection that was the four walls of a clothing store. You can’t put it into words, words aren’t enough. You can just feel it. A feeling of devotion to joy. 

And I realized, to be an artist, is to be devoted. To be human is to be devoted.

Strike Out,

Writer: Hanaa Sabir

Edited by: Delaney Gunnell and Hollis Humphrey

Photographer: Hanaa Sabir

Orlando