We have always been mesmerized by the fantasy fashion and incredible art being produced at the annual Burning Man Festival in the Nevada Desert. When we found out that Kimberly Hartman the designer for Jade Tribe was a big burner, we immediately asked her to share her own insights and experiences for a good time on the playa at Black Rock City. Check out her global chic meets mad- max style and learn what you need to know before you go!
We have always been mesmerized by the fantasy fashion and incredible art being produced for the annual Burning Man Festival in the Nevada Desert. When we found out that Kimberly Hartman the designer for JADEtribe was a big burner, we immediately asked her to share her own insights and experiences on the playa at Black Rock City. Check out her global chic mad max style and learn what you need to know before you go!
How long have you been a burner? 3 years
What is your favorite part of the Burning Man experience?
There is so much giddy anticipation arriving to Black Rock City walking into the unknown and at the same time knowing you are HOME. I love gathering with friends from all over the world and meeting new incredible people. This shared experience in the desert really solidifies friendships like no other experience I have had. Everyone is connecting for this week together with open hearts, great vibes and a sense of wonder and exploration. It?s quite a spiritual journey and full of magic.
What is the worst part of the Burning Man experience?
Searching for a port- a- loo when you are having such an amazing time.
Your Burning Man look is so great, how long does it take you to get it together?
A Burning Man wardrobe does not happen overnight. In my travels I often find something cool and say ?this will be perfect for Burning Man?. I love to find unique pieces to mix and match together to create my looks. I have had two custom head pieces created and an amazing gold body necklace that I duplicated in black for this year.
Image courtesy of Jayms Ramirez
What are the inspirations for your Burning Man style?
Mad Max is an obvious reference for inspiration, and one needs items practical for survival on the playa, such as the right footwear, goggles and a dust mask. I have a great patchwork Indian umbrella that is helpful to block the strong sunlight during the day. At night you need to light up your bike and your body ? a headlamp is crucial to find your way around in the dark.
I braided my hair for the Further Future Festival (started by the awesome guys behind Robot Heart Burning Man Camp) this summer and that was brilliant and lasted 3 days.
Last year I created a Warrior of Light look with a gladiator inspired white feather and gold Mohawk and a gold body necklace. I like to mix and match a few key pieces so I wore my body necklace again with my favorite officer cap. What?s great about the military look is that it is sexy for both girls and guys.
I am still working on my costumes for 2015. This Summer I picked up a reworked antique Indian sari that I can wear over a bathing suit during the day and a vintage gypsy circus performer?s black short ruffle skirt with gold metallic threads from Claudia, she is a cool Chilean girl I met in Ibiza. She designed the look and costumes for Luciano?s Vagabundos ? which was the best Pacha party I have ever been to!!!
Dekel Berenson photo credit Pink Mammoth Camp Burning May 2014
What advice would you give to someone attending the festival for the first time?
Definitely take a bike (unless you are lucky enough to have a personal art car)! My first year my bike came in a box! My friend put my wheels on the frame and I pushed my bike down to the ?bike repair camp? and spent my first 2 hours at Burning Man putting my bike together. It?s all about radical self-reliance, prepare the best you can.
Stay hydrated ? Coconut Water in the freezer and it stays cold longer during the heat of the day.
Arrive with an open mind and an open heart.
Participate, contribute and give amazing hugs.
Step out of your comfort zone and try something new ?
Spend at least one morning at Robot Heart for sunrise do this when you arrive? as you will probably want to go back every morning.
Take some time for yourself meditating in the temple.