Hi Laura!

Last year was my virgin year and I packed stuff that was comfy to dance in but not where I'd get to hot (we were out in the afternoon sun) or it would be a pain to clean later. You can see from the photos in the gallery it varies from full dance costume to non-bellydance costume (loved the guy in the tool belt). I kept it simple with Melo's, swimsuit top, cheaply made panel skirt, etc. It was all wash and wear. The funny part is my Melo's had been to burning man before I did...with their previous owner. lol

Those are all great things to bring with you to the playa! Also include a sari or two (natural fiber's best) or really large scarf (like one you'd used for a turban base). These are good to wrap up in to protect yourself from too much sun or in case of dust storm.

Here's a real tip, one I was soooo thankful to get last year (my own virgin burn): Simple Green. It's the best stuff to use to wash playa dust out of gear, including any belly dance pieces that have metal bits. I used it in diluted form to hand wash everything, including my bras & belts that had kuchi bits sewn on (i.e. not fit for the washing machine!). The material/textile parts are clean and I had absolutely no corrosion on the metal (a hazard since the playa is alkaline).

^..^

MOOP is a concern, for sure. If you have a costume piece that's ever shed a coin or a fringe, you probably want to leave it at home.

In my experience, simple is BEST! By my third day out there, I don't feel like putting on more than about four pieces of clothing (too much bother), so the super-layered costumes stayed in my bin. It's amazing how far a simple belt over a pair of harem pants can take you!

One of my favorite costuming tips::
Pack your clothes in ziploc bags. Designate one bag per outfit. Put all the pieces together in the bag, including accessories (and undies and socks if you're anal like me). That way, your ensemble is already assembled when you reach into your stuff! Plus the ziploc bags keep the dust out until you are ready to wear your outfits. Clean clothes become a luxury, believe me.