It’s coming, it’s coming! The temperatures are rising, the sun is emerging, and word is already trickling in a month in advance of the best and wildest South By Southwest parties, despite the fact that we’re still weeks away from my favorite Austin holiday season. So, my northern cousins, are you preparing to make the annual pilgrimage to my lovely city? Is there still a heavy cake of snow on the ground and you haven’t removed your long underwear in weeks? Let me advise you on the fashion essentials for the upcoming glorious month of March.

1. Wear Sunscreen. You don’t want this to turn into South By Sunburn, do you? It will, if you’re not careful. If those pasty arms and legs haven’t seen the sun in months, go for that crazy SPF.

2. Go sleeveless, with boots. Cowboy, preferably.

3. Consider the glorious onesie. You really can’t go wrong with the shorts/button up combo in one. It’s maximum in comfort, and best for riding bikes.

4. Wear a hat. The floppier the better! It looks awesome, hides the hangover (with sunglasses, of course), and blocks the sun.

5. Carry a gigantic catchall bag. Necessary for free band merchandise and tons of tons of water. Don’t pass out at that Dirty Projectors show, ok?!

Admittedly, the fashion is logistically a bit hilarious, but you gotta be prepared for anything! Happy south by sundress. I’ll see you down here.