Deciding on what to wear to a concert can be as hard as bagging those tickets but we’re here to help ease the sartorial stress away with our favorite outfit formulas that work every time.
While big nights out often result in a new outfit, you'll find from this guide that largely shopping your capsule wardrobe for key looks, will ensure you can pull a VIP-worthy outfit together with ease. Depending on the type of venue, time of year, and style of music, the dress code might slightly differ, although you can almost certainly guarantee that your best jeans and tee combo will always offer a great fallback option. If you're heading to a festival this summer, you'll want to consider the best waterproof jackets, plenty of layers, and some shoes that can handle the mud. However, if you're hitting a stadium tour or seeing your favorite band in a small-seater venue you'll be able to get away with a cute dress and the best white trainers.
When it comes to what to wear to a concert, thinking about your accessories is also key. From comfortable flats to the best crossbody bags, it's about putting together an ensemble that feels both comfortable and stylish, so you can feel free to dance like no one's watching and there's no worry about any wardrobe malfunctions or blistering feet. If you’re in need of some style inspo, we’ve rounded up some chic and versatile outfit options that will work for every concert.
What to wear to a concert - outfits chosen by a fashion editor
1. Jeans + Tank
This simple, yet effective outfit formula is perfect if you want to keep it casual and effortless. Draw inspiration from the denim trends 2022 and opt for looser-fit jeans to keep it relaxed - silhouettes such as a wide-leg, boyfriend fits, or mom jeans will work well. Offset the laidback cut of your jeans with a more fitted top to highlight your silhouette. For extra oomph, finish with layers of gold jewelry, the best sunglasses, and some statement shoes.
A style tip…
If you want to smarten up this look, layer one of this season's best blazers on top in an oversized fit. Feel free to inject some color too and go for hot pink or cornflower blue.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $199 / £119 | These distressed jeans feature an elasticated high waist for a flattering and comfy finish. The ripped detailing adds a cool edge to your look, while the straight leg keeps them comfortable and relaxed. Your new go-to.
RRP: $30 / £32 | Offset the shorter hem by teaming this form-fitting tank with high-waisted jeans. The one-shoulder style and ribbed finish give it a delightfully retro vibe and it has plenty of stretch for the perfect fit. Ideal for rectangular or pear-shaped bodies.
RRP: $85 / £60 | These '90s-inspired frames are made from lightweight acetate and have shatterproof and scratch-resistant lenses, ideal for what to wear to a concert. If you’re wondering what sunglasses suit me, these work well on square faces.
2. Leather pants + blouse
Wondering what to wear to a rock concert? Embrace that inner rocker and add a bit of leather to your look. Leather pants are a major fashion trend 2022 and working out how to style leather pants is a lot easier than you think. If you’re going to an evening concert and want to feel more dressy, they are the ideal alternative to your black jeans. Wear with a punchy blouse - animal prints work like a charm - and finish with a studded belt or embellished boots for extra style kudos. If you're not quite ready for leather pants, try one of the best leather jackets with black jeans instead.
A style tip…
Play with textures and team your leathers with silky blouses, plush velvet or a denim blouse or jacket to really upgrade your look.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $47.90 / £29.99 | For an easy outfit combo, stick to a monochrome color palette and team black leather trousers with this animal print blouse. It has flattering ruching at the waist and gold button detailing for a high-end finish.
RRP: $194 / £180 | Leather pants don’t have to be skin-tight so opt for a relaxed-fit for added comfort. This straight-leg cut gives a nod to '90s nostalgia with a high waist and loose leg, guaranteed to be your new wardrobe staple.
RRP: $248 / £190 | It’s all in the details if you want to give your outfit that rock star status, then this studded belt will do just the trick. Made from 100% leather with silver stud and star detailing it will elevate the simplest of looks.
3. Denim on denim
Take your favorite jeans up a notch, and add another layer of denim to the mix for a cool '90s-inspired look. Double denim has come a long way since Britney and Justin rocked it in the early '00s and it’s now considered a fashion-forward way to rock your blues. Try layering your best denim jacket over a simple tee and jeans, or sharpen it with a western-style denim shirt and skirt - a dreamy combo if you’re heading to a country gig.
A style tip…
If mixing denim seems too daring, try rocking a denim boilersuit instead - maximum head-to-toe impact with minimal effort.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $148 / £150 | These jeans are ultimate leg-lengtheners with a high waist and wide leg fit that finishes at the ankle. Balance proportions and team with a fitted tucked-in top. Available in two washes - blue and white.
RRP: $59.99 / £35.99 | A denim shirt is a wardrobe essential whether you choose to wear it on its own or as a layering tool over camis and tees, you’ll get plenty of wear out of it. This has a classic fit with two statement pockets.
RRP: $115 / £69 | The darker the denim, the smarter the look so if you want to keep your outfit polished, this indigo skirt is the one for you. Ideal for nailing out how to style knee-high boots, tuck in your tee to highlight a waist.
4. Mini dress + Boots
If you're wondering what to wear to an outdoor concert or festival, flat or platform boots are a stylish and practical choice, especially if you’re having to traipse through the grass and mud. Boots help to offset shorter hems on dresses but you can add additional coverage and opt for a long sleeve mini dress too. Lean into that rock ’n’ roll aesthetic and finish with the a leather jacket and a crossbody bag to keep you hands-free.
A style tip…
Toughen up floaty frocks and look for stompy lace-up styles and the best Chelsea boots for a festival-ready look.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $34.99 / £24.99 | Green is one of the top fashion color trends 2022 so this frock will really hit the mark. The balloon sleeves give added drama and extra coverage too. The waist can be tied at the back to cinch you in for a flattering fit.
RRP: $495 / £375 | These statement boots will give an outfit plenty of attitude. Made from leather and rubber, they have a chunky style with a large buckle strap and contrasting rubber soles for a bold finish that will tackle festival terrain.
RRP: $49.06 / £39 | One of the best pink dresses, this micro floral print design offers the perfect contrast to your chunky boots. It nips in at the waist before flaring out for a flattering fit. The ruffle detailing gives it a feminine and flirty finish.
5. A boilersuit
Much like the best midi dresses, a boilersuit is a ready-made outfit that requires little styling. Just throw on and you’re pretty much good to go. This flattering jumpsuit style offers a bit more practicality than a dress and it looks just as good teamed with trainers or sleek mules, so you can go as dressy as you like. Keep it fun and playful and go for vibrant hues and fun tie-dye prints.
A style tip…
If you need an extra layer in the winter, wear a fine-knit roll neck underneath.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $129 / £95 | Offering a dose of dopamine dressing, The vibrant yellow hue on this beauty will really help you stand out from the crowd. It has a self-tie belt for added structure and the zip fastening makes it easy to get on and off.
RRP: $190 / £130 | The light, breathable cotton fabric makes this boilersuit a good choice for summer. Tapping into that utility trend, it has plenty of practical pockets and a gentle puff sleeve for a modern update.
RRP: $150 / £120 | When it comes to what to wear to a concert, don't forget about how much standing there can be. Some comfortable trainers will be ideal for being on your feet for several hours. We love the velcro fastening for a retro finish.
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