We all love a good concert, right? Whatever your music taste, there's nothing quite like being in a room, arena, or even a field, singing along to your favourite band and having a good old knees up. Whether you're a Swiftie, prefer something with a heavier baseline or are a self-confessed 'country queen' (hello, Cowboy Carter), it's all about getting into the spirit and leaning into your style for perfect concert outfits.
There's no bones about it, just like film stars have made character dressing for their movie promo tours a set part of the marketing strategy (hello, Zendaya), dressing on theme for your favourite musician has become equally as popular. And whilst donning a grid-worthy 'fit might sound good on paper, one cannot forget the physical act that standing in a crowd for hours actually presents. But fret not, there are ways to combine covetable concert dressing with comfort and practicality, whilst still looking cute. What's more, we've asked some serial gig-goers for their top tips.
So, if you're stuck, keep scrolling for some tried and tested outfit ideas and first-hand advice on what to wear, whatever your style.
Comfort Is Key
If you're going to be dancing around all night long or standing up for a long period of time, just remember: comfort is key to concert outfits. Yes, those stiletto boots might crank your social media likes up but over two hours stood in heels? No thank you. Be sure to opt for your favourite pair of trusty boots, trainers or general flat comfortable shoes, avoiding sandals for obvious reasons (I've learned that lesson the hard way, coming back home with bruised feet after going to a gig in Birkenstocks).
www.drmartens.com
The Dr Martens Chelsea boot has been reimagined in soft, supple leather, making it perfect for whatever summer line-up you've got planned.
www.ganni.com
Ganni's Western boots have a slight heel so might not be everyone's cup of tea but are pretty much perfect for slipping on with denim sorts like Sisi Stringer's.
www.salomon.com
Salomon's tech-first trainers are a favourite with fashion girlies who plan on dancing all night.
www.net-a-porter.com
Nike's Cortez is a staple of the retro sneaker hall of fame - and couldn't be more perfect for a summer of back-to-back concerts.
It's All About The Jacket
If you dream of donning a leather biker and channelling your inner (dare we say) 'rock chick' persona, then now is the time. Is there anything cooler than the nonchalant uniform of a tee, jeans, sunglasses and leather jacket? In my opinion, no. It screams 'I'm with the band' whilst not looking try-hard. For a 2024 take, try a moto jacket.
Kitrikitristudio.com
Kitri's moto jacket is the trending leather style of this season, plus it has that authentic, lived-in look.
www.arket.com
Arket's racer leather jacket has zips up the sleeves so you can customise your concert outfits. Clever, no?
www.net-a-porter.com
Available in four colours, The Frankie Shop's shell bomber jacket is another ideal cover-up for a concert.
Stay Cool
We're talking temperature-wise. Music venues can be HOT, so make sure you're wearing layers that are easy to shed. A go-to formula of a denim jacket and a mini, midi or maxi dress is a tried and tested outfit. If you're not into dresses, try loose cargo pants and a crop top or T-shirt, the perfect boogie-friendly duo. If it's a pretty rowdy crowd you don't want to be worrying about ruining your favourite outfit, be sure to avoid any dry clean-only situations.
Bodenwww.boden.co.uk
A denim jacket is something we probably all have in our wardrobes. If not, Boden's rigid denim jacket won't let you down.
www.net-a-porter.com
A baby tee or a tank top is always a good idea for concerts, when you might need to peel off your outer layer as things heat up. Loewe's ribbed vest is our number one.
www.cos.com
COS has a superlative range of cargo trousers, from the sleek to the slightly more utilitarian. This everyday pair can be dressed up for work or down for a concert with a faded tee, crystal earrings and cool trainers.
Have Some Fun With It
Music is all about self-expression. Concerts are where people come to enjoy themselves so be sure to have some fun with your outfit. ‘Heading to see Usher, SZA, or Summer Walker? Opt for an edgy ensemble with a touch of urban flair. Think distressed denim paired with a statement graphic tee or a cool jacket and cargo bottoms,’ says Renee Washington, digital fashion and beauty assistant at Grazia. ‘When it comes to accessories, I’d suggest opting for dark sunglasses to add a bit of mystery as you soak up the soulful vibes of the evening.’
coldprints.co.uk
Plead your allegiance with your favourite artist and befriend other devotees, all with the help of of some great band merch.
www.cos.com
These mix-and-match crystal studs are high-impact but low-effort.
www.adidas.co.uk
Spotted everywhere this summer despite the lack of sun, adidas' shorts are perfect for outdoor venues at the height of summer.
www.ancient-greek-sandals.com
As long as you've had a chance to break them in before the concert, a pair of jelly shoes would be a fun choice for a concert (as long as you've got a seat).
Carry A Practical Plus-One
A bag for a concert doesn't need to be quite as practical as, say, a bag for a festival, but as you might be standing up for the duration, it'll pay to choose something that's lightweight, easy to sling on and, ideally, big enough to fit a water bottle.
www.ganni.com
Ganni's buckled cross-body bag will go with so many concert outfits, whether you're dressing up or going more lo-fi.
www.thenorthface.co.uk
If you've got plenty of pocket room, why not streamline your bag into this water-bottle holder from The North Face?
www.endclothing.com
Smaller than other cross-body bags but still perfectly sized for a card, lip gloss and phone, Toga x Porter's studded arm candy will up the style kudos of any concert look.
www.uniqlo.com
A crochet riff on the brand's viral cross-body bag, Uniqlo has done it again, creating the perfect summer accessory to wear to a concert.
Dress Up In A Dress
EmRata might not have been headed to a concert but her comfortable yet cool mini is the definition of arena-adjacent. Styled with shades and plimsolls for that crucial side of practicality, it's an easy one to copy and paste for your next concert.
astaresort.com
You can't go wrong with some sparkle. If you're looking for a dress that says 'I'm here,' try this mini from Asta Resort.
www.net-a-porter.com
Norma Kamali's range of jersey dresses is legendary. This T-shirt dress could easily be dressed up with a studded belt and knee-high boots or down with retro sneakers.
www.harveynichols.com
For knitted dresses that are so easy to wear, Gimaguas should be your first port of call.
www.stories.com
The same tomato shade as the red dress worn by EmRata, this jersey mini would be so easy to throw on with shades and sneakers.
www.filippa-k.com
Filippa K's range of jersey dresses is superlative this summer. My favourite for a concert is this cap-sleeved style.
Julia Harvey has been the shopping editor for Grazia for the past two and a half years, overseeing and editing all things shopping for the title from trend pages, gift guides and the best things to buy now in both print and online. Having previously worked at other women's magazines, Elle UK, Glamour and British Vogue, Julia has gained over eight years experience within the fashion industry in graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a First Class degree in Fashion Communication and Promotion.