Over the past few years, dressing to see your favourite artists live has moved on from just throwing on a band tee and calling it a day. With ticket prices higher than ever, concerts are special events; as a result, there has been a noticeable shift towards dressing up. Fans are embracing intricate looks inspired by the live shows, songs, albums and even obscure references only the most hardcore listeners would understand. With this, the question of “what to wear” has never felt more important.
The good news? You don’t need to turn up in a full costume to feel part of that experience. There are subtle ways you can channel your favourite artist’s aesthetic while still wearing something that works beyond the venue doors. Here’s how.
What to Wear to a Concert in 2026
Harry Styles
Unlike his Love on Tour sequined jumpsuits, Harry’s Together, Together looks have taken a more corporate turn. But don’t fret, there’s still plenty of colour. From neon-drenched pointelle T-shirts to super-high-waisted trousers, take inspiration from retro tailoring and embrace quirky accessories. Consider retro sunnies, a disco ball necklace, bright pointelle T-shirts, high-waist pinstripe trousers, wide-leg herringbone stripe trousers, something fun like a feather boa alternative, or opening night inspired boots.
CMAT
Few artists have as much fun with fashion as Irish singer CMAT. Her joyful mashup of country aesthetics and vintage pieces is creative, colourful and exciting. For a Dunboyne Diana-inspired look, go heavy on the colour, and most importantly, have fun with it, even if that includes a Jamie Oliver bag charm. Key pieces include 60s-inspired sunnies, cowboy-inspired earrings, a Euro-Country baby blue T-shirt, a gingham circle skirt, sheer red tights, cowboy boots, and a quirky bag charm.
Bad Bunny
Following his unforgettable Super Bowl half-time show, Bad Bunny has cemented himself as one of music’s most exciting dressers. His collaboration with the Spanish brand Zara sums up his sartorial sentiment perfectly with breezy linen suits and colourful shirts. Look for a suit fit for a Super Bowl half-time show, a quirky vintage tie, linen shirts, a white floral brooch, summer-friendly shorts, and the Bad Bunny ballerinas.
Olivia Dean
Pop princess Olivia Dean’s audience is often awash with polka dots and sequins, but for a slightly less obvious nod to the singer, look towards some of her many Chanel looks by Matthieu Blazy. Fringe detailing, rich colours and jolly accessories capture her playful attitude perfectly. Consider chunky gold earrings, a Blazy-inspired mini dress, a pop of colour belt, on-brand pins, and cute but comfy flats.
Metallica
There are ways to incorporate Metallica into your outfit beyond a band tee (although that is, of course, essential). Leather might seem an obvious choice, but it’s not ideal for a summer concert in a packed venue. Opt for cool-tone silver jewellery, a gig-friendly layer, a low-key band tee, longline denim shorts, and Dr Martens x Metallica collab boots.
For more, read the best summer wardrobe updates for women and the best summer fashion updates for men.
