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’s 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.
Retro sunnies
Disco ball necklace
Bright pointelle T-shirt
High-waist pinstripe trousers
Wide-leg herringbone stripe trousers
Something to bring the fun that’s not a feather boa
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.
60s-inspired sunnies
I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!-approved earrings
Euro-Country baby blue T-shirt
Gingham circle skirt
Sheer red tights
Cowboy boots
Jamie Oliver 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.
A suit fit for a Super Bowl half-time show
A quirky vintage tie
Linen shirt
White floral brooch
More summer friendly shorts
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.
Chunky gold earrings
Blazy-inspired mini dress
Pop of colour belt
On-brand pins
Cute but comfy flats
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.
Cool-tone silver jewellery
A gig-friendly layer
The low-key band tee
Longline denim shorts
Dr Martens x Metallica collab boots
For more, read the best summer wardrobe updates for women and the best summer fashion updates for men
