What happened to just wearing a band T-shirt? The new rules of concert dressing
Whether it’s Harry Styles’s retro tailoring, CMAT’s joyful mash-ups or Metallica’s silver tones, here’s how to nail concert dressing – without looking like a tribute act
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.
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What to wear to a concert in 2026
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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
£45 at Feel Good Contacts £70 at Le SpecsDisco ball necklace
£95 at Rachel JacksonBright pointelle T-shirt
£54 at Cou CouHigh-waist pinstripe trousers
£140 at Sézane £140 at Octobre ÉditionsWide-leg herringbone stripe trousers
£55 at Topshop £55 at AsosSomething to bring the fun that’s not a feather boa
£40 at Free PeopleOpening night inspired boots
£140 at Adidas***
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
£135 at Jimmy FairlyI Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!-approved earrings
£26 at Lisa Angel £28 at Not On The High StreetEuro-Country baby blue T-shirt
£43 at PelladorGingham circle skirt
£30 at M&SSheer red tights
£9.99 at CalzedoniaCowboy boots
£78 at Free PeopleJamie Oliver bag charm
From £6.45 at Etsy***
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
£149 at Zara £79.99 at ZaraA quirky vintage tie
£4.38 at VintedLinen shirt
Women’s, £39.90 at Uniqlo Men’s, £39.90 at UniqloWhite floral brooch
£80 at MarellaMore summer friendly shorts
£35.99 at ZaraThe Bad Bunny ballerinas
£100 at Adidas £100 at Footpatrol***
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
£34.99 at PilgrimBlazy-inspired mini dress
£48 at AsosPop of colour belt
£100 at Sézane £100 at Octobre ÉditionsOn-brand pins
£10 at Shop Olivia DeanCute but comfy flats
£160 at Rothys***
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.
Cool-tone silver jewellery
£89 at Daisy £89 at John LewisA gig-friendly layer
Women’s, £65 at JD Williams Men’s, £75 at Levi’sThe low-key band tee
£22 at M&SLongline denim shorts
£56 at Urban Outfitters £70 at Damson MadderDr Martens x Metallica collab boots
£190 at Dr MartensFor more, read the best summer wardrobe updates for women and the best summer fashion updates for men