What to wear to a concert

Discover tips for planning concert outfits that are comfortable, sensible, fashionable, and on-theme, whether you're seeing a stadium tour or a symphony.

There's nothing like a concert: a place to see your favorite artist live, singing along to every lyric alongside them and hundreds — or even thousands — of fellow fans. Or maybe you're having a night out at a philharmonic concert, an excuse to break out the formal clothes you don't get to wear and hear soaring orchestral music. Or maybe you're spending a warm summer night at a chill outdoor set by that new local band you've heard all about from friends.

No matter what kind of concert you're seeing next, they all invite one question: What should I wear? Every concert is different, but we've put together a couple practical tips to help you plan the perfect outfit. Once you feel confident in how to dress, get your tickets for your next concert on New York Theatre Guide now!

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What to wear to a concert

The short answer is whatever you want (within reason, of course!). While different kinds of concerts have varying standards and themes — country concerts will see attendees in cowboy boots, opera concerts invite formal dress, pop stars often have recognizable aesthetics that fans mimic, etc. — the most important thing is comfort. Make sure you're wearing clothes and shoes you can both sit and stand comfortably in for multiple hours, especially if you're going to be grooving along!

Do certain concerts require certain outfits?

Many concert venues don't have strict dress codes, but traditionally, more formal concerts — think symphonies, opera performances, and the like — invite more formal dress. On the flip side, fancy garb would feel out of place for a set in a dive bar. The most important thing is to dress comfortably, and if a show or venue has particular dress code restrictions, they will be specified when you purchase your ticket.

Are costumes allowed at concerts?

Yes, costumes and themed outfits are generally allowed at concerts: Think the album-specific outfits fans wore to Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, or the glam-country clothes for Beyonce's Cowboy Carter tour. Sometimes, the artists themselves will specify an outfit theme for their show — or different themes for different tour stops — and encourage people to follow it.

Shows that take place around Halloween often encourage costumes, too. If you do wear a full costume to a show, be sure it doesn't include any pieces that may interfere with other attendees' experience, like tall headwear or noisy accessories.

Tips for planning concert outfits

Discover more practical advice for both looking and feeling good in your outfit for any concert you attend.

• Do dress comfortably: Concerts often have a lot of standing involved, even if seating is available, as people get up to sing and dance along. Avoid itchy or ill-fitting clothes that might ruin your enjoyment of the show, and leave the 6" stilettos at home.
• Do check the weather: Are you attending an outdoor concert that'll go on rain or shine? Pack a poncho and wear waterproof shoes if it's cloudy — or apply plenty of sunscreen if not. Or does the venue always crank the AC to the max? Bring a hoodie. Checking the weather and other atmospheric conditions beforehand is key to choosing the right clothes for the occasion.
• Do buy show merchandise: Don't have clothes that match a specific show's vibe? Get official merch! You won't feel out of place, and merch is a great keepsake you can even wear to the artist's next show.

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