What to wear to a gig, from dresses you can dance in to comfy but stylish trainers

Image courtesy of Never Fully Dressed

Looking for a headliner look? Avoid any last-minute outfits with these 7 ideas for what to wear to a gig

Lottie Franklin

10 November 2022

I’ve got tickets to a gig next week and no idea what to wear. This one is only a small local venue, but whether I’m going to the O2, Ally Pally or the local pub, I never quite know what the best outfit to wear is. I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard, but equally, don’t want to throw on the same boring jeans and a top either as I’m going with some old school friends. Please help!
Katie, Reading

Thankfully there are absolutely no rules when it comes to dressing for a gig, but it’s good to have some outfit formulas up your sleeve to make sure you’re feeling your best and are focused on having a good time, instead of any outfit dramas.

I think the perfect gig-friendly outfit comes down to these three things:

Comfort – as you’ll be standing on your feet for a while.

Clever layers – so you’re not too hot when the warm up act (literally) gets going, but not freezing on your way to and from the venue either.

Cool factor – there’s no other way of saying it, but if you want to peacock and make a statement, a gig’s as good an excuse as any.

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Dressing for comfort

Whether you’re going to a huge venue like the O2 or somewhere more intimate, you’ll likely be on your feet a lot. That means comfy shoes are crucial. If you’re dressing up, go for platform boots, or stick to chunky boots and trainers if it’s a more casual vibe.

What coat should you wear to a gig?

Music venues get HOT, especially if you’re dancing. There isn’t always a cloak room, or if there is one, the queues are usually too long to bother with anyway. You inevitably end up chucking your coat on a seat or somewhere out the way, or tying it around your waist when it starts getting too toasty. So yes, this is the kind of thing we need to factor into outfits.

A gig is the time for easy puffer coats or oversized biker jackets. You need a coat that’s slouchy enough to tie around your waist and hard-wearing enough you won’t feel too precious about doing it – dark colours are also more forgiving for any drinks spills or if your coats being bundled up over the back of a chair.

What outfits should I try for a gig?

Under your jackets think about tops and dresses that are light and unrestricted so you can keep your cool (in all senses) if you’re packed into the middle of the audience.

Stick to this simple formula and you’ll bring together a fuss-free gig outfit from your wardrobe. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are 7 different outfit ideas that aren’t all jeans and a nice top:

Outfit 1

Contrast a statement pleather mini with a simple white tee, adding a blazer on top for a dressier venue or a biker jacket if you’re somewhere more laid-back.

Outfit 2

If you are going for the failsafe jeans and a nice top, go for a bolder blouse in a strong print or statement shape. Finish off your outfit with some chunky Chelsea boots like these for ultimate comfort.

Outfit 3

I love the oversized slouchy fit of this Mango biker jacket, especially with a simple bodysuit underneath. There’s no need for jumpers with this outfit – the jacket’s part of The Look, but you can whip it off if you’re planning on dancing.

Outfit 4

This metallic knit dress hits that smart casual sweet spot. You can then layer up with a warm leather biker jacket if it gets cold. A crossbody bag is also a good shout, because you’ll keep all your essentials near you without having to think about them when you’re enjoying the main act.

Outfit 5

This & Other Stories mini dress caught my eye for a gig, because of its unusual shape. The material will keep you cool, it’s got long sleeves (good for this time of year) a flattering v neckline and flared hem, and it’ll look good dressed up with sheer tights and platform boots.

Outfit 6

A black leather blazer will be useful all year round for day to night outfits and is a great addition when putting together an outfit for a gig. Add some contrast with a metallic corset and cargo trousers, which will make the whole outfit look and feel more effortless.

Outfit 7

A gig’s the occasion to try out this season’s sheer trend (read our guide on what to wear underneath anything sheer next). Again, add some contrast to the look with a rigid denim skirt and an oversized jacket for when you head home.