STYLE
What to Wear to a Concert, According to an Expert
November 10, 2025
Bought the tickets, but don’t know what to wear? Here are our favorite concert looks, styled by contributing fashion editor, Cynthia Cook Smith.
Meet Our Expert:
Cynthia Cook Smith
During her days at Vogue, Cynthia had a first-hand glance at everything from fashion shows to The Met Gala, dressing those around her for their special events. Fast forward almost ten years later, Cynthia styles her clients not just for their weddings, but also for their everyday lifestyles.
3 Rules to Follow
- 1. Look Up the Venue
Do your research! Make sure that you know the what bag you can bring in. Size requirements are usually posted on the venue's website.
2. Check the Weather
If you’re going to an outdoor concert, wear something that works with the climate—especially if you’re traveling.
3. Consider Your Crowd
Make sure your look speaks to the occasion and what it means to you. A girls’ trip look will be different from a date night look which will de different than a family concert.
Pull Your Hair Back
The last thing you want isto have hair covering your face. Put it up in a ponytail or push it back with a clip.
Wear Layers
Bring a jacket with you. Test it out to make sure your arms can go above your head before you go.
Pare Back the Jewels
Leave the jewelry that falls off when you dance (like bangles or more fragile pieces) at home.
Keep It Comfortable
If it’s the type of show where you’re going to be on your feet all night, make sure that you’re in shoes with staying power.
Bring the Bag
A good crossbody bag is a concert workhorse. Throw in your lip gloss and an extra hair-tie.
A Late Night Concert
For a late-fall look: try a knee-high boot, sweater, and mini skirt. Whether you’re in NYC and need to add a black tight or in California and want a denim jacket, it’s effortlessly chic with cool undertones. Pick materials, like wool for the mini skirt and cashmere for the sweater, to give the look an extra layer of style and substance.
Music Festival
Heading across the pond to Glastonbury? One of our forever style icons is Sienna Miller circa 2005. Think Bohemian Rhapsody meets iconic British branding (i.e. Barbour boots)—always timeless.
Country Show
Mixing fabrics like cotton poplin and suede gives texture to your outfit that’ll pop in photos (especially with flash!). Don’t forget a beaded necklace. Cynthia loves this red carnelian color paired with the blue of this dress.
Stadium Concert
It’s all about layering for a stadium look, so wear a cashmere cardigan that you can put on over your dress or tie around your waist, depending on if it’s hot or cold. The shorter length of this dress plays well with a taller boot. Don’t be kitschy—stick to tasteful accessories.
Jazz Show
Don’t be afraid to wear all black while attending a jazz show. Cynthia loves a head-to-toe black moment, especially with a satin kitten heel. Slick back your hair in a low bun and keep your makeup natural with a stained lip.
School Talent Show
As a mother of two theatrical boys, Cynthia’s favorite school outfit is a chino pant and a casual moccasin slide dressed up with a statement necklace. She can move around and pick up her kids, while still feeling put-together.
Festival in the Desert
If you’re headed to Coachella to hear the hottest hits from your favorite artists, make sure you’re in a comfortable maxi dress in a durable material. The Rhea dress is a tried-and-true staple in your closet. It’s in the softest shade of denim and incredibly flattering.
Standing Room Only
Cynthia’s obsession? This strapless black cashmere top—it screams early 2000s. Pair it with light-wash jeans and wear your hair half up, half down with a nice beach wave. Finish it with a chandelier earring or a colorful beaded choker.
