Outdoor concerts can be a blast, but figuring out what to wear can be tricky. Unlike an indoor venue with temperature control, outdoor concerts mean planning for unpredictable weather, crowds, and terrain. Dressing practically while still looking stylish takes some thought and prep. Follow this guide on what to wear to an outdoor concert for tips on keeping cool, maximizing comfort, and looking your best.
Check the Weather Forecast
The first step in planning your outdoor concert outfit is checking the weather. Outdoor venues leave you exposed to the elements, so you’ll need to dress accordingly.
Research the Highs and Lows
Don’t just glance at the overall forecast. Take note of the predicted high and low temperatures specifically. The weather can fluctuate throughout the day, so make sure your clothing can handle both. Wear layers that can be added or removed as needed.
Consider Rain and Wind
Outdoor shows happen rain or shine, so always check the chance of precipitation and wind speeds. Be ready with ponchos, windbreakers, and umbrellas if needed. Even if rain isn’t in the forecast, the ground may still be wet and muddy.
Note the Sunset Time
Daytime shows will be much hotter than evenings. Check when the sun will set so you know how long you’ll be in direct sunlight. Plan cooler fabrics and more sun protection for afternoon heat.
Check the Week Before
It’s smart to recheck the weather the week of the event. Forecasts can change and be more accurate closer to the date. Make sure you pack or prepare anything new based on the updated projections.
Choose Breathable, Lightweight Fabrics
- Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, rayon, or loose knits. These will keep you cooler than synthetic fabrics that can get sticky.
- Look for lightweight, flowing fabrics that allow maximum air circulation. Avoid anything too tight or constricting.
- Natural fibers like cotton and linen have superior breathability. Blends like cotton-poly can also work well.
- Sweat-wicking performance fabrics are ideal for very active concerts where you’ll be on your feet dancing.
- Sheer fabrics, crop tops, and anything too skimpy is better suited for indoor venues. Outdoor concerts tend to be more family-friendly.
Pick the Right Colors
Cool Colors
- Whites, pastels, and other light colors will deflect heat and keep you cooler on hot sunny days.
- Neutrals like beige, gray, and ivory are also great choices for staying cool and hiding sweat.
Darker Colors for Night
- As things cool down in the evening, go for black, dark blue, forest green, or other dark rich colors.
- Dark jeans, jackets, and long sleeves are great for colder nights.
Avoid Neons and Prints
- Skip flashy neons and bold graphic prints. They tend to look mismatched against natural outdoor backdrops.
- Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns instead. Camo prints, however, can work well at outdoor festivals.
Choose the Right Concert Shoes
Your footwear choice is key to staying comfortable at an outdoor show. Consider these factors when picking shoes:
Closed Toe Shoes
Flip flops may seem convenient, but they offer no protection. Outdoor venues often get dirty and messy. Sturdy closed toe shoes are safest.
Sneakers
For very casual concerts, sneakers are perfect for lots of standing and dancing. Just avoid bright white – they will get dirty.
Boots
Cowboy boots and combat boots add rocker edge. Lace-up styles provide support for all-day wear.
Heels
For a dressier concert, short chunky heels work better than stilettos which can sink in grass or dirt. Wedges are very stable.
Consider Terrain
Research the venue to see if grass, gravel, mud or hills are involved so you can pick appropriate traction.
Insert-able Soles
Add padded insertable soles to any shoes for extra cushioning. Gel pads can make a huge difference for all-day comfort.
Style Your Concert Hair
Your hairstyle serves both form and function at an outdoor fest.
Updos
Buns, braids, and ponytails prevent hair from blowing in your face on windy days. They also keep you cooler.
Bandanas
Vintage bandanas folded into headbands add a cute style while also holding hair back. They can shield your neck from sun too.
Hats
Baseball caps, floppy straw hats, or cowboy hats give shade and add instant style. Secure them with hat pins or clips as needed.
Hair Ties
Keep extras on hand in case you need to pull hair back to cool off. Elastic hair coils work well in windy conditions.
Headbands
Wide fabric headbands can corral flyaway hair. Look for soft stretchy styles that won’t dig in.
Condition Well
Use a deep conditioner before the show. Hair takes a beating in outdoor elements, so start with hydrated strands.
Pick Concert Outfits For Women
Shorts Outfits
Denim cutoffs, breezy linen shorts, and casual shorts work well. Pair with tank tops or crop tops. Jean jackets and kimonos add coverage during cool evenings.
Sundresses / Rompers
Pretty floral sundresses or rompers keep you cool and stylish. Bring a denim or leather jacket for chillier temps after dark.
Skirts Outfits
Flowy maxi skirts or midi skirts allow great air circulation. Team them with crop tops, tanks, or tucked-in tees.
Jumpsuits
Move seamlessly from day to night in versatile one-piece jumpsuits. Just add layers like denim jackets or khaki shirts as desired.
Layers on Layers
Build lightweight layered looks you can add and subtract as needed. For example, tank top, sheer blouse, and cardigan with shorts or flowy pants.
Pick Concert Outfits For Men
Shorts + T-shirts
From basketball shorts to everyday cargos, shorts allow ample airflow on hot days. Pair them with music tees, tanks, or linen shirts.
Lightweight Pants
Linen pants, drawstring pants, or hiking pants work perfectly for more coverage and pockets. Wear them with breathable shirts.
Hawaiian Shirts
Informal Hawaiian-style button downs bring festive summer vibes. Just avoid heavier fabrics like flannel.
Swim Trunks
If it’s really hot, wear swim trunks like you’re heading to the beach or pool. Bring a t-shirt and towel too.
Layers
Build versatile layered looks with short sleeve shirts, lightweight hoodies or button downs, and vests. Add or remove as needed.
Accessorize With Function in Mind
Sun Protection
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect from UV rays, especially at daytime festivals. Look for SPF clothing too.
Bandanas
Bandanas have so many uses beyond just style. Wet them and tie around your neck to cool off. Use as impromptu sun protection, mask, hair tie, and more!
Hydration Packs
Hydration packs with built-in water bladders let you carry plenty of water hands-free. Some even have pockets.
Cooling Towels
Pack a small towel doused in cold water and tied around your neck. As it evaporates, the cooling effect is delightful.
Battery Packs
Recharge your phone on the go with a backup battery pack. Conserve your phone power by limiting photos and videos.
Ear Plugs
Save your hearing with ear plugs. Look for comfortable, reusable options instead of cheap foam plugs.
Anti-Chafe Balm
In heat and humidity, this balm prevents painful chafing in areas like thighs, underarms, and bra lines. A necessity!
Blankets / Towels
Pack a towel or blanket to sit on instead of dusty, dirty ground. Also great for wrapping up as temperatures drop.
Plan For All-Day Comfort
Breathable Underwear
Avoid restrictive bras, spanx, etc. Opt for breezy boxer briefs and bralettes instead. Moisture-wicking performance fabrics help too.
Body Glide
Apply anti-chafe balm anywhere skin might rub together, like thighs, underarms, and bra lines. Reapply frequently.
Manage Sweat
Use sweat-wicking fabrics, bandanas, cooling towels, and fresh deodorant to stay dry and minimize body odor.
Comfortable Bras
Skip underwires and tight straps that dig in. Soft stretchy bralettes prevent pinching and allow airflow.
Pre-Treat Shoes
Spray shoes with waterproofer to prevent discomfort from damp soggy shoes in rain or mud. Break in new shoes before the show.
First Aid Essentials
Pack small moleskin pads, blister bandages, and other first aid supplies. Treat hot spots immediately before they worsen.
Prepare For The Elements
Sun Protection
Don’t forget hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and UV protection clothing when heading out in the sun all day. Reapply sunscreen often.
Stay Warm
Bring layers like jean jackets, ponchos, hoodies, and warm socks in case temperatures drop substantially at night. Hand warmers are great too.
Wind Resistant Jackets
Look for tightly woven fabrics like denim, leather, or performance windbreakers. Avoid super lightweight pieces that will blow wildly.
Waterproof Layers
Pack quality rain ponchos, jackets, and umbrellas in case of rain. Or treat clothes with a waterproofing spray.
Sturdy Shoes
Opt for supportive closed toe shoes that can handle uneven, muddy terrain. If needed, bring boots or prep with waterproofing sprays.
Hat / Sunglasses Straps
Use straps to keep hats and sunglasses in place on windy days so they don’t blow away in the gusts.
Stay Hydrated And Energized
Make sure you stay properly fueled and hydrated to keep your energy up and avoid headaches, nausea, and fatigue:
Hydration Packs
Hydration packs allow easy access to water without losing your spot. Drink frequently even when you aren’t thirsty.
Electrolyte Tablets
Counter dehydration and replenish electrolytes in the heat by adding tablets to your water.
Hydrating Foods
Eat hydrating fruits and veggies like cucumbers, grapes, oranges, berries, and melons. They contain lots of water.
Snacks
Pack high-protein snacks like jerky, nuts, and nutrition bars to maintain energy between meals.
Limit Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates your body. Drink water between alcoholic beverages. Moderation is key in the sun and heat.
Morning Caffeine
An early cup of coffee gives energy, but avoid caffeine later which will dehydrate you faster in the heat.
Top Outdoor Concert Outfit Ideas
Breezy Bohemian
- Tiered maxi skirt or breezy pants
- Cropped cami or off the shoulder top
- Kimono or duster jacket
- Packable wide brim hat
- Ankle boots or flat sandals
Cool & Casual
- High waisted denim shorts
- Boxy crop top or bralette
- Utility jacket
- Sneakers or flatform sandals
- Baseball cap
Rocker Chic
- Band tee (cropped or knotted)
- Black jean shorts with belt
- Fishnets or sheer tights
- Black ankle booties
- Leather moto jacket
- Bold silver jewelry
Retro Folk
- High waisted shorts with belt
- Ruffly off the shoulder top
- Floral embroidered kimono
- Brown ankle boots or sandals
- Scrunchie, bandana, or headband
All American
- Dark denim shorts with rolled cuffs
- Striped crop top or knotted tee
- Red bandana
- White high top sneakers
- Jean jacket tied around hips
Expert Outdoor Concert Tips
Scout the Layout
Check the concert map ahead of time to find entrances, exits, seating, vendors, and bathrooms.
Bring Cash
ATMs and credit card readers may be limited or unreliable. Bring enough cash for food, drinks, and merch.
Use the Buddy System
Arrange meetup spots in case you get separated from your group. Share your location via phone.
Pack a Towel
Sit on your own towel instead of dirty ground. Also great for drying off in case of rain.
Wear Sunscreen Under Clothes
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on areas covered by sheer fabrics to prevent burn through.
Consider Ear Plug Style
Foam plugs are cheap but get dirty quickly. Opt for reusable filtered ear plugs you can wear all day comfortably.
Save Phone Battery
Limit using phone for photos/videos. Bring an external charger if needed. Low battery can leave you stranded.
Arrive Early
Give yourself extra time for traffic, parking, security lines and get settled before crowds peak.
Plan Outfits Ahead
Lay out outfits, shoes, accessories, and gear the night before so you don’t forget anything critical.
Eat Beforehand
Eat a full meal before arriving to save money and minimize long lines at the event.
Try the Restrooms First
Use clean bathrooms early before crowds make them hectic. Scope them out so you know where to go later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concert Attire
What is the best fabric to wear to an outdoor concert?
Lightweight, breathable natural fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you coolest at an outdoor concert. Performance fabrics with sweat-wicking technology are also fantastic options.
What clothes are not allowed at concerts?
Most concerts prohibit anything with spikes, chains, or potential weapons. Oversized clothing is common to ban as it can conceal prohibited items. Venues may also forbid very skimpy outfits. Check the specific dress code for your event.
How early should you arrive for an outdoor concert?
It’s best to arrive at least 1-2 hours before the opening acts begin. This gives time to park, go through security, find seats, use the bathroom, grab food, and get settled in. The earlier you arrive, the better!
What should you not bring to a concert?
Avoid bringing glass bottles, umbrellas, recording devices, selfie sticks, large bags, and anything that could be used as a weapon. Also leave valuables like expensive jewelry at home. Bring only essentials like ID, cash, and phone.
Do you need sunscreen at an outdoor concert?
Absolutely! The extended exposure to sun and heat means diligent sunscreen application is essential. Reapply every 2 hours minimum, and wear UV-protective clothing as well. Don’t risk sunburns ruining your experience.
What shoes are most comfortable for concerts?
Shoes that support your ankles and arch like quality sneakers or boots fare best. Add padded insoles for extra comfort, and break them in before the show. Avoid flimsy shoes with no cushioning or support.
Should you bring a blanket to a concert?
Yes, it’s smart to pack a blanket, towel, or tarp to sit on rather than dusty, dirty ground. A thin blanket can be easily rolled up and stashed in a bag when not in use. It also gives you something warm to wrap up in once the sun goes down.
Can you bring empty water bottles to concerts?
Policies vary by venue, but most allow factory sealed bottles up to 1 liter. Some may only permit empty reusable bottles you can refill inside. Check with the specific concert rules before going. Stay hydrated!
Key Takeaways: Dressing For Outdoor Concerts
- Check weather forecasts thoroughly before packing outfits and gear
- Opt for versatile layers you can add and subtract as temperatures fluctuate
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics will keep you cooler in the summer heat
- Closed toe shoes offer protection and support for outdoor terrain
- Accessorize with functional items like sun protection, hydration, first aid supplies, etc.
- Stay energized and hydrated to avoid headaches, nausea, and fatigue
- Arrive early to deal with parking, lines, and get comfortably situated
- Scout venue maps ahead of time to maximize your concert experience
With the right preparation, you can enjoy incredible outdoor concerts while staying cool, comfy, and looking on point! Follow these tips to take the guesswork and stress out of figuring out just what to wear.