With the new age of Instagram, many of us find that what we wear has become of increasing
importance. There is a modern age need to look cute and fashionable at all times, regardless of the
situation.
An example of where this becomes an issue is at a concert. Now that events are starting back up again, we are all eager to go out, taking many, many photos, and having a great time. Naturally, the outfit often plays a key part. However, a clear problem arises: what to wear to a gig?
The need to look trendy soon becomes overridden with the fact that the environment which you will find yourself in isn't geared towards those that wish to live in a runway fashion show. The venues are full of people, sweaty and pushing into you every few seconds. You don’t want to bring a coat because you will inevitably have to take it off and won’t have anywhere to put it; but what if it is cold or raining outside as you are lining up to get your ticket checked? You don’t want to bring a bag because you want to be able to dance and are worried it will get stolen if you leave it somewhere; but what if you need to bring things other than your phone (and let's be honest – the pocket sizes of women’s clothing are ridiculously small)? Of course, there is also the issue of catcalling if you choose to wear certain items of clothing, which is totally wrong and unfair, but unfortunately toning down the outfit is a precaution that many are forced to take.
Now, that doesn’t leave much for us to go off on. Nevertheless, there are some solutions to these
problems. If you do need to bring a bag, a fanny pack can be a great alternative to your usual tote back
or backpack; it is small, can fit all your belongings, and won't prevent you from dancing to your heart’s content. This also means that you won’t be at risk of knocking people out with a heavy backpack each time you turn around (I know this pain only too well)! Instead of a coat, perhaps a lightweight jacket or a hoodie that you can tie around your waist if you need to take it off. If it has large inside pockets, then even better! Some venues do also have cloakrooms which you can leave your things in, but some may just feel safer keeping everything with them.
As frustrating as it is, sometimes it is necessary to be mindful of your own safety, and part of that means altering your initial outfit choices. Sometimes, function (and personal safety) over fashion is the way to go. However, that doesn’t mean to say that you can't still have a phenomenal outfit at the cost of ditching that tennis skirt you just bought; pants with cool prints or cuts can be a great way to make a statement (I am especially fond of flares!).
A concert staple (at least in my opinion) is the platform sneaker. They’re extremely comfortable and also give you those extra inches to see over the sea of heads to the stage. I never go to a gig without my platforms, or anywhere for that matter, and I really do think that they make all the difference. Of course, you don’t want the platform too high in case you fall over, and you certainly don’t want everyone to be let in on this (not-so-secret) tip, otherwise the same issue remains, and everyone has just collectively grown an extra inch or two!
The most important thing is to wear what you feel comfortable in. If that’s an outfit that looks like it’s straight from the covers of Vogue, or if it is just some comfy jeans and a t-shirt, what’s important is that you have a great time screaming the lyrics of your favorite songs. And remember, it’s dark in those gig venues anyway!
Check out the Dream Team's inspo board to get ideas for your next concert fit here!