July 26, 2024

Pop Concert Couture

Off a concert? No idea what to wear? A few weeks ago, I attended a show for two popular pop artists (you may have heard of them). When the stars took the stage in high-fashion sparkle, fans hit the high notes wearing some fashionably loud concert couture.

Opening Act Nicki Minaj takes the runway - I mean, stage - in an embellished, neutral-toned bodysuit.
Neon bandeau tops - check. Blue nail polish - check.
Outfits are entirely American Apparel, with the exception of shoes (Havaianas, left; Steve Madden, right). 
Good Finds: Every piece of this outfit is thrifted. And how ’bout that tattoo?  
Such a fearless palette of purple.
Show-stopping headliner Spears is hiding a denim-and-rhinestone ensemble under that classic white trench. 
DIY duds: a do!
New friends sharing a tattoo: Celebrating Civil Unions in Chicago and NYC.

Wondering why you don’t see my duds in this mix? I couldn’t compete with all of this fashion flair. My perfect gig-going outfit is a delicate balance of practicality and personal style. Arriving straight from my 9-to-5, I opted to play plain-jane-photographer in a comfortable cotton T-shirt, dark denim and basic gold accessories for the night.

If you’re still looking for advice on what to wear to a pop concert, I received two words of feedback most frequently from these festive concertgoers: American Apparel. Are you a graceful stiletto dancer? Likely not, so stick to flats or wedges. If you’re going to be moshing, don’t wear a mini. Most importantly, prepare! Here my three concert must-haves:

1. Chapstick/lipgloss
2. Extra hair ties and bobby pins
3. A no-fuss cross-body handbag

What do you think of these controversial “couture” sets? Have you ever had a concert wardrobe fail? Tell me what must-have items you always have with you at a concert!

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5 comments

  2. Such a fun post! You're so ballsy for going out and asking people to pose for you. I really want to do a Chicago blogger meet-up sometime, maybe if there are any new music mondays left in Millenium Park, we could figure something out if you're interested.

    Anyways, I totes agree on your tips / what you wore. I'm always going to shows in something that I wouldn't mind if it got ruined, because chances are, it will. My must have items are 1) a hanes cotton v-neck 2) skinnies or high-waisted shorts 3) crossbody bag & tiny wallet (leaving all things at home i wouldn't want to get stolen or lost) and 4) comfortable shoes such as converse, toms, or dr. martens.

    lovelovelove,
    autumn jordan
    http://we-are-infinite.blogspot.com

    Reply

  3. OMG, it's the 80's!

    @ Autumn - there's a Chicago blogger meet-up scheduled for 8/20 - http://www.archivesvintage.com/2011/07/07/chicago-blogger-meet-up/

    Reply

  4. Haha @ Piper - right? Yes, Autumn I was just going to message you that link. Shoot her an e-mail so that you're on the RSVP list/receive updates!

    FAB, I love that tattoo as well - so fearless, right?

    Thanks for your thoughtful comments! 🙂

    Reply

  5. So jealous you got to see this concert! I love all the bright colors and fun accessories everybody is wearing. Looks like a blast!

    http://www.stylish3.com/marylane

    Reply

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