Upon purchasing tickets to a concert, most people immediately think about traveling and lodging. While those are important to consider, one of the first things that I think about is what I should wear. Half the fun of going to shows is getting dressed up for them, whether you’re going for a casual vibe, a dressy vibe, or full blown costumes. Here are my best recommendations for staples to keep in your closet that you can quickly whip out if you’re unsure of what to wear to your next gig.

EVERYONE’S BEST FRIEND: THE BLACK TANK

You can never go wrong with a simple black top. Personally, I am a huge fan of tank tops because it opens the door for layering opportunities. You can wear a fishnet top with it, you can wear arm bands without worrying about messing up your sleeves, you can throw a sweatshirt over it in case you get cold, the possibilities are endless. If you decide to get merch and end up wanting to wear it, it’s much easier to throw it over your tank top than it is to throw it over another shirt or to go change. (I would also like to point out that I do not subscribe to the theory that wearing band tees during a show is a bad thing. The stigma with doing so is old and pointless — if you want to wear prior merch, go right ahead!)

COMFORT MATTERS: STYLING BELOW THE BELT

When it comes to bottoms, choosing the best option depends on a few factors. If you’re planning to mosh, dance, or crowdsurf, you might want to stick with simple pants or shorts. I’m a sucker for shorts with fishnets, and if I know I’m going to surf, I have a designated pre-ripped pair. If I’m in a seat or planning to linger towards the back of the pit, I’ll sometimes wear a skirt or dress. More often than not, I’m in ripped jeans or biker shorts. For shoes, I highly recommend choosing comfort over fashion. I normally hate wearing sneakers, but they’re often the best choice for shows, especially if you’re planning to move around. Nothing makes me more annoyed than someone wearing heels in the pit and participating in normal pit activities as if they aren’t putting everyone around them at risk of injuries. Sensible shoes are the way to go.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL: AMP UP YOUR LOOK WITH ACCESSORIES

Now that we have the basics set, it’s time to accessorize! Friendship bracelets, kandi in particular, have been around for years but recently have become a staple in mainstream concert attire. If you don’t make your own, there is a 90% chance someone in the crowd has some to share without looking to trade for anything in return. Chokers are also a classic way to spice up your outfit, and you can find cheap ones at stores like Target and Walmart. Chains and other jewelry can spice up your look too, but again, if you’re in the pit and planning to mosh, please be mindful of how your accessories can potentially be hazardous to others.

I’m known for dressing very comfortably and casually in my day to day life, so experimenting with different styles and fashion choices that I wouldn’t normally make has made concerts even more fun for me. I’ve also gotten close with people who enjoy dressing up in actual costumes for shows, which is something I have yet to try but would like to eventually. Next time you need some inspiration for outfit details, remember you can always stick to the basics and still be the best dressed. See you in the pit!