So, you're a girl and going to your first rock concert. You probably have a million and one questions running through your mind. But just sit back, relax, and take a look at these tips.
Steps
-
Prepare. It might seem like a good thing to wait until the last minute to dress and leave for a concert, but try to avoid this common mistake. The night before, or even before that, pick out what you'd like to wear, compare to other things in your wardrobe, then decide on a final outfit. You'll want to be in something that's comfortable yet stylish according to who you're seeing.
-
Dress casually. You can never go wrong with a plain black t-shirt and some form of jeans or shorts. Avoid wearing a shirt from the band you're seeing (this can make you seem a tad obsessed or like a newbie). Instead, if you'd like, get some friends together to make unique shirts for the headlining band. The band will appreciate your efforts and you'll look like you really put some thought into the night.
-
Don't layer. No matter what the weather is (this depends on if you're at an inside venue) it will get hot when you're smashed up against hundreds of jumping fans. During the winter, it might be slightly better, but an inside summer show can and will get suffocatingly hot if you're in the middle of the crowd. Try to wear light fabrics (without them being sheer enough to see through) and avoid thick denims for jeans.
-
Do not wear your best clothes. They can get dirty, smoky, sweaty, and possibly ripped if it's a harder show. Look nice and stylish, but don't wear that new pair of $200 jeans you bought the same morning.
-
Solid shoes are essential. The number one rule of concerts is to never, ever, ever wear any other shoes than sneakers or boots. Flip-flops, sandals, heels, backless shoes = big mistake. Not only can they come off or give you blisters, but people will purposely (the 'veterans' of concert goers) step on your shoe just to see it fall off.
-
Lay off the accessories. Some people tend to over-do it when it comes to jewelry and such at concerts, but try to avoid this mistake. Large rings can cause injuries to you and others around you when you're all jumping around. Long necklaces will get tangled and hit someone or even get broken. Dangling earrings are a very bad idea (the last thing you'll want is a ripped earlobe by the end of the night). Just keep it simple. Braided, fabric, and those rubber bracelets from bands are good alternatives to your usual garb. They won't injure anyone and will most likely stay on much better than anything else.
-
Keep the makeup simple. (unless its a rock concert because they are all about the heavy eye makeup ) Since you'll be there for at least four or five hours, depending on who you're seeing and the venue, you'll want to keep the makeup to a minimum unless you're just willing to risk smears. There won't be a lot of chances for touch-ups unless you want to chance losing your place in the crowd. It will also sweat off eventually, so if you are wearing any, waterproof is best.
-
Tie back the long locks. If you have long hair (below the shoulders) you'll want to either already have your hair up securely somehow or have a hair tie with you. During the first half of the show, it shouldn't be too hot or crazy so you should be alright, but later on, you'll want to be able to keep your hair out of your face.
Tips
- Drink plenty of water and eat well before a show. This will prevent dehydration and possible sickness from being weak, because you will go for quite a while without food.
- If you don't know the words, then don't sing along or feel the pressure to do so. It's alright if you're not knowledgeable about every single song a band plays.
- Dress how you want, act how you want. And remember to have fun and enjoy the live music. Appreciate the band for making music you love.
- When wearing sneakers, double-knot or tuck in your laces. The last thing you want is to have to reach down and re-tie a lace.
- If you do not know the band, listen to some of their music beforehand to get a taste of what it is like. At least have an idea of what you'll be experiencing beforehand.
- Scream, but don't overdo it. Also, don't be the only one in the crowd jumping around and yelling. Go along with the general status of the crowd.
- Remember to enjoy yourself. Forget the self conscious attitude and live in the moment.
Warnings
- If you are going to a concert for the first time: no matter how badly you want to get to the front, <b>do not push</b>. It causes push pits. People get pulled to the ground, stood on and hurt. You will annoy seasoned concert goers. If you are that desperate to get to the front, arrive at least four hours before the concert. It isn't fair to arrive as the concert starts and push your way to the front because many people have been queuing for <b>hours</b>.
- Mosh pits can be dangerous and are not recommended for first-time concertgoers. If you do decide to go in one, stand your ground. If someone shoves into you, do not act hurt. Jump a lot! It is tiring, but it is worth it. If you end up in a mosh pit and want to get out, duck your head down a little bit and slowly back out.