By Robyn Smith
So your children are too young to go see Nicki Minaj by themselves, but they’ve been dying to see her perform ever since “Anaconda” took over the radio last summer. Or maybe they’re obsessed with 5 Seconds of Summer and have been begging you for months to buy tickets. You agree and tag along to keep them safe. Sure, their music isn’t really your thing, but you can at least bop along to the beat.
The things kids wear at summer concerts these days can be pretty intimidating. Anything besides a standard headband makes you look like a hippie, and the shorts are way too short—the last time your behind was hanging out that much was by accident at the gym. Also, there’s no way you could pull off one of those tiny crop tops without popping out of it first.
Don’t let the trends keep you from dressing up. With these modifications, you can take your children to see their favorite stars without sacrificing your trendiness or dignity.
Yes, the bright and beautiful prints of these jumpsuits draw the eye to just the right places, but they’re impractical. Don’t fret; you can have just as much fun with a flowy printed blouse and some stylish-yet-comfy jogger pants.
Marks and Spencer plc tile print jumpsuit; MANGO boho paisley blouse; White House Black Market slinky challis jogger pants
These bucket hats were totally adorable 20 years ago, but now they just look silly on you. Leave them to the “real” ’90s kids, and keep the sun out of your eyes with a classic floppy hat instead.
Tilly’s ditsy floral reversible womens bucket hat; BETMAR striped straw sun hat
Not only is it shaped like a bikini top, but it also has several holes through which strangers can see even more skin. The crochet crop top takes a lot of confidence to wear, and you’d rather be bold in a more mature, less physically revealing way. Keep the beautiful patterns and add some fabric with a crochet knit T-shirt instead.
Yoins beige bralet top with crochet trim; MANGO crochet knit T-shirt
The flowy shorts give a lot of attention to areas that you may or may not want people to focus on while you’re enjoying a concert with your adolescent children. They can be flattering and stylish, but they’re definitely designed for a younger crowd. The lace culottes are more appropriately flirty and fun while remaining on trend.
Wet Seal tribal print pompom trim envelope shorts; MSGM lace culottes
Popular around the world since B.C., head chains can be absolutely gorgeous on the right person. However, unless you wear them for cultural or symbolic reasons, they don’t belong on your body at a concert. Instead, keep it simple with a metallic headband.
Topshop elephant head drape chain; BCBGMAXAZRIA stone-cluster headband
The fringed kimono: an honest reflection of modern fashion’s cultural blends. This is a trend for everyone, no matter your age, gender or parental status. But should you wish to look a little more sophisticated, some velour or velvet should do the trick.
H&M fringed lace kimono; Zara fringed devoré kimono
The shorts, however they may be called, aren’t meant for you. You gave up on anything with a half-inch inseam once you realized you had sexier traits than your legs. Save the flattering waistline, throw in some lengthening vertical stripes and add a few inches to the inseam, and you’ve got yourself a pair of “mom-ified” mom shorts.
Pixie Market rolled denim shorts; T by Alexander Wang striped denim skater shorts
There’s been a lot of controversy over these “flatforms.” However you feel about the trend, we’ve found a classier, more comfortable—or at least comfier-looking—pair of the sandals that can keep you on your feet through a three-hour set list AND make driving to and from the venue struggle-free.
Windsor Smith 80 MM leather cage wedge sandals; Butter Shoes Frenchy platform sandal