With World Ballet Day this week, my ballet history series progressing nicely, and a jam packed theatre schedule, I’ve been asked this question frequently. I think that dance companies and theatres are doing a wonderful job at bringing in new patrons. And with that, people who might not know what to wear to the theatre. While it might seem overwhelming, there are a few key pieces that will help you feel comfortable. (And they will be versatile pieces- it shouldn’t be separate.) With the Nutcracker season kicking off now, holiday plays coming soon, and the regular dance and theatre season in full swing, many of us will be heading to the theatre. This is a quick guide on what to wear to the theatre for your next theatre event!
Why Should I Dress Up For the Theatre?
I get asked this question 9/10 times when I’m discussing ballet or theatre, and I’m still slightly baffled by it. Rightfully so, people would be quite confused if you arrived at football or hockey game in a floor length evening gown, or a tuxedo. Technically, you could still watch the game/match, but it doesn’t really work. And THAT doesn’t get any push back. However, any time an event calls for any ounce of formality, people gripe. What you wear sends a message to the people around you. It says that you care enough to wear appropriate clothing, and that you have a basic understanding of what is going on. (In this case, it would say that you know you are going to a ballet in a theatre.)
Part of the experience of the theatre is the unofficial (sometimes official dress code)- most of us don’t normally get to dress up in our day to day life, and it adds to the experience. It’s sad to see half of a crowd wandering around in ripped jeans and sweatshirts when you are about to walk into a theatre. And if nothing else, the dancers, actor, musicians, and technical crews have worked incredibly hard to put on the best possible show for you. Wearing the appropriate clothing and dressing up is another way to show them that you appreciate their work and dedication. However, it isn’t quite as difficult to dress appropriately as you might think. You don’t need to wear any specific brands or designers, just take care of what you are wearing.
What to Wear to the Ballet or Theatre
Check the company or theatre’s website beforehand to find out if there is a specific dress code. Some theatres will have their own dress code, but many leave it at the attendee’s discretion. If nothing is specified, I would recommend going with a semi-formal outfit. (The rule of thumb would be what you would wear to charity dinner or a wedding.) And, you will most likely have more than one option for this in your closet, meaning that you shouldn’t have to go out and buy something. So, what are your best options?
1. Cocktail Dress
If you are going for the easiest option, a dress will probably be your best choice. A semi-formal dress that you would wear to a standard wedding or to a charity event. It doesn’t need to be particularly flashy, or a certain colour, but it should be appropriate for any age to see (ie. not too short or low-cut). If you like to re-use the same cocktail dress (which you should!), make sure that it isn’t faded or have loose stitching. And ensure that you try it on before an event to make sure that it still fits- don’t assume that it will be.
Note: if you do wear a cocktail dress, bring a wrap or a cardigan with you in case there is a draft in the theatre.
2. A Skirt and a Blouse/Top
If you want to take full advantage of your wardrobe, you can also wear a skirt and a blouse (or top)! I find that this can be a great way to get more use out of individual pieces in your wardrobe, and can be more versatile than a cocktail dress. One reader pointed out that she attends her local theatre regularly and is photographed, so she doesn’t feel comfortable wearing the same dress repeatedly. This option would solve that! As with a cocktail dress, also ensure that the neckline and hemline are appropriate.
Note: You absolutely can wear dress pants if you don’t want to wear a skirt! I would dress it up slightly more if you are, to avoid looking like you are heading to the office. (It puts me in a different frame of mind.)
3. Clean/Polished Shoes and Accessories
Like I said above, you absolutely don’t need to have any luxury handbags or expensive pieces. There may be people there with Louis Vuitton or Hermès bags, or Louboutin shoes, but it isn’t a competition. What you do need to do is check that your shoes are clean of any dirt or debris, and that you have polished or brushed any scuffs or marks. And of course, ensure that you can walk properly in them. Make sure that your handbag isn’t cracked or peeling, and clean it out- you don’t want to be trailing debris throughout the theatre and the lobby. And finally jewellery- jewellery is a nice touch for theatre, but make sure that it won’t reflect a ton of light. (Disco ball pendants and the like can be distracting for literally the entire theatre.)
4. Men: A Suit
I know that most men seem to grumble about wearing suits, but it is going to be the most efficient outfit to wear. If it is a dressed down crowd, you can take off your jacket and tie, and potentially roll up your sleeves. If there are a lot of other men in tuxedos, you shouldn’t feel terribly out of place in a suit. And best of all, you can re-wear the same suit nine million times and no one will notice. (And yes, this is a gender imbalance… See my note above on wearing the same dress/outfit, should you want to!)
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And if you are getting ready for a visit to the theatre, please visit my theatre etiquette post as well! Most theatre etiquette is quite straight forward, and only requires common sense. And following basic etiquette will go a long way to make sure that you and the people around you have the best theatre experience possible. Getting to see the ballet or the theatre is one of my favourite things to do! You don’t want it do be ruined by someone leaving on their phone or running into the theatre 10 minutes late.
What would you add to my guide on what to wear to the theatre?
Cheers,
The Historian
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