What to wear to the theatre and opera
Most theatres no longer have a dress code, but the tradition of dressing up lives on – especially at the opera and ballet premieres. For a regular evening show, smart casual or semi-formal works; premieres, gala concerts and New Year's performances call for cocktail; opera balls and grand premieres for black tie.
For women
- A midi dress or an elegant suit
- For a premiere, a cocktail dress
- Elegant shoes comfortable for standing in the foyer at the interval
- A light wrap – halls can be cool
For men
- A blazer and trousers, or a suit
- For a premiere, a dark suit and tie
- Leather shoes or smart loafers
What to avoid
- Big hats and tall hairdos that block the view
- Rustling fabrics and jangling jewellery
- Sportswear
- Strong perfume – you'll sit close to others
Tips
- Leave your coat in the cloakroom – it's awkward in the hall.
- For matinees and children's shows, more relaxed.
- At major opera houses abroad (Vienna, Milan), expectations for premieres are stricter.
Premiere or a regular show?
Premieres, season openings and gala concerts are occasions to dress up: a cocktail dress, a dark suit. For a regular evening show, work clothes with a blazer or a nicer top are enough. Opera and ballet are traditionally dressier than drama. At outdoor summer festivals, smart casual and a warm layer for the evening.
Smart casual
Women: Dark jeans or trousers + a good blouse or knit + a blazer + elegant shoes.
Men: Dark jeans or chinos + a shirt, polo or knit + (blazer) + leather shoes or clean sneakers.
Semi-formal
Women: A midi or knee-length dress / an elegant suit + heels or smart flats.
Men: A suit, or a blazer with tailored trousers + a dress shirt; tie depending on the event.
Cocktail attire
Women: A knee-length or midi cocktail dress + heels + a small bag.
Men: A dark suit + dress shirt + tie (increasingly optional) + leather shoes.
Black tie
Women: A floor-length evening gown + elegant heels + a small clutch.
Men: A black or midnight-blue tuxedo + white dress shirt + black bow tie + patent shoes.
Frequently asked
01Can you wear jeans to the theatre?
For a regular show, dark smart jeans with a blazer or good top are acceptable. For the opera and premieres, better not.
02What to wear to the opera?
For a regular evening, semi-formal (a dress, a suit); for a premiere or gala, cocktail or black tie if stated.
03Do you need a long dress for the opera?
No – a gown is only for opera balls and black-tie galas. For a regular performance a midi or cocktail dress is enough.
04What should a man wear to the theatre?
A blazer and trousers or a suit, a shirt and leather shoes; for a premiere, a dark suit and tie.