How to dress for the theater as a modern girl. How to dress for the theater? 17 current tips for ladies

Unfortunately, modern women It's rare to get a chance to wear a beautiful outfit. For many, going to the theater is a festive event, during which they can not only spend time usefully, but also demonstrate to others their excellent taste.

Choosing an outfit for the theater

When choosing a toilet for a “going out”, you need to take into account the format of the performance, the characteristics of the audience and the time of the event:

  • Usually theatrical performances for older audiences take place in the evening, after 18:00. Therefore, you can afford high heels, complex styling and bright makeup.
  • Daytime performances are sensitive to the choice of toilet.
  • If you like to attend informal productions or house performances, then here you can relax and pick up something from your everyday wardrobe.

A cocktail dress with closed shoulders, made in subdued colors, is considered a win-win option for an evening out. The ideal length is to the knee or slightly below. If you want to look dressier than most, choose an ankle-length dress. A midi or maxi skirt is also appropriate for visiting the theater.

If previously going to the theater in trousers was considered unacceptable, today this rule is being violated more and more often. For example, as an alternative to a dress, you can wear trouser overalls. And regular trousers (but not jeans!) in combination with a beautiful blouse or smart jacket are quite suitable.

If you plan to go to the theater immediately after the office, when there is no opportunity to change clothes, it’s okay. A sheath dress, a skirt suit or, complemented by, is suitable for this occasion. True, at the end of the working day, this image can be complemented with jewelry and brighter makeup.

A gala premiere at the opera house is exactly the occasion when it is appropriate to wear. Evening dresses with an open neck and even a back are welcome. You can cover your shoulders with a light cape or fur boa. Also, such an outfit is relevant for visiting the capital’s “name” theaters.

Shoes and accessories

For evening performances, choose shoes with heels of about 5-7 cm or platforms. You can go to daytime performances in more democratic shoes, for example, boots or ballet shoes.

According to the rules of etiquette, you should not wear open shoes: sandals, sandals, and even more so flip-flops. If you are going to go to the theater in the cold season, give up felt boots, UGG boots, and “puffers” in favor of more sophisticated models. If it is possible to take a change of shoes with you, for example, elegant shoes, then this will be the best solution.

Going to the theater is often equated with festive event, but don't take it too literally. Don't try to put on your best at once. You can't go wrong if you choose beautiful, but laconic jewelry. This is jewelry from precious metals and stones, as well as high-quality jewelry. A small evening bag or clutch will successfully complete the look.

What should you not wear?

Theaters do not have a strict dress code that could prevent a visitor from attending a performance. Some people actively use this. Therefore, today you can see spectators in sneakers, jeans, shorts, stretched T-shirts, sportswear. It is better to leave such things for another occasion, for example, walking with friends. The theater should not be confused with a club. Minidresses, shiny tops, too revealing outfits - all this is unacceptable in this case.

When choosing an outfit, it is important to remember that it should not cause inconvenience to other visitors. This is why it is better to give up high hairstyles. If you wear a hat to the theater, it is recommended to take it off during the performance so as not to block the view of other spectators. Leave large bags, bags, and backpacks in your wardrobe.

Despite the fact that opera and drama theaters have fairly strict requirements for appearance, even here you can meet visitors in jeans and knitted turtlenecks. In order not to catch astonished glances, it is worth finding the line between theatrical fashion and modern realities.

Ksenia Alexandrova especially for the site
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The content of the article

Famous theater rule says that theater begins with a hanger. There is some truth in this saying. Indeed, any trip to the theater begins with thoughts about what to wear. After all, it is very important to choose the right theatrical outfit to feel confident in the theater and enjoy the performance to the fullest.

Theater dress code

The theater is the same house of culture where people come to relax and enjoy a performance or music. Previously, to go to the theater, a man had to wear a tuxedo, and a woman had to wear an evening dress, jewelry and gloves. A lot has changed since then. The modern rhythm of life does not allow us to spend the whole day before going to the theater choosing an evening dress or getting beautiful in a beauty salon. Sometimes people come to the theater straight from work.

Today the theater dress code is more democratic. However, it has its own rules. IN Opera theatre It’s customary to come in evening dress, but in Theatre of Drama You should dress this way only if you will be sitting in the front rows of the stalls or in a box.

It is also acceptable to come to the theater in calm colors or in a cocktail dress. The option of a blouse and a dark skirt is possible. The main rule is that you do not look provocative and vulgar. After all, you came to the theater, and not to a fashion show, so a trendy outfit and a deep neckline would be inappropriate here.

Undoubtedly, theater etiquette does not assume that if you come in sneakers and jeans, you will be immediately pushed out of this temple of art. But this will be regarded as a disrespectful attitude towards others and towards the theater itself.

Also, provocative makeup would be inappropriate in the theater. And under no circumstances should you use harsh perfume or pour half a bottle of your favorite perfume on yourself - think about those around you. Also, your high hairstyle will disturb those around you, so don’t build intricate towers on your head. It would also be useful to remind you of the categorical prohibition of consuming alcoholic beverages or foods with a strong unpleasant odor before going to the theater. Also, consider matching your outfit to that of your date.

Theater dress code for men

A man in the theater should look elegant. Men usually wear a tuxedo to the theater. However, it is also permissible to wear suits dark colors, which can be either plain or with barely noticeable stripes or checkered patterns. A shirt to match a suit should be chosen in light shades. Well, a mandatory accessory for a theatrical outfit should be a smart tie, scarf or bow tie. If you are planning a trip to creative evening where the youth audience will predominate, you can wear a jacket and trousers different color or shirt and trousers without a jacket.

Theater dress code for women

If for a man the choice of clothes for the theater is not so diverse, then women have plenty to choose from. What a lady can wear for going to the theater:

1. Evening dress. When choosing evening dress for the theater, you should pay attention to straight silhouettes. You are unlikely to feel comfortable in a theater in fluffy dresses or dresses with a train, just like in a dress embroidered with rhinestones or stones.

2. Cocktail dress. Nowadays, this is the most common outfit for going to the theater. This dress looks beautiful and elegant, but not too pretentious. When choosing a cocktail dress, pay attention to the fact that it is in muted shades. But you can choose quite bold jewelry for it, but do not overdo it so as not to look vulgar.

3. Tuxedo. Strange as it may sound, but the tuxedo has now become a favorite evening outfit for male half population, and for women. Under a tuxedo you should wear a dark chiffon blouse and large necklace. Stiletto heels would also be appropriate for this outfit.

4. Pantsuit. For going to the theater, both a classic trouser suit and 7/8-length cropped trousers, colored or printed, are suitable. You can wear a light blouse or top under them.

Accessories

It is worth paying special attention to the selection of accessories. The rule of calm shades also applies here. You shouldn’t hang on to everything that is in your home, so as not to look like Christmas tree. Your outfit itself speaks of a special occasion. For jewelry, you should choose a beautiful necklace, earrings or ring.

An elegant theatrical handbag should also be present in your wardrobe. It could be either, or an elegant clutch.

Shoes

When choosing shoes for the theater, pay attention not only to comfort, but also to beauty. Make sure in advance that your wardrobe has at least one pair of shoes for a special occasion. Shoes for going to the theater must have heels, but they should not be more than eight centimeters. In any case, shoes should complement your evening outfit. The main rule is that wearing boots to the theater is bad manners. If you go to the theater in the cold season, you can take your shoes with you. There is an opportunity to change shoes in the theater.

This is how our women are structured, the genetic memory of grandmothers is so strong in them, the longing for beautiful appearances in society, that they perceive a trip to the theater as the only opportunity to wear their best at once. And they are right. The theater is the place where you can afford to look a little overdressed. Wear jewelry, a deep neckline, high heels, luxurious outfits, perhaps something overly shiny. However, one should not forget about a sense of proportion, taste and style - no one has canceled them in the theater.

We must learn to restrain our wildest impulses. Remember: going to the theater in “grand soir” dresses - luxurious floor-length dresses, boas, coats and diamonds - is only appropriate if it is a grand premiere at the Bolshoi Theater or Vienna Opera, For example. All other theaters, of course, have their own dress code requirements. Theaters are different: in genres, styles, and in each of them it is worth choosing a certain outfit that corresponds to the place and philosophy of this temple of art.

Theater matters

If you are going to an experimental and underground theater, for example, “Teatr.DOC”, then wearing a floor-length dress with an open back is at least strange. This is the place where you will look great in jeans, sneakers or sneakers, a white T-shirt and a leather jacket. But that's the only thing theater place where you can dress like this.

The theater is a place where people come to enjoy the mesmerizing atmosphere and the performances of the actors. For most people, going to the theater is akin to a festive event. But you need to remember a number of rules, especially regarding clothing, behavior and appearance.

Theater etiquette rules

The basic rules of behavior in the theater are known to many. Always arrive at least 20 minutes before the start time to have time to leave your outerwear in the cloakroom and take your seats. If you are late and the third bell has already rung, you will have to go to the upper tier. You will be able to take your seats only after intermission.

Don't forget about other viewers. They, just like you, want to enjoy the performance. Do not pour a lot of perfume on yourself and use strong odors, or do high hairstyles that will obscure your view. Be sure to turn off cell phones so that an unintentional call does not disturb other spectators or performers. No food, drinks, packages or large bags should be brought into the hall. And, of course, you must maintain silence. In addition, going to the theater requires following a certain dress code.

How should a woman dress for the theater?

It must be remembered that the appearance requirements for an evening performance are higher than for a daytime performance.

So, for a daytime performance, a woman can wear a cocktail dress, a skirt or trousers with a blouse, or a stylish jumpsuit. It is allowed to wear inexpensive and moderately bold jewelry. The same recommendations can be followed if you go to a small local theater.

If you have tickets to Grand Theatre in your arms, and you’re also going to an evening performance, then the dress code will be more strict. Here you should choose evening dresses in dark, noble colors. You can wear a suit, but with a skirt. Jewelry should be modest and in small quantities, but look more expensive (wooden beads will not be appropriate). A bag for going to the theater should be small, and when choosing shoes, give preference to heels.

What should a man wear to the theater?

A man should also look elegant. During the day, he can limit himself to trousers and a shirt. In the evening, it should be a suit or tuxedo of a dark color (black, dark gray or dark blue), preferably plain, but there may be an inconspicuous check or stripe. The shirt must be light, the tie must be one color. Instead of a tie, you can wear a bow tie. Shoes – classic men's shoes.

The question of what to wear to the theater, which worried high society several centuries ago, remains relevant. After all, previously, her success and the ability to find a suitable match depended on how a girl was dressed. Today, the choice of outfit is treated with the same care, because everyone wants to look “on the level,” especially in a temple of art.

Visiting the theater is a double pleasure: firstly, to watch an interesting production, secondly, to show off your best outfits and good taste. Still, whatever one may say, this social event, the special atmosphere of which requires certain rules of behavior and selection of wardrobe. And even if you like a sporty style, here you will have to give it up, revealing your femininity and elegance.

You will be surprised, but the choice of outfit will depend on several factors:
the type of production you are going to see. The coolest wardrobe is needed when attending an opera or ballet: here you can’t do without a dress.

For a dramatic performance, you can choose something strict, classic, and a good suit will do.

And the most democratic version of clothing is appropriate for performances in children's, puppet, and informal theaters. Although this also has its own rules - casual style is still undesirable; the prestige of the building itself obliges.

Remember: than more theater, the more luxurious its furnishings, the more spectacular the outfit must be prepared to correspond to the level of the cultural institution.

The time of display also affects. Daytime productions, running until 6 pm, do not require a special dress code: girls can wear a dress to the knee or below in any color, and men can limit themselves to dark trousers and any plain shirt.

And the performance after 6 requires more strict rules: for women - these are evening dresses, and their companions - suits.

"Theatrical" dress code for women and girls

And now – more about the outfits. What should a woman or girl wear to the theater? Be sure to take into account the recommendations above and consider options for secular “equipment.”

When is it appropriate to wear an evening dress to the theater?

The occasion is a gala premiere or a theater of the highest elite level. Floor-length models with open shoulders or backs and gloves are welcome here; and jewelry - jewelry, of course, no costume jewelry. In winter, you can throw fur over your shoulders. Pay special attention, but don't overdo it. Some dresses do not require any additions, just a minaudiere and flesh-colored pumps.

A more democratic option is an ankle-length dress, plain elegant with or without gloves, as well as “” or cocktail dresses; accessories – in the absence of jewelry, expensive jewelry is allowed.

A black-black dress, but with shiny decor, would be appropriate in the theater.

A classic outfit - both a blouse or jacket. Stylish, elegant, tasteful. You can also go to a premiere or an opera, only if it is not La Scala or the Bolshoi Theater.

Trousers - controversial issue. The dress code prohibits them, but the rules are constantly violated. If you really want it, so be it, wear trousers with a jacket or a beautiful blouse. Just not jeans and not to the premiere! Ideally, a pantsuit.

Stockings or tights are plain, strong enough, but not dense.

Shoes - any classic - stiletto heels, medium heels, those that go with a dress or suit.

Handbag - preferably a clutch or a tiny hard clutch (minaudière) that matches the style of the outfit and its color scheme.

The hairstyle is elegant, stylish, but neat, preferably smooth, so as not to interfere with the spectators sitting behind to watch what is happening on stage.

And if you have an elegant fitted jacket that fits your figure perfectly, don’t miss the opportunity to show it off.

Cool jacket! INCITY

What to wear to the theater in winter

If we talk about the cold season, then the rules remain the same, except that you can throw furs over the shoulders of an evening dress, and the jacket-skirt suit will be made of thicker fabric.

By the way, about outerwear: a short coat or short fur coat made of natural fur fitted or straight cut. Shoes will replace boots, ankle boots or ankle boots of a classic design, always with heels.

What should a girl who is going to an informal performance wear to the theater? Typically, such productions are held in cafes, cultural centers, clubs and other establishments rented by the theater.

Here you can completely relax and forget about all prohibitions. Jeans and a striking blouse or an interesting sweatshirt will be just right.

Men's theater outfit

The question of what a man should wear to the theater is easier to solve. For a daytime session, you can limit yourself to trousers and a plain dress shirt.

For an evening premiere or to the opera, a suit is required; for an elite theater, a dark-colored tuxedo is required. It is black, dark blue or gray, possibly striped or checkered, almost invisible.

Shirt in classic version– white or other light shade. A tie without any colors or abstractions – just plain. If you are wearing a tuxedo, a bow tie would be appropriate. And classic black shoes will complete the elegant look.

There are things you need to avoid when visiting classical theater, otherwise you will look out of place and funny.

These are any tops, T-shirts, jeans, in a word, sports style.

Miniskirts look vulgar; the length should be no higher than 3-4 cm from the knee.

The deep neckline and long cutout on the thigh are also from the “bad manners” series. Why? Because you are not the one performing on stage today!

No “acid” shades in clothes – only deep, beautiful, noble colors.

And most importantly, by putting on elegant things, creating a charming image, do not forget to behave accordingly in order to make a truly chic impression.

In any case, go to the theater as often as possible and definitely learn how to dress impeccably for a trip to the temple of Melpomene.

Where to buy an outfit for going to the theater

Spend some time shopping for a good elegant dress, suit or evening dress. Search online stores, subscribe to mailing lists of sites that sell expensive clothes to stay updated on sales and discounts. Successful and elegant things can be found in mass-market stores, but you will have to search long and meticulously.

Very beautiful things can always be found on Aizel.ru, Lamoda.ru, Asos.com, LightIntheBox.com

And don’t forget that if you go to the theater with the same friends or boyfriend, you can’t repeat yourself, you need to have several images.

And if you're going to spend time in a more relaxed atmosphere, read on to look chic.

Do you often go to the theater?