How to Dress to Attend the Ballet

In many communities, the ballet is considered a formal event. Patrons show up in long formal gowns and tuxedos, diamonds and pearls abounding. Younger, amateur ballet dancers are just happy to see their parents show up for their programs and there is not as big a demand for formal dress. However, as the dance shows go, more mainstream, dressing to attend the ballet becomes less formal and more casual.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check with someone in the box office that sells tickets to the ballet. These folks typically don't have an investment in the ballet; they usually work for the venue. They can give you some unbiased opinions of what the majority of ballet-goers are wearing your community.

2. Go with an outfit that is more business casual and will fit in with most any environment. For men or women, a sports jacket or blazer can dress up black pants and black shirt and mix into a formal or casual setting with ease.

3. Take the opportunity to go formal with a long strapless gown or tuxedo. These events can be fun to dress for, especially if you don't get a chance to do it very often. While many people may be dressed casually these days, die hard ballet fans wouldn't think of attending the ballet in anything less than their finest attire.

4. Get your hair done in an elegant updo. Women can even don a tiara. Add long gloves for a great formal effect for your gown. Remember to bring a shawl if you have bare shoulders, since most theaters pump in air conditioning. It can get quite chilly sitting high in your seat, showing off your great outfit.

5. Wear a suit and tie or a nice dress if you want to dress up but not go quite as formal as the gown and tux thing. Pleasant, clean "Sunday" dress is always appropriate at the ballet.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider the venue when deciding on your outfit. Outdoor daytime performances at a dance festival in the park are less formal than a nighttime indoor performance at a formal theater or performance hall.