What Clothes to Wear to a Broadway Show
For some people, a trip to New York City is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and taking in a Broadway show is a very special occasion. Others travel to New York often, or even live in the area and are regular visitors to the Great White Way. Because of this broad spectrum of theater-goers, people wear a wide range of clothing styles. Beyond a few items to avoid, Broadway has no particular dress code. Does this Spark an idea?
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Matinees
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A matinee is a daytime performance of a Broadway show. Casts usually perform two matinees per week, often on Wednesdays and again on Saturdays or Sundays. A matinee is traditionally a less formal outing as people tend not to dress too formally for an event in the afternoon. Business attire is fine; men will be comfortable and dressy enough in suit pants with a nice button-down shirt. Women can wear a skirt or slacks and a comfortable, but slightly dressy blouse. Comfortable dress shoes, as opposed to high heels, are acceptable and will help while walking around New York.
Evenings
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At evening performances of Broadway shows, you will see a very wide range of clothing styles, from tuxedos to very casual. Try to dress somewhere in the middle of these options to blend in perfectly. Men, wear dress pants with a dress shirt and jacket, or a suit and tie. Women, wear a fashionable dress or a skirt and jacket, but don't feel the need to wear a formal gown. If the weather is cold, dress your outfit up with a dressier overcoat as opposed to a casual winter jacket.
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Special Performances
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Sometimes Broadway shows hold special performances that serve as fundraising events, and celebrities and society types are in attendance. Opening night of any show is also a very special occasion. If you find yourself attending on one of these special nights, join the fun by dressing to the nines. Men, wear formal evening suits or tuxedos. Women, wear a gown or, if a long dress is uncomfortable, wear a shorter dress that is made formal by its material, such as satin, or embellishments such as sequins. Complete the outfit with heels and sparkly jewelry.
Clothes to Avoid
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While Broadway theaters, for the most part, have no specified dress code, certain items are generally frowned upon. Avoid wearing jeans, a T-shirt and tennis shoes. Also, do not wear sweatpants, a sweatshirt or a sweat jacket. Men should avoid wearing baseball caps, and if they wearing any hat, they should remove it during the performance. Remember that you'll be sitting in relatively close quarters, possibly next to a stranger. If you have a huge, bulky winter coat such as a parka, either do not wear it, or leave it at coat check.
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References
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