Going to the theater is different from many other events, such as going to the cinema. If you want to be perceived as a cultured person, it is important to know, among other things, how to choose the right wardrobe. Read on to learn about the established traditions and features of theater etiquette.
How to dress for a show?
The dress code for visiting the theater has general rules that are recommended to be followed regardless of the status of the establishment:
- colors should be restrained;
- the clothing material is calm, without glitter;
- if there is a couple, their outfits should match (for example, a tuxedo and a long evening dress);
- shoes must be clean and tidy - to ensure this, take a cleaning sponge or spare shoes with you.
To a woman
The most stringent requirements are imposed on women's clothing:
- clothing should be different from everyday clothing;
- Wear accessories (rings, bracelets, earrings) that are moderately bright and not too massive; only one of the items can attract attention;
- maintain decency: what is important here is that it is reasonable to expose any parts of the body, e.g. legs - to the middle of the kneecap;
- standard tights, without mesh,
- small handbag.
Here are examples of what the appearance should be:
- The classic version of clothing is a blouse (white or another calm color) and a skirt (narrow and tight-fitting, for example “pencil”).
- Pantsuits (skirt and jacket, trousers and jacket) in strict colors are allowed.
- An elegant floor-length dress will be appropriate at high-profile premieres or in prestigious institutions (Bolshoi Theater, Vienna Opera), as well as if you are invited to the VIP box.
To a man
Male audiences are less likely than females to face the problem of what to wear to the theater. Still, there are recommendations that should be followed:
- The best option is a formally colored suit, a white shirt and a plain tie. If there are cells or stripes in the drawing, then they should be barely noticeable. The tie can be replaced with a scarf or bow tie.
- Jeans are allowed, but without fashionable holes or different colors, and must be combined with a shirt and jacket.
- The jacket can stand out in style, this is allowed, especially for ordinary ordinary performances.
- Any of the options can be supplemented with accessories (cufflinks, neckerchief, etc.)
- A tuxedo looks appropriate at bright premieres and in large theaters.
To kid
There are no special requirements for children. However, an educational moment is important here, so that from a young age they understand how to dress and behave correctly. The dress code is the same as for adults. Suitable for girls:
Boys are recommended:
- costume;
- trousers, shirt, vest;
- shirt, sweater, trousers, bow tie.
On a note! The child can wear a school uniform (provided that it is of high quality and fashionable), add accessories to the image (handbag, earrings, bracelet, etc.)
Winter dress code
Seasonal requirements:
- shoulders should be covered;
- sleeves of maximum length;
- a spare pair of shoes (winter shoes are not allowed in the hall);
- an outfit with open shoulders and a neckline can be covered with a scarf or jacket.
Theater Dress Code: Basics
Every theater has established rules. They can be found on the official website or at stands directly in the institution.
Focus on the time of the performance (day or evening), the level of the audience and the theater, make sure that your clothes match the outfit satellite or companions. Dress more festively than on ordinary days, but keep in mind that luxurious evening dresses are only suitable for high-status establishments.
Dressing appropriately for the event is not only a tribute to established traditions, but also part of the general theatrical atmosphere, designed to incite certain emotions, this is respect for art.
The strictness of the dress code is determined by the status of the establishment and the level of the public. However, now many theaters - both in Russia and abroad - are relaxed about the clothes of spectators. Except, of course, for completely unacceptable options (if you are wearing something that is not worn in polite society).
On a note! Some experts believe that various conventions have lost their relevance, and you can go to the theater as you please, with the exception of elite institutions and star premieres (however, it is impossible for an ordinary viewer to attend them without an invitation).
What should you not wear to the theater?
There are restrictions, if violated, the viewer will not be allowed to watch the performance.It is prohibited to wear:
- Clothes intended for the beach or sports (shorts, flip-flops, sneakers, T-shirts, etc.).
- Too transparent outfits.
The following list is more of a recommendation, but if you violate them, you will look like an uncultured person in the eyes of others. We do not recommend wearing:
- hats and large accessories on the head (flowers, feathers);
- short skirts or dresses with a deep neckline;
- sweaters or cardigans (they are everyday items);
- suits, ties, shirts with “flashy” colors;
- the abundance of lace and many ruffles are inappropriate.
Important! Some types of performances allow for a casual and even sporty style. These are those performances where the viewer’s comfort is important when viewing (hour-long works, premieres by experimental directors, etc.).
Whether you follow these rules or not is up to you, dear reader. But you must admit that by changing your ordinary clothes to something more sophisticated and beautiful, you will enjoy the performance and at the same time feel that you have made your personal contribution to the theatrical atmosphere.