Getting all dressed up is an excuse to attend the opera.The opera house's dress code can affect what you wear.An elegant gown or tuxedo can be used for a more formal opera.If the opera house is casual, go for a professional vibe.Let the show start!
Step 1: The dress code can be determined by what other guests have worn.
The dress codes at opera houses are not as common as they used to be.Whether it's business casual or black tie, some still need a certain level of formality.Look on the opera house's website or use social media to see what past guests wore to the venue.The Met has an account on social media called "Last Night at the Met" that shows styles worn by attendees.You can ask the front desk what their rules are.Opera and theater are more popular in European cities than they are in American cities.If you're not sure of the dress code, go for it.
Step 2: If the opera is on a weekend night, dress extravagantly.
The opera is formal at certain times of the day.Weekend and evening shows are dressier than weekday shows.You wouldn't wear a floor-length gown to a show on a Tuesday.A business casual dress code could apply to a weekday matinee show at the theater.Women in pantsuits and pencil skirts might be seen.The dress code can be affected by the location.A fancy opera house in Vienna will be more formal than an opera being put on at the local college.
Step 3: If there's a theme night for your show, pick out a costume.
Some opera houses will host special themed nights.You can wear a full pirate costume or sea wench dress if you attend "Pirates of Penzance."Check the opera house's website to find out if there is a theme.Even if there is no theme, you can still get inspiration from the show.You can drape a kimono over your outfit for a showing of "The Mikado."
Step 4: To look sharp, wear a well-tailored suit or tuxedo.
No matter the dress code, formal suits are appropriate for the opera.Go the traditional route with a black, single-breasted jacket or choose something more contemporary like a midnight blue jacket.Make sure the jacket and pants fit correctly.If you want to stand out, choose a velvet smoking jacket in a pretty pastel hue or jewel tone.For a modern look, women can wear pantsuits or tuxedos.Renting a tuxedo is a cheaper option if you don't want to wear it again.
Step 5: If you're not sure of the dress code, wear a black dress.
A classic LBD is a must.A sleek, figure-hugging dress is a more formal option.You can channel your inner Hepburn with a boat-necked black sheath.Pick a black dress with different styles like lace or velvet, or fun accents like a pearl- studded collar to add visual interest.
Step 6: For a formal affair, wear an evening gown.
The color, fit, and style are up to you.Go daring with a plunging neckline or cutouts, add a playful touch with bead work or gold stitching.A satin jumpsuit is a good choice for a woman who prefers pants.Don't use too many neon colors or cheaper fabrics.Opera tickets can cost up to $200 a ticket, so make the most of it and dress up.
Step 7: It's a little more casual to wear a cocktail dress.
A cocktail dress is more appropriate if your venue doesn't call for black tie.If you want a dress that cinches your waist, you should choose a jewel-toned skater dress.Shorter dresses need to be long enough that you can sit comfortably in them.You will be seated for hours.
Step 8: The focal point of your outfit should be a statement-making accessory.
It's at the opera where you can break out that necklace or earrings.Limit yourself to one bold piece and keep it classy.Men should wear a top hat or bowtie.If you wear a hat, take it off in the opera house.Traditional opera accessories include elbow-length gloves.Match them to the color of your dress.The gloves look pretty with a forest green gown.
Step 9: For an eye-catching accent, go all out with flashy footwear.
Since you'll be sitting down for most of the night, you don't have to worry about wearing shoes that are practical.If you're a woman or a man, pick sky-high stilettos or patent leather Oxfords.Before wearing leather shoes, they should bePolished so they shine.If you plan to wear high heels, you should try them on with your dress before you wear them.If you're wearing a plain black dress or simple black tuxedo, choose shoes with playful extras like a loafer with funky leather detailing or a heel with pom poms or glitter.
Step 10: A piece of outerwear that matches your outfit will keep you warm.
If you have to wear an extra layer, come prepared because opera houses can get cold.You should choose an item that is as formal as the rest of your look.A long cape, a lace shawl, and a wool peacoat are some of the options.An extra chic touch to a dress is a faux fur stole.Don't wear the puffer coats, cardigans, and denim jackets at home.
Step 11: Pair pieces of high-quality clothing.
A business casual vibe is your goal.For women, wear a blouse with a pencil skirt or jersey dress.The classic combo of a button-down shirt with trousers or chinos is for men.Choose clothes made of nicer fabrics.Check that the stitching is clean and there is no pilling on sweaters.Women who want to wear pants should look for professional pieces.On the weekend, don't wear denim, jeans, denim jackets, and sneakers.
Step 12: If it's cold inside the opera house, wear a fitted blazer.
In the summer, bring an extra layer to stay warm.You can't go wrong with a navy or black blazer if you want to match your business casual outfit.A tweed sports jacket is appropriate for men.It's important to get your jacket tailored to fit.For women, a blazer in a fun pattern like leopard print or one with lace detailing adds visual interest to a plain black dress.
Step 13: The rest of your outfit is complemented by conservative footwear.
Men can wear footwear.Ballet flats or classic pumps can be worn by women.The shoes you wear should match the clothes you are wearing.Black peep-toe heels are a better choice if you are wearing a sheath dress.If you're wearing heels, stick to a pair that's 2 to 3 inches high.They're both chic and traditional.Basic doesn't have to be boring for men.Wingtips or detailed stitching are fun accents to look for in casual shoes.
Step 14: For a classy look, keep accessories minimal.
If you're dressing casually, avoid the big earrings and bold baubles.Instead, opt for simple pieces like gold earrings for women.If you're bringing a bag, choose something small like a leather wristlet or sleek clutch.There are other jewelry options for women.
Step 15: If you want to smell nice, apply 1 to 2 pumps of a light spray.
You'll be sitting elbow-to-elbow in the opera house so be respectful of your fellow attendees and avoid strong fragrances.A light spray of body spray will keep you smelling fresh without overpowering your seat neighbors.The scent can be sprayed on your pulse points.The heat in these areas will help diffuse the scent.A good rule of thumb is to only have people within arm's length of you smell your scent.
Step 16: It's a good idea to wear your hair in a sleek, clean style.
No matter what your outfit is, your hair needs to be combed and styled.Men can put a small amount of gel on their hair.A smooth updo is one of the ways women can sport it.Women should avoid high ponytails and topknots.The taller you are, the harder it is for the person seated behind you to see the stage.Any outfit with braided hair has a romantic vibe.Try French braids or a side braid.
Step 17: If you want to wear makeup, play up your favorite feature.
Keeping the rest of your face neutral is the trick to glamorous makeup.If you love your lips, accent them with a bold lipstick and apply mascara to your eyelashes to make them stand out.If you want to make your eyes shine, try a smokey eye with heavy eyeliner, mascara, and shadow.Don't compete with your lids by sticking to a nude lip.Don't be afraid to use glitter, bright colors, and fake eyelashes for extra drama.