What should I wear to the ballet?
I'm going to the London Ballet on Saturday night. Is there a dress code and/or what should I wear? No tutu jokes, please.
Suit. Tie optional.
If you are still unsure, check the ballet's web site. In the FAQ section, there is typically a q&a about attire.
10 Answers
Sorry for misspelling a few words. I was typing fast and didn't spell check.
Just "smart" will do (unless it's opening night or a special gala event).
I'd go with any suit you have -- I personally like navy or grey the best. Just make sure the details are in place -- shone shoes, etc.
A wool coat is best for a suit, but nobody will care.
Overdressing is pretentious. A tux will put you in the minority for sure. Wear a suit or a sport coat getup.
As a dancer who lived in London for several years and went to performances quite often, I can tell you you should most assuredly NOT "dress up". (If, indeed, you are attending the ballet in London, and not somewhere else in the world. Dress codes in other cities vary, and unfortunately I can't help you with the nuances of audience-wear in those places.) If you want to blend in and look as if you attend dance concerts regularly, trousers, a button-up shirt (no tie), and a pair of leather dress shoes is about as fancy a get-up as you should aim for (even a suit screams "trying too hard!") My typical outfit for a night at the theatre was a pair of jeans (nice, no holes), an artsy graphic tee, cardigan, retro trainers, and a black peacoat, and nobody batted an eyelash.
Essentially, you should dress to fit into the pub you're planning on visiting afterward. However you feel comfortable presenting yourself in public will be just fine with the balletomanes.
While I'm not a dancer, and have never lived in London, I'm going to have to go with a different opinion based on my friends that are dancers.
Dress up (without overdoing it) out of respect for the performers and the hard work they've put in. Something nicer than denim or cargo pants. Something with a collar, even if it's a short sleeve polo. Tie is optional.
Dress like you'd dress for a first date at a nice restaurant.
I have been to the ballet a couple times and I always go with the slacks, button-up dress shirt (no tie) and either a sweater or sportcoat. Nothing too fancy. There will be a lot of people in casual clothes.
No tutu jokes, I promise.
You best bet is to overdress, especially for something like a ballet or an opera...and in London.
You can tux it if you'd like, but here is my suggestion:
Wear a nice black suit. If you are going with a girlfriend or wife ask what they will be wearing so you can compliment their evening gowns with your attire.
Make sure your shoes are in good and clean condition and scuff free. Also ensure your jacket, shirt and pants are wrinkle and lint free.
Go the extra mile and add a pair of classy cufflinks to a French cuff shirt.
Wear a dressy pea coat for the evening weather.
Don't forget to be clean shaven and dab a bit of cologne for good measure...and now Axe Body Spray either.
Follow these simple instructions and you should be good to go...you might even make a few women swoon too.
Have fun and do not forget your ballet etiquette. Here is a website with some do's and don't during a ballet: http://www.ehow.com/how_2050028_behave-ballet.html
Hope this helps!
-Tara