Rules of decency today are becoming outdated faster than they are invented. However, our theater columnist Maria Simonova figured out how to dress for the theater without people pointing fingers at you.
We talk about what men should do in 7 current tips for gentlemen.
1.
Place and occasion
They say that stylists have this rule: the more beautiful and rich the theater building, the more luxurious it is interior decoration, the more solemn the image of the guests can be. If you adhere to this principle, then in Tomsk you can put on festive outfits first of all in the “Version”, and on a smaller scale - in the Youth Theater. But, of course, the rule is not immutable.
If the Drama Theater looks like a grain elevator, and a big one at that concert hall can hardly be called an architectural masterpiece, this is not a reason to forget about evening dresses and suits. Still, the main thing is not the facades, vignettes and stucco moldings, but the specifics of the events themselves. Since they can be classified as cultural, then the outfit should be chosen accordingly.
2.
Floor-length dress
Choosing a revealing, floor-length evening dress today is risky. Few people decide to wear such outfits, so you should only contact them if you are ready to turn out to be a black sheep. If you strive for this role, and feel comfortable in it, and want to catch other people’s gazes, then, of course, a long, unconditional evening dress is what you need for going to a play or concert.
As an option, you can agree with your friends and appear as a whole group in long outfits. At the Mariinsky Theatre, for example, today you can meet such groups of ladies who have chosen luxurious evening dresses and enjoy the fact that during the intermission everyone can’t take their eyes off them.
3.
Cocktail dress
If you are not going to disturb the peace and value your delicate taste and the feeling of the moment, then a cocktail dress is ideal for going to the theater or a concert. Let it be simple, without crazy bells and whistles.
Accessories will help you express your complex nature - for example, a brooch and a neckerchief. For those who strive for a correct look, the length of the dress is average: a palm below or above the knee.
4.
Color
It is better to choose a color so that people sitting at the other end of the hall will not see you right away. No need for flashy, provocative neon shades.
In the current theater season, colors such as these are especially fashionable. beautiful names, How Marsala(deep wine shade), yellow oak(yellow-brown), reflection in the pond(dark blue), storm(deep grey).
These are top options; a cocktail dress in these tones will look very trendy. All recommendations about fashionable colors are also relevant for men’s looks (we’ll tell you more about outfits for gentlemen in the next issue).
5.
Little black dress
A black dress is a universal option, it is timeless and out of fashion. Just don’t give others a reason to think that you are in mourning!
Throwing a cardigan of a different tone on top, a neckerchief, a brooch chain, bright jewelry, gloves will help you avoid such thoughts... There are many ways to liven things up!
6.
On tour
What to do if you are not just going to a performance, but on a tour, and the production involves “stars” of the screen, people who have played in cult TV series?
Buying something unprecedented for the evening is completely optional. “Stars” shouldn’t force you to change your habits!
Those who feel uncomfortable in evening dresses should prefer a laconic option - a sheath dress. Or choose an alternative to a floor-length evening dress, such as a skirt with a blouse. The skirt can be long or a pencil skirt. The blouse is silk, with a discreet print if desired.
7.
To the puppet theater
Is the outfit different for visiting a puppet theater? The performances in them are different.
For example, if you are going to “Skomorokh” named after. R. Vinderman on “Pannochka” or “ Queen of Spades”, then these are productions designed for an adult audience. When choosing a dress, you don’t have to think about the fact that the theater is not dramatic.
And if you are taking your child to a fairy tale, then it would be nice to take part in creating an atmosphere of fun and celebration. At such performances, bright dresses with flowers, stripes and other fun prints look harmonious.
8.
Experimental theater
Today theater is changing rapidly, there are many experimental productions.
If you are going to a performance by a group you are not too familiar with and have heard that they reject the principle of the “fourth wall” or simply like to unexpectedly involve the audience in their works, then it is better to choose a casual style. Who knows, maybe you will have a chance to sit on the stage or even lie on it, depicting, for example, a stream.
A cocktail dress or formal suit will look strange in this situation, and it may suffer, which is also a shame.
9.
Read the announcements!
Sometimes the announcement of the production helps you choose the appropriate outfit for attending a performance.
If we are talking about modern play, about a new drama, then there is a high chance that you will see a “hard” story. It is also very likely that among her heroes there will be drug addicts or homeless people. Or the heroes will seek to commit suicide.
At work like this, the room is more comfortable in a casual style, not in an evening dress.
10.
Spirit of the era
If the story that interests you takes place in a certain era, then you can dress in its spirit - this will mean that you are on the same wavelength with what is happening.
For example, for the performances “Two on a Swing” (Tomsk Drama), “The Eldest Son” (Tomsk Youth Theater), things in the style of the 60s are perfect. And for “Anna in the Tropics” (Tomsk Drama), where the action develops in the late 20s, you can choose outfits or accessories from the corresponding era, especially since this season designers are happy to turn to those times in their collections. The 20s inspire them to modern options trends of that expressive style.
11.
From the office
Don't despair if you don't have time to change clothes and go to the theater straight from the office. Accessories will help out.
In any handbag there is room for a neckerchief, a brooch and a brighter-than-usual lipstick. This way you can create the image of a lady.
12.
Bags
It is more appropriate to take small bags to the theater. This season, the trend is minaudières and small box bags. They can be decorated with stones, covered with reptile skin (imitation or original), and a spectacular texture, for example, lace, is also possible.
Such tiny bags are convenient - after all, to the theater you only need to take a minimum of things with you - money, phone, keys. A handbag can become an accessory that can be used in an interesting way - match it with a scarf or jewelry that allows you to create a harmonious image.
13.
Hats and hairstyles
Do you like high hairstyles and decorative hats? Their compatibility with theater is an ethical issue. The audience will be sitting behind you, perhaps because of your hairstyle or accessory they will not see the best mise-en-scène of the performance!
If you really want to do your hair up high or wear a hat, then there is a way out! Buy tickets for the last row, it's also economical! Or take off your hat during the performance, and during intermission, walk around the foyer in it.
As for hairstyles, stylists recommend light styling that harmonizes with the outfit.
14.
Shoes
Shoes for Tomsk spectators are always a problem.
The season begins in the fall, when we usually have either puddles or snow. And it ends in the spring, when there are still puddles or snow. In general, you can’t walk down the street in nice shoes; you always have to change your shoes. Otherwise, it’s strange if boots are suddenly worn with an elegant dress. This is the fly in the ointment for a stylish look.
It is better to take a change of shoes with you, preferably classic pumps.
15.
Makeup
As for makeup, evening makeup is acceptable for the theater.
But this is not necessary - if you don’t like it, then don’t do it so as not to feel uncomfortable.
16.
Decorations
Jewelry for going to a performance is far from just diamonds.
The principle “I’ll take all my jewelry for a walk” is already considered a vulgar tradition and “a thing of the past.” Moreover, now you won’t surprise anyone with diamonds, and the abundance of successful imitations makes it difficult even for connoisseurs to distinguish costume jewelry from real stones.
17.
Not comme il faut
What looks strange in the theater are ultra-short outfits, fishnet stockings, dresses with crinoline, extremely high heels, and an abundance of rhinestones and sparkles.
This will make you stand out too much from the rest of the audience.
Expert opinion
Anna Scherrer
Buyer and top stylist at the Bridesmaid fashion and beauty center - Often the choice of clothes for visiting a theater, concert or museum depends on a person’s worldview, his attitude towards to the outside world. My main recommendation is that a person’s appearance should not be discordant with what surrounds him. For example, in the Russian Museum, torn jeans and a leather jacket are inappropriate. We still come to admire the paintings of great artists, and we will show disrespect to the audience if we appear in such an image. An ultra-short mini, stilettos, and a fluffy jacket are also not the best option for an exhibition of classic works. It doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about the Russian Museum or the Tomsk Art Museum. Rules for exhibitions dedicated to traditional art, are the same and do not depend on the city.
If we are talking about a modern exhibition, performances, installations, then this is a different direction. Casual style is suitable for such an event. Create a shocking, artsy image even for an event dedicated to contemporary art, I wouldn't recommend it. It is better to give viewers the opportunity to concentrate on the exhibition, without distracting their attention with your complex appearance. This is an ethical moment, a matter of education. In the theater and at a concert it is simpler in the sense that during the action the lights in the hall go out, and even the owners of very original outfits cannot prevent people from perceiving art.
Text: Maria Simonova
Contents of the articleFamous theater rule says that theater begins with a hanger. There is some truth in this saying. Indeed, any trip to the theater begins with thoughts about what to wear. After all, it is very important to choose the right theatrical outfit in order to feel confident in the theater and enjoy the performance to the fullest.
Theater dress code
The theater is the same house of culture where people come to relax and enjoy a performance or music. Previously, to go to the theater, a man had to wear a tuxedo, and a woman had to wear an evening dress, jewelry and gloves. A lot has changed since then. The modern rhythm of life does not allow us to spend the whole day before going to the theater choosing an evening dress or getting beautiful in a beauty salon. Sometimes people come to the theater straight from work.
Today the theater dress code is more democratic. However, it has its own rules. It is customary to come to the opera house in evening attire, but to the drama theater you should dress like this only if you will be sitting in the front rows of the stalls or in a box.
It is also acceptable to come to the theater in calm colors or in a cocktail dress. The option of a blouse and a dark skirt is possible. The main rule is that you do not look provocative and vulgar. After all, you came to the theater, not to fashion show, so a trendy outfit and a deep neckline would be inappropriate here.
Of course, theater etiquette does not imply that if you come in sneakers and jeans, you will be immediately pushed out of this temple of art. But this will be regarded as disrespectful attitude to those around him and to the theater itself.
Also, provocative makeup would be inappropriate in the theater. And under no circumstances should you use harsh perfume or pour half a bottle of your favorite perfume on yourself - think about those around you. Also, your high hairstyle will disturb those around you, so don’t build elaborate towers on your head. It would also be useful to remind you of the categorical prohibition of consuming alcoholic beverages or products with strong acids before going to the theater. unpleasant smell. Also, consider matching your outfit to that of your date.
Theater dress code for men
A man in the theater should look elegant. Men usually wear a tuxedo to the theater. However, it is also permissible to wear suits dark colors, which can be either plain or with barely noticeable stripes or checkered patterns. A shirt to match a suit should be chosen in light shades. Well, a mandatory accessory for a theatrical outfit should be a smart tie, scarf or bow tie. If you are planning to go to a creative evening where the youth audience will predominate, you can wear a jacket and trousers different colors or shirt and trousers without a jacket.
Theater dress code for women
If for a man the choice of clothes for the theater is not so diverse, then women have plenty to choose from. What a lady can wear for going to the theater:
1. Evening dress. When choosing an evening dress for the theater, you should pay attention to straight silhouettes. You are unlikely to feel comfortable in a theater in fluffy dresses or dresses with a train, just like in a dress embroidered with rhinestones or stones.
2. Cocktail dress. Nowadays, this is the most common outfit for going to the theater. This dress looks beautiful and elegant, but not too pretentious. When choosing a cocktail dress, pay attention to the fact that it is in muted shades. But you can choose quite bold jewelry for it, but do not overdo it so as not to look vulgar.
3. Tuxedo. Strange as it may sound, the tuxedo has now become a favorite evening outfit for both the male and female half of the population. Under a tuxedo, you should wear a dark chiffon blouse and a large necklace. Stiletto heels would also be appropriate for this outfit.
4. Pantsuit. For going to the theater, both a classic trouser suit and 7/8-length cropped trousers, colored or printed, are suitable. You can wear a light blouse or top under them.
Accessories
It is worth paying special attention to the selection of accessories. The rule of calm shades also applies here. You shouldn’t hang on to everything that is in your home, so as not to look like christmas tree. Your outfit itself speaks of a special occasion. For jewelry, you should choose a beautiful necklace, earrings or ring.
An elegant theatrical handbag should also be present in your wardrobe. It could be either, or an elegant clutch.
Shoes
When choosing shoes for the theater, pay attention not only to comfort, but also to beauty. Make sure in advance that your wardrobe has at least one pair of shoes for a special occasion. Shoes for going to the theater must have heels, but they should not be more than eight centimeters. In any case, shoes should complement your evening outfit. The main rule is that wearing boots to the theater is bad manners. If you go to the theater in the cold season, you can take your shoes with you. There is an opportunity to change shoes in the theater.
Evening at the theater– double pleasure: firstly, to watch a play or opera, and secondly, to dress up and show your good taste! But how to choose the right dress for going to the theater (and does it have to be a dress?), how to complement it, what are dress code options for different theaters?!
How to dress for the opera?
The most special occasion to dress up for the theater – this is a visit to the opera or ballet. However, don’t be surprised - if you come to the opera in an evening dress and family diamonds, perhaps the audience in jeans and sweaters will stare at you in amazement! So how do you find the line between modern realities and the strictures of the classical theater dress code?
The more beautiful, larger and more elegant the building itself and the interior of the theater are, the more elegant the clothes for going to the theater! It would be best to make a decision based on the following classification:
- Floor length dress off the shoulder, jewelry, maybe gloves. This is how you should dress for the theater on the occasion of a gala premiere, as well as for visiting “name” theaters - in capital cities, for example. Most often, this is how they dress for the opera house, but this is also acceptable for the dramatic theater - also on especially special occasions.
- Ankle length dress, with sleeves of any length or without sleeves, jewelry or good costume jewelry, without gloves. In principle, you can go to any opera or ballet in any theater - at most, you will be more dressed than most, but this will not be excessive.
- , without open shoulders, with sleeves possible. Again, an absolutely universal option for the opera house. It is better to wear elegant, modest jewelry with such a dress, or you can wear good costume jewelry (for example, pearls or semi-precious stones).
- Skirt and blouse (possibly with a jacket). Not for every opera house, but if it’s not La Scala or a premiere at the Bolshoi, then why not! It is advisable that things be quite elegant and complemented with beautiful jewelry.
Advice from “Beautiful and Successful”: you should not “walk” dresses of intricate styles, flashy colors, or crinolines to the theater (you will have to sit in a narrow audience seat, remember!). It's better to prefer simple elegant cut, good elegant fabric and noble colors.
What to wear to the theater for a performance?
Traditionally It is customary to attend the drama theater in less elegant clothes than the opera- this developed in those ancient times, when opera was the entertainment of the elite, and performances were staged for everyone and everywhere - commoners could also attend a performance at their own cost.
What is appropriate to wear to a theater performance now? Quite acceptable and universal for any performance cocktail dress or ankle-length dress. There is no need to expose your shoulders, and it is better to do without a neckline - let your appearance speak of the intelligence and modesty of a real theatergoer!
Combination allowed skirts and blouses(of course, if the skirt is not mini), and also skirt suit(not too gloomy looking).
Is it acceptable to wear to the theater? trousers?
The classic dress code imposes a strict taboo on them, but... it is violated everywhere. Therefore, if you really want to, you can wear it (not jeans!) in combination with a beautiful blouse or smart jacket. Of course, this is only if the performance is not too solemn.
How to dress for informal performances, which are held in cultural centers, various cafes, apartment performances, etc.? This is the case when you can relax and forget about taboos! Dress the way you like - just not too dull and gray!
How to complement a dress for going to the theater?
Having decided what to wear to the theater, you need to think about what accessories complement a dress or set of clothes. There are also special rules for this!
A trip to the theater is unthinkable without small elegant handbag, which is called theatrical! Alternatively, it could be a beautiful clutch, but not necessarily!
Theater bags- this is a special “genre”: they are certainly small and always made of elegant materials, often decorated with abundant decor: sequins, beaded or lurex embroidery, lace, etc. They are often worn on a long chain, but sometimes simply in the hands.
An item that is quite appropriate in the theater (especially in the most formal dress codes) - fan. Sometimes in auditorium It can be stuffy, and this accessory comes in handy for its direct utilitarian purpose. Depending on the clothing, the design and material of the fan is selected - fabric, carved wooden or bone plates, paper, and the most elegant evening option is a feather fan.
Acceptable in the theater and evening hat. This can be a model of any style that suits you best, including a small veil or a decorative “false hat” on a hoop or hair clip. But remember that during the performance it is better to remove this accessory so as not to obscure the view of the people sitting behind you!
About jewelry We have already told you above, but let us remind you that putting the entire contents of the box into the theater at once is overkill! After all, people come to the theater to watch a performance, and not to envy your wealth! If you wear jewelry, limit yourself to one or two. Do you prefer costume jewelry - please, if it is of sufficient quality, elegant and does not turn an elegant lady into a Christmas tree!
Theater shoes are shoes.
If it happens during the cold season, it is better to take them with you and change your shoes, because visiting the theater in boots is bad manners! The heel may not be the most stunning, but average - 5-7 cm. In some cases, you can even wear ballet flats - for example, if your dress has a train that would cling to sharp heels and interfere with your movement.
What should you not wear to the theater?
You already know what to wear to the theater, but it’s also worth remembering the list of “taboo” outfits:
- Pants, especially jeans, and a definite no - shorts. Unless this is some very informal apartment performance or a performance in a provincial cultural center.
- Radical mini. This is not a club - open legs look inappropriate!
- Fishnet or lace tights. This is too vulgar - clothes for going to the theater suggest beauty and elegance, but not overt sexuality!
- Sweater, T-shirt. Too casual (again, except for informal performances).
- An abundance of rhinestones, sequins, shiny fabrics... Not that style!
- Boots, flip-flops, sandals, sneakers.
Perhaps this is all you need to know about clothes for going to the theater!
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When visiting the capital of Austria, I was greatly impressed Vienna Opera, and in particular - the guide’s story that there is a strict dress code. According to it, women should come to premieres in evening dresses, and men in tails, while for other productions cocktail dresses and formal suits are acceptable. And even if in Belarus you will be allowed into a performance when you buy tickets even in shorts, the concept of bad manners has not been canceled.
Theater begins with a hanger, and this rule applies not only to actors. A well-chosen outfit will not make you a target for astonished glances and will help you feel confident and natural. Of course, you should choose an outfit depending on the theater you are going to, because what is appropriate for going to the ballet will look ridiculous at a children's production.
Opera and Ballet Theater, Drama Theater
Unfortunately, today evening dress, with the exception of closed shows, even in opera house will make you a black sheep. The best option to visit similar establishment would be a knee-length or slightly longer cocktail dress. Small black dress out of competition.
Ruffles, sequins, guipure and rhinestones should be left in the closet for another occasion. In the selection of this outfit, nobility comes first, so the clothes should be elegant and discreet, and the makeup should be evening, but not provocative. Replacement shoes are a must in winter! Pumps to match the dress are ideal.
The dress should be non-flashy, preferably dark shades; a shallow neckline is acceptable. A clutch, jewelry, jewelry made of pearls and stones, as well as high-quality expensive jewelry are ideal accessories.
But you should forget about hats and high hairstyles, because they can interfere with the people who are sitting in the row behind you. Etiquette also insists that a real lady should wear stockings that match her dress to the theater, but this is a matter of taste.
Unlike the opera drama theater In addition to cocktail dresses, formal suits and separately selected sets of tops and skirts will look appropriate. Let men wear trousers, but a woman, at least in the theater, should be feminine and irresistible. Silk scarves and small brooches will go well with suits.
Youth, children's, musical, puppet, satire theater
The relaxed atmosphere that prevails during productions in these theaters requires a less formal and formal appearance.
Since children's performances are often held during the day, you can take your child to them in a dress with a flower or large polka dots, which is absolutely inappropriate for evening outings. In this case, makeup will also be significantly different from evening makeup and will match the chosen outfit.
Lovers of extravagant outfits and bright accents, without changing own style, can attend musicals, comedy shows and youth productions. This is where you can really demonstrate your own individuality and sense of style, and, believe me, there will be someone to appreciate you!
Experimental, new theater
You can, however, wear jeans to the theater only if you have bought a ticket to a scandalous and eccentric production by a modern director. At such performances, spectators can sit on the floor, become a target for shooting from water pistols, learn yoga poses, dance, sing and even act as actors... All this requires maximum freedom and convenience, so casual and comfortable clothes will be just in place here .
Commentary by image consultant Angelina Patrey
Angelina Patray– stylist, image maker, corporate trainer. She conducts style seminars for women, fashion lectures for youth and students, as well as business training on business image for companies. Conducts personal style consultations.
Believes that personal style is an indispensable assistant to achieve high goals and successfully realize oneself as an individual.
“In the metropolis mode, it is difficult to catch every nuance of the theatrical dress code and refine the image to the ideal. Still, after a week of work, you want to feel at ease, without depriving yourself of the solemnity of such an appearance. The best option will become an image in the style of elegant everyday life.
This could be an elegant jacket pair, one of the trending solutions this season.
A sheath dress with an accent accessory or tights that will attract attention to your beautiful legs will provide a good service.
If you are going to the theater or opera, you should find out in advance how to dress and follow the established rules. In big cities, ladies often wear modest evening dresses in black, blue or red to the theater. However, this does not mean that you have to wear a dress of these exact colors. You can experiment with other colors. Men usually come to the theater in a dark suit.
However, the color of the suit depends on the established rules of a particular society. Casual clothing such as jeans, shorts and shirts in light colors should be avoided. However, in small towns there may be exceptions.
Let's take a closer look at what women and men should wear to the theater.
What to wear to the theater for men
What should men wear? Men rarely spend time carefully selecting clothes for going out. However, if you want to look stylish, the following tips will help you:
- Choose a stylish tuxedo or a dark suit.
- If you plan to go to the theater immediately after work, you should dress appropriately in advance, while being careful not to violate your company's dress code. Semi-formal attire is only appropriate if the theater allows it. There is often an indication of this on the ticket.
- Choose a formal business shirt with a white or black tie, depending on your preference.
- White ties are usually worn at the opening of the theater season. True, if you are going on a tour of a visiting theater, which will not last long, you can wear a white tie to all performances.
- On your feet, wear leather boots that match the color of your suit.
- Vests, cufflinks and tie pins are good theater accessories. Their color is selected depending on your style, approximately the same color as the rest of your clothes, or a contrasting one.
Useful tips for men:
- Wear pants that won't wrinkle because you'll be sitting all evening. If your trousers wrinkle easily, you can imagine what they will become after the performance.
- If it is customary to dress strictly formally at the theater, never come there in casual clothes.
- If your lady is going to wear a black dress, you should not choose a black suit for yourself, otherwise your couple will look boring and uninteresting. Your clothes should be slightly different in color from your partner's.
What to wear to the theater for women
What should women wear to the theater? An evening at the theater or opera is a great opportunity for a woman to dress beautifully and show off. Your dress should be formal but attractive. Here are some guidelines for choosing your clothing:
- It is customary to wear long evening dresses or medium-length dresses made of silk, satin or chiffon to the theater; These materials drape well and look very beautiful.
- It is better to choose the color of the dress dark. If you choose a black dress, you will always look stylish.
- Hair can be pulled back at the back of the head, loosened, or done in some elegant hairstyle. If your hair looks clean and well-groomed, you will always look great.
- The beauty of your dress will be emphasized by delicate jewelry, an elegant shawl, clutch or small evening bag.
- Shoes should be chosen with platforms or heels. Their color should be in harmony with your dress.
Useful tips for girls and women:
- There is no need to invent any stunning outfits when you are going to the theater. Your dress should be beautiful, but not provocative.
- Don't wear tops or skirts.
- Prepare your dress in advance and keep it ready. Give yourself enough time to select all the necessary accessories.
Both women and men feel confident if they are well and correctly dressed. The theater or opera is a place where you can meet your friends or business partners. You have to impress peoplepleasant impression. Follow the theater dress code and read our tips, then you can easily choose an outfit for yourself.