Don't be afraid to dress up when attending the ballet.
Attending the ballet can be an exciting event for everyone, both young and old. Dressing up for the ballet can add to the excitement of the event. Most theaters have basic guidelines regarding how you should dress for the ballet, and you may find that you have the appropriate clothing hanging right in your closet. Dressing properly for the ballet will help make it a special occasion for your entire family. Does this Spark an idea?
Research the Ballet
Learn about ballet, and in particular the dance or dances you will be watching. Research online or at your library. The more you know about ballet, the more you will understand what to anticipate. Dressing appropriately for the ballet is a sign of respect for the performers and the event itself.
The Location of the Ballet
Research the ballet location. Many theaters have dress code guidelines and suggestions. Often, dress codes are more casual for afternoon performances. Keep in mind that dressing for an established ballet company in New York or Chicago will probably be more formal than dressing for a touring ballet company in a smaller community. Don't be afraid to ask questions. It might be better to be overdressed than underdressed for the ballet.
Clothes for the Ballet
When you have determined the dress code for the ballet you are attending, see what you have in your closet. For a matinee, ladies may wear a simple dress or a dressy top with a skirt or pants, and jewelry. For men, a business suit and tie would be an excellent choice. A jacket may not be necessary for an afternoon production, but if you wear one, you may remove the jacket at your seat. Young boys should wear dress pants and a good shirt; young girls may wear a dress, or a nice top with dress pants or a skirt.
For evening events, consider dressing in business professional or evening clothes. A tuxedo may or may not be necessary; a dark suit may be more than sufficient for an evening performance. Ladies may wear business professional attire, cocktail dresses or more formal evening attire of any length. If you are unsure, call the theater box office for additional information.
Shoes do matter. Whether you are at a matinee or an evening event, tennis shoes, flip-flops or rubber shoes are not recommended.
Special holiday events may have slightly different guidelines. "The Nutcracker" is a wintertime ballet tradition and many families may be dressed in holiday clothing. This is often a child's first time at the ballet, and dressing up adds to the holiday festivity.
Remember that the ballet is an event that you should thoroughly enjoy. Your attendance will be appreciated, and that is what is most important. You will be more comfortable at the ballet if you feel properly dressed for the event, but don't feel intimidated. Attending the ballet is an exceptional experience and dressing for the ballet should be a small, but thoughtful, part of the process.
Tags: about ballet, Attending ballet, ballet company, business professional, dress code, dress pants, more formal
