Nowadays, very few theatres operate a dress policy, so you will see a range of outfits, from the very casual to dressed up to the nines. For balance, dressing somewhere in between is a good idea. It feels dressy enough that it’s not an outfit you’d wear every day, but not like you’re off to a wedding or a party. Whether you’re going to see a local amateur or touring production, or you’re off for a night out in the West End, we’ve come up with 5 theatre outfit ideas to stay stylish throughout the show.
How to Decide on Theatre Outfit Ideas
When trying to decide on an outfit for the theatre, it can be tricky to pick something to wear. You’ll see audience members in just about every type of outfit, from the super casual to dressed up to the nines. We recommend somewhere in between, especially if you don’t often get to dress up for a night out anymore!
When looking through your wardrobe, try to think of the occasion first. Ask yourself these questions first before finalising your look.
- Are you going for a posh meal out beforehand, or are you just heading straight to the theatre?
- Is it an outdoor or indoor venue?
- What kind of show is it: a musical, a ballet, an opera, or a comedy show?
- What time of year is it, and do you run hot or cold easily?
- Is it appropriate to wear a themed outfit?
Many people love to dress up and make an occasion of a night at the theatre, whereas others go so often that they’d rather be comfortable than anything else. However, it can be fun to dress up a little for a change.
5 Theatre Outfit Ideas
With a country capsule wardrobe, we’re sure that you’ll have plenty of pieces that you could dress up for a night at the theatre, or dress down if you’d rather be a little more casual.
A Floaty Short-Sleeved Blouse, Skinny Jeans & Knee-High Boots
Jeans and a nice top are the perfect outfit formula for any night out. A floaty short-sleeved blouse feels just dressed up enough without feeling formal or uncomfortable. Because it’s an oversized fit, you’ll stay cool inside a warm theatre, particularly if it’s packed out.
The difference between making jeans and a nice top, casual and dressier, is all about the shoes. However, for a night at the theatre, you might want to ditch the trainers for a sleek pair of knee-high boots. A pair with a flat sole will also be comfortable enough for sitting down for a few hours.
A Fitted Shirt, Tweed Skirt & Chelsea Boots
If you prefer a dressed-up look, why not go for a classic country combination of a fitted collared shirt and a tweed skirt? Both items are smart enough without the other, but both together instantly feel fancier. Tuck your shirt in for a more streamlined look.
For your footwear, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Chelsea ankle boots; they’re comfortable, smart, and they elongate your legs.
A Polo Shirt, Straight-Leg Jeans & Heeled Boots
Straight-leg jeans are a staple in most country ladies’ wardrobes. They’re one of the most versatile pieces you can have as they’re so easy to style. Team them with a classic polo shirt and add heeled ankle boots to elevate the whole outfit.
An Overhead Shirt, Chino Skirt & Deck Shoes
If you prefer skirts to trousers, a chino skirt is a lovely option between dressy and casual. Pair it with an overhead shirt or blouse and finish with clean deck shoes for an effortless look that still feels theatre-ready.
A Thin-Knit Jumper, Denim Skirt & Driving Loafers
When the temperature dips, layer a thin-knit jumper over a denim skirt and slip into supple driving loafers for comfort that still looks polished.
Theatre Outfit Ideas: Our Top 5 Tips
Opt for Thin Layers, Especially in Winter
Some theatres have air conditioning and heating, some don’t. Older theatres tend to be warmer than newer ones so bear that in mind. Try not to wear too many layers and try to fold your jacket underneath your seat.
Never Wear a Hat
Or anything else on your head, for that matter. Small hair accessories are fine, but anything that sits on top of your head means that those behind you might not be able to see properly.
Don’t Wear Anything Too Tight
If you’re going to be sitting down for two to three hours, wearing something restrictive will just mean you’re constantly shuffling in your seat.
Wear Something to Match the Show
Even if you don’t have official merch, you could wear something on theme or in the branding colours of the show.
If You’re Unsure, Jeans and a Nice Top
Smart-casual is the middle ground, and you’ll never look over- or under-dressed if you go for that. Whether it’s a collared shirt, a floaty blouse or a polo shirt, any top can be dressy as long as you pick the right accessories.
Whilst your theatre outfit ideas can be varied, it’s always a nice occasion when you get to dress up a little. Formalwear is probably too much but country ladies know how to do smart-casual outfits well. Collared shirts, tweeds, dark jeans and heeled boots are all staples in a woman’s wardrobe so it’s about dressing them up for a theatre trip.