08/09/2014 10:42
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The Play’s The Thing
The theatre! The theatre! What’s happened to the theatre? With the Pantomime season well under way, we thought it would be ideal to discuss getting dressed for the theatre. And although the gags and fairytale stories isn't necessarily quite your thing, we would like to take the time to talk about what 1 would wear to the theatre. Whether you like operas or musicals, or matinées or night performances, here is our guide to keeping stylish with a touch of theatricality.
Night time Attire
Heading to the theatre is a treat. It is a setting where one can ignore the rest of the world for a few hrs and lose yourself in some fantastic music and, quite often, a heartbreaking plot. So there is actually pointless going all Black Swan when deciding on your clothing. Keep calm and stick to our 3 basic steps to dressing for a nighttime performance at the theatre.
1. Smart - your are heading to the Opera and so a suit, in our eyes, is vital. Aside from that, it’s always fun to have a need to dress up every now and then. For some other things, a formal shirt, cuff links, blazer and trousers will do (if you wish to keep the look fresh during the cooler months, add a a little colour by choosing a strong jacket) For more check out custom cufflinks.
2. Trainers - while there is no dress code (this, I think, is virtually only at most venues), it's not at all fine to wear trainers. There is an array of shoes and boots to select from, so why don't you purchase a brand new pair this year.
3. Accessories - for those who don’t have time to change from the office, change your daytime appearance with a scarf or some gloves. This will give your outfit the Je ne sais quoi it requires.
Matinée Mufti
It's usually challenging knowing what to wear to an afternoon play, as you’ll be almost certainly shopping and going for a spot of lunch first. As a result, unlike for an evening play, this is the opportunity to go for the more smart-casual approach.
1. Comfort - by this, we don’t imply sweatpants and a hoodie, but pairing a basic shirt and sweater with some jeans or chinos might be fine for most performances; regardless of whether it’s a play or the Pantomime. Panto Note: try not to sit too close to the stage if you want your clothes to stay dry and unscathed.
2. Outerwear - if you feel your clothing is bordering on the casual side, put on a smart coat or jacket to pull your appearance together. Then this way, you already look attractive for an after show dinner.
3. Intermission - unless of course you’re going to see something with no interval (for instance J. B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls), there is nothing worse, if you ask me, than having no change for an act and an ice cream (both vital in my eyes). Hence, prepare yourself and take a few coins with you.
Curtain Call
You are good to go! Whether or not it’s mid-day or night, La traviata or Wicked, hopefully this guide has provided you several tips and hints concerning how to dress for the theatre. Providing you don’t show up resembling an usher, or a cast member (The Rocky Horror Show excluded - as full dress is compulsory), then you will be ok. Go on and take a bow!