You've booked your tickets for a West End show. You're meeting up with friends and family. You want to look smart for the theatre, but you're looking at your wardrobe in despair. What do you wear to see a show at the theatre?
Deciding on the perfect look for a theatre trip can seem daunting at first. If you're struggling to pick your upcoming theatre outfit, we've got tips on what (and what not) to wear to the theatre. Once you've read this guide, you can see a show in an outfit that hit the fashion trifecta - comfortable, practical and stylish. This is only guidance though, if you feel great in whatever you're wearing now, then go for it!
What can be worn to go to a West End show?
The simple answer here is anything. From a casual t-shirt, jeans and trainers to a tuxedo or formal dress, there are no dress codes. For some theatrical events, such as a first preview, press nights, galas and opening nights, it may be worth donning a "smart-casual" outfit. You may choose to mark the moment by dressing up and donning an outfit typically saved for special events. It's best to be in an outfit you feel comfortable — you don't want to spend a few hours sitting down with blistered feet.
Are fancy dress outfits allowed at the theatre?
Yes! Wearing fancy dress to the theatre is acceptable, and some shows actively encourage it. In recent years, shows like Bat Out of Hell and The Rocky Horror Show, and Heathers have had numerous audience members turn up in recognisable outfits from the show. If you're seeing SIX, you may notice theatregoers decked out in "royal" attire to emulate Henry VIII's wives.
So you can wear what you want to the theatre?
Yes. You can wear anything that you want to the theatre. To make things a bit easier, we've put together a list of handy, foolproof tips.
- Pack flat shoes. You don't want to be hobbling to your seat and then walking around London with aching feet!
- Dress for the weather, not for the Instagram photo. Not every London theatre has a rooftop. When attending a show at Shakespeare's Globe or Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, pack a coat and/or umbrella so you don't get caught out in the rain. London weather is temperamental.
- Buy merchandise. Many productions sell official clothes and accessories in the foyer. Why not pick up some merchandise before the show and wear it in the auditorium? It's a great way to show your support for the show while looking stylish.
- Keep the layers to a minimum. While you can dress how you wish to, there may be limited space under your seat for coats and jumpers. Not every theatre has a cloakroom for coats and bags, and if it does there's likely to be limited space.
- Wear clothes that will keep you cool Theatres get warm. Steer clear of clothes that will stick to the seat or make you sweat and prioritise natural fibres, espeically in the summer months.
What shows can I dress up for?
As we say, there are no rules for what to wear to the theatre but, if you’re so inclined, you can match your outfit to the show you’re seeing. Cosplay is a serious hobby for some theatregoers while others enjoy adding more subtle touches to their outfits. Read our guide to some of the most stylish shows in the West End and how you can get into the spirit by dressing the part!
Photo credit: Clothes at the theatre (Photo by Amanda Vick on Unsplash).
