Nobody wants to feel out of place when they go to a symphony concert, yet so many patrons wonder if what they are wearing will be acceptable. As helpful and welcoming the orchestras try to be by inviting patrons to wear what they want and emphasizing to come in what is comfortable, many people still want to feel like they are fitting in.
If you show up to a concert and sincerely don’t care what you wear, that’s just fine! You are doing what many orchestras invite you to do. But if you are the type of person who needs an idea of what to wear, are concerned you will be over or underdressed, or want some kind of guideline, I’ve come up with a simple guide to give you confidence in your attire for your next concert experience.
Consider the starting time
Afternoon Matinee Concert
- Women: Pants are fine. Jeans are fine, just bump it up a notch. If you wear jeans, wear a dressier top, wear fancier shoes, and add an interesting piece of jewelry. Dresses and skirts are fine, but keep the sparkles for the evening concerts.
- Men: Slacks or jeans with a button down shirt.
Regular Evening Concerts
- Women: Dressier pants or skirt and blouse, or a dress. Dresses can be a variety of lengths.
- Men: Dressier jeans with a blazer or trousers with dress shirt. Suit and ties also work nicely.
Galas, Fundraisers, Special Events
- Women: Dressy slacks and blazer, co*cktail dresses, full length gowns. If you worry about being underdressed and don’t have a gown or co*cktail dress, a sharp black outfit whether it’s pants or a dress, will usually help. No jeans.
- Men: Even if the event says “Black Tie” you will likely see many men in suits. So a nice dark suit is fine, unless you are with a group from your company and everyone has agreed or is expected to wear a tux or tails. No jeans.
Consider Ticket Cost
If the average price is $20 or less for a symphony ticket, you’re likely looking at a lighter fashion commitment. However if the average price is somewhere in the $60 on up range, you’re looking at a bit dressier.
Consider Concert Type
A pops concert is not going to be as formal as a regular classical symphony evening; most people tend towards jeans or other casual attire. A children’s concert is a more relaxed than a regular classical symphony afternoon matinee concert. A concert advertised as a Gala or fundraiser is usually the dressiest possible.
Call the Symphony Offices
If you feel pretty good about the guide I’ve put together so far but still feel uncertain, don’t hesitate to call the symphony offices. They will likely tell you to come in what you feel comfortable, but they can also tell you what the majority of patrons generally wear.
Own Your Look
If you are still feeling insecure about your outfit, have gone through all the steps, have called the symphony offices, and asked all your friends what they think, then just own your look with confidence. Wearing what you want is fine, just stand up straight, look like you meant to dress exactly that way, and walk with purpose. If you are the only person wearing jeans, you are probably making someone else wish they had worn theirs! The moment you decide you are not dressed right, or not fitting in, you will forget the whole reason you came to the concert in the first place.
FAQs
Women: Dressy slacks and blazer, co*cktail dresses, full length gowns. If you worry about being underdressed and don't have a gown or co*cktail dress, a sharp black outfit whether it's pants or a dress, will usually help. No jeans.
Do symphonies have dress codes? ›
There is no dress code. Anything that makes you feel comfortable is fine. Most people wear business clothes or dressy casual clothes, but you'll see everything from jeans to khakis to co*cktail dresses.
What is proper concert etiquette for a symphony or orchestra? ›
Don't talk during the performance. Don't distract others by rustling, fanning, or page skimming your program. Don't hum, or tap your fingers or feet to the beat of the music.
Does SF Symphony have a dress code? ›
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? We encourage you to come as yourself in a style of your choice—there is no right way to enjoy the Symphony!
What not to wear to the symphony? ›
Be respectful by not wearing torn clothes, flip-flops, or clothing with strong language printed on it. These will almost always be forbidden by any dress codes the venue has in place. This is to show respect for the hard work of the musicians and to keep a dignified atmosphere.
How to dress smart casual female? ›
Smart casual attire for women
Trousers, including chinos and jeans work well with a blouse or jacket. Long, or just below the knee, skirts in a range of fabrics pair well with plain tops and jackets. Trousers and skirts which have a subtle design pattern provide a well-matched look with a variety of tops.
How early should you get to the symphony? ›
We encourage folks to arrive about an hour early to find their seats, enjoy a drink if they desire, and take some pictures before the concert. Some symphonies have pre-concert lectures, will there be one before your concerts?
Can you wear black to an orchestra? ›
The standard for classical music attire has always been formal: Men in tailcoats and bow ties, and women in elegant black dresses.
What is the dress code for a classical concert? ›
Many guests wear business clothes or slightly dressy casual clothes, but you'll see everything from khakis with a nice shirt to dresses and suits. Although you won't be turned away, you may be more comfortable dressing up a little.
What not to do at an orchestra concert? ›
5 Step Guide to Concert Etiquette
- Turn off your phone. Before the concert begins, turn off your phone. ...
- Do not talk or make noises. While the musicians are playing, do not talk or make noises. ...
- Clap at appropriate times. ...
- Be respectful and kind to the people around you. ...
- Enjoy the music!
A symphony is a large-scale musical composition, usually with three or four movements. An orchestra is a group of musicians with a variety of instruments, which usually includes the violin family.
How do you prepare for a symphony concert? ›
Practice, practice, practice!
While you'll spend lots of time going over the concert's program in rehearsals and dress rehearsal, there is no substitute for individual practice. Make sure that you go over the parts in the music that give you the most difficulty during your practice sessions.
Do I dress up for the symphony? ›
What is typical orchestra attire? Typical orchestra attire for audience members involves dressing in formal or semi-formal attire, such as a suit with a tie for men and a dress, skirt, or elegant pants ensemble for women, to complement the formal setting of the concert.
What do you wear to a local symphony orchestra? ›
There is no dress code! The days of monocles and top hats are over (unless you want to wear that). Anything that makes you feel comfortable is fine. Most people will be wearing business clothes or slightly dressy casual clothes, but you'll see everything from khakis to co*cktail dresses.
Can I bring a bag to SF Symphony? ›
Bag and Oversized Objects Policy
Patrons may bring bags into the auditorium, but they must fit under the seat or on the patron's lap (approximately 14x14x6).
What to wear to the National symphony orchestra? ›
No formal wear, but do dress nicely (Sunday best). To ward off air-co chill, bring sweaters or jackets. Arrive early. Thirty minutes is ideal.
What to wear to the NY symphony? ›
No Dress Code!
First off, the New York Philharmonic does not have a dress code for its concerts. This may surprise you, but there has actually never been a formal dress code. The organization's vast archives hint at audience behavior that did come to be issues and that the NY Phil needed to address at different times.
Can you wear jeans to the Chicago symphony? ›
We encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable.
What is the dress code for the Philharmonic? ›
Those who don't often attend classical music concerts are sometimes concerned about what to wear. Don't worry, because there is no set dress for concerts. You can wear business attire if you wish, or opt for something more casual.
