What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 Chic Outfit Ideas You'll Love (2024)

Wondering what to wear to a Broadway show? Learn the best way to dress and get inspired with 8 chic outfit ideas that are classy and have a little theatre flair.

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (1)

What To Wear To A Broadway Show

I’ve always been a huge fan of Broadway shows, but it’s hard to know exactly what to wear. When going out with friends for dinner, it’s easy! There are no rules about what to wear.

But, when attending an event at a broadway theatre, there is sometimes a dress code that is expected but not strictly held.

What should you do? Of course you want to look your best so you can enjoy yourself without worrying about how others perceive your outfit choice. I’ve put together 8 outfits ideas to inspire you and have you looking like a true Broadway star in no time!

Is there a dress code to attend a Broadway show?

The good news is there are no super strict dress codes to attend a Broadway show. However, I don’t know about you, but I am not about to show up to Broadway in my “lockdown loungewear”, no matter how comfy it is!

The best thing is to find that balance of looking chic but still being comfortable enough to enjoy the show.

A great way to attend Broadway is in what I like to call the “smart casual” look. This will guarantee that you look classy and polished but also feel comfortable and not overdressed (unless, of course, you want to be!).

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Can I wear sneakers to a Broadway show?

Technically sneakers are allowed, but I would avoid them if possible. Many people choose to wear dress shoes or boots, and sneakers can often look a bit too casual for the theatre setting.

If you are dead set on sneakers, I’ve included a couple of looks below that are still chic and will give you a chance to dress those sneakers up!

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What should a woman wear to a Broadway show?

If you’re really hitting a wall on what to wear, the classic LBD (little black dress) is what many women choose to wear to the theater. It’s a staple in every woman’s closet and always looks chic at any event, including Broadway shows!

If you’re looking for something other than black, there are plenty of options that will not disappoint below but I truly love how versatile the little black dress can be.

You can wear a LBD with flats, heels, or even sneakers if that’s what you are into. It can easily be dressed up or down.

Shop the LBD’s:

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8 Chic Looks to Wear to a Broadway Show

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Dress up without going over the top.

Is there such thing as being overdressed on Broadway? I don’t think so. But if you want to dress up without going over the top, opt for tailored trousers. This is a great way to dress up without feeling too stuffy or formal.

I love the idea of a ivory or black trousers because they are formal pops and with the right top can make a statement. Pair with a cami, tank top, or blouse. Finish the look with a small purse and a cute pair of heels.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (7)

Stay simple yet classy for a matinee show.

If you’re going to a matinee show, I suggest keeping it simple. A slip skirt is great for a daytime show, and you can pair it with sneakers for a more casual look or heels to elevate the look.

A sweater on top or a tank with a suede or leather jacket is a perfect addition for the daytime. If you want a pop of color, add accessories like some gold jewelry or a colorful crossbody bag.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (9)

What to wear if you are going to see Hamilton.

Hint: Borrow a little inspiration from the show.

If you’re going to see Hamilton on Broadway, then you might want to take a little inspiration from the cast and go for a look like this.

The outfit above is perfect if you’re wanting to be comfortable but still look stylish. The key is layers… you can never go wrong with layers, especially in the fall and wintertime.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (11)

Go for a monochromatic look.

If you are having a hard time choosing what to wear, I suggest going for a monochromatic look.

I love this of combination trousers and a cashmere sweater because of its simple yet chic look.You can also switch it up and wear a skirt or dress if you want. Just make sure all the colors in your outfit are within the same color family.

BONUS: Be playful with your accessories

If you want to add some personality to the monochromatic look, add textured accessories like the snakeskin print loafers and try some statement earrings. They will add just the right amount of playfulness without going overboard.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (13)

Go glam with a little bit of sequins.

If you want to go all-out glam, then look no further than a sequin skirt. This is what I would call the perfect Broadway outfit.

The key to making it work for day or evening, though, is keeping your other accessories pretty simple and classic. You can do a white button-down shirt with a leather jacket if you want to dress it down a bit. Or a silk cami with this cropped teddy jacket.

Get The Look:

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The going-out top.

Thegoing-out top is back, and it’s one of my favorite trends. Jeans, heels, and a going-out top are the perfect look for both day and night.

There is no specific rule to a going out top, the key is to simply make it stand out from the rest of the outfit. Make it the “star of the show”.

You can also compliment the top with a bold accessory like a colorful purse or a statement jewelry piece.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (17)

Sneakers, but make them chic.

Sneakers are a great way to look stylish yet casual at the same time. If you’re nervous about wearing sneakers to the theatre but want to be comfortable and can’t stand the thought of heels, you can never go wrong with a pair of black sneakers!

I love these because of their simplicity, but what makes them really special is the metallic detail, giving them just enough character.And, they go great with a slip dress, leather leggings, a pantsuit, or jeans.

Get The Look:

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Keep it elegant and classy.

It’s not every day that you get to go to a Broadway show, so it’s the perfect opportunity to dust off that dress you wore to your cousin’s black-tie wedding. You know, the one that makes you feel like a princess but you felt like you would never wear again.

Take this opportunity and run with it. You can also dress it down slightly with a leather jacket so you still feel edgy and have that in-the-city vibe.

Get The Look:

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 ChicOutfit Ideas You'll Love (21)

Broadway shows are a great way to enjoy an evening with friends, family, or loved ones. With so many styles and brands of dress, what should you wear?

I’ve provided eight chic outfits ideas that will have you looking like a Broadway star.From what to wear if you’re going to see Hamilton on Broadway, or the perfect outfit ensemble is for daytime matinee showings, these style suggestions should cover all your bases.

So, which outfit will you choose?

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What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 Chic Outfit Ideas You'll Love (2024)

FAQs

What To Wear To A Broadway Show + 8 Chic Outfit Ideas You'll Love? ›

You don't need to wear a formal dress or a suit and tie, but consider dressing up a bit more than you would for a casual night out. A nice blouse or button-down shirt with slacks or a dressy skirt is a good option for women, while men could wear a dress shirt and dress pants.

What do you wear to a Broadway show as a female? ›

You don't need to wear a formal dress or a suit and tie, but consider dressing up a bit more than you would for a casual night out. A nice blouse or button-down shirt with slacks or a dressy skirt is a good option for women, while men could wear a dress shirt and dress pants.

What to wear to a Broadway themed party? ›

For a contemporary twist on the Broadway theme, opt for a chic and enchanting ensemble. A sleek co*cktail dress paired with stylish ankle boots is a winning combination. Add a touch of drama with a feathered accessory or a sequined clutch.

What is the dress code to see a musical? ›

You are free to wear almost anything you want, with a few exceptions. (See What Not To Wear below). At Broadway theaters, you'll see a wide range of attire. Audiences will wear everything from co*cktail attire to jeans and t-shirts.

What is the smart casual dress code? ›

Smart casual is an approach to dressing professionally that mixes trendier pieces in with classic staples. The goal is an appearance that's clean and professional but doesn't look too formal. You want to look pulled together but a bit interesting and approachable.

What is the dress code for theatre plays? ›

Some people do dress up for a special occasion, some come straight from work, and others are more casual. A 'smart casual' approach will always be appropriate. It can be chilly in the theatre or by the harbour where our venues are located, so an extra layer is useful.

What to wear to six on Broadway? ›

There is no strict dress code for SIX on Broadway, but smart casual attire is a good choice.

What is the dress code for the theatre? ›

Unless you're heading to a premiere, gala, or opening night, going to the theatre is hardly a red-carpet-style event! For special screenings where there will be a press attendance, smart-casual outfits are recommended. Other than that, wear what makes you feel comfortable!

What is Broadway casual? ›

For a classic musical, slightly dressier attire is suitable. For a contemporary or experimental production, smart casual might be more appropriate. This could include a dress shirt with jeans. Comfort is Key: While dressing nicely is important, prioritize comfort.

What is Broadway costume? ›

The Broadway costume is a two pieces outfit made of a coulotte and a top covered in fringes. The pieces are hold together thanks to fabric weaving.

What shoes do you wear for musical theater? ›

The safest shoes to wear to a musical theatre audition are character shoes, which are designed for movement and comfort as well as to look professional. Make sure you pick a smart pair, rather than the ones that have seen many hours in the studio. Character shoes are the best option for both men and women.

How to dress for the theatre? ›

Whilst traditional formal dress codes are no longer the norm for theatregoers some believe that dressing up enhances the overall experience and shows respect to the performers. Now dressing up doesn't have to mean formal attire, smart-casual or semi-formal outfits can be equally as stylish and suitable.

What should I wear to a musical concert? ›

Concert Attire for Adults

For women: Knee-length or longer skirts/dresses or dress pants. Choose formal and comfortable clothing. For men: Formal clothing such as suits, dress shirts and dress pants. Make sure you feel comfortable wearing them.

What is dressy casual for a woman? ›

What does dressy casual mean? It's a way to describe an overall aesthetic that is basically not-all-the-way-formal-but-please-don't-wear-jean-shorts. It's about dressing up what you'd wear casually.

How to dress smartly as a woman? ›

12 Habits Of Extremely Stylish Women
  1. PAY CAREFUL ATTENTION TO GROOMING. ...
  2. EMBRACE THE CLASSICS. ...
  3. PLAN YOUR OUTFITS THE NIGHT BEFORE. ...
  4. GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME TO GET READY. ...
  5. CHOOSE THE RIGHT UNDERGARMENTS. ...
  6. GET INSPIRATION FROM OTHER STYLISH WOMEN. ...
  7. ONLY WEAR THINGS THAT FIT AND FLATTER.

How to dress professionally as a female? ›

The typical length for skirts in a professional setting is around knee-length. As with dresses, try to avoid overly loud patterns and colors, at least until you are more settled in your environment. Blouses ought to be neat and well-fitted; avoid anything overly casual, low cut, or bearing a large logo.

Can you wear jeans to the theatre? ›

Yes, well-fitted jeans paired with a nice top or shirt can be suitable for most theatre performances. However, avoid overly distressed or casual jeans. Are sneakers acceptable footwear?

How early should I get to the Broadway show? ›

Get there early

To avoid missing the start of the show, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain. If you do get there late and the performance is already underway, be aware that management will seat you at their discretion, which is usually at an appropriate break in the show.

What to wear to Hamilton on Broadway? ›

There is no specific dress code for Hamilton on Broadway, but most guests tend to dress up in smart casual attire.

Does the Gershwin theater have a dress code? ›

There is no dress code at the theatre. For all performances, attire should be comfortable and appropriate for the occasion. The theatre is air-conditioned during the summer months. The Gershwin Theatre welcomes patrons ages 5 and older.

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