Wondering if there is a dress code for the theatre?
As a general rule, there’s no set dress code for the theatre. This gives you full freedom to choose something that’s comfortable and easy to wear, yet makes you feel exclusive every second of this special diary event.
So whether you’re wondering what to wear to the theatre in summer or need a stylish outfit for an afternoon showing, discover our recommendations for the best smart casual theatre outfits below. You’ll also find plenty of theatre dress code style tips – things that are easy to forget, from draughty auditoriums to the importance of crease-free dressing…
Dresses and skirts
A dress is an elegant and practical choice for a trip to the theatre. We design our dresses with meticulous attention to fit, ensuring they drape beautifully over your figure while allowing unrestricted movement. Because a trip to the theatre often involves travel, walking and a smart restaurant dinner, so you need a dress that transitions seamlessly. Our Ditsy Print Jersey Dress is ideal if you’re wondering what to wear to the theatre in summer. Soft jersey skims your figure and falls elegantly around your legs from the flattering, easy-wear front ruching. Princess seams make your shape look longer and leaner, too. Well-fitting skirts, like dresses, ensure you stay comfortable throughout the performance. Remember that you’ll be sitting in your seat for several hours – poor-quality waistbands will chafe and quickly become distracting. But choose our signature flat-stretch waistband, and you’ll be assured of an effortless fit. The tried-and-tested design offers plenty of 'give' for all-day comfort while sitting completely flat for a neat and streamlined silhouette. So you can take your seat in elegant comfort.
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Trousers
Elongating and graceful, smart womens trousers make a wonderful choice for smart casual theatre outfits. They provide an effortlessly put-together look that feels slightly more relaxed – perfect if you’re wondering what to wear to the theatre in the afternoon.
The flat-fronted stretch waistband ensures an easy, flexible fit you can wear all day. We’ve also crafted them from clever crease-resistant fabric so they keep their fresh, crisp appearance from start to finish. These are the trousers to choose when you know you’ll be seated for several hours!
Tops
Choose a stylish top to wear with your trousers, and you’ll perfect the theatre dress code. Our secret to elevating the classic top-and-trouser combination is to select a top with a chic design feature.
This Elodie Cowl Neck is your case in point. The subtle cowl neckline adds interest while flattering both petite and fuller body shapes. It drapes beautifully without clinging in soft, premium jersey – and tones perfectly with the Smart Uncrushable Trousers in Soft mint.
Blouson styles feel equally feminine, capturing the elegance of a floaty dress while giving you full freedom of movement. Our Pleat-neck Spotted Blouse features pretty gathered cuffs and frames your face with gentle pleats.
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Jackets
Many West End theatres are old and not air conditioned, so can quickly become stuffy when everyone packs in. So even if you’re deciding what to wear to the theatre in the winter, it’s best to avoid anything too thick or insulating.
The answer? Luxury layers you can add or remove as the temperature dictates. This Modern Jacquard Blazer elevates your look with contemporary texture while adding a stylish layer of warmth. For more casual theatre outfits, simply wear it with jeans rather than smart trousers.
Accessories to complete your look
Jewellery, bags and scarves might seem like the finishing touches, but they have the power to transform casual theatre outfits – ideal if you’re heading out to a smart restaurant after the show. Swirl our Mural Cotton-Silk Scarf over a simple top or blouse for instant luxe; you’ll feel beautiful in the premium silk blend and limited-edition design, printed by us here in Derbyshire.
You need all your essentials to hand when heading the City. This Katie Zip Camera Bag has plenty of room for your purse, keys, make up and tickets (don’t forget them!) and ensures you can enjoy your day with everything secure and easy to access.
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Deciding what to wear to the theatre has never been easier. Exclusive dress or ever-comfortable trousers, these pieces take you easily from dress circle to post-theatre dinner. For more inspiration, go to our Occasionwear collection.