By DiDi Turley
Maybe it’s your first time attending the opera, or perhaps it’s simply your first time back in Music Hall since our 2019 season! Either way, you may be seeking some inspiration for what to wear to the opera this summer and we’re here to help! Keep reading for our recommendations from local boutiques, interesting online stores, and a haberdashery or two to keep yourself looking sharp for the opera:
First and foremost, the best thing to wear to the opera is whatever makes you feel the most like yourself. Gone are the days when a black-tie dress code was the standard. We promise we’ll be happy to see you, regardless of what you’re wearing!
First up, some femme outfit inspiration:
For something that keeps you comfortable in the heat of Cincinnati’s summer season:
Some things to keep in mind if your goal is to stay cool:
Wearing breezy, loose-hanging garments is always a safe bet!
Stick to natural materials like cotton and viscose.
You can easily dress up a comfy, loose dress with a killer platform shoe and a funky jaw clip.
Music Hall has great air conditioning, so you may want to bring a wrap for the performance itself!
For something that brings the DRAMA:
To keep your look just as dramatic as the plot unfolding on stage:
These dresses (or ones like them) are begging to be paired with big, sparkly jewelry. Try a glitzy choker with plunging necklines, or a pair of statement earrings to amp up the drama.
A headpiece is always a good addition to any look, so maybe consider a vintage one to add some character (just make sure that it doesn’t block your neighbor’s view!).
For something that plays with silhouettes and cut-outs:
Abstract silhouettes are one of the hottest trends of late, and what better place to try something with a bit of creative flair than the opera?
Whether it’s a mini dress or something more dramatic, a modern, architectural piece is sure to contrast nicely with Music Hall’s traditional aesthetic for your Instagram photoshoot on the balcony.
For something chic, but not loud:
Don’t love the spotlight? That doesn’t mean you can’t be a stand-out dresser at the opera!
Opt for something simple and elegant and add a touch of simple jewelry.
If you’re feeling adventurous beyond your clothing, a fun eyeliner look is a great way to step up these simpler dresses.
For a matinee:
Matinees are the laid-back cousin of opening nights. If you’re headed to the opera after getting a little too full at brunch, you should be comfortable!
A sundress is always a safe bet for matinees!
Bright colors are a great way to feel more intentional with your outfit, without having to try too hard.
Again, it may be wise to bring a sweater along. It can get chilly in Music Hall when the AC is blasting!
For an opening night:
Opening night is a great place to bring your fashion A-game. From colorful gowns to wearable art, opening nights are a great place to see and be seen when it comes to the opera world.
Strut your stuff! This is a great opportunity to break out your funkiest shoes and make a statement.
If you’re feeling extra dramatic, try leaning into the theme of the show! For Fierce, bust our your brightest, most Harry Styles-inspired looks. For The Pirates of Penzance, a breezy maiden dress or something tropical is a great way to go. Personally, I’ll be going the swashbuckling maiden route with my outfit, but to each their own.
Some inspiration for masculine looks:
Again, something for staying cool in the Cincinnati summer heat:
Go for a linen suit to stay cool. You may be worried about wearing linen because of the wrinkles that may come along with sitting through four acts of marvelous singing. If linen isn’t your jam, try to stick to natural fibers like cotton and silk to keep from getting too warm on your way to Music Hall!
For something that brings the drama to Music Mall:
To bring the drama to the most dramatic of art forms, go for a wide-legged suit! This one from ASOS really nails the dramatic silhouette, but similar ones can be found at second-hand stores all around Cincinnati.
For something that goes outside of the box:
The asymmetrical, oversized silhouette has been a fashion staple in post-COVID wardrobes, and it’s here to stay. For something that screams “photo shoot on the steps of Music Hall,” try a unique belted blazer and some platform loafers!
For a subtle twist on a classic look:
Put a simple twist on a classic look with a leveled-up tuxedo! It’s a staple for a reason, but why not bring a little bit of fun to the look?
If you’re on a budget, rent! Renting the tuxedo also gives you more room to spend on accessories like ties, pocket squares, and funky jewelry.
If you’re feeling daring, try playing with an eyeliner look, like dots under the eyes or a colorful swipe on the lid for an extra kick!
For a matinee:
As I mentioned before, matinees are, traditionally, a little more laid-back when it comes to wardrobe.
For something comfortable that still makes a statement, check out these matching sets from Tombolo. The dramatic prints and funky embroidery on these matching terry cloth sets are begging to be dressed up with a good shoe and a good watch.
My personal favorite is the fish set, but they’ve got tons of options, from golf and basketball prints to picnic ants and tigers.
For an opening night:
Opening night is great for leaning into themes, of course. However, certain shows lend themselves to themes more than others. For one of our new works, it’s much harder to match a theme in comparison to, say, The Pirates of Penzance.
If you don’t feel like donning a puffy poet’s blouse for The Pirates of Penzance, break out some classic suiting! Bust out your favorite suit and tie, or treat yourself to some new threads from our friends at Pursuit!
The bottom line is this: the best thing to wear to the opera is whatever makes you the most comfortable. We’ll be thrilled to see you in a gown, jeans, shorts, or even in a little bit of costuming. Come as you are! We’ll be so happy to have you here.