What to Wear (or More Importantly, Not Wear) to the Ballet

The first time I went to the ballet in New York, I truly didn’t know what to expect—and even less about what to wear. I went for what felt like a quintessential New York City look at the time: a sleek mini dress paired with boots. It worked for dinner downtown, but once I arrived at the theater, I quickly realized it was more of an elegant affair than I’d anticipated. Surrounded by people in cocktail dresses and sharp tailoring, I learned my lesson pretty early in my career as a ballet attendee: this isn’t the kind of night where you want to underdress.

The thing about the ballet is that the dress code isn’t really advertised. You don’t get guidelines when you buy your ticket or invitation, and yet, when you show up, the regulars seem to instinctively know the unspoken rules. That disconnect is exactly why I put this article together—so you don’t have to make the same guessing-game mistake I did. Ahead, I’m breaking down the ballet dress code, what not to wear, and plenty of outfit inspiration so you can get it right the first time.

What Not to Wear to the Ballet

Though many ballets, including the New York City Ballet, don't have official dress codes, there are still a few wardrobe items that are best left for more casual settings. For starters, I suggest avoiding anything too sporty or athletic, like, say, the outfit you wore that morning to Pilates. To post-workout brunch, sure. But for the ballet, it's probably best to run home and change out of your leggings and sneakers. Speaking of shoes, the ballet probably wouldn't be the best occasion to show up to wearing flip-flops or slippers, no matter how comfy they are. Lastly, I'd hold off on wearing loungewear, even if it's the elevated kind. Ninety-nine percent of the time, I'd never say no to wearing a pair of cashmere joggers, but if ever an occasion fit into that 1%, it would be an evening at Lincoln Center.

What to Wear to the Ballet

As for what you should wear to the ballet, that is, again, totally up to you. I can, however, give you plenty of ideas and outfit inspiration to help you create something perfect for the beautiful evening that awaits. From little black dresses and tailored suiting to bold pops of color and skirt-and-sweater combos that have never failed us, keep scrolling to find the style moment that best fits your forthcoming night at the ballet. Just remember: Two hours is a long time to sit in something you don't feel comfortable in.

10 Regret-Proof Outfits to Wear to the Ballet

A short LBD is perfect for many occasions, and the ballet certainly is one of them. Paired with knee-high boots or a pair of strappy heels, this classic silhouette is made for a Saturday-night performance and late-night dinner and drinks to follow.

What makes slip dresses so versatile is that while they look elegant and formal, they feel as comfortable as pajamas (which they kind of are). For your next night at the ballet, tie a cozy cashmere knit around your waist to put on 10 minutes in when the chilly AC gets to be too much, and wear some sleek, fitted boots for an added bit of style.

Spice up a classic black suit, which is a go-to for obvious reasons, by wearing nothing but a bra or bra top underneath and trading in your daytime loafers for a tall pair of pumps. The look will make for great photos outside of whichever gorgeous opera house you're seeing a performance at, while also remaining comfortable and laid-back.

As you can see, a classic tweed jacket paired with a white tee, split-hem leggings, and some good accessories is a quick and easy way to look absolutely unreal next time you score seats for Swan Lake.

Thanks to the S/S 23 runways, tube dresses are currently experiencing a major surge in popularity. And where better to debut whichever one you secure this season than the ballet?

As I said, wearing jeans to the ballet is totally fine, especially if you're going to a daytime performance. I'd know because I wore them on a Sunday afternoon and was more than dressed for the occasion. My only suggestion is to pick a darker wash and dress them up with a sleek, classic top and statement add-ons like shoes and accessories.

When in doubt, follow Carrie Bradshaw's lead and go bold in the color department. After all, there aren't always glamorous occasions to wear a bright, colorful dress to. Take advantage of this one.

Sweaters and midi skirts are powerful on their own, but when combined, they're an unstoppable duo. Comfortable, warm, and undeniably chic, these two pieces together are a surefire way to look amazing on your next ballet date.

Chic jumpsuits simply do not get the attention they deserve. A much-appreciated alternative to dresses, a one-piece is easy to throw on and pretty much always looks impeccable. Especially when you have a good bag to go with.

Whenever I don't know what to wear, be it to a work event or a night out, I always default to a sweaterdress, often paired with boots and a classic shoulder bag. Something about the way they check off the comfort box whilst maintaining a high-end look makes them perfect for any occasion—the ballet included.