Opera house attire: formal elegance or casual casualty?
Opera Dress Codes Evolve: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The world of opera, a realm steeped in tradition, is seeing a shift in its dress code expectations. While classic elegance remains appreciated, a more relaxed and varied approach to attire is becoming the norm.
At the prestigious La Scala in Milan, the emphasis is on refined cuts, bold colors, and stylish heels, moving away from strict formal wear. Running shoes and overly casual items like baseball caps are discouraged, reflecting a blend of tradition and modern Italian fashion sensibility.
The Bayreuth Festival and Bavarian State Opera in Munich still hold onto formal traditions, especially since Bayreuth is associated with Wagner’s legacy and tends to attract traditional audiences. However, a more liberal approach to dress has crept in over the years, with women wearing summer dresses and men without ties no longer facing disapproval.
The Salzburg Festival too has seen a trend towards allowing more flexible dress, with the emphasis on elegance with comfort.
Other opera venues have followed suit. At the Hungarian State Opera House, guests in 2025 varied widely in attire, showing a broad acceptance of smart casual to informal dress. Meanwhile, at Sarasota Opera, a smaller but respected company, the attitude is notably relaxed, with opera-goers mixing suits and ties with khakis and jeans alike.
Despite these changes, traditional formal evening wear—such as tuxedos and gowns—is still respected and common in flagship events. However, the main highlights for current etiquette are:
- Aim for elegance and personality with refined, neat clothing.
- Avoid overtly casual or athletic wear like running shoes or baseball caps.
- Check specific venue guidance; some events or festivals may still expect more formal dress, especially opening nights or gala performances.
This shift towards inclusivity and comfort without abandoning the dignity of the opera experience is a testament to the evolving nature of opera culture. As Suzanne Harf, head of protocol at the Festival in Salzburg, puts it, "Guests at the opera should dress appropriately due to the event's beauty and attention to detail."
References: 1. La Scala Dress Code 2. Bayreuth Festival Dress Code 3. Hungarian State Opera House Dress Code 4. Sarasota Opera Dress Code
At the Hungarian State Opera House, a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics can be observed in the varied attire of guests, reflecting a broad acceptance of both smart casual and informal dress. In contrast, the Salzburg Festival upholds the importance of elegance with comfort while maintaining the event's dignity and beauty.
