What to wear to a Broadway Show?
During the golden age of Broadway (1950’s) it was a huge event to go to a Broadway show. Men wore tuxedos, women wore beautiful gowns, and they arrived in their finest cars, ready for a fabulous night.
Today you will see people in cut-off shorts, heavy winter coats, and, most often, jeans.
I have been to well over a hundred Broadway shows in my lifetime (It’s awesome to live in Connecticut.) The dress code has changed even in the past 20 years or so and constantly skews to a more casual dress code.
So what is the dress code for a Broadway show today?
Well, anything goes today. You can come as you are or decided to make it an event.
Most tourists walk around the city before seeing a Broadway show and wear their most comfortable traveling clothes. Rather than go back to your NYC hotel and change before a show it makes sense to wear what you already have on.
Locals tend to dress up more because they are coming from home or dinner before heading to Broadway.
Both are great options as long as you are comfortable.
I find that matinees are generally much more dressed down than evening performances as well.
So what do you see most people wear at Broadway shows?
Broadway merchandise
Broadway fans love to wear Broadway merchandise! Most often, you will see broadway hoodies, t-shirts, and hats. They can be from the latest Broadway show to one that played dozens of years ago.
Plus, you can buy merchandise at the venue for the show you are seeing! That way you can fit in at the next show.
Fancy dress
Many people come in their nicest clothes. You will find that especially when a show is exclusive and hard to get into (like Hamilton).
People can be seen wearing cocktail dresses, Sunday best, or an especially great suit. (It would be unusual to see someone dress in a ball gown!)
I personally like dressing up for the theater as I count it as a special event even after 25 years of seeing shows on Broadway.
Nice and casual
Many people find the sweet spot for dressing for Broadway here. No ripped jeans or mangy t-shirts but still casual.
This is a great look as it can see you through your entire day, yet you can still feel confident going to a broadway show.
Costumes
Certain Broadway musicals and plays are likely to get people in costume. It may seem strange at first, but it is a lot of fun!
- If you go see Wicked you will likely see lots of little kids dressed up as Glinda or wearing a pair of witchy shoes.
- If you see Frozen you will find Elsas and Annas all over the theater.
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will find tons of grown adults in their Harry Potter robes and house ties.
Costumes are appropriate at these types of shows but would be out of place at most other musicals or plays.
If the show is well known and is geared toward children, you are more likely to find costumes in the audience.
Special Events like Opening Nights, Theater Galas, and Tony Awards.
Looking for your chance to dress up like the Golden Age of Broadway? Here is your chance.
If you see a special event like an opening night or Tony awards show, you will find many of the local theatergoers extremely dressed up. (You will even see a ballgown or two.)
The more exclusive the event, the better you should dress!
Here a dress code is often suggested or expected. Check your ticket and invitation to find out.
No matter what you wear to a Broadway show, show up! Broadway has had a hard few years, and we can help it come back bigger and better than ever.
Want to see a family-friendly musical? Here are the best right now
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