Going to hear a performance by the St. Louis Symphony? Well, you’re in for a treat. But to dress up or down—that is the question. Symphony attire was once among the most formal attire worn anywhere; however, it has relaxed over the years, especially with the increase in young people attending. Is this a special occasion or one of many concerts you’ll attend as a season ticket holder? An evening performance on the weekend or a Sunday matinee?
I had the pleasure of attending a concert one recent Friday night to observe who comes and how they are dressed. Fans of all ages were there—at least three generations were represented. And I saw all kinds of fashion, from very casual to cocktail attire. I asked Symphony president Marie-Hélène Bernard for her opinion on how concert-goers should dress, and here’s what she had to say: “It’s important that people dress to reflect their personality and their moods when they come to a concert. There isn’t a dress code. You’ll see people wearing everything from jeans to formal wear. Concertgoers should have fun and come to us with a playful and open spirit, and be receptive to the music. Never let your wardrobe keep you from a concert.”
With those words in mind, here’s what I would suggest. For evening concerts, women might consider dressier pants or skirts with a silk, taffeta or organza blouse and a jacket or cardigan. Wear a great scarf or pin to complete the outfit. Dresses are a good choice and don’t have to be too ornate unless it’s opening night or a gala. If sleeveless is your choice, remember to bring a wrap in case it’s cold inside. A nice-heeled shoe can be open or closed-toe.
For men, a suit or sport coat and nice dress slacks are wise selections. Ties are not mandatory, but I prefer them. If you choose to wear denim, select a dark color and pair with a jacket or blazer and button-down shirt. Leave the torn and faded jeans at home.
For afternoon concerts, the general attire for both men and women can be casual. You can still dress appropriately by wearing ‘nice casual,’ not something you’d wear to the beach or the pool. Tie is not necessary, but still no grungy denim and stick with a button-down shirt. When in doubt, err on the side of dressing business casual.
For special events and galas, you have to ramp-up your attire with cocktail and after-five looks. For women, long or short lengths are fine, but you’ll need to add some great evening accessories in the form of jewelry, shoes and a clutch or small handbag. For men, tuxedos or dark suits work, paired with a dressy lace-up shoe or a loafer in leather or velvet.
Overall, be comfortable and appropriate in whatever you choose to wear. If in doubt, dress up a notch. You are coming to hear inspiring music in a beautiful, historic building, and remember that what you wear is an expression of you!
tricks of the trade
Q| I have many evenings out planned in the coming winter months and will be wearing shorter cocktail dresses. Will it look silly to have bare legs, or should I wear tights? And if so, what shoes look best with them?
A| Two answers, depending on age and/or mindset: Bare legs do not look silly and are most likely to be the choice of many women. If your legs look good, it’s OK to forego hose, especially if you wear a great strappy evening sandal. You may need to use a self-tanner, though. If you prefer to keep your legs warm during the winter months (although you’ll be inside for your event), choose patterned hosiery with closed-toe dressy shoes. Tights are thick and tend to look too heavy when worn with a lighter, delicate cocktail dress.
[Ellen Soule is a public relations and fashion consultant, as well as the St. Louis regional director for Fashion Group International.]