All the Outfits I Would (and Wouldn't) Choose for the Nutcracker Ballet as a New Yorker

      December is undeniably my favorite season in New York. The festive atmosphere is palpable everywhere you turn, from the holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue to the yearly tree lighting at Rockefeller Center. However, the tradition I eagerly anticipate the most is attending a performance of The Nutcracker ballet at Lincoln Center. Some of my earliest Christmas memories involve watching my sister perform in a local production back home, and since relocating to New York, I've made it a ritual to attend each year, dressing up and heading to The Mark or Bemelmans Bar for a martini afterwards. With the New York Ballet's busy season in full swing, I'm not only securing my tickets but also planning my outfit for the Nutcracker. I believe any ballet is a wonderful reason to dress up a bit more, and The Nutcracker is the perfect chance to showcase your best festive attire. Whether you opt for holiday-inspired velvet and satin or choose classic ballet styles with A-line skirts and ballet flats, I've put together a style guide for the occasion. My recommendations come from my personal tastes, and I also consulted two colleagues, both trained ballerinas: beauty editor Maya Thomas and branded content editor Emma Walsh.

      As a former ballerina, Thomas emphasizes that attending the ballet helps create an atmosphere long before the stage lights dim and the performers arrive. "Even though the dancers may not notice you from their vantage point, the fact that people come dressed elegantly enhances the magical experience of the ballet," she notes. "As a dancer turned editor, I always appreciate seeing well-dressed patrons when I enter a theater. It reflects thoughtfulness in presentation and respect for the multitude of hours the dancers have dedicated to their craft." When it comes to appropriate attire for a ballet, she suggests steering clear of casual wear, recommending that items like jeans, loose sweaters, and T-shirts be avoided. "Although ballets can be lengthy, find clever ways to stay comfortable during the performance without sacrificing style. Maybe choose a lightweight knit instead of a stiff leather shirt or opt for slightly lower heels if you need to walk before or after the show. It might be wise to bring outerwear that can be easily stored and won't interfere while you're enjoying the performance instead of going completely coat-less."

      Would Wear: A Festive Cocktail Dress

      Wouldn't Wear: A Casual Dress

      I personally enjoy dressing up for The Nutcracker, and it’s become one of my cherished holiday traditions in New York. I typically aim for a more elegant cocktail dress and steer clear of overly casual options like sundresses, denim dresses, or knit dresses. "Attending a ballet is an event shaped by the hard work of many individuals, so embracing the excitement and formality can enhance the experience," Thomas agrees. "While there are no strict rules about what to wear to a ballet, I would suggest opting for cocktail or semiformal outfits, especially for evening shows. When choosing my attire, I always lean toward dresses with A-line hems and fitted waists, adorned with elegant details reminiscent of the romantic tutus I've admired since donning my first pair of ballet slippers."

      Delphine

      Laney Feather Silk Midi Dress

      Dôen

      Veda Bow-Detailed Corded Lace-Trimmed Silk-Charmeuse Midi Dress

      MANGO

      Bow Contrasting Dress

      Reformation

      Blanche Silk Dress

      Would Wear: Romantic Separates

      Wouldn't Wear: Jeans

      A dress isn't strictly necessary. A flowy maxi skirt or tailored trousers paired with a stylish jacket can be ideal. "Seeing a ballet is such a unique experience," Walsh insists, "so I suggest embracing it with billowy, romantic silhouettes, fabrics like tulle and satin, and accents of bows and ribbons. While an evening gown isn't obligatory, I would advise against overly casual clothing, particularly for evening performances."

      LIBEROWE

      + Net Sustain Velvet Peplum Jacket

      J.Crew

      Midi Ball Skirt in Taffeta

      ZARA

      Puff Sleeve Top Zw Collection

      Would Wear: A Faux-Fur or Wool Coat

      Wouldn't Wear: A Puffer Coat

      I may stir some debate, but I believe a puffer coat isn't suitable for the ballet. If it's the only feasible choice (say, during an extreme cold snap), then go ahead, but if there's an opportunity for a more refined and evening-appropriate coat, I strongly recommend opting for a more elegant style. A classic wool coat or peacoat always looks sophisticated, and with faux-fur and fluffy-trimmed coats becoming trendy this winter, I expect chic attendees will be sporting them.

      ZARA

      Faux Fur Coat Zw Collection Limited Edition

      MANGO

      Faux-Leather Coat With Fur Trim

      Would Wear: Walkable Heels or Ballet Flats

      Wouldn't Wear: Sneakers or Chunky Boots

      It may seem obvious, but I would steer clear of sneakers. I might consider sleek boots, but I would avoid chunky ones, as they come off too casual. "A silk blouse