Everything I Would (and Wouldn't) Choose to Wear to the Nutcracker Ballet as a New Yorker

      December is undoubtedly my favorite season in New York. The festive atmosphere is everywhere, from the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue to the annual tree lighting at Rockefeller Center. However, the tradition I eagerly await the most during this time is attending a performance of The Nutcracker ballet at Lincoln Center. Some of my earliest Christmas memories include watching my sister perform in the local production back in my hometown. Since relocating to New York, I've committed to making it an annual event, dressing up for the occasion and afterwards enjoying a martini at The Mark or Bemelmans Bar.

      With the New York Ballet's schedule in full swing for the holiday season, I’m not only securing my tickets but also (perhaps more importantly) planning my outfit for the ballet. Any ballet presents a great opportunity to wear something a bit more special, and The Nutcracker provides the perfect chance to showcase your festive wardrobe. Whether you choose to embrace holiday-inspired velvet and satin or draw from classic ballet styles with A-line skirts and ballet flats, I’ve put together a comprehensive style guide for the occasion. My recommendations stem from my own tastes, but I also consulted with two colleagues who are both trained ballerinas: associate beauty editor Maya Thomas and branded content editor Emma Walsh.

      Maya, a former ballerina, emphasizes that attending a ballet helps create an atmosphere even before the theater darkens and the performers take the stage. "Even though the dancers may not see you during the performance, the fact that people are dressed elegantly adds to the enchanting experience of going to a ballet," she explains. "As a dancer who has transitioned to editing, I appreciate seeing other well-dressed attendees when I enter the theater. It shows that they thoughtfully considered how to represent themselves and respect the immense effort the dancers have invested preparing for this moment."

      Regarding appropriate attire for ballet attendees, she advises steering clear of casual options completely. Items like jeans, loose sweaters, and T-shirts should be avoided. "While ballets can be lengthy, try to find clever ways to ensure your comfort throughout the performance without compromising style. Consider a lightweight knit instead of a leather button-up shirt or opt for heels that are slightly lower than your usual choice if you’ll be walking before or after the ballet. It’s wise to bring outerwear that can be easily stored and won’t intrude during the show rather than going without a coat entirely."

      Would Wear: A Festive Cocktail Dress

      Wouldn't Wear: A Casual Dress

      Personally, I enjoy dressing up for The Nutcracker; it's one of my cherished holiday customs as a New Yorker. I generally favor a more elegant cocktail dress and steer clear of overly casual attire like sundresses, denim dresses, or knit dresses. "A ballet is an event that represents the hard work of countless individuals, so embracing the excitement and formality can enhance your experience," Thomas adds. "Although there are no strict guidelines regarding ballet attire, I suggest choosing cocktail or semi-formal wear, particularly for evening shows. When I select my outfit for a ballet, I gravitate towards dresses with A-line hemlines and fitted waists, featuring elegant details that remind me of the romantic tutus I adored since my first experience with ballet dancing."

      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 an absolute requirement. A maxi skirt or stylish trousers paired with a chic jacket would also work perfectly. "Going to a ballet is a uniquely special experience," Walsh asserts, "so I recommend embracing flowy, romantic shapes, using fabrics like tulle and satin, and incorporating bow or ribbon accents. While an evening gown isn't mandatory, it's best to avoid overly casual attire, particularly for performances in the evening."

      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 might provoke some disagreement here, but in my view, a puffer coat isn’t suitable for the ballet. If it’s your only practical option for a particularly cold evening, then go for it; otherwise, I’d strongly recommend selecting a more polished, evening-appropriate coat. A classic wool coat or peacoat always looks sophisticated, but with faux-fur and fluffy-trimmed coats trending this winter, I anticipate many chic attendees opting for styles like these.

      

      ZARA

      Faux Fur Coat Zw Collection Limited Edition

      MANGO

      Faux-Leather Coat With Fur Trim

      Would Wear: Wearable Heels or Ballet Flats

      Wouldn't Wear: Sneakers or Chunky Boots

      This may seem obvious, but I advise