When it comes to dressing for a Broadway show, especially one as iconic as Michael Jackson’s MJ The Musical, it can be tricky to know what attire is appropriate. The atmosphere at Broadway shows tends to be more formal than other performing arts events, but there are still options depending on your personal style. Here’s a quick guide on how to dress stylishly and appropriately for this exciting show.
Dress Code for Broadway
Broadway shows, plays, and musicals traditionally have a more formal dress code than other performing arts and live entertainment events. This is because Broadway theaters in New York City used to be seen as quite lavish and upscale. So when the tradition of attending theater shows took off in the 1920s, people would get dressed up in their finest outfits.
Nowadays, Broadway shows range from casual to black tie attire. While there is no official dress code, most people still opt for business casual, dressy casual, or formalwear.
General guidelines for appropriate attire:
- Men: Dress pants or slacks with a button-down shirt or polished sweater. Ties optional. Dress shoes and/or sports jacket for a more formal look.
- Women: Cocktail dress, dressy separates like a nice blouse and skirt, or dark jeans with dressy blouse and heels. Formal gown optional for very dressy affairs.
Outfits and styles to avoid:
- Jeans (non-dressy washes)
- Shorts
- Flip flops or casual sneakers
- T-shirts, tank tops, athleticwear
- Ripped or distressed clothing
- Baseball caps or beanies
Dressing for MJ The Musical
When it comes to Michael Jackson inspired fashion, there are plenty of stylish options. Here are some ideas for dressing with a hint of MJ’s signature flair:
For Men
- White or black penny loafers
- White dress socks
- Black slacks
- Military style jacket
- Sparkly glove
- Fedora hat
For Women
- White or black go-go boots
- Leggings and mini skirt
- Sequined top
- Red leather jacket
- Headband or hair bow
- Rhinestone jewelry
A sequined military jacket paired with slacks or sparkly heels would also capture that signature MJ flair. Or if you want to keep it more subtle, just add a few MJ inspired accessories like sunglasses, gloves, or flashy socks to your OOTD.
What to Wear: From Casual to Formal
You can’t go wrong with dressing up a bit for Broadway, but everyone has different comfort levels. Here are some OOTD ideas ranging from daytime casual to black tie formal.
| Outfit Style | Men’s Outfit | Women’s Outfit |
|---|---|---|
| Casual | Dark jeans, button-down shirt, blazer | Sundress or dark jeans with nice top and heels |
| Smart Casual | Slacks, dress shirt, optional tie | Dress pants with blouse, dress or skirt |
| Business Professional | Suit, dress shirt, tie | Dress suit, blouse, heels |
| Black Tie Optional | Tuxedo | Cocktail dress or evening gown |
| Creative Black Tie | Tux with creative touches | Cocktail dress or gown with creative touches |
The most formal option is Creative Black Tie dress code, which calls for traditional black tie attire with creative embellishments or accents. This could be a fun opportunity to showcase your inner Michael Jackson style!
Dressing for the Weather
Since Broadway shows take place year-round, the weather is an important factor when deciding what to wear. Here are some tips:
- Spring and Fall – Bring a light jacket or wrap. Opt for layers like blazers over dresses or sweaters over collared shirts.
- Summer – Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are ideal. Short sleeve button-downs, sundresses, open-toe shoes.
- Winter – Bundle up with overcoats, wool sweaters, suits and warm dresses. Use scarves, gloves and boots.
No matter the weather, be sure to check the theater’s policy on large coats, umbrellas etc. Most have coat checks available.
Footwear Tips
Selecting the right footwear completes your Broadway outfit:
- Women – Heels, dressy flats, ankle boots, or dress sandals for summer.
- Men – Leather dress shoes in black or brown. Loafers or lace-up Oxfords.
- Avoid sneakers, athletic shoes, flip flops.
- Bring spare folded flats in your bag if heels get uncomfortable.
Accessorizing Your Outfit
Accessorizing puts the finishing polish on any Broadway outfit. Consider:
- Statement jewelry – opt for your finest pieces like pearls, gold, gemstones.
- Designer handbag – crossbody or clutch bag
- Bold makeup looks – don’t be afraid of some drama and glam
- Fedora, bowler hat, or sequined headband
- Pocket square, silk tie, or ascot tie
- Scarves or shawls – great for shoulders on chilly nights.
Dressing on a Budget
You don’t need to spend a fortune on your Broadway outfit. Try these budget friendly tips:
- thrift or consignment shops for designer items at a discount
- rent or borrow formalwear like tuxedos and gowns
- mix and match pieces you already own – slacks + dressy top + heels
- shop sale racks for special occasion wear
- accessorize outfits with vintage jewelry, scarves, hats
- stick to solid colors and minimal patterns
Focus spending on 1 or 2 key pieces or accessories to elevate your look.
Conclusion
Dressing for Broadway shows is a chance to break out your finest attire and add some drama. While there’s no exact dress code, aim for business casual, dressy, or formalwear. Consider weather, accessorize creatively, and add Michael Jackson inspired flair. Focus on looking sharp, feeling confident, and embracing the glamorous spirit of Broadway theater.