Getty Etiquette expert Elaine Swann shares her thoughts on theater dress codes Swann believes that dressing up for live performances is a sign of respect The expert says that a strict dress code isn't necessary, but attendees should lean into an "elevated style of dressing" Nowadays, it seems like the opportunities to get dressed up are few and far between. Aside from weddings or the occasional formal event, day-to-day life has become increasingly casual. The COVID-19 pandemic, a time when most of the world was cooped up inside for months on end, only contributed to this trend. Workout gear became acceptable everyday wear thanks to the athleisure craze, and what used to be reserved for casual Fridays at the office is now the new standard. Dressing up for the theater has also been a casualty of this cultural shift. While some attendees might still choose to go more formal, etiquette expert and authorElaine Swannsays there are some unspoken rules for such a venue. "What still exists is a more elevated style of dressing," Swann tells PEOPLE. "We may not find that information on our ticket stubs, but the theater itself is a space that has always been a bit more revered than, for example, a movie theater. And I think the two should be separate. The way we dress to go to the movie theater is different than a theater where we're watching a live stage play." https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf When dressing for an event such as a Broadway play, opera or ballet, Swann says that extremely casual wear is "completely off-limits." "Ripped jeans, shorts, tank tops, athletic wear. Those types of things we should absolutely avoid wearing to the theater," she says." While Swann notes that certain venues like opera houses imply a more formal level of attire, we should apply this way of thinking to any type of live performance. "I see the choice to elevate our wardrobe selection as a sign of respect for the occasion and for the environment that we're experiencing," she explains. "When you're dealing with a live stage play, it's very different than a film where the actors had the opportunity to have many takes and there's editing and so forth that's involved. These folks are really sharing their talent in a very unique manner. And so the way we show up for those folks should be different." However, attendees don't need to go overboard. "We don't necessarily have to have the long opera gloves and gowns and things like that," Swann clarifies, "but just putting a bit more effort into what we wear is a really great sign of respect for the talent involved." While Swann says an official, enforced dress code isn't necessary, she believes that venues should "strongly suggest" one. "I think if they do this sort of thing, it can really bring people's mindset back to getting dressed up and going out to the theater, and making it a unique and memorable experience," she explains. Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE's free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Dressing for the theater is not just good etiquette; it's an opportunity to treat yourself. "Don't wait for the establishment to tell you what to wear," Swann says. "The next time you decide to go out, make it a special occasion. Find something that works best for you within your budget and start to make the shift and the change yourself." Pre-order Elaine Swann's etiquette guide,Elaine Swann's Book of Modern Etiquette,here. Read the original article onPeople
