Ok, I finally dragged my husband to the opera for the opening night of Opera Carolina’s TOSCA last Saturday night. Let’s not belabor how he finds watching hours on end of golf quite invigorating, while the opera seems a perfect place for a cat nap. The performance was lovely, TOSCA is an easy one to enjoy, and the cast is wonderful. But really, down to the main reason you are reading this, since you must know I am no opera buff. If you are going to see Tosca later this week, or The Magic Flute in January or a future Opera Carolina performance, the only thing I can really help you with is: What To Wear.
First – this is not the Met. There are very few long gowns or black ties to be seen. I counted maybe 12 “long” and at least half of those were long black skirts. While it is always ok to wear a gown to the opera or a gala, you definitely will not feel out of place in a short skirt.
Second – I strongly recommend dressing up for the opera. It’s not a night at Chili’s for the love of Pete. Coat and tie and a cocktail type outfit. Silky or dressy pants are fine, but then man up and wear some heels.
Third – neither is this the prom. By cocktails, think elegant and dressy, more like what you would wear to winter wedding, very nice dinner party or evening out.
