Holidays
What to Wear to the Nutcracker: 8 Outfits for Matinees and Evening Shows
Festive, polished and quiet in your seat: 3 complete Nutcracker outfits by budget, from a matinee with kids to opening night, plus 5 more ideas.
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What are you dressing for?
Three complete outfits for every occasion, at Budget, Mid and Splurge prices. Real pieces from US stores, added up to the dollar.
One occasion, three budgets
Read the guideFrom What to Wear to the Nutcracker: 8 Outfits for Matinees and Evening Shows: the same evening, dressed three ways. Every look is a complete outfit with real, in-stock pieces.
Dress for the occasion
Shop by colorDress code decoder
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Black tie
MeansThe most formal. A floor-length gown or a very elegant midi.
WearGown, dressy heels, statement earrings.
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Formal
MeansFloor-length is safest; a polished midi or dressy jumpsuit works.
WearMidi or maxi in polished fabric.
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Cocktail
MeansKnee-length to midi, dressy separates or a refined jumpsuit.
WearSatin midi, slingbacks, a small bag.
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Semi-formal
MeansA step down from cocktail, in elevated fabrics.
WearSkirt set or tailored separates.
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Dressy casual
MeansFlowy and put together, never stiff.
WearMidi skirt, good top, block heels.
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Casual
MeansStill dressed up, with practical shoes for the ground.
WearEasy dress, wedges or boots.
Save the looks
Follow Outfit Ideas for every new guide, with all three budgets pinned and ready to shop.