Live comedy shows are popular entertainment for a night out. It’s the perfect choice for a girls’ night out or even a date – after all, laughing with someone helps you to bond. While the focus is on stage, you still want to look your best for pictures with your friends or your significant other.
Many of us have only ever watched online comedy shows, so knowing the dress code for in-person shows can be challenging. You want to have a good time and enjoy the show, not feel self-conscious about your outfit all night.
If you’re staring at your closet and wondering what to wear for the next comedy show you attend, we’ve got you. Don’t stress out, just follow a few simple tips so you can look good and have a great time.
Consider the Type of Comedy Show
Of course, the kind of show you’re attending can make a difference in what you want to wear. Here are a few factors to consider.
Ticketed Comedy Shows vs Unticketed
When we think of comedy shows we might be thinking of big headliners doing stand-up at a nice theater. Tickets have to be purchased in advance and may be somewhat expensive. This is just one kind of comedy show.
Many smaller venues, like local music clubs and bars, can also have comedy nights. These tend to be less formal and may even offer an element of open mic to the event so usually, you don’t have to buy tickets. Getting in may be free, may have a low cover charge, or might be free with the purchase of a drink.
While comedy shows aren’t formal affairs by any means, a ticketed event at a higher price point may be something you dress up a little more for. Open mic nights or small local bar shows tend to be super casual.
Think About the Time of Day
Most comedy shows are in the evening, but sometimes, there will be an afternoon or matinee performance. Matinees are usually a little more affordable and are a more casual event.
You can definitely use the same base outfit for either time of day; you might just want to play with accessories that take the look from day to night.
Dress for the Venue
Theaters tend to run cold. The stage lights are very hot, so blasting the AC helps keep the performers and the audience near the front from getting too hot.
If you tend to run cold, you’ll want to prepare for that. Incorporate a sweater or blazer into your outfit that you can wear or remove depending on the indoor temperature.
Avoid Being a Comedian’s Material
A lot of comedians enjoy interacting with their audience, maybe even teasing certain members. If you’re sitting in the front, you can easily be seen. If you’d rather just enjoy your evening without becoming part of the show, you may want to pay attention to a few things.
Wearing a really bold outfit will be more likely to draw their attention. Similarly, showing a lot of skin or wearing heavy makeup can also draw comments. This is a cheap form of comedy, but openers for bigger acts may be desperate to get a laugh or say something shocking.
If you bought your tickets in advance, check to see where you’ll be sitting and prepare yourself. For the front couple of rows, we recommend dressing in a simple, neutral way.
Dos and Don’ts of Comedy Show Outfits
Choosing your outfit is a personal thing. One universally perfect outfit for everyone does not exist. There are some guidelines you might want to follow to strike the right balance between comfort and fashion, though.
Do Follow the Dress Code
Some venues, especially nightclubs, will have dress codes. This is usually for health and safety but also to maintain a dignified image.
Usually, flip-flops are not allowed, along with ripped clothes and overly casual things like hoodies and workout clothes. Check the venue’s code of conduct ahead of time so you can be prepared.
Do Wear Something Comfortable
You’ll be sitting for a while at the comedy show, so choose an outfit that’s comfortable to sit in. It will be hard to focus on the show if your pants are cutting into your stomach or your shirt is riding up your back all evening.
Do Wear Comfortable Shoes
It may seem pointless for an event where you’ll be doing a lot of sitting, but comfortable shoes are still recommended. You may be walking around a poorly lit space where it can be easy to trip, especially in a stiletto. You may even have to navigate stairs.
Don’t Overdress
A comedy show is not the same as an opera or another event where you might be expected to adhere to a more formal dress code. While you may enjoy dressing up, don’t overdo it. No need for an evening gown and a lot of bling. A casual day dress will be perfect if you prefer dresses.
Don’t Bring a Large Bag
Some venues have restrictions on the size of a bag someone can bring. This is another safety precaution and most venues will also do a bag check at the door. You can speed things along by choosing a small bag, or even a clear bag.
Don’t Wear Hats or Tall Hairdos
In a theater, you’ll likely have people sitting behind you. Even if you aren’t particularly tall, a hat or a bun piled up on top of your head can interfere with someone’s ability to see. You don’t want to be rude, so stick with a chignon if you want a bun, or choose another lower hairstyle
Comedy Show Outfit Ideas
Now that you have some basic guidelines, here are a few ideas for how to style an outfit around different pieces you probably already have in your wardrobe.
Jeans and a Dressy Top
An all-American staple, jeans are in almost everyone’s wardrobe. Start by choosing your most comfortable pair that you can sit in your a long time without feeling like you’re being cut in half. This may be a high-waisted pair or one with some stretch, but make sure they aren’t ripped.
Pair your jeans with a cute blouse, and add a blazer or cardigan. You could finish the look with a low-heeled ankle boot or loafers and a small cross-body bag.
A Playful or Casual Dress
A comfortable cotton dress will be pretty and feminine but casual. If you always get too cold in the theater, you can opt to wear leggings or tights underneath your dress. You can bring a cardigan or even layer a pullover sweater on top. For a more casual, edgy look, add a denim or leather jacket instead.
A pair of ballet flats is a classic and sweet option, but you could go with a chunky Mary-Jane for a tougher look or light-colored sneakers to make it more casual.
Trousers and a Classic Top
If you want to elevate your look, but you prefer pants, try a pair of trousers. A simple black wide-leg trousers or a pair of corduroys would do nicely with a pullover sweater or a blouse.
Have a Fun(ny) Time at the Comedy Show
We always want to look our best, but it’s also good be dress appropriately to the occasion we’re at. Fortunately, it’s not too complicated for most comedy shows.
Just check with the venue to make sure of the dress code, and then have fun putting together an elevated casual look you can comfortably laugh the night away in.
