Planning to attend an opera, ballet, or concert at the stunning Palais Garnier in Paris and wondering what to wear?
Known as one of the most luxurious opera houses in the world, the Palais Garnier carries an air of elegance that deserves a touch of formality from its guests.
In this article, you will find a comprehensive guide on what to wear (and what to avoid) to make sure you are perfectly ready for this extraordinary venue.
What is the Palais Garnier Dress Code?

Although the dress code at Palais Garnier isn’t strictly enforced, you are expected to wear something that reflects the style and grace this legendary venue deserves.
Whether it’s an opera or ballet, dressing with a bit of elegance is a way to honor the spirit of this legendary setting.
For evening performances, you should wear formal or semi-formal attire, such as cocktail dresses, dress shirts, and suits.
Daytime events or tours are more relaxed, allowing for smart casual wear.
This could include dressy trousers or skirts paired with stylish tops.
However, it’s best to avoid overly casual choices like shorts, flip-flops, or athletic wear.
Related: What’s inside Opera Garnier?
What can you wear?
Here are some dressing ideas for men, women, and kids to consider before visiting the Palais Garnier so that you can strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.
For Men (Daytime)
- Jeans – Classic denim jeans in various washes and styles offer a versatile foundation for your outfit.
- Polo Shirts – A step up from T-shirts, polo shirts provide a slightly more polished look while remaining comfortable.
- Chinos – Casual cotton trousers like chinos are a great alternative, combining comfort and style for a smart appearance.
- Casual Footwear – Choose comfortable shoes suitable for everyday wear, such as loafers or stylish sneakers, to keep your feet comfortable during your visit.
- Casual Button-Up Shirts – Opt for long or short-sleeve button-up shirts to achieve a put-together look without being overly formal.
- Casual Jackets – Lightweight jackets or denim jackets are perfect for layering, adding style while providing warmth if needed.
- Sweater – A cozy sweater can create a well-organized look, making it a great option for cooler days.
For Men (Gala or Premier Evening)
- A Well-Fitted Suit or Dress Slacks with a Blazer – Choose a tailored suit or dress slacks paired with a blazer for a sharp, polished look.
- Dress Shirt with a Tie or Bowtie: To add a bit of refinement to your ensemble, choose a clean dress shirt and a tie or bowtie.
- Dress Shoes – Select leather dress shoes that provide a refined finish to your outfit. Classic Oxfords or loafers work well.
- Complementary Socks – Wear socks that coordinate with your outfit to maintain a cohesive and stylish appearance.
- Tasteful Belt – A sleek belt that matches your shoes can tie your look together and add an extra layer of polish.
- Groomed Hair and Facial Hair – Ensure your hair is neatly styled, and if you have facial hair, keep it well-groomed for a clean appearance.
- A Pocket Square: Adding a pocket square to your ensemble can add sophistication by adding a pop of color or texture.
For Women (Daytime)
- Jeans – Classic denim jeans in various cuts and washes provide a versatile and comfortable base for your outfit.
- Blouses – Choose loose or fitted blouses with short or long sleeves to maintain a polished appearance.
- Sundresses – Flowing, lightweight sundresses create a laid-back vibe, perfect for warm days while still looking chic.
- Comfortable Footwear – To keep your feet happy during your visit, choose stylish yet comfortable shoes, like loafers or ballet flats.
- Casual Sandals – Wear sandals during the summer to add a comfy touch to your outfit without sacrificing style.
- Lightweight Cardigans – To stay warm on chilly days without being overly bulky, layer with a lightweight cardigan.
- Skirts – Consider various skirt styles, from A-line to pencil, to create different looks suitable for various occasions at the venue.
For Women (Gala or Premier Evening)
- A Glamorous Dress – Opt for a stunning evening gown or a chic cocktail dress that exudes sophistication, ideal for a gala or premiere.
- A Blouse and Tailored Trousers – Choose an elegant blouse paired with high-waisted tailored trousers for a polished look.
- Sophisticated Heels – Elevate your outfit with stylish heels, such as stiletto pumps or embellished sandals, to add a touch of glamour.
- Clutch or Evening Bag – Select a sleek clutch or an evening bag with embellishments to keep your essentials while enhancing your overall look.
- Dressy Jumpsuit – A well-fitted jumpsuit can be a stylish alternative to a dress for a modern and chic look.
- Chic Wrap or Shawl – Bring a luxurious wrap or shawl for added warmth and flair, especially for an evening event where temperatures might drop.
- Statement Jewelry – Choose eye-catching jewelry, like chandelier earrings or a sparkling bracelet, to complement your outfit.
- Stylish Outerwear – If you are attending during cooler months, a tailored coat or a stylish trench can keep you warm without compromising your outfit’s elegance.
For Little Ones
There isn’t a strict dress code at Palais Garnier for kids, either, so they can dress comfortably while still looking presentable.
They can wear a simple T-shirt, sweatshirt, sweater, dress, or hoodie.
When it comes to bottoms, jeans, shorts, leggings, or even joggers are all great options.
To complete their look, a pair of sneakers or casual shoes will keep their feet comfortable.
Related: Palais Garnier hours
What can you NOT wear?
Here’s a list of what you should avoid wearing:
- Shorts
- Sneakers or flip-flops
- Revealing or overly casual tops
- Athletic or sportswear
- Baseball caps or casual hats
- Excessive or ostentatious jewelry
- Short mini-skirts or extremely short dresses
- Distressed or torn clothing
- T-shirts with offensive graphics or slogans
- Baseball caps or casual hats
Related: How to get to Palais Garnier?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common inquiries regarding the dress code at Palais Garnier to help you prepare for your visit.
Can I wear jeans at Palais Garnier?
Yes, you can wear jeans at the Palais Garnier, but only during daytime events. It’s best to avoid jeans and opt for formal attire during the evening performances to align with the more elegant dress code expected at this venue.
What is the dress code for Palais Garnier opera house?
When dressing for Palais Garnier, consider the cultural emphasis on elegance in Parisian fashion. Aim for a polished, sophisticated look that reflects the venue’s historic significance and the grandeur of the performances.
Can children follow the same dress code at Palais Garnier?
Yes, kids can dress comfortably while still looking presentable. There isn’t a strict dress code for children at Palais Garnier, so they can wear items like t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, or dresses paired with sneakers or casual shoes.
Are there any clothing items I should avoid at Palais Garnier?
While the Palais Garnier dress code is flexible, it’s best to steer clear of overly casual pieces like flip-flops, ripped clothing, or athletic wear, especially for evening events.
What should I do if I feel uncertain about what to wear?
If you are unsure about your outfit, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. A good rule of thumb is to aim for smart casual for daytime events and dressier attire for the evening.