Palais Garnier has no specific dress code, but visitors must wear proper attire.
Business or smart casuals are the perfect choice for visiting the Opera Garnier.
You don’t have to worry about wearing formal clothing unless you’re visiting on a premier or gala night.
Here, we have a comprehensive guide for sorting out your dress code-related queries.
Dress Code for Men
Even though there is no strict dress code at Palais Garnier, men are expected to wear smart casuals.
What not to wear
Here is a list of things you should avoid wearing when visiting the Palais Garnier:
- Shorts
- Athletic or sportswear
- Graphic T-shirts or tank tops
- T-shirts with offensive graphics or slogans
- Sneakers or flip-flops
- Baseball caps or casual hats
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Overly casual or torn clothing
What to wear
A casual look works perfectly at the Opera Garnier.
Here’s what you can consider wearing for your visit:
- Jeans: Classic denim jeans in various washes and styles.
- Polo Shirts: A step up from T-shirts, providing a slightly more polished look.
- Chinos: Casual cotton trousers.
- Shoes: Casual footwear suitable for everyday wear.
- Casual Button-Up Shirts: Long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirts for a put-together look.
- Casual Jackets: Lightweight jackets or denim jackets for layering.
- A Sweater: For a well-organized look
For a Gala or Premier Evening
The dress code for a gala or premier evening would be more formal like:
- A well-fitted suit or dress slacks with a blazer
- Dress shirt with a tie or bowtie
- Dress shoes (preferably leather)
- Socks that complement the outfit
- A tasteful belt
- Minimalistic and elegant accessories
- Groomed and well-kept hair and facial hair
- A pocket square for added sophistication
Dress Code for Women
Women also have no particular dress code, but decent attire is expected.
What not to 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
What to wear
A business casual look is best when visiting Palais Garnier.
- Jeans: Classic denim jeans in different cuts and washes.
- Leggings: Stretchy and comfortable for a relaxed look.
- Blouses: Loose or fitted, short or long-sleeve options.
- Sundresses: Flowy, lightweight dresses for a laid-back vibe.
- Shoes: Comfortable and stylish footwear for daily wear.
- Sandals: Casual sandals for warm seasons.
- Cardigans: Lightweight layering pieces for cooler days.
- Sweaters: Cozy sweaters for a relaxed feel.
- Skirts: Various skirts, from A-line to pencil, for different occasions.
For a Gala or Premier Evening
For a gala night, you’ll need more formal clothing.
- Elegant dresses or formal gowns
- Dress slacks or a skirt with a blouse
- Dress shoes or heels
- Tasteful accessories (e.g., pearls, a clutch)
- Hosiery or stockings
- Well-groomed hair and makeup
- Light outerwear like a shawl or evening jacket
- Subtle and refined fragrance
Dress Code for Kids
There isn’t a strict dress code for kids, either.
Kids can wear a simple t-shirt, sweatshirt, sweater, dress or hoodie.
For kids jeans, shorts, leggings or even joggers won’t be a problem.
To go with these, a pair of sneakers or shoes are good.
Tips for Travelers
If you’re a tourist visiting the Opera Garnier, we suggest you don’t stress over the dress code or pack heavy.
For example, if you’re visiting during the colder months, you’d already have a jacket which will be practical and suitable.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, we won’t suggest carrying a jacket or suit.
A smart casual look will work just fine.
Unless it is a premiere night, you will notice that most people visiting are dressed casually.