Formal Attire Archives | Glitter & Spice

What to Wear to Your First Opera!

How to Dress for an Opera Premiere

This post was supposed to go up yesterday… but in between group project meetings, my mom coming to town, and my event with MiniLuxe last night, the day got away from me.

So lucky y’all: you get two posts today instead of one!

If you’ve been following for a while (or have checked out my 30 Before 30 list), you know that I attend a lot of operas. I try to see at least six operas per year. And – quite honestly – few things give me as much joy as a fancy night out, all dolled up, to go see an opera.

Years ago, when I was first starting Glitter & Spice, I wrote a post about what to wear to your first opera. Since then, that post has gotten hundreds of clicks (and I’ve received almost as many emails!). So I thought it about time I do a follow-up post with real examples for y’all to shop!

The Perfect Gown for a Black Tie Event

02-20 by Amanda

BAM. That’s what I feel like in this dress: like every time I walk into a room, somebody’s there making “BAM” sound effects.

I go to a lot of black tie events. Finding a dress that will top the previous gowns is hard work, y’all. But I truly think that this is it: I’ve finally found the perfect gown for a black tie event. It’s at once both sexy and classy, both exposing and demure. Really everything I want to communicate on a daily basis.

Plus it makes you feel like a princess when you wear it.

Silver Gown

03-07 by Amanda

Happy Monday, friends!

I wore this silver gown to the opera gala in Austin a few weeks ago and it was such a hit. I totally felt/acted like a princess all night. I may have channeled Cinderella for a solid seven hours. Complete in the way she hurried down the stairs. I have no regrets.

Except for the fact that the slingbacks I wore with this silver gown that night never once fell off. I feel like losing one of those would’ve cemented me finding my Prince Charming. Instead, the shoes stayed on and I ended the night drinking wine with my parents. Story of my life.

Metallic Mermaid Gown

01-25 by Amanda

Maybe it’s the girly-girl in me, but I love dressing up in gowns! This was my first time wearing a mermaid gown (one that hugs your body until about mid-thigh or calf and then flares out), and I promise you that it won’t be my last!

A Gold Glitter Skirt

12-14 by Amanda

Hellooooo holidays! This week is all about fabulous holiday party outfits. How fun is this look? This gold glitter skirt would be absolutely perfect for an upcoming holiday party, gala, or even a formal New Year’s Eve party (or perhaps even a wedding later this winter!). The moment I saw this gold glitter skirt on Rent the Runway, I knew I had to have it! Gold and glitter? Obviously this was my dream come true. Made my little glittery heart go pitter patter.