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Dress code for La Scala. Milan - 8 pm opera

What is dress code for La Scala, Milan for an 8 pm opera (early May 2018)

Hoping blazer, tie, slacks and Sperry Topsider shoes will be ok

Posted by
3124 posts

That does sound OK. It's possible that some of the audience will be dressed to the nines, especially those sitting in the most expensive seats and/or who attend parties before or after. But hey, you'll be there to appreciate the performance, not to make a social statement. I'm quite sure you'll be allowed in wearing a blazer, tie, slacks & topsiders.

Here is the "horse's mouth" info, which states that you can't go in a T-shirt, sleeveless top, or shorts. http://www.teatroallascala.org/en/box-office/prepare-your-visit/house-rules.html

OTOH, if you wanted to pass for an elegant local, here's the scoop. https://www.wmagazine.com/story/how-to-pass-for-a-milanese-at

It was years ago when I went and the main thing I remember was how small & narrow & lacking legroom the seats were. I was reminded that it's a historic building and the belief that "people were smaller in those days" (which historical evidence doesn't always support) was prominent in my mind. This was a cheap seat I had bought, so the more expensive ones may be more comfortable.

Posted by
318 posts

I was there last June and I think what you describe will be just fine. Some will be formally dressed but not everyone.

Amen to the comment about the small seats and limited legroom!

Posted by
438 posts

The Italians are elegant. All the tourists are tourist-dressy. You'll be fine. The seats are even ok as long as you saw the view they offer in the website and know what you're getting. It's a great experience so have fun! The program, FYI, is a book sold separately. Worth it as a souvenir.

Posted by
281 posts

My husband brings a navy blazer and dark slacks, shirt, and tie for operas, and I usually have black slacks, black top, and a colorful shawl--and that has seemed to work at La Scala and elsewhere. We were at Opera Bastille last Saturday, and were amazed that he was dressed more formally than many, and they were French. La Scala is definitely a place where a bit more attention to dress is fine. The topsider shoes will probably be a bit informal, but nobody will be staring at your feet, so just do what you can and enjoy the performance!

Posted by
8685 posts

We wear what Lois mentions above for opera in Europe. La Scala and La Fenice were the two most formal we have attended. To not look like yokels, men need to be in jacket and probably tie, women in nice top. The basic touring outfit of black slacks/black top with something dressy over it works fine.