What to Wear to the Nutcracker

One of my all-time favorite holiday traditions is going to see the Nutcracker at Christmastime. Growing up, I danced in the Nutcracker, from the time I was a three-year-old snowflake until I was old enough to be the snow queen and sugar plum fairy. I loved performing in the classic holiday production, probably more than I loved taking ballet itself (though I took it for years until college), and I am so excited when my kids are a little older to take them to see the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center in the city with me. This year, they’re still a bit young for that schlep and show, so we are going to see our local production of the Nutcracker. I know a lot of you love this tradition as much as I do and are making a date night out of it or taking your kids, so I thought I would do a roundup of what to wear to the Nutcracker.

I, of course, love the ballet and the tradition and music, but I also love that going to see this show is an excuse to dress up in your holiday finest. It’s the whole experience that’s so special — the dressing up, the going to see the show, the lunch or dinner after. It’s just such a magical and fun way to spend an afternoon during the holiday season. I like to wear something festive and classic, like a daytime-appropriate holiday dress, a skirt and top, or a blouse and pants. I always add a dressier statement coat for the pictures outside the theater and to finish off the look. I usually stick to flats or block or low heels, since there’s usually some walking from the car or train to the theater. If you’re taking place in this beloved tradition this year, here are ideas for what to wear to the Nutcracker.