What Should You Wear to a Fashion Show

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A woman in a blue dress is walking down the runway at a fashion show.

It’s exciting when you are invited to attend a fashion show. The lights, the glamour, and the gorgeous people are ready to see some stunningly perfect clothing in a fun runway setting. Then your next thought might be, what should you wear to a fashion show? The overall goal with dressing for a fashion show is not only to look your best but to also make sure you are in line with the theme and feel of the event. Your outfit needs to fit the vibe of the occasion.

At Sit Front Row, we know all about fashion runway shows since we put on some pretty spectacular ones. Runway production is one of our specialties, along with personal styling, closet curation, and image consultation as a full-service fashion firm. Here are some tips and tricks for knowing what you should wear to different types of fashion shows.

How to Dress Appropriately for a Fashion Show

You want to fit your clothing in with the style of the fashion show being held. So you want to analyze things like the theme of the event, the time of day it’s taking place, and where the runway show is being held. If this is your first fashion show, ask others that you know who are going, "What should you wear to fashion a show?" They will also give you some guidance on what they are going to wear that will help you select your own outfit.

You could also consult with a virtual personal stylist to make sure that your outfit will work for the type of event you are attending. Hiring your own personal stylist is less expensive than you may think. Plus, it’s well worth it to make sure that you look stylish and on-point for your next fashion show.

Outfit Ideas for Different Types of Fashion Shows

Since there are many different types of fashion shows, you want to come up with outfit ideas for each one. For example, it could be a high-end designer show, streetwear fashion, or a more casual showcase. Match your outfit accordingly. For instance, if it’s a designer's show, you ideally have some pieces from that specific designer in your closet that you could wear.

For a more casual show, you can dress down a bit, but you still want to look put together. That could mean a great pair of designer jeans with a smart-looking blouse and the right accessories. Make sure you shop at your local boutique way ahead of time so that you aren’t scrambling for the right outfit at the last minute.

Pieces That Work for Any Fashion Show

If you are still unsure of what to wear, some pieces will work for practically any fashion show. Focus on versatile wardrobe staples, like a stylish blazer, classic shoes, and beautiful accessories that can really add some pizzazz to any outfit. Any attractive combination you put together will work if you wear it with confidence. Mix and match pieces are great too, since they can be adapted to different styles of runway shows. Don’t underestimate the power of a stylish pair of dress pants, or a classic “little black dress”, that will work for a variety of fashion events. Everyone should have at least a couple of these go-to dresses in their closet.

Practical Tips for Comfort and Style

Of course, you’ll want to look amazing sitting at a fashion show, but you want to stay comfortable as well. Sometimes these events can go on for a long time or may have a cocktail party afterward that you’ll want to attend. Choose the right footwear that you can wear comfortably for the duration of the event.

Anticipate what the weather might be like as well. You still want to look stylish, but if some of the events are outdoors, make sure that you are dressed warmly enough or bring an umbrella if it rains. For example, New York’s Fashion Week takes place each year and sometimes people have to wait in line outside of big event tents just to get in. The weather will definitely dictate what you’ll be comfortable wearing.

A group of people are watching a model walk down the runway at a fashion show.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at a Fashion Show

The biggest mistake that people make when going to a fashion show is over or underdressing. For example, if it’s an athleisure wear show, like a Lululemon-style company, you don’t want to be dressed in an evening gown. Regardless of the type of fashion show, you don’t want to wear something so over the top that it draws unwanted attention to you. Avoid committing fashion faux pas by making sure that your outfit aligns with the vibe and theme of the event.

Sit Front Row Can Plan Your Next Fashion Show

Sit Front Row is your go-to fashion event planning service. We’ve done tons of fashion runway shows that are the pinnacle of glamour and style. If you are tasked with planning a fashion show or runway production for your company, retail store, or even a charity endeavor, look to us to make sure that your runway show goes off without a hitch. Send us a message today to plan your next fashion show.