What To Wear To Glyndebourne 2025
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3 days ago
Your opera style guide for Glyndebourne season
Big fan of the opera? Then you’ll want to make sure you’ve booked your tickets for Glyndebourne Festival this year. Taking place in an old English country house in East Sussex, this annual opera festival is not one to be missed. If you already have your tickets ready to go, then there might be one question left on your lips: what do I wear? Fear not – here we lay out what to wear to Glyndebourne, from dress codes to style inspiration.
Is There A Dress Code For Glyndebourne?
Yes, there are multiple dress codes for Glyndebourne: evening performances typically acquire more formal attire, while daytime events such as rehearsals, open days and picnics ask for semi-formal dress. In the case of the opera, it’s expected that guests will attend in black tie attire with an emphasis on eveningwear and elegance.
When it comes to women’s dress, Glyndebourne-goers can choose between floor-length evening gowns, cocktail dresses, formal trouser suits and smart separates. You can finish off the look with either heels or dress shoes, with a choice of accessories – think statement jewellery, a clutch, scarf or shawl.
(c) Graham Carlow
Since much of the Glyndebourne opera experience is held outdoors, it’s also worth taking a wrap or light jacket to avoid getting too cold on chillier evenings.
When Is It?
Glyndebourne runs every year from May through to August. This year, the Festival will officially commence on 16 May when the first opera is performed, and close with the final performance on 24 August. glyndebourne.com
What To Wear To Glyndebourne 2025
The Opera Dress
The classic pick for Glyndebourne. When it comes to the opera, you can’t go wrong with a floor-length gown – especially one decorated in embroidery, gemstones and layers of silky fabric. Sleek and elegant, this is an automatic win for Glyndebourne-goers.
The Formal Suit
Who said it had to be all about the dresses? If a long skirt doesn’t capture your fancy this year, fear not – you can trade it in for a pristinely tailored suit. Opt for a classic tuxedo, a colourful contemporary number, summer linens or even a hybrid suiting option (swapping out trousers for a long, decorative skirt).
Knatchbull
Tuxedo Jacket In Barathea, £1,795
Palazzo Trouser With Tuxedo Stripe & Cumberbund In Barathea, £995
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Victoria Beckham
Patch Pocket Jacket In Willow, £850
Alina Trouser In Willow, £490
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Heels
Heels never go amiss at Glyndebourne, pairing beautifully with both gowns and tailoring options. Go big and bold with a statement shoe, or keep things simple with a neutral colour palette that can be worn again and again.
Accessories
The finishing touch? A pretty clutch. You’ll need somewhere to store all of your finery, and these stylish handbags will let you do it without breaking the impact of your outfit.
