How to Dress for an Art Opening

Co-authored by Hannah Park and Kyle Hall

Last Updated: February 1, 2023 References

Figuring out what to wear to an art opening can be confusing. Do you wear all black? Do you need to make a fashion statement? The truth is you have a lot of flexibility when picking out an outfit for an art opening, as long as you meet the dress code and look presentable. You can experiment with bold colors and patterns, or stick with a simple two-tone ensemble. Whatever you choose to wear to an art opening, you want to make sure you feel confident and comfortable in your outfit.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Finding the Perfect Outfit

1
Find out if there’s a dress code. Look on the invitation you got or ask someone else who’s going. Some art openings will actually have a dress code they want guests to follow. Choosing an outfit will be a lot easier if you know how dressed up everyone else is getting.
- If the dress code is "casual dressy," pair slacks, dress pants, or a skirt with a blouse or button-up. You can snazz-up your outfit with a blazer or tie.^{[1]
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- For events that call for "cocktail attire," short dresses and fitted suits are the norm.^{[2]
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2
Ask other invited guests for tips if you’re not sure what to wear. If there’s no dress code, or you’re confused by the dress code, don’t be afraid to ask for some help. Ask one of your friends that’s going what they plan on wearing. If you know the artist hosting the opening personally, reach out and ask them what to wear.
- If you're still unsure, look up the venue where the opening will be at. A smaller, more intimate venue like a coffee house will most likely be casual. If the venue is an upscale gallery in a nicer part of town, you're probably expected to dress up more.
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3
Wear something with a bold print. It could be a dress, button-up shirt, blouse, or a pair of pants. If you go with a print, make the rest of your outfit simple. The printed garment should stand out from your outfit, not get lost in a sea of other patterns.
- For example, you could wear a bright floral dress with a neutral-toned blazer or jacket.
- If you're wearing a suit, go with a button-up shirt with a bold print to add a personal touch to your outfit.
4
Go with a monochromatic look. Have all the pieces of your outfit be the same color. You'll look chic and like you don't want to steal the spotlight from the featured artist.
- You could wear navy high-waisted pants with a matching navy top.
- A black turtleneck sweater tucked into black pants would be a simple yet sophisticated outfit. Pull the look together with black shoes.
5
Try out a statement piece from your wardrobe. Use the art opening as an opportunity to showcase some clothes you don't get to wear a lot. Art openings are fun and about personal expression. Don't be afraid to experiment with something different.
- For example, you could wear a faux-fur jacket over a simple black dress.
- Experiment with your shoes too. Wear knee-high boots or a pair of platform shoes.
- Go with a velvet suit jacket to make your outfit stand out.
6
Choose an outfit that reflects your personal style. Stick with what you like and feel comfortable in, but don't be afraid to experiment. Don't feel pressured to dress a certain way because you're going to an art opening.^{[3]
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- Keep in mind you'll be walking around a lot at the event. Wear something you feel comfortable in. Avoid outfits that are too tight or made of itchy fabrics.^{[4]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Accessorizing Your Ensemble

1
Use jewelry to give your outfit flair. You can go simple with your jewelry or use the opening as an opportunity to experiment. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and watches all make great accessories to wear to an art opening.
- For example, if you’re wearing a simple black dress, you could wear a gold statement necklace and bangle. The gold will pop against the black dress.
- A watch is a simple and elegant jewelry choice that can add extra dimension to your outfit.
2
Wear a scarf. Look for a scarf that’s made out of a thin fabric that won't be hot during the event. Experiment with different ways of wrapping the scarf around your neck.^{[5]
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Expert Source

Hannah Park
Professional Stylist
Expert Interview. 21 February 2019.}
- For example, you could wear a scarf over a suit. The scarf will dress-down the suit so you look more casual.
- Pair a printed circle scarf with a simple dress to make your outfit more interesting.
3
Try out a new pair of glasses. You’ll be looking at art the whole time, so it makes sense to wear glasses with your outfit. Even if they’re not real, no one has to know! Look for a pair of glasses in a fun color or shape and wear them to accent your look.^{[6]
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- For example, if you're wearing a green sweater, you could wear glasses with a thick green frame to tie your outfit together.
4
Wear a fun hat. Go with a fedora or wide-brimmed hat that matches your outfit. Or you can wear a hat in a bold color to accent your ensemble.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Looking Presentable

1
Wear clothes that are clean and wrinkle-free. Iron your clothes before you get ready for the opening. Check them over for stains the day before the event so you can wash them if needed. You want to look presentable and well put together.
2
Dress up a little, even if the event is casual. Regardless of the dress code, you should try to look somewhat dressed up.^{[7]
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Expert Source

Hannah Park
Professional Stylist
Expert Interview. 21 February 2019.} An art opening is a special event for the artist hosting it, and they’ll appreciate you making an effort to look nice with your outfit.^{[8]
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- For example, if you know the art opening is a casual event, you could still add a blazer and a pair of dressier shoes to your outfit so it’s more polished.
3
Avoid sporty clothes like track pants and hoodies. You might look out of place if you walk into the event with sweatpants on. Steer clear of tennis shoes, flip flops, and other athletic gear, and you’re much more likely to be dressed appropriately for the event.
- It's OK to wear high-fashioned sportswear to an art opening. If you do, it should be clear that you're intentionally going for a high-fashion sports look.
4
Practice good hygiene. Make sure your hair is washed and styled. Spray your clothes with a little cologne or perfume so you smell nice; one or two spritzes should be enough. Also, make sure you brush your teeth before you go. You don't want bad breath when you're talking to people at the event.