What to Wear to the Theater: Style Tips for a Night at the Warner Theatre
You’ve just scored tickets to Dear Evan Hansen at the Warner Theatre, and now comes the all-important question—what should you wear? Dressing up for the theater is an opportunity to elevate your look and make the evening feel special. In today’s world, where we often wear the same outfits for work, socializing, and events, putting extra thought into your attire shows that the night out means something more. Whether you go for a full suit, a sport coat, or a stylish sweater, how you dress reflects the importance of the occasion. In a town like Erie it can be especially hard to narrow down an outfit for a given occasion because of the size and lack of fashion sense by many, but Primo is here it fix that!
1. Suits: The Classic, Safe Bet
A suit is your safest option when attending a theater performance. It’s classic, timeless, and shows that you’re making the most of the occasion. While you might slightly overdress others, that’s rarely a bad thing. A well-fitted suit exudes confidence and sophistication, and with dim lighting in theaters, it’s your moment to shine in those few instances you're fully seen. And in today’s world it’s so easy to dress down a suit… Yes, dress down a suit. We don’t need to be wear a freshly pressed white dress shirt and a tie every time you get the outfit together. Pair your suit with a textured button up and ditch the tie. But in order to achieve this style of suit you’ll need a soft coat anything with excessive shoulder padding needs to go and bring something in that rests on the body a little more naturally. 
2. Sport Coats: The Perfect Middle Ground
Not quite ready for a full suit? A sport coat offers a great balance between casual and formal. It provides structure and polish without the full commitment of a suit, making it a smart option if you're looking for something a bit more relaxed. Pair it with dress trousers for a refined look—while jeans or chinos might seem comfortable, dress pants elevate the outfit without requiring too much formality. A sport coat is versatile and works well for theater outings where you want to look put-together without overdoing it.
3. Sweaters: Style and Warmth Combined
If the evening calls for something cozy, a sweater can be a stylish yet practical choice. Perfect for cooler weather, it can be worn alone or layered under a sport coat or jacket. This gives you extra warmth while maintaining a sophisticated look. A well-chosen sweater in neutral or textured tones can add depth to your outfit and is especially useful when the temperature drops after leaving the theater. It’s a flexible option that combines comfort with a touch of elegance.
Comfortable but Stylish Shoes
Footwear is often overlooked, but it’s an essential part of completing your outfit. While you want to be comfortable, especially if you’ll be walking around downtown Erie or waiting in line at the Warner Theatre, avoid crossover sneaker-dress shoes. These can make your outfit look mismatched. Instead, go for classic options like leather loafers, brogues, or dress boots. They offer the right balance of style and comfort, ensuring your shoes complement, rather than detract from, your overall look.
Erie, PA: The Heart of Menswear and Tailoring
For the best menswear and tailoring in Erie, PA, Primo Tailoring is your go-to destination. Whether you need a custom suit, tailored sport coat, or stylish sweater, our expert team will ensure you’re perfectly dressed for any occasion—especially a night out at the Warner Theatre. As the leading tailor in town, we offer unmatched craftsmanship and a curated selection of menswear to ensure you always look your best. From alterations to bespoke suits, Primo Tailoring will help you create a look that’s truly your own, with a fit that’s unparalleled.
