Your rehearsal wardrobe should be comfy and uninhibiting, but it should also reflect your style and leave a good impression. Donors, conductors, and directors will notice how put together, or potentially how not put together, you are. It is of the utmost importance to consistently look professional; you could be working with someone who will hire you in the future! Follow these simple instructions and you'll be on your way to putting together a fashionable but wearable rehearsal outfit!

1. Choose your bottoms

Bottoms are the foundation to any good outfit, and rehearsal-wear is no exception. Dance tights are a hidden gem; opaque enough to be modest, resistant to runs, and very durable. These, as well as yoga pants, move with your body and can be worn underneath a rehearsal skirt if need be. A midi skirt is modest, flattering for a number of body types, and keeps you cool in stuffy rehearsal room. It can even double as a reherasal skirt! There are also fashionable pants that also allow a wide range of movement, such as these drawstring linen pants or jeggings.

source: pinterest
This midi skirt highlights the smallest part of her body and tapers out, creating the illusion of an hourglass figure. Pro tip: wear shorts underneath to avoid flashing your castmates! 

2. Top it off

Looser tops are often paired with more fitted bottoms, and vice versa, for a more flattering silhouette. However, there are exceptions to every rule: for example, a baggy graphic T-shirt front-tucked into loose joggers are loose and comfy, will still accenting your waist. A simple denim or leather jacket thrown over the shoulders elevates this street look to an outfit worthy of a callback. T-shirts and flowy tanks are wonderful basics that can be layered for the perfect look without sacrificing comfort. Long tunic style shirts, like this one from Zulily, are a dressier option. Bodysuits are also on-trend while being very comfortable and easy to move in. Non-confining garments like skate dresses and swing dresses look professional while still allowing you the freedom to run around the stage. 

Sarah, 23, soprano
Sarah's elegant tunic unbottons to become a cascading cardigan that is perfect for layering. With an outfit like this, you are ready for rehearsal first and networking over drinks later.

3. Choose an additional layer

A top layer is your best friend if the temperature fluctuates in your space or you need to dress up an otherwise simple outfit. Cardigans, statement jackets, capes, and scarves are must-have's. These might also double as rehearsal stand-ins for costume pieces (think Mimì's shawl) allowing you to work items like this into staging as soon as possible. This cape scarf from J. Crew or this kimono-style coat from Shein are beautiful toppers that you can easily throw off when it's time to work!

  
source: Anthropologie • Lynn, 21, soprano
This jogger and T-shirt combination is elevated by a denim jacket and cozy scarf that can be shed when things start to heat up. 
Lynn's chic cape and knee-high boots are just right for a pre-rehearsal dinner with colleagues and are easily removed for staging.

4. Practice safe accessorizing 

Though it might be tempting to throw on some long necklaces, a choker, or statement earrings, you can hurt yourself, others, or your precious jewelry during blocking. Stick to studs and a simple pendant to avoid the risk! Don't forget to bring a hair tie with you. Avoid barettes or clam clips if you are in a romantic role; they could get in the way of any intimate staging.

In most situations you may be called upon to wear character shoes, but a ballet flat is also a comfortable and dressy option. Clean sneakers, loafers, or comforable heels are other possibilities. Just stay away from sandals or flip-flops. Covered toes means you are less likely to get hurt while working, and some professional companies forbid open-toed shoes for that reason!

source: vogue paris •Ri, 25, Mezzo
This outfit may look fancy, but once that jacket comes off you'll be ready to get down to business! A simple T-shirt with leggings underneath make rehearsals a breeze, and a chic ponytail keeps hair out of the way. 
Ri pairs her black joggers and converses with cozy layers, perfect for putting together an opera in the colder months!

Rehearsal is about more than putting together a show, it is also about networking and making lasting connections. Dressing to project professionalism, comfort, and authenticity can help you build the relationships you need to further your career. If there are reherasal attire essentials we missed, or if you would like your photo to be featured in a future article, let us know in the comments!