Stage Wear

Now it’s time to sell yourself!

You’ll want to look snazzy when you perform – not like you just got out of bed or off of work at the pizza place up the street.  (This goes for auditions, too.)  People will think you have something special to share when you dress up to perform for them.   Besides, they sometimes “hear” with their eyes!  Just be sure you can still perform to the best of your abilities in whatever wardrobe you choose.  Do some “dress rehearsals” to be sure.  Appropriate attire depends on the style of music you will be performing as well as the venue (place and purpose) for the performance.

An acoustic solo gig at the local coffee shop would call for something casual, but trendy.  Try to be well-groomed and smelling nice as the audience is usually up-close and intimate.

A gig with your band at a hot dance club would be a good chance to dress as you would to go “clubbing” – some bling and flash to exude self-confidence and a bit of arrogance.  A flirty look is good for keeping folks on the dance floor.  Gals beware of 9pm to 2am gigs.  You’ll permanently re-shape your foot if your shoes are not comfortable.  Kick those high heels off during breaks, if you can!

Your rock band could go more 80’s for a rock club gig or auditiorium performance.  Guys, show off some muscle to show how hard you work at giving a good show.  Gals, some spiked heels or thigh-high boots (especially for shorter performances), scarves and flowy layers are great rock accessories.  Or, think Gwen Steffani of No Doubt.  She pulls it off in a multitude of styles from 1960’s-retro dresses to sportsbras under suspender-clad boyfriend pants.

Country music wardrobes scream for cowboy hats, boots and belt buckles, regardless of the venue.  Gals have lots of liberty, here, from Shania Twain to Faith Hill to Carrie Underwood to Reba McEntire.

A performance as a featured soloist with your city’s Symphony Orchestra would be an opportunity to go with formal attire.  Gals, think elegant prom dresses in subdued colors with subtle sequins for sparkle.  Guys, you need some tuxes in your closet or a good relationship with a tux rental shop.

Are you getting the idea?  Whatever your audience is, you should strive to fit in with them but go a step beyond.  Even if yours is a grunge band, give some thought to your grunge appearance so that you’ll stand apart from your fans.

Whatever your style, put in a little effort to look good and your audience will thank you.  (And buy more of your stuff!)