Concert Attire

Standard concert dress provides a formal, uniform look for the ensemble that does not detract from the performance of the music or draw attention to the individual. 

Concert attire for SMS/SHS choirs follows the established standard by many professional, semi-professional, and amateur ensembles worldwide. This dress code is known as "Concert Black".

As the name suggests, the defining feature of this dress code is that it is all black, without adornment of any kind. Regardless of personal style, gender, religious expression, or other factors, attire is expected to be formal, classy, elegant, modest, and above all, allow for comfort and freedom of movement to allow for the best possible performance. 

SMS/SHS Choir's definition of Concert Black allows students to choose clothing they feel good about wearing, enabling them to focus on their musical performance.

Please avoid the following items, even if they are black:

• jeans, sweats, warm-up pants, yoga pants, leggings, miniskirts, or shorts

• t-shirts, tank tops, spaghetti straps, halter tops, or crop tops

• flip-flops, slippers, sports shoes, sneakers, black shoes with colored stripes or logos

• white socks, colored socks, bare legs, or bare feet

• any jewelry or accessories that are reflective

• avoid the use of any fragrances

Use these tips when assembling your concert attire:

• because students are growing, borrowing from older siblings, parents, or even aunts, uncles, and cousins is a great idea (especially for shoes!)

• if you decide to buy, allow room for growing (not quite a big clown suit, but enough for a year or two)

• thrift stores can be a great place to find more dressy clothing in good shape (and to donate clothes that no longer fit!)

• although we want to look nice, high school concerts are not black-tie events, and truly formal attire is not expected

• A good thing to remember is that concert attire aims to allow students to blend in with the ensemble when viewed from a distance of 30-100 feet. Imperfections in clothing or fit that are visible up close may not be an issue at a distance.

• While many fancier dress shoes have leather soles, rubber soles are recommended for performers, particularly those who stand to perform (e.g. choir)

Are heels allowed? 

Heels are permitted but discouraged for most performers. For choir, in particular, we recommend flats because standing on risers in heels for long periods of time creates a fainting hazard. If your heels are comfortable standing in for extended periods, go for it.

Does what we do with our hair matter? 

Not really. Hair comes in all types and colors (even that funky color you dyed it last week). It's your hair. Style it the way you want. If you're going to accessorize, avoid bright colors (wear black if possible).  It is recommended that hair is out of the eyes/face as it can create shadows with stage lighting.

Are ties or sports coats/jackets allowed? 

Ties are not required or even encouraged, but if you want to wear a black tie, we won't stop you. The same applies to sports coats and jackets, but we generally do not recommend them due to the stage lights' heat and the discomfort they can cause.