Though there is no official dress code, patrons to a Broadway show should realize that opening night is a special occasion. Media buzz and celebrities may be present, and though there is no dress code, theater goers may feel uncomfortable if not dressed up a bit.
Each Broadway show runs several times a week, sometimes two times a day. Matinees in the afternoon may follow a morning of sight-seeing, and patrons will be dressed more casually than a nighttime show after dinner.
Though New York City is in the Northeastern United States, visitors should know that the weather varies wildly by season. Winters can be very cold, but summers can be very hot. Heating and air conditioning should be considered. Dressing too warmly or too lightly to accommodate outside weather is a mistake. Theater temperatures may be much colder or much warmer than outdoors, and layers are recommended.
Some Broadway fans go all out to express their praise for a show. It is not uncommon, nor is it inappropriate, to dress the part. However, there is a point at which theme attire can be distracting or too uncomfortable to withstand a show of several hours.
Despite the lack of a dress code, there are some points of attire that should always be avoided. Never wear flip-flops, cut-off jeans or clothing that is worn out or ripped. Also avoid clothing made of fabrics that may rustle or make lots of noise.