It’s Time We Talked About High School Choir Dresses

You’ve heard us talk about how professional performers in orchestras like mine are resorting to Mother-of-the-Bride dresses to meet dress code requirements, but let’s address another issue—why are so many high school choirs dressing their singers in identical dresses that seem better suited for little girls?

A quick Google search of 1980s choir dresses looks eerily similar to the 1990s, and surprise, they’re still on the market today. We get the need for a cohesive look, but at what point are we infantilizing young women to the point of emotional and physical discomfort?

Many high school choir students are young women at an age where they’re already feeling vulnerable and self-conscious about their bodies. We’re asking them to stand on stage and perform in front of their families, peers, and sometimes the entire school in outfits they may not feel comfortable in. The dresses might not fit well, might be too feminine for their taste, or might be downright uncomfortable because they’re made from non-breathable, costume-grade polyester.

Wait, What’s Costume-Grade Polyester?

It's plastic. Costume fabric is some of the cheapest fabric on the market. It feels plasticky, is often stiff, and doesn’t drape well. Aside from being scratchy against the skin, it’s typically made of polyester that doesn’t breathe—a real problem when performing under hot stage lights. Plus, polyester takes hundreds of years to biodegrade in a landfill.

Uniformity Is Great, But Should my Choir Wear Identical Uniforms?

Sure, many choirs opt for identical outfits, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a world-class professional orchestra that mandates identical attire for all its musicians. Going all-black is a simple, elegant solution—most professional ensembles do it.

All-black attire minimizes distractions, ensuring the focus remains on the music, not the outfit. This uniformity helps create a cohesive, professional look while allowing the music to take center stage. A thoughtfully crafted dress code can give you the uniformity you want while still allowing students the freedom to express themselves.

How Can I Boost My Students’ Confidence on Concert Days?

Here’s a nugget of wisdom: science says your clothes affect your brain. It’s true! According to a study published by the APA, wearing certain clothes can change how you think and act.

Research shows that wearing formal attire can shift your perspective, making you feel more confident and powerful. But here’s the twist—one person’s power suit doesn’t have to be a suit at all. It could be pair of sleek wide-leg pants, a satin blouse, or even a killer pair of shoes. The key is letting your choir students choose concert attire that makes them feel unstoppable.

For musicians, formal concert attire isn’t just about looking good; it’s about embodying the professionalism, focus, and gravitas that the outfit represents. Think of it as your superhero costume. You’re not just putting on clothes; you’re putting on confidence, authority, and a whole lot of stage presence.

So how exactly does wearing formal all-black influence performance? It’s all about mindset. When you dress up for a performance, you’re telling yourself—and everyone else—that this is serious business. It’s a signal to your brain to step up, focus, and give it your best.

Writing a Dress Code Sounds Hard. How Do I Write a Dress Code for My Choir?

Keep it simple. The easiest route is to stick with all black and remove gender from the equation.

You could start with something like this:

• All attire shall be black, modest, and dressy.
• Sleeves shall be elbow-length or longer.
• Pants and skirts shall be ankle-length or longer.
• Shoes shall be closed-toe.
• Dressy clothing will avoid denim, t-shirt fabric, athletic wear, loungewear and other casual styles.
• Modest clothing will avoid plunging necklines, backless tops, bare midriffs, cutouts, high slits, or other revealing cuts.

Include a few photographs as general examples of your expectations.

If you’re concerned this dress code isn’t strict enough, you can explain to your students that while this new dress code offers them some freedom, it also requires them to exercise good judgment. Let them know you’re trusting them to make smart decisions based on the guidelines provided. Maybe a student shows up clad head-to-toe in sequins -let them shine!

And in a worst-case scenario, you could remind them that failing to meet the dress code might mean you'll make them wear the stinky, costume-grade polyester choir dresses stashed in the back of the choir closet.

Share Your Style

When you take the stage, remember—it’s more than just the music. It’s about looking and feeling your absolute best, letting that confidence radiate through every note and step. Share your go-to concert black looks by tagging us @Black.Strad, and you could be featured, inspiring fellow performers. Now, go own that stage like the star you are!