Drama! Glamour! The Operacore Aesthetic Is Taking Over Our Evening Wear

Channel your inner prima donna

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Operacore Aesthetic Collage
Shutterstock/Stephanie Maida for PureWow

A night at the opera is as fabulous as you’d imagine—from the clinking of Champagne glasses at intermission to the parade of glamorous, over-the-top looks displayed both on stage and on the patrons in the audience. If you ask me, the latter is the most exciting part, so it’s no wonder this opulent occasion has inspired a whole new fashion trend.

Whether or not you’ve had the pleasure of seeing a libretto come to life, the operacore aesthetic is sure to be up your alley if you want to channel your inner prima donna on your next night out. Thankfully, it’s easy to create the perfect look with standout accessories (think long tulle gloves) and statement silhouettes (a cape dress, perhaps?) made of luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet and brocade.

Needless to say, the more dramatic and dazzling, the better. Ahead, I've rounded up ten pieces that deserve a standing ovation, including a dome ringdrop-waist mini and beaded clutch, so you can pull off the latest evening wear trend faster than you can say "encore!"

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Operacore is all about elegance with a touch of drama, and what nails that better than a dress with the built-in swoosh of a cape? This pick is hard to top, especially with its sheer neckline and flowing sleeves. It's made from a polyester-spandex blend for smooth finish—one that develops "zero wrinkles" after hours of wear, per one buyer. Even better, it features a lining for extra coverage and security, so you can look and feel confident at any event.

Taking an outfit from casual to operacore can be as simple as slipping on a pair of glamorous gloves. This extra-long tulle pair is versatile enough to complement almost any formal ensemble, while the ruched design adds an edgy touch. It’s no wonder buyers have worn them to weddings, tea parties and, yes, even opera performances. With 26 colors available, you can find your best match for any outfit and occasion.

Bold costume jewelry is a must for a night at the opera—so naturally, this dome ring caught my eye. Plated in polished 14-karat gold, it looks stunning solo or layered over a glove for maximum drama. One buyer raved that it’s their “go-to accessory for both casual and formal occasions,” and I suspect it’ll become yours too, whether you plan to embrace operacore long-term or just for the moment.

Between its drop waist and metallic brocade design, this mini dress is as opera chic as it gets. It also comes in petite and plus sizes, so everyone can get the perfect fit for their next night on the town. You simply can't go wrong—especially since the versatile scoop neckline is universally flattering.

If you've been looking for an excuse to snag a new evening bag, the price on this vintage-inspired one is it. Not only are frame bags majorly trending right now, but this one is adorned with elaborate beading for an extra jazzy look. It's roomy enough to stash your iPhone and comes with a detachable strap that lets you convert it from a clutch to a crossbody.

Staying warm while looking lavish is effortless with a full-length opera coat. This satin number by Reformation boasts a hidden button closure to keep things looking especially sleek and sophisticated—and don’t even get me started on the gorgeous almond color that pairs perfectly with everything.

These sculptural earrings appear to be dripping thanks to a hand-sculpted blend of liquid-clear Lucite and molten 14k gold-plated metal. They strike the ideal balance of retro glamour and modern cool, making them a must for any would-be opera-hopper hoping to channel some main character energy.

There's something overtly operatic about jacquard, so it’s no wonder these pumps, which put an evening wear spin on typical ballet flats, are selling fast. With a 3.25-inch heel and side-buckle styling, they’re easy to walk in and adjust to your liking. Plus, as one reviewer confirmed, "the colors are amazing" and look "beautiful in person."

This sumptuous silk dress features a detachable sheer cape, giving you two operacore looks in one. The asymmetrical hem, drapey fit and cowl neckline guarantee movement with every strut, so you’re sure to stand out at any event.

The perfect transitional top, this off-the-shoulder style features contrasting fabric and a gilded built-in brooch, giving it a luxe look for less. Whether you choose black, blue, ecru—or all three—you can’t go wrong. Pair with a silk maxi skirt and prima donna status, here you come!



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Associate Sales and Deals Editor

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