Why do we have as dress code? What does Semi Formal mean? How do you enforce it? These are questions that we are often asked.

One of the things that makes Stage West unique is the fact that we require our customers to “make an effort” to dress up accordingly for an evening of dining and entertainment. Stage West is unlike most restaurants because we are a destination or event that people choose to attend well in advance. Most people enjoy the opportunity to put on their best attire because it seems we don’t often get the chance to dress up. We want our patrons to feel comfortable in an atmosphere that helps make it a special occasion to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, getting together with someone special, close friends, clients or business associates. Whatever the reason for attending, it makes it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Semi Formal attire is much different today than it was 20 years ago when Stage West opened. What was once a jacket and tie for men and a dress or gown for women has changed dramatically. Today’s styles and fashion trends are diverse beyond any singular definition. The term, however, does still imply that an effort to dress up from everyday attire is required. What that entails exactly, is left up to individual tastes. We have never turned anyone away who could honestly say they were wearing semi formal attire.

Jeans are okay as long as they are worn with the appropriate shirt, jacket, boots, etc. which would be considered “Western Semi Formal”. Remember if you are unsure it is always better to dress up than to dress down.

Our greatest challenge lies with ensuring that everyone is made aware of our dress code. We can tell every single person who purchases tickets but we can not be sure that the information is passed along to the other guests attending. Most people who arrive dressed improperly, were not aware of a dress code and are usually quite embarrassed. Often these people will go home to change quickly, some will take advantage of our wardrobe department and sometimes they are offended and leave. The one thing we don’t want to do is make anyone feel badly for what is generally an honest mistake.

In an era where clothing is viewed as a statement of individual style, having a dress code becomes an increasingly greater challenge, but one we feel is worthwhile and welcomed by the overwhelming majority of Stage West patrons.