what should I wear to a Sunday afternoon San Francisco opera performance?

Answer 1

Whatever you like. There are no longer any dress codes for the opera. On a Sunday afternoon, you're likely to encounter a crowd dressed in business dress (suits or sportcoats for the men, dresses and slacks for the ladies). You're also likely to encounter a lot of young people in casual clothes. I would skip the ratty jeans, but I wouldn't go for the formal gown / tux either.

Answer 2

I agree with what was said about the business attire for Sunday afternoon concerts. You don't want to look too casual nor too dressy. I would suggest something along the lines of a nice pair of pants (docker khakis or the like) and a nice top or button down shirt. Ladies can also wear a simple dress or a knee-legnth (or longer) skirt.

Do NOT put on perfume! This is because you may be sitting around others who are very sensitive to scents and this could be very bothersome. If you must put on a scented lotion, make sure it's a VERY light scent, and put it on before you get into the building.

Hope you enjoy the opera. :)