Every casino has a set dress code and checking the clothing norms before visiting could save you from unnecessary awkwardness.
Often, a night at a casino is an opportunity to glam up and visit that hidden corner of your wardrobe that you usually save for special occasions. Of course, you would want to blend in with the crowd at the casino, get immediate access to VIP areas, and enjoy that extra zap of confidence.
However, it’s a bit more complicated than just wearing whatever makes you look your best. Each casino has a dress code that it considers to be appropriate. Here are a few tips to help you look like a winner each time you step into a casino:
Check the Casino Dress Code Before You Go
When they think of a casino, most people picture high-end, fashion-forward gambling venues like Monte Carlo. While that is the norm in some places, today, there are more casual than formal casinos, where a suit or a cocktail dress would make you stick out like a sore thumb. So, it’s worth your time to do a little research before you go.
Even though some venues explain their dress code on their website, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone if you don’t find the information you need. Most of us experienced the frustration of looking up what the dress code for an event might be, only to find something vague and subjective. So, often it’s best to talk directly to someone.
Consider the Time of Day
In the same way that steakhouses have a casual dress code and a lighter lunch menu, the dress code for casinos tends to vary based on the time of day. If you’re heading out for a day visit, you could keep it more low-key with your casino attire.
For instance, for a high-end casino where a cocktail dress or a suit is expected in the evening, business casual would be a safe bet during the day. Khakis with a polo or a button-down shirt would be appropriate for men.
For ladies, the dress code would be similar –dress pants with a dress-up top or perhaps a sundress during the warmer months. Alternatively, the dress code should be stepped up if you’re heading to the casino at night.
Given that a casino’s dress code will depend on the time of day you visit, the question arises of where the line between day and night dresses should be. To answer this question, generally, the switchover is set at 6 pm.
Classic Casino Dress Code
If you’re planning to hit up one of the high-end casinos that have made Vegas famous, you need to take your casino dress code to the next level. For the guys, you can’t beat a slim-fitting tailored suit.
You can also impress with a classic black or grey and then add a high-end pop of colour to your tie, shirt, or pocket square. Jeans are off-limits, including fancy jeans that are free of stains and holes. You might get away with business slacks and a pressed button-down shirt without the jacket.
For the ladies, a cocktail dress is a perfect attire. Feel free to veer to the sultry side, but keep it classy and avoid looking like a gold-digging bimbo – you don’t want to spend the entire night adjusting your dress and feeling self-conscious. Pairing a sexy cocktail dress with a stylish pair of heels and some sparkly accessories is a perfect recipe for turning a few heads (in a good way, of course!).
Casual Casino Dress Code
If you’re heading to a low-key establishment, you can give a little more priority to comfort over high fashion. Still, “casual” doesn’t mean “anything goes.” If you walk in wearing sweatpants and a stained, hole-peppered T-shirt, it doesn’t only make you look like a slouch but also conveys a lack of respect for the venue and other guests.
“Casual dress” can mean any number of dress styles. But, at minimum, wear some well-fitting jeans and a shirt or a top that flatters you and makes you appear put-together.
