A night at the casino is a great excuse to dress up and make a night of it. Whether you’re heading to a local casino or a swanky Las Vegas resort, looking good is part of the experience.
From glamorous high-end venues to relaxed local game nights, here’s our guide to what to wear to a casino.
Check the Dress Code First
Before you plan your outfit, find out what the casino expects from its guests.
A high-end casino with an elegant atmosphere may call for black tie or something close to it. A small local venue will usually be happy with more casual clothes.
To check, look at the casino’s website or social media for dress code guidelines. You could also ask friends who have been before. If you’re going out in the capital, our guide to the dress code for casinos in London covers the main venues.
What to Wear to a Casino: Black Tie and Formalwear
This is the look most of us picture: James Bond charming his way around the baccarat table in a sharp tuxedo.
Today, only the most exclusive casinos or special events ask for this level of dress.
If the dress code says formal black tie, men should wear a dinner suit or tuxedo. Add a white dress shirt, cufflinks and a black bow tie. A cummerbund or waistcoat completes the traditional look.
For women, a floor-length dress or elegant evening gown works best. Velvet, silk, chiffon and lace all create an opulent feel.
Most casinos don’t insist on strict black tie, so you can relax the rules a little.
For women, a shorter cocktail dress almost always works. You can also add more sparkle than traditional black tie allows. For ideas, see our guide to the ultimate casino cocktail dress.
Men can wear a standard formal suit at most casinos. Choose a dark shade like navy or black. Finish with a pocket square, tie pin and cufflinks for a polished look.
What to Wear to a Casino: Smart Casual
Smart casual is more flexible, and more and more casinos now use it. Dress smart casual and you’ll get into most casinos around the world.
You can still look stylish, but you can skip the tuxedo and even the jacket. Men can usually wear smart trousers or dark jeans. Women can choose a nice dress, or trousers with a top or blouse.
The key is to look smart without being too dressy. Avoid very casual items like ripped jeans, slogan T-shirts and scruffy trainers.
Playing From Home
Playing online will never match the buzz of a real casino. But you can still play for real money, and you can dress purely for comfort. If you hate squeezing into uncomfortable clothes, you can enjoy your favourite games without leaving your seat.
Playing from home also means no crowds and no queues. To make a night of it, treat yourself to a luxury pyjama set. Or stay in your favourite hoodie and order a takeaway. The choice is yours!
If you love dressing up, invite friends over and bring the casino atmosphere into your living room. You set the dress code, so you decide between full sparkle and something more relaxed.
Casinos are all about having fun. Whatever you choose to wear to a casino, make it a night to remember, whether you’re cruising the floor in a tuxedo or playing at home.
