What to Wear to a Casino: Best Ideas for Your Perfect Gambling Look

Written by
Patricia Hayes
Patricia Hayes
Patricia Hayes
Written by
Patricia Hayes
Content Specialist
What to Wear to a Casino

We usually associate land-based casinos with stylish and elegant looks, or at least with a cowboy-style look that reminds us of the Wild Wild West movies. It depends on the location and type of casino, but on average, most land-based casinos have simplified their dress codes for both men and women in recent years.

There are some luxurious casinos, of course, usually located at resorts and hotels; the majority of other facilities recommend formal or semi-formal style, while small local community casinos are okay with your cowboy outfit.

This guide on casino dress codes will help you out if you are not sure what to wear to a casino to match the dress code requirements.

Quick Recommendations

Before you go to the casino house, follow these steps in case you are unsure what do you wear to a casino:

  • Look through the casino website if it has one, and browse through the photos of its previous events. The interior and what the guests were wearing will give you a couple of ideas about your own outfit. Don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service for extra advice if you need it. They might give you a dress code or just recommend what to wear to a casino night.
  • If you’re not going alone, ask for advice from your friends or colleagues and plan your outfit together. You will feel more confident matching your group.
  • If you’re planning to attend a particular event at a casino house, make sure you know extra requirements - maybe that’s a themed party? Or a white color only party? Make sure you fit in.
  • In case you need some visual assistance, you might want to google casino outfits or browse through Pinterest ideas.

Now let’s discuss the most widespread dress codes for male and female guests.

Guide for Men

First things first, there are a couple of recommendations men should keep in mind to ensure they comply with the common dress code and these are about what not to wear. The typical list goes as follows:

  • Do not wear flip-flops or sandals (with socks!!!)
  • T-shirts and shorts are not recommended
  • Baseball caps and beanies are usually discouraged
  • Better do not wear sports shoes or Converse shoes even if they are expensive and new
  • Athletic wear is not allowed at a casino house
  • Even if you are a stylish hipster, avoid wearing torn or damaged clothes

Some casino houses may encourage a more informal atmosphere for their guests but these are still rather sophisticated places where people come to have a good time and socialize, so clean and neat clothes are a must.

Moreover, some casino houses may go as far as not allowing people who do not fit the dress code to the facility or asking them to leave if they look “too informal”.

Can you wear jeans to a casino? That depends on the casino facility; you’d better double-check that with the customer service.

Now we’ll discuss three main dress codes - white tie, black tie, and formal/semi-formal requirements.

White Tie

When it comes to adhering to the white-tie dress code, the outfits to wear to a casino should be sophisticated enough.

Men should opt for a black tailcoat, typically tailored to fit, featuring silk-faced peak lapels and matching black trousers with a satin stripe along the sides. A white wing-collared shirt is a must, complemented by a white bow tie.

Waistcoats, preferably white or off-white, should be worn, and black patent leather shoes are non-negotiable. To complete the look, men can add white formal gloves and a black silk top hat. This attire is essential for events and venues that adhere to the white-tie dress code.

Black Tie

In terms of the black tie dress code, a classic yet refined look is the key.

Men who have to adhere to this type of dress code should wear a well-tailored black tuxedo jacket featuring satin peak or shawl lapels, paired with black trousers with a satin stripe. A black or midnight blue dinner jacket can also be a stylish choice. Pocket squares, cufflinks, and a dress watch can add tasteful finishing touches. Beneath, a crisp white dress shirt with a black bow tie is expected. Polished black patent leather shoes are recommended for this outfit as the best option.

The black-tie dress code embodies a sense of elegance without being overly formal.

Formal and Semi-Formal Style

Within the framework of formal to semi-formal dress code, men should opt for a well-fitted dark suit, such as navy or charcoal gray, with a dress shirt that matches the suit's color. A conservative tie, like a silk necktie or a subtle patterned bow tie, is a necessary element.

Polished leather shoes that match the belt in terms of color and texture, together with socks of a relevant color, will work best for this outfit. A classic wristwatch and minimalistic accessories, like cufflinks or a tie bar, can complete the look.

Guide for Women

While ladies are usually more into sophisticated looks when it comes to any events, let alone visiting a luxurious casino facility, there are still some rules that should be kept in memory when choosing attire:

  • Do not wear flip-flops or sandals
  • Shorts, mini skirts, and mini dresses are not the best choice
  • Avoid wearing too provocative outfits like deep necklines
  • Beachwear is not allowed
  • Athletic wear is not allowed
  • Avoid too sheer fabrics
  • The higher the status of the casino, the more formal you should dress for any visit

Both too-casual outfit options and too-luxurious ones like flashy fabrics with glitter and stones are not recommended. Women will feel better in more formal attires than informal at all times at any casino house because they usually have more variations of outfits so there is more space for mistakes.

If you are unsure what to wear to a casino night party - prefer a more formal look over a more informal one. But of course, don’t wear a velvet dress and diamonds to a cowboy-styled casino!

White Tie

When adhering to the white tie dress code at a casino house, women should aim for formal elegance. A full-length, floor-sweeping gown made of silk, satin, or velvet is a classic choice.

The gown should be accompanied by long white gloves, which are a distinctive feature of the white tie attire. A white or off-white stole or shawl can be added.

Jewelry should be understated and elegant, such as pearls or diamonds. Closed-toe heels in a classic style and color are a must to complete the ensemble.

Hair Style Tip:

  • Chignon or Bun: A sleek and low chignon or bun is a win-win choice for a neat formal style
  • French Twist: The French twist is another elegant updo that works well with the formality of a white-tie event

Makeup Tip: Stick to Minimalism

  • Soft lip colors: Consider classic lip colors like nude, soft pink, or a subtle red that complements your gown. Give preference to a matte finish
  • Subtle eye makeup: For the eyes, consider neutral eyeshadow shades like taupe, champagne, or soft brown. Use just mascara without eyeliner

Black Tie

Ladies who attend a black-tie event should opt for a floor-length formal gown in a rich, dark color like black, navy, emerald green, or deep burgundy. A neckline that is modest yet flattering can be a stylish choice, complemented by subtle accessories such as pearl or diamond jewelry. It is a good idea to add bracelets or noticeable earrings, but not all these accessories together.

A clutch bag that matches the gown and closed-toe heels in a relevant shade will complete the look. This type of outfit should look elegant but not overly elaborate.

Hair Style Tip:

  • Sleek Ponytail: For a more modern twist on formal hairstyles, a sleek, low ponytail can be a stylish choice
  • Side Swept: A side-swept hairstyle, where your hair is elegantly swept to one side and secured with pins or accessories, can be formal yet dramatic enough

Makeup Tip: Better Understated

  • Defined Brows: Well-groomed eyebrows frame the face and complete the look. Use an eyebrow pencil or powder to define and shape your brows will add to an impressive face instead of bright eye makeup
  • Brighter lip colors are allowed compared to the white-tie dress code. Stick to a matte finish and choose rich but natural colors

Formal and Semi-Formal Style

Women have a range of elegant options to choose from for a formal or semi-formal dress code when deciding what to wear to a casino party.

An eternally successful choice is a well-tailored knee-length or floor-length dress in a classic color, such as black, beige, indigo blue, or berry red. Alternatively, a tailored pantsuit in a sophisticated hue like purple or nude will be both stylish and comfortable, paired with a silk blouse or a black high-neck corset top.

Opt for closed-toe heels that match the outfit, and consider a clutch or a small, elegant handbag. You can choose bigger earrings, bracelets, a hairpiece, or a big flashy ring as an accessory.

Hair Style Tip:

  • Vintage Waves: If you prefer to wear your hair down, consider vintage-inspired waves. These soft, classic waves can be achieved with a curling iron or hot rollers. Vintage waves look best on dark or red hair
  • Hollywood Waves: For a touch of old Hollywood glamour, opt for soft, cascading waves. This is a perfect option for blond hair

Makeup Tip: Look for Fancy Options

The formal style still gives us rules about natural lip color and understated eye makeup, but the semi-formal style allows eyeliner, bright lipstick, and fancier eye makeup with glitter and color shade.

Final Thoughts

One of the common questions is do you have to wear a mask at the casino and the answer is “it depends”. Most casino houses do not demand wearing masks anymore, but if you are in Asia, you may find out that you do need a mask.

Patricia Hayes
Written by
Patricia Hayes
Content Specialist
    More articles from Patricia

    With three in online gambling, Patricia keeps the platform optimized and user-friendly. She is also responsible for informing the team about new devices and social media rules and tools. She ensures the site stays up-to-date and relevant in digital terms.

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