One of the most common questions first-time casino visitors ask is "what should I wear?" The answer depends on where you're going, what you're doing, and what time of day it is. This guide breaks down casino dress codes so you can dress confidently for any casino experience.
The General Rule
Modern casinos have relaxed significantly from the formal days of old Hollywood. For the gaming floor at most American casinos, the dress code is essentially "wear clothes." But that doesn't mean anything goes, and certain areas within casinos have stricter requirements.
Gaming Floor Dress Codes
Las Vegas Strip Casinos
The Las Vegas Strip is famously casual. During the day, you'll see everything from business suits to shorts and flip-flops. T-shirts, jeans, and sneakers are perfectly acceptable on the gaming floor at even the most upscale properties like Bellagio or Wynn.
What's acceptable:
- Jeans, khakis, or casual pants
- T-shirts, polo shirts, button-downs
- Sneakers, loafers, sandals
- Sundresses, casual dresses
- Shorts (in most casinos)
What to avoid:
- Clothing with offensive graphics or language
- Overly revealing outfits
- Swimwear (cover up when leaving the pool area)
- Dirty, torn, or excessively worn clothing
- Gang-affiliated attire
Atlantic City
Similar to Vegas—casual is fine. The boardwalk atmosphere means you'll see plenty of beachwear during summer days, though most people change before hitting the gaming floor.
Regional and Tribal Casinos
Most regional casinos across the US are even more relaxed than Vegas. You'll see jeans and t-shirts everywhere. The key is being neat and clean rather than fashionable.
European Casinos
Here's where things get more formal. Many European casinos maintain stricter dress codes, particularly for evening play.
Monte Carlo Casino (Monaco):
- Jacket required for men after 8 PM
- No shorts, athletic wear, or sandals
- Smart casual minimum
Casino de Paris, Baden-Baden, and other traditional European houses:
- Business casual to semi-formal
- Some require jackets and ties for men
- Formal gowns welcome but not required for women
Asian Casinos
Macau casinos generally follow Vegas-style casual dress codes on the gaming floor. Singapore's Marina Bay Sands is similarly relaxed for general gaming areas.
Nightclub Dress Codes
Casino nightclubs have the strictest dress codes on the property. These rules are enforced—dress code violations are the most common reason for denied entry.
Men's Nightclub Attire
What works:
- Collared shirt (button-down or stylish polo)
- Dark jeans or dress pants
- Dress shoes, clean sneakers (high-end brands often accepted), or boots
- Blazer or sport coat (optional but helpful)
What gets you denied:
- Athletic wear (jerseys, sweatpants, gym shorts)
- Baggy or saggy jeans
- Work boots, sandals, flip-flops
- Hats or baseball caps (some clubs)
- Shorts of any kind
Women's Nightclub Attire
Women have more flexibility, but the expectation is "going out" attire:
What works:
- Cocktail dresses, mini dresses
- Fashionable tops with jeans or dress pants
- Jumpsuits, rompers
- Heels, stylish flats, or fashion sneakers
- Dressy sandals
What to avoid:
- Beachwear or overly casual sundresses
- Athletic wear
- Flip-flops
VIP and Bottle Service
If you're booking a table or VIP section, dress code is still enforced but staff may be slightly more flexible for big spenders. Don't count on this—dress properly regardless.
Restaurant Dress Codes
Casino restaurants range from 24-hour cafes to Michelin-starred fine dining, each with different expectations.
Casual Dining
Food courts, buffets, and casual restaurants have no dress code beyond basic coverage. You can come straight from the gaming floor or pool.
Upscale Casual
Steakhouses and upscale restaurants typically request:
- Collared shirts for men (not required but appreciated)
- No flip-flops or athletic wear
- Clean, neat appearance
Fine Dining
High-end restaurants like Joel Robuchon, Le Cirque, or Guy Savoy expect:
- Business casual minimum
- Jackets encouraged for men (some require them)
- No shorts, t-shirts, or casual athletic wear
- Dress shoes
Call ahead if you're unsure. Most fine dining restaurants will tell you exactly what they expect.
Pool and Dayclub Dress Codes
Pool parties and dayclubs are unique casino environments with their own rules.
What to Wear
- Swimwear is required (no regular clothes in pool areas at many venues)
- Cover-ups for moving around the venue
- Sandals or flip-flops
What's Not Allowed
- Thong bikinis (some venues)
- Inappropriate or offensive swimwear
- Cut-off shorts as swimwear
- Jeans or regular clothes (in pool)
Transitioning to Gaming Floor
Most casinos require you to cover up before entering the gaming floor from the pool. Bring a cover-up, dress, or change of clothes if you plan to gamble after the pool.
Spa Dress Codes
Casino spas typically provide robes, slippers, and towels. Bring:
- Swimsuit for co-ed areas
- Underwear or disposable options for treatments
- Comfortable clothes to change into after
Leave jewelry and valuables in your room safe.
What to Wear by Time of Day
Daytime (Before 6 PM)
The most relaxed time at any casino. Casual wear is accepted almost everywhere except fine dining restaurants.
Evening (6 PM - 10 PM)
Things start to dress up slightly. Dinner reservations and shows warrant nicer attire. The gaming floor stays casual.
Late Night (After 10 PM)
If you're heading to clubs or late-night venues, dress up. The gaming floor remains casual, but you'll see more dressed-up patrons.
Special Occasions
New Year's Eve
Many casinos host formal or semi-formal events. Check if your casino has a dress code for NYE parties or the gaming floor gets fancier.
Poker Tournaments
Casual dress is standard even at major tournaments. Comfort matters for 8-12 hour sessions. Hoodies, sunglasses, and headphones are common.
High-Limit Rooms
Contrary to expectations, most high-limit rooms don't have formal dress codes. High rollers dress however they want—you'll see everything from suits to sweatsuits.
What to Pack for a Casino Trip
For Men
- 2-3 pairs of jeans or casual pants
- Polo shirts and t-shirts for daytime
- One button-down shirt for nicer dinners
- Comfortable sneakers for walking
- One pair of dress shoes or loafers
- Blazer or sport coat (optional, but useful for clubs/fine dining)
For Women
- Mix of casual and dressy tops
- Jeans and one nicer pair of pants
- At least one dress suitable for clubs or fine dining
- Comfortable flats or sneakers for daytime
- Heels or dressy sandals for evening
- A light jacket or wrap (casinos are cold!)
Climate Considerations
Las Vegas
Desert climate means hot summers (110°F+) and cool winters. Casinos are heavily air-conditioned year-round—often uncomfortably cold. Pack layers.
Atlantic City
Humid summers, cold winters. Ocean breezes can be cool even in summer evenings.
Tropical Destinations
Caribbean and Asian casino resorts are warm and humid. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential.
The Bottom Line
For most casino visits in the US, clean and casual is perfectly fine. When in doubt, smart casual—nice jeans with a collared shirt for men, a casual dress or nice top for women—works almost everywhere.
The key exceptions are nightclubs, which enforce strict dress codes, and European casinos, which often maintain traditional formal standards. When you're unsure, call ahead or check the venue's website. It's better to be slightly overdressed than turned away at the door.