The evolution of the casino dress code

Back in the early days of gambling, before the first casino had even been born and games would simply take place in bars, and just about anywhere a group of people could get together, there was no dress code, as the games would be played amongst all classes.

In the modern day, casinos often ask players to follow a strict dress code, and although this is more flexible and casual in the daytime - wearing cocktail dresses and a black-tie suit combination is quite often the casino go-to. But the question remains: why do casinos have such a strict dress code, and most importantly - where did this come from?

Read on to find out more.

A display of wealth

In the 1800s, when gambling bans were put in place throughout the world, only the rich could afford to enter and play at the specially built establishments that were eventually legalised, meaning that the atmosphere and requirement for dressing suitably for a trip to the casino was more important than ever. In 1861, Prince Charles III of Monaco opened the Monte Carlo Casino, in the hope to prevent him from bankruptcy. The establishment was deemed ‘a playground for the rich', and eventually became the savior of Monaco's economy. The casino still stands to this day, and with a marble and gold atrium, paintings, history and even an opera house, you would quite frankly feel out of place if you wore anything but your best suit.

The Las Vegas - Hollywood scene

Back in the 1940s and ‘50s, the newly established Las Vegas Strip began making some major transformations, building some of the largest hotels and casino resorts in the world at the time. By the ‘80s, the Strip was booming in popularity, and attracting Hollywood film stars, magicians, entertainers and even some of the world's most popular singers such as Elvis Presley and Queen. With the likes of Marilyn Monroe often seen on the scene, and iconic movies such as James Bond filming in some of the most incredible casinos - the class, attire and complete atmosphere was one that required dressing up for. We would see the casino lifestyle being portrayed in the movies, and the whole environment seemed like the only place anyone could really get a taste of Hollywood. Dress codes were put in place so that people of all classes and backgrounds could live the VIP lifestyle for the duration of their trip. This carries on in casinos all around the world, and has become common etiquette.

The modern day

Now, you can play casino games from the comfort of your own home, without even having to get dressed, because the excitement and animations that are offered at an online casino, are almost a replica of the real thing. Although, if you fancy dressing up for a night out at the casino, or feeling like a movie star and getting the Hollywood experience, then most casinos will ask you to wear certain things.

These include:

• A suit/tie and blazer
• A cocktail dress
• A long skirt or dress
• Smart shoes
• Accessories

If a casino states their dress code is casual, which it commonly is during the day, then the etiquette is that you still make some sort of effort. Shorts, flipflops, trainers, sportswear and graphic t-shirts are often banned from casinos, and you will be restricted to only the slot machines inside if you're wearing these.

Here are just a few ideas of what casual casino outfit will usually consist of:

• Some khaki pants or nice blue jeans
• Smart/casual shoes such as loafers
• A button-down shirt
• A skirt
• Blouse

-

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident, so make sure to wear whatever makes you feel best, so that win or lose - you still walk away feeling like a million dollars.