People who want to paint the town red in high-end nightclubs should always carefully consider dress code requirements beforehand. Clubs can sometimes be rather strict about attire standards, so don’t head out to go clubbing without knowing what you should and shouldn’t wear. While San Diego is a fairly casual city, it also happens to have a buzzing nightlife scene, and dressing for a fun night out will require some basic knowledge of what’s appropriate, especially in the trendy Gaslamp nightclubs. If you’re planning on enjoying a night of clubbing, you should first make sure you dress the part, so heed the following advice about what you shouldn’t wear.
Rules for Men
Guys need to sport a clean, fresh look. Prestigious nightclubs often encourage guests to dress fashionably. That means they typically frown on sports shirts, hoodies, worn-out t-shirts, and shorts. If you look like you can star in your own rap video, go back to your closet and start over. Jeans are usually acceptable as long as they’re not overly baggy or look like they’ve seen better days.
Men should also pay attention to footwear. Flip-flops and athletic shoes are typically a no-no. However, relatively formal shoes with closed toes are recommended for males.
Men who visit nightclubs can’t go wrong with dress shoes, dress slacks, sport coats, fitted jeans, and collared dress shirts with button fronts. Sportswear isn’t typically a good idea. Male clubbers should refrain from wearing sneakers, jerseys, track jackets, hats, and the like.
Rules for Women
Women have a lot of leeway with what they can wear at most clubs, but ladies who want to look fashionable while clubbing should go the extra mile to dress with sophistication and style in mind. They should look neat and put together. Grungy looks are always a no-go for women. Dress codes at many upmarket nightclubs stress the importance of tasteful elegance in both attire and footwear.A chic dress that isn’t excessively provocative will make a great choice for fun-loving gals.
You’ll want to skip beach attire, which means no bikinis, bathing suits, flip flops, or sandals. Dresses can be somewhat fancy or completely casual. As long as you wear something sexy but not trashy, you’ll be abiding by the dress code. Some clubs also prohibit wearing exposed jewelry.
While it’s not a rule, you might want to keep a pair of comfy shoes in your bag if you’re going to wear high heels and plan to be walking from one club to the next throughout the night.
Rules for Everyone
Days in beautiful San Diego are often breezy and casual. However, the club scene isn’t the place to dress down. People who want to look effortlessly fashionable while clubbing in the city should stay far away from apparel, footwear, and accessories that scream “casual.” Baggy, torn, and obviously worn-out clothing are prime examples of casual clothing that’s generally not considered to be appropriate for upscale San Diego nightclubs.
When you’re dressed your best, you’ll feel confident and ready to slay your swagger when you’re heading out to the area’s top dance club. San Diego nightclub goers consistently rank Onyx Room as the best nightclub in town. With multiple rooms and various genres, we’re sure to please both first-time and veteran San Diego clubgoers. Whether you’re looking for the best Top 40, urban Latin, or hip hop clubs in San Diego, we have something to please everyone. Come see for yourself what Onyx has to offer. To join the guest list for the night of your choosing or get VIP bottle service and experience why Onyx Nightclub is the best San Diego nightclub, call us at 619-876-8044.
FAQs
In general, if you're wearing sneakers, sandals or flip-flops you won't be allowed in most clubs. A lot of the more 'upscale' clubs won't allow sportswear because it's not formal enough and doesn't gel with their image (even if you're wearing the most fashionable hoodie). Some sportswear items to avoid include: Hoodies.
What not to wear to a night club? ›
In general, if you're wearing sneakers, sandals or flip-flops you won't be allowed in most clubs. A lot of the more 'upscale' clubs won't allow sportswear because it's not formal enough and doesn't gel with their image (even if you're wearing the most fashionable hoodie). Some sportswear items to avoid include: Hoodies.
What is the dress code for club night? ›
Smart Casual or Dressy: Many clubs and bars have a smart casual dress code, which typically means dressing in a stylish and put-together manner.
Is it OK to wear jeans to a nightclub? ›
Jeans are generally acceptable attire for nightclubs, but it depends on the dress code. Dark, well-fitted jeans are more appropriate for a nightclub than light or ripped jeans. Pair your jeans with stylish shoes and a dressier top to elevate your nightclub outfit.
What is the dress code for most clubs? ›
The general rule of thumb for clubbing outfits is to dress to impress. Business casual or co*cktail attire styles are the ideal choices to comply with most club dress codes.
Why can't you wear shorts in a nightclub? ›
It comes down to standards. Shorts aren't generally considered proper attire at a full service club, one that offers coat check, VIP, or bottle service. The more casual dress is, the lower standards become. A well dressed crowd is a better behaved crowd.
What should a 40 year old wear to a nightclub? ›
Make it a statement top, like the one-shoulder sequin top I'm wearing in the main pic, add some stand-out accessories and you'll be the coolest belle of the ball. The jeans should be your most comfortable; skinnies, cropped or boyfriend style. Just add a pair of heels or sparkly flats and some eye-catching jewellery.
Is there a dress code for nightclubs? ›
Different Nightclubs have different dress codes, but most of them will expect you to put on the style a bit, no trainers, nice shoes, some will allow jeans, some not - this applies in London too.
Why do night clubs have dress codes? ›
The most popular clubs, such as trendy Gaslamp nightclubs, are known for attracting great-looking crowds of people who dress with style and make an effort to look their best. Most upscale clubs don't allow sportswear because more formal types of attire help them maintain more desirable images and higher status.
How to look attractive in the club? ›
Outfit ideas include:
- A crop top or blouse and a skirt.
- A form fitting dress.
- A pair of nice dress pants and a dressy top.
- Jeans can be uncomfortable if you tend to sweat in the club, so avoid them. ...
- If you have a hard time walking in sky high heels, wear your favorite pair of heeled boots or low heels instead.
Sight: Studies show that up to 90% of customers' first impressions are based on color. Infusing bold, primary colors into your nightclub design like yellow or blue are both shown to provoke positive emotions and calming energy. Smell: Our sense of smell is one of the most powerful and can even trigger old memories.
What should I wear for my first time clubbing? ›
Dress smart.
In fact, some people would opt for flats if not sneakers; however, take note of the club's dress code since if it's a high-end one, sneakers won't make the cut. Most clubs will have a page on their website stating the dress code.
What not to wear to a nightclub? ›
You'll want to skip beach attire, which means no bikinis, bathing suits, flip flops, or sandals. Dresses can be somewhat fancy or completely casual. As long as you wear something sexy but not trashy, you'll be abiding by the dress code. Some clubs also prohibit wearing exposed jewelry.
Can you go clubbing in a shirt? ›
While most establishments prefer collared shirts with trousers, some fancier places allow many varieties of T-shirts and jeans. And here comes your chance to get dapper, evergreen night out club outfit ideas, where plain T-shirts whether collared or not, make a great statement with blue denim types.
Are hoodies not allowed in clubs? ›
While dress codes may vary from club to club, hoodies are generally not allowed in most clubs. Clubs often have a dress code that requires patrons to dress in a more formal or trendy style. Hoodies are often considered too casual for club attire.
What is the dress code for ladies at clubs? ›
Nevertheless, ladies should always dress in business casual or co*cktail attire at minimum to meet any nightlife dress code requirements. Recommended club attire for women would include a tight crop top or blouse top, tight jeans, and heeled shoes.
What do you have to wear to go clubbing? ›
Bright colors look great, but dark blues or blacks are best for functionality to avoid stains. A button-down or v-neck shirt are go-to tops for any clubbing outfit. A pair of skinny jeans or slim-fit slacks work for most occasions. A few rips are ok, but don't overdo it.
Do nightclubs allow hoodies? ›
While dress codes may vary from club to club, hoodies are generally not allowed in most clubs. Clubs often have a dress code that requires patrons to dress in a more formal or trendy style. Hoodies are often considered too casual for club attire.
What to wear to a nightclub in your 40s? ›
Make it a statement top, like the one-shoulder sequin top I'm wearing in the main pic, add some stand-out accessories and you'll be the coolest belle of the ball. The jeans should be your most comfortable; skinnies, cropped or boyfriend style. Just add a pair of heels or sparkly flats and some eye-catching jewellery.
