Here’s How Real People Dress to Win (and Fit In) at Las Vegas Casinos
What Exactly Should You Wear?
If you’re heading to Las Vegas for the first time, chances are you’ve already imagined yourself walking into a glittering casino, chips in hand, ready to take your shot at the tables. But then comes the question that stumps almost everyone: What exactly should you wear?
The Las Vegas casino dress code can be confusing, especially for newcomers, and it’s easy to either overdress or feel underdressed once you step onto the floor.
The Myth vs. Reality of Casino Dress Attire
When most people think of casino dress attire, their mind immediately jumps to Hollywood—James Bond in a tailored tuxedo, martini in hand, and his date gliding beside him in a gown straight from a Paris runway. But Las Vegas isn’t Monaco, and most casinos here aren’t scenes from a spy film.
You don’t need designer labels to fit in on the Strip. Vegas style is about balance: comfort, confidence, and a touch of flair. There are some general rules—some written, many not—that can help you enjoy your night without feeling out of place.
What is the casino’s style dress code?
Casinos generally fall into two broad categories when it comes to style: formal and casual.
Formal casinos—think Monte Carlo, not Mandalay Bay—are rare in Vegas. You won’t find many places that require black-tie attire.
However, some restaurants and VIP lounges inside high-end casinos do expect more polished looks once evening hits. A good rule of thumb? Skip the flip-flops, sportswear, and overly revealing clothing.
Casual casinos, which make up the majority in Las Vegas, have a much looser approach. A neat pair of pants and a clean shirt are more than enough for most casino floors. The only unspoken rule is to look presentable.
Showing up in pajamas or outfits that leave little to the imagination might turn heads—and not in the good way.
What to wear in a Las Vegas casino?
Here’s a secret first-time travelers often miss: while Vegas is hot during the day, casinos are notoriously cold inside. Air conditioning runs nonstop, and nighttime temperatures drop quickly in the desert. The trick is layering. Bring outfits that transition easily from the sizzling Strip to a chilly poker room.
Daytime:
Casual and comfortable is key. Jeans, shorts, sneakers, and T-shirts are perfectly fine if you’re exploring or playing slot games during the day.
Evening:
That’s when Vegas transforms. Even if the casino doesn’t demand it, dressing up a little adds to the fun.
- For men: Button-down shirts, chinos or dark jeans, loafers or dress shoes.
- For women: Dresses, skirts, or tailored pants paired with stylish tops. Heels or fashionable flats work well.
You don’t have to go full glam, but this is Vegas—a city built on spectacle. A touch of sparkle or a bold color never hurts.
Dressing for Your Type of Trip
Not every Las Vegas visit is the same. The clothes to wear in Vegas depend largely on your reason for being there.
- Weekend getaway or party trip: Pack relaxed, easy-to-move-in outfits with a few chic pieces for dinner or clubbing. Think smart casual with a hint of personality.
- Business conference or corporate event: Go more polished. Pack collared shirts, blazers, or dresses suitable for meetings, but versatile enough to take you straight to the casino floor afterward.
In short, plan your suitcase around what you’ll actually do. It’s better to have one extra nice outfit than to find yourself underdressed for an unexpected dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Can You Wear Crocs to a Casino?
Comfortable shoes are a must in Vegas—you’ll walk more than you expect. And yes, Crocs technically fit the bill. During the day, especially if you’re just wandering or trying your luck at the slot games, most casinos won’t bat an eye.
But if you plan to enter an upscale restaurant, lounge, or high-limit table area, you’ll want to switch to something a little more refined.
Think of Crocs as sightseeing shoes, not casino-night shoes.
What Not to Wear in a Casino
There are very few hard “don’ts” in Las Vegas, but common sense goes a long way. Avoid anything too sloppy, too revealing, or too themed—unless you’re attending an event that calls for it.
Yes, you can gamble in your favorite band T-shirt and jeans if you want to. But part of Vegas’s charm lies in dressing up just enough to feel like you’re part of the show.
And if you do feel like channeling your inner high roller with a suit or evening gown, go for it. No one will stop you.
So pack smart, dress how you want to feel, and remember: in Vegas, luck might be random, but style never is.