Nightclubs are popular venues to dance, drink, and have a good time by yourself or with friends. However, dressing for a nightclub can be confusing, and if you’ve never gone to a nightclub before, you may have a hard time navigating your outfit options.
Our style guide is here to give you more details about nightclubs, what to consider when dressing for your night out, and inspiration for your next great nightclub outfit.
Nightclub Things to Consider
As you start to think about dressing for a nightclub there are a few important things to take into consideration. Make sure you think about the following factors as you decide on your nightclub outfit.
Dress Codes
Dress codes are highly important to take into consideration when it comes to dressing for a nightclub. Many nightclubs have varying levels of formality, and you can check the website or call the nightclub directly to figure out how you should be dressing.
In general, the dress code of a nightclub can range from casual and streetwear to cocktail dresses, to semi-formal or black-tie attire. Of course, these dress codes come with a wide range of accepted styles, which is why you should consider this first before making any other outfit decisions.
Time of Year
The time of year that you are going out can affect your clothing and how many layers you wear. Nightclubs often get warm inside from body heat and dancing, and it makes sense to wear something shorter or with short sleeves no matter the time of year.
If it is cold outside, you can put a sweater or a jacket over your outfit. Many nightclubs have coat rooms or a coat check where you can leave your jacket for the night and pick it up when you are ready to go.
The time of year also inspires the colors or patterns of your outfit. Spring and summer nightclub outfits tend to be more bright and vibrant with busy patterns, while fall and winter outfits are often seen in darker colors and more solid patterns.
Nightclub Vibe
The vibe of the specific nightclub you are attending is equally as important to take into consideration. Many nightclubs are themed, and you might find yourself interested in attending a nightclub that caters to a specific population, such as a gay club, a Latin club, or a general theme club, like a retro nightclub.
You may want to dress to go along with the specific vibe of that nightclub. You can always look at pictures of the nightclub or talk to others who have been there to learn more about the venue and what an acceptable outfit might be.
Comfort
Comfort is very important to take into account when it comes to dressing for a nightclub, as you don’t want to be fidgeting with your outfit all night, awkward, or feeling self-conscious. Nightclubs are a great place to relax, dance, and have fun, and it’s difficult to do this when you are uncomfortable or in pain from your choice of clothing or shoes.
When dressing for a nightclub, always wear something you can move around easily in and that makes you feel both attractive and confident.
Clothing to Avoid at a Nightclub
There are plenty of things you can wear to a nightclub, and there are also several clothing options that you should completely stay away from, no matter the type of club you are going to. The following clothing items don’t give a very good impression, and they may get you turned away at the door if your chosen nightclub has a very strict dress code.
In general, you should avoid wearing the following to a nightclub:
- Stained, dirty, worn-out, or ill-fitting clothing
- Clothes that are too tight or too loose, leading you to readjust or be uncomfortable all night
- Clothing that is very old or years out of style
- Tracksuits, sweatpants, or athletic wear
- Flip-flops, shoes without support, or uncomfortable shoes
- White or other very light colors, as these can easily be stained
When it comes to white clothing in particular, this may be acceptable in some cases. It’s just important to note the risk of visible staining and dirtying when it comes to white or very light-colored dresses, shirts, jackets, and pants.
Nightclub Outfit Ideas for Women
These nightclub outfit ideas for women are a great place to start if you aren’t sure what to wear on your next night out. Keep in mind your comfort level, the vibe of your chosen nightclub, and any dress code restrictions as you look through your options and decide.
- Bodycon, or form-fitting dresses, in any pattern or color
- A miniskirt and blouse
- A crop top, jeans, and heels
- Tall boots, a skirt, and a camisole or a crop top
- A cocktail dress and heels for more formal venues
For women who might want to carry a purse or bag as part of their outfit, be sure to verify that your chosen nightclub accepts bags into the venue; some don’t as a safety precaution. If you are planning to wear a coat or other jacket in cold weather, you may also want to double-check that your favorite nightclub has some kind of coat check or coat room.
Nightclub Outfit Ideas for Men
The following nightclub outfit ideas for men can help you get organized with your clothing and start thinking about what you would be most comfortable in when dressing for a night out. We recommend trying out a few different options to see what suits you best before making a decision.
- Dress pants and a collared shirt
- Dark jeans and a fitted T-shirt
- Jeans, a fitted T-shirt, and an overshirt, such as a flannel top
- A suit, or dress pants and a dress shirt for more formal nightclubs
Men can accessorize their outfits with cuff links, lapel pins, belts, and, in some cases, hats. Make sure you know the dress code of your chosen nightclub and any rules about accessories ahead of time to ensure you aren’t turned away at the door.
Dressing for a Fun Night Out
Spending a night out at your favorite club alone or with friends can be a great time, but it’s important that you look the part. Wearing something comfortable, appropriate for your chosen nightclub establishment, and suitable for the time of year will ensure that you have the best time possible.
Remember, always double-check any dress codes or nightclub rules ahead of time so when you show up, you’re sure to have a fun evening with no unexpected surprises. And no matter what, choose something you feel great in!
