Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (2024)

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Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (1)

With carefully-ironed co*cktail dresses and high heels, my roommates and I felt no reason to second-guess the outfits we’d picked for our first night out while studying abroad in Paris. As soon as we hopped off the metro to the main nightlife street, however, we realized that we didn’t have a clue what the locals wore out. Honestly, though, we weren’t too hard on ourselves—it’s pretty confusing. Parisians have numerous unspoken dress codes, especially regarding evening wear. Luckily, you can learn from our major faux pas and wear the perfect outfit out, no matter where you decide to explore after dark.

Restaurants

Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (2)For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a co*cktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn’t because Parisians are against showing skin; it’s just not typical for this type of setting. People would just give you some funny looks (wondering how cold you must be). More common, though, would be to wear a casual dress (with tights, of course) or rip-free denim jeans with a nice top. Boots and heels are often worn, but it also isn’t unusual to spot women wearing sneakers on their nights out. As a general rule of thumb, clothing that has holes or is extremely oversized can be frowned upon at a lot of places. And baseball caps/ hats are almost always a no (unless you go to a sports bar…maybe).

Clubs/High-End Outings

If you’re headed somewhere to tear up the dance floor or indulge in some fancy food and refreshments, the dress code will likely be stricter. Jeans (besides dark or black-wash) are usually safest to avoid. I’d recommend a skirt, tights, and a nice blouse—paired with either boots or heels. If you're ever unsure of what would be allowed, opt for semi-formal attire: a dress or skirt (always with tights) or slacks. In case of super dress-code confusion--which can certainly happen--don't hesitate to call the venue before-hand. They're not exactly known for being more understanding towards tourists, and better to be safe than sorry!

Learn more about studying abroadin Paris.

Olivia Hunt is the Spring 2020 CEA MOJO Blogger in Paris, France, and is currently studying at University of San Diego.

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Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (3)

Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (4)

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Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear (2024)

FAQs

Midnight in Paris: A Guide to Dress Codes and Evening Wear? ›

Restaurants. For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a co*cktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn't because Parisians are against showing skin; it's just not typical for this type of setting.

What is the dress code for evening wear? ›

Evening wear generally entails white or black tie and suits for men, and formal dresses, co*cktail dresses or gowns for women.

Can I wear jeans in Paris restaurants? ›

For the nights when you are heading to a local restaurant in your favorite arrondissem*nt, a pair of jeans is appropriate. Make sure your jeans don't have holes or embellishments of any kind.

What is evening resort wear dress code? ›

Resort Evening Wear

Men should plan to wear dressier shorts, pants or nice jeans with a polo or other collared shirt. T-shirts, sleeveless shirts, shorts, are not typically acceptable. Women can choose a casual dress or pair a blouse with a nice pair of jeans, slacks, or a skirt.

What is evening dinner attire? ›

The formal standard demands patrons to wear their best, with women in ravishing dresses and men in suits. Formal wear can even go a step above and befall black tie invitations, which call for men to wear tuxedos, and women to wear co*cktail or long dresses, or modish, dressy evening separates.

What does evening wear look like? ›

Evening wear is characterized by its elegance and sophistication. Key elements of evening wear include beautiful fabrics, elegant silhouettes, and intricate details. For women, evening wear often features long gowns, co*cktail dresses, or stylish jumpsuits. Men usually opt for tuxedos or formal suits.

What does dress code evening casual mean? ›

Light colors and casual materials, like satin or linen, fit the code well. However, it's also worth pointing out that the time of day may also affect the code. For instance, dressy casual for an evening may mean a suit, perhaps with an open shirt button to dress it down a bit.

What is the dress code for night in Paris? ›

For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a co*cktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn't because Parisians are against showing skin; it's just not typical for this type of setting.

What are five rules for eating out at a restaurant in Paris? ›

Your piece of bread is kept on the table next to your plate, not on the plate.
  • Always Eat With Cutlery. The French consider it very impolite to eat with your fingers. ...
  • A Champagne Aperitif. ...
  • Slow Down. ...
  • The End. ...
  • "Garçon" Is Not The Name Of Your Server. ...
  • "L'addition, S'il Vous Plaît.

Can I wear sneakers in Paris? ›

Yes, of course you can wear fashionable jeans in Paris, and sneakers as well. However, make sure your sneakers are what I call “sophisticated city sneakers”, not big white sneakers devoted to sport.

What is the upscale dress code? ›

Upscale restaurants typically require more formal attire such as a dress, skirt, or slacks. The dress code for upscale restaurants can vary, but typically jeans are not allowed. Upscale restaurants typically require more formal attire such as a dress, skirt, or slacks.

What do you wear as an evening guest? ›

Evening wear is most appropriate here. For men, this typically means a dark tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a coordinating bow tie, a cumme*rbund, and suspenders (optional), says Corry. Dress shoes, like oxfords, are suitable. Women can wear either a long gown or a dressy co*cktail dress.

What is the smart casual dress code? ›

Smart casual attire is a dress code that combines well-fitting, polished business wear with elements of casual attire—think blouses, polo shirts, button-downs, chinos, dress pants, dark-wash jeans, and polished, practical footwear.

What is the evening dress code for ladies? ›

For Women. For women, it helps to have a selection of gowns to use for formal events. Opt for gowns and dresses of different lengths so that you can adjust your outfit for white tie, black tie, and formal events. Skirts, blouses, and fancy jewelry can also be useful when attending special occasions.

What is the elegant dress code for ladies? ›

A midi or mini party dress styled with heeled sandals, a clutch bag can create an elegant look. If the occasion is slightly more formal, a long party dress would be appropriate too paired with silver or gold jewellery.

What is dressy casual for a woman? ›

Dressy casual is the perfect blend of laid-back and formal. It's ideal for post-work socializing, nice dinners, or fundraisers. Navigating through the Dressy Casual terrain can be tricky, but it's all about a sophisticated touch to everyday wear. It's less about formality and more about looking well put together.

What is the concept of evening wear? ›

Evening dress consists of the formal clothes that people wear to formal occasions in the evening. An evening dress is a special dress, usually a long one, that a woman wears to a formal occasion in the evening.

What is evening wear for a man? ›

Formal Men's Evening Wear

This typically involves a classic tuxedo – a timeless symbol of elegance. Knowing how to wear a tuxedo is essential for any man looking to make a statement at a formal event.

What is the meaning of Eveningwear? ›

Definitions of eveningwear. attire to wear on formal occasions in the evening. synonyms: evening clothes, evening dress, formalwear.

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