What to wear for European nightlife? (2024)

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Posted byLouis(Los Angeles, CA)on

I am a 27 year-old male and I am going to be in Munich, Paris, Venice and Prague at the end of August/early September. I was looking for advice as to what I should wear.

I am planning on bringing a pair of black jeans and some casual khakis as well as a couple of short-sleeve polo shirts, a long-sleeve button down and some solid colored tee-shirts. I was going to bring a pair of nice Nike sneakers and brown suede Clarks Wallabees with gum soles. I would prefer to not have to bring black dress shoes so I opted for the Clarks instead, which are not very dressy but still much better off than sneakers. Will I be okay for going out to bars and clubs with this kind of stuff? I am also bringing a pair of shorts and a hoodie but I don't figure to wear those at night.

I do not want to be turned away from any places for not being dressed properly. Do you think I am bringing the right kind of stuff? Any advice whatsover is much appreciated. Thanks a lot!

Posted byMartine

in a train schedule...

267 posts

Sounds fine to me. I have been accepted into clubs while dressing less formally. As long as you don't wear worn jeans or t-shirts, you should be fine. And remember, the best way to get accurate style advice is to observe the local populations.

Posted byMs. Jo

Frankfurt, Germany

8931 posts

I don't know that I have ever seen anyone here with black dress shoes on unless they are going to work or a wedding. You might want to bring a cool-looking jacket along. Or some light cotton shirts. Other than that, everyone in Europe seems to shop at the same stores, C&A, H&M, etc. Wear what you are comfortable in. If you are going to go to any casinos though, they do have a jacket requirement. Not sure about a tie.

Posted bypat

victoria, Canada

11507 posts

Just an observation ,, I was in Paris just recently and was shopping for stuff to bring home to my boys, ( 16, 18) and found the styles a bit different.

T Shirts do seem poplar there, but they are much more fitted, smaller, not baggy, and did not have sports logos on them as a rule, definately dressier feel . Same with jeans, much more fitted, no baggy jeans really, and I did not see khakis much at all. I am sure there are exceptions etc,, this is only what my daughter and I observed , and we did not go into fancy places really, more like chain stores etc. Celio, Zara, etc. Jean stores along Boulevard St Michel and CE... but it seemed consistant, baggy is out , fitted is in.
Hoodies were not all over the place either, more cotton type jackets, casual but fitted also.
Styling shoes were similar to runners. although obviously not for running or sports.

Posted byTravel Boss

Florida, USA

12172 posts

It really depends on where you want to go.

If you want to go to the velvet rope places with bouncers, you should try to look stylishly dressed - maybe a fitted, dark-colored button-up shirt, dark slacks or very dressy dark fitted jeans, black socks and black leather dress shoes. Sneakers or Wallabees aren't likely to get you through the door.

If you want to go to a pub, casual is the way to go. If you wore the outfit above, you'd feel overdressed.

Here's what I pack:

http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=1440268

I picked the Ecco shoes because they can take me anywhere but are lightweight, comfortable and waterproof for travel. For fancy places, I'd wear the black pants and shoes and add a dark sweater and/or darker color button-up.

For something less dressy. I'd wear the lighter pants and a sweater or lighter color shirt. I'd still wear the black shoes

For something casual. I'd wear the lighter pants (I don't pack jeans because they're too heavy and hard to wash), a t-shirt under an unbuttoned shirt with sleeves rolled up, and a pair of trail runners.

If I were going to a pub to watch a game. I'd wear the warm ups, t-shirt, fleece and trail runners.

I travel outside of summer, so sweaters tend to be part of every outfit.

Posted byAnn

OH, OH, USA

1158 posts

Europeans don't really wear anything formal in nightclubs such as: dresses sparkling tops neaither polo-shirts or shorts. I would say a pair of nice decent quality and fit jeans and a modern top would be fine. Also a pair of flats instead of Clarks would be fine as well.Keep the Clarks for walking around.
If you go to a Cabaret type of club, I would suggest to wear something more formal, not necessary a dress but a nice pant suit should be fine.I went to Moulin Rouge a few years ago and majority of the older ladies wore dresses or 2 piece skirt suit. The younger ones wore black pants and an elegant top.

Posted byAmy

Clarksville, TN, USA

956 posts

Wear some really, really tight jeans and a skintight shirt. You'll fit in just fine.

Posted byLauren

Atlanta

43 posts

Louis, I agree - maybe don't wear that sparkly dress :) Just in case it was missed, I believe Louis is looking for dressing advice for guys.

If you arrive and find out you need another piece of clothing to blend in then do what another posted suggested and stop by H&M or similar for something inexpensive but in-style. You will also even find lots of stores with fairly inexpensive, but in-style shoes (often displayed right on the street). You might not want to walk all around Paris in them, but definitely would be fine for a night out. It will be nice to have something from your trip you can wear once you get home too.

Posted byAmy

Clarksville, TN, USA

956 posts

Lauren, I don't know about everyone else, but I was referring to what a guy should wear at a club. But of course, I was just being facetious! :)

Posted byjuliette

Germany

116 posts

fitted fitted fitted - we can't say it enough. Think METRO.

those fitted button-up shirts are great - get some in solids or tone/tone stripes, they'll take you everywhere, open neck and do one fold up on the cuffs at night, flip the collar if you really want attention.

gel in the hair and tons of cologne if you're clubbing.

baggy jeans or khakis are not the image of young or hip here. Even the preppy fraternity guys here wear fitted Ralph Lauren polos (flip the collar) and more fitted/straight leg khakis.

skinny ties and fitted sport coats are in. so are capris for men, ankle socks w/fitted adidas or puma sport shoes for everyday

agree w/pp - hit up an H&M or C&A for some cheap stuff. They're Europe's answer to Old Navy. Most large US cities have H&Ms btw.

think "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" stuff.

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What to wear for European nightlife? (2024)

FAQs

What to wear for European nightlife? ›

Smart casual for women

Women can wear a smart casual style with a nice, trendy dress or a modern jumpsuit with a blazer or jacket, even a black trouser or jeans with a neat blouse or a tunic dress. A denim jeans or a ripped jeans are definitely a no-go.

What to wear night out in Europe? ›

Smart casual for women

Women can wear a smart casual style with a nice, trendy dress or a modern jumpsuit with a blazer or jacket, even a black trouser or jeans with a neat blouse or a tunic dress. A denim jeans or a ripped jeans are definitely a no-go.

What is the dress code for Europe clubs? ›

Most of Europe doesn't really dress up to go clubbing. You'll be fine in reasonably smart normal clothes.

What to wear on a night out in Amsterdam? ›

Jeans are no problem in most clubs. There are also no real dresscodes in most places, unless it is a special night (often closed evenings). Casual clothing will do, just don't wear too much sportswear.

What should American tourists wear in Europe? ›

You won't look out of place by wearing color but it's easier to stick with darker colors because it hides stains and wrinkles better than brighter colors. And darker colors are easier to match so it makes packing light easier.

How to not stand out as an American in Europe? ›

Dress and Act Like Locals

First, don't dress like a tourist. Wearing a fanny pack, a backpack, or clothing that references America, are prime examples of what not to wear while traveling in Europe. To not stand out as a tourist, wear what the locals wear--- neutral colors, scarves, and layers.

What do 40 year olds wear on a night out? ›

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.

Do clubs in Paris have a dress code? ›

To be “smart & sexy” or to “dress to impress” there are no fixed rules. However, the best choice is always a dress. A black dress works also 100% fine at most of clubs.

What is European smart casual dress code? ›

It's difficult to be exact, but in most establishements in Europe, 'smart casual' means you can get away with the following: Jeans yes, but under the following conditions: Good designer jeans, usually not 'skinnys' but the style with a bit of flare at the bottom. No holes or bradings unless very stylish.

Do people wear graphic tees in Europe? ›

At the top of the list for what not to wear to look European are graphic tees. You'll never see a European in a graphic tee announcing where they went to college or what sports team they root for.

Is there a dress code for bars in Amsterdam? ›

Amsterdam's dress code varies a lot depending on the club or bar. Although the dress code is generally more casual than many European capitals (particularly London and Paris), in the vast majority of Amsterdam clubs and bars, tracksuit bottoms are an absolute no-no.

Do people wear jeans in Amsterdam? ›

In summer dutch people like to wear shorts and t-shirts. This in combination with ankle socks and sporty shoes. Older men tend to opt for a polo shirt with some jeans or chinos. And, although this is not your typical work attire, jeans and a polo shirt are also commonly accepted in most offices.

Can you wear orange in Amsterdam? ›

Meanwhile, let's just note that Amsterdam is home to people from 180 different nationalities, the vast majority of whom happily wear orange with the rest of us.

Are jeans acceptable in Europe? ›

Plenty of Europeans wear a T-shirt and jeans, but compared to the USA, these clothes tend to be a much snugger fit (for all genders). If you want a simple outfit that still fits Europe's "smart casual" style, think slim or skinny jeans (often dark-colored or grey and undistressed), and a T-shirt that fits your frame.

How to look more European? ›

12 Tips about How to dress like a European man:
  1. Wear fitted clothing.
  2. Own a high-quality suit.
  3. No fanny packs.
  4. Embrace monochromatic looks.
  5. Invest in good shoes.
  6. Accessorize smartly.
  7. Layering is key.
  8. Casual but polished.
Feb 28, 2024

Can you wear sneakers in Europe? ›

And this sends soon-to-be-travelers into a footwear-induced panic as they try to find the perfect pair of shoes that won't make them the laughing stock of Europe. Well, we have some news for you. Europeans wear sneakers. And no, they don't wear high-heels and loafers made from the finest Italian leather every day.

What do people wear out at night in Paris? ›

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.

What do people wear in Paris at night? ›

Blazer and Striped Tee

Stripes are always a good idea in Paris and when paired with a classic blazer and a great straight leg jean and a mule, you're easily ready to go from day to night in Paris.

What is the dress code for the nightclubs in Amsterdam? ›

Tip: Amsterdam nightclub dress code is not very strict - no tux needed to get to most clubs! As long as you aren't wearing snickers and sports pants, but rather a smart shirt, nice pair of pants, or even nice jeans you won't have any problem! If this is a special event, dress code will be specified in advance.

What is smart casual dress in Europe? ›

Smart casual is generally a middle ground between being too casual and too formal - that is neat, conventional, but relatively informal in style. One of the big difference between smart casual and casual is generally the removal of jeans from the protocol, instead replacing them with nicer chinos or slacks.

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