Casinos have long been associated with glamour and sophistication, attracting visitors who are not only eager to experience the thrill of gambling but a spirit of luxury too.
Over the years, casino attire has evolved dramatically, reflecting broader fashion trends and societal changes too.
That said, how has fashion really changed?
We’re going to explore the complete transformation of casino fashion from the classic glamour of the mid-20th century to the modern chic styles of today.
The Golden Age of Casino Glamour
The 1940s and 1950s: The Establishment of Casino Elegance
The mid-20th century was an interesting period for many reasons, but it also marked the so-called “Golden Age” of casinos, with places like Monte Carlo and Las Vegas becoming the epitome of luxury and sophistication.
During this era, casino attire was characterised by elegance and formality. Men wore fancy, tailored suits, often paired with crisp white shirts, ties and meticulously polished shoes. And at the fanciest establishments, tuxedos were a staple, especially for men of a particularly high class.
The women, unsurprisingly, embraced the glamourous fashion trends of the era, diving headfirst into the world of sophisticated fabrics and accessories. Gowns were made from only the best of the best silks and satins, and they were often accessorised with gloves, fur stoles and other valuable jewellery.
Fashion icons of Hollywood, including none other than Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, significantly influenced casino fashion during this period with their impeccable style and unmatched elegance.
Casinos weren’t just places to gamble – they were social arenas where looking your best was essential. It was a place people went to be seen.
The 1960s and 1970s: Casual Elegance Makes a Comeback
The move into the ‘60s saw a major shift from formal to more of a casual aesthetic, and in the casino environment, it was more relaxed yet still elegant. The influence of pop culture and changing societal norms led to this relaxed approach to fashion.
For the women, fashion became a bit more risqué, so to speak, with shorter hemlines and more playful designs. Cocktail dresses became a popular choice for casino outings, combining some classic elegance with a dash of fun.
The men, on the other hand, got a bit more creative, experimenting with bolder colours and patterns in their suits. Indeed, the traditional (boring, some may say) tie and suit combo was often replaced with a more relaxed look of open-collared shirts and a bit more chest exposed.
Of course, the ‘70s introduced the world to the disco era, and this was reflected in fashion trends with flamboyant and glitzy outfits taking the world by storm. Metallic fabrics, sequins and bold, eye-catching accessories became staples in casino fashion, adding excitement and drama to the casino floor.
The Transitional Period: 1980 and 1990s
1980s: The Era of Excess
The 1980s were generally marked by a sense of excess and extravagance, and of course, casino fashion was no exception. The influence of television shows like Dynasty and Dallas showcased a style of opulence and power dressing, making bold statements with fashion.
For men, it was all about power suits with broad shoulders that were often paired with flashy accessories like cufflinks and gold watches.
Women embraced bold fashion trends of the decade, donning glamourous evening gowns with padded shoulders, dramatic silhouettes and striking colours. Sparkly jewellery and statement makeup were integral components of the classic casino look during this era.
The ‘80s were all about using fashion to make bold statements.
1990s: A Move Towards Minimalism
Fashion became a little simpler in the 1990s, marking a stark departure from the excess of the ‘80s. This shift is often thought to have been influenced by the grunge movement and a general trend towards more understated fashion – however, casino fashion still maintained its air of sophistication.
Women’s casino attire embraced minimalism, with the little black dress (or LBD as it’s become known) becoming a popular choice. This iconic wardrobe staple offered a timeless and versatile option that could be easily dressed up or down with different shoes and accessories. The emphasis, overall, was on simple silhouettes, clean lines and a far more natural approach to both makeup and hair, offering a stark contrast to the previous few decades.
Men’s fashion also became simpler and more relaxed, with sleek, tailored suits replacing the statement power suits of the ‘80s. The black suit, paired with a simple white shirt, became a symbol of understated elegance and class.
Modern Chic: 2000s to Present
2000s: Blending Formal and Casual
The early 2000s saw a continued trend of a blending of casual and formal elements in casino attire. It also saw the rise of celebrity culture, and this meant that red-carpet fashion had a significant impact on the clothing people wore to casinos.
For men, more casual elements were introduced – things like designer jeans and stylish blazers or sports jackets, moving in a direction of comfort while maintaining a sense of sophistication.
Women’s fashion, on the other hand, was influenced more by Hollywood glamour and high fashion. This meant elegant cocktail dresses often paired with designer accessories and statement jewellery.
2010 and Beyond: Embracing Individuality
In more recent years, casino fashion has become more diverse and inclusive, reflecting a far broader range of styles than ever before and embracing more personal preferences. The influence of social media and fashion bloggers has resulted in a democratisation of fashion, allowing individuals to express their unique style.
For men, the classic suit kept its place, but the 2010s saw a growing trend towards more casual yet stylish options like tailored trousers along with fashionable shirts. One of the big changes for men, however, was the introduction of high-end sneakers instead of dress shoes.
Women’s fashion has seen a fairly similar evolution, resulting in a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. Matching co-ords, jumpsuits and even tailored suits have become fashionable choices for women at casinos, along with classic cocktail-style dresses. And, of course, the LBD is always a winner.
Alternatively, if you want to relax at home, you can play at sites like Grand Eagle casino without getting dressed at all!
Overall, there’s been more of an emphasis on versatility and comfort across the board, allowing people to look sleek and stylish without compromising too much on comfort.
