Some Toronto nightclubs have dress codes you have to follow to go from the bouncer to the bottles. And for those wanting to stand out in style, we’ve got guidelines meant to get you through the door.
Toronto TikToker @liamasibley posted a parody video showing an outfit he assumed would be rejected if he wore it to Chez Lavelle, locate in the city’s Entertainment District.
“The bouncer says to me, ‘Bro, your fit is trash. All of the mandem are laughing at you,’ and he told me to leave the line,” @liamasibley joked in the video.
Although it would seem like common sense that all night clubs and entertainment venues follow a similar dress code, it looks like some places have specific rules.
Night clubs spanning across the city gave their advice to help anyone worried they might not get into the club:
No shoes, No shirt, No service!
Everyone knows this is a standard rule, but it seems to be the most important one.
“Shirts and shoes are required! Otherwise the only thing that could prevent a guest from entry would be a non-medical face covering, such as a ski mask (for safety reasons) or clothing with an offensive saying/ symbol on it,” A Bar Cathedral spokesperson told Now Toronto in an email.
Check if there’s a dress code to begin with
Some places in the city don’t even have a dress code. “They don’t really care what you wear,” Rebel receptionist Darya Zamani told Now Toronto.
Rebel is known for its raves and EDM parties, which is why they have more leeway with how people dress, she said.
Follow the event’s style code
When there’s a particular list of what people can and cannot wear it’s usually due to what an event organizer requires, Amore Nights owner Albar Hassan told Now Toronto.
“It depends if the event is casual or fancy because they want their customers coming in whatever they want,” Hassan said.
The fancier it is, it’s better to opt for suits, long dresses, or smart-casual like attire, combining a blazer with a clean pair of jeans.
Notice the age group
It matters if an event space or nightclub attracts an older crowd or a younger crowd.
Zamani said she’s never come across people being shooed away from Rebel because their events are usually all ages.
However, Amore Nights usually hosts events that are for a mature crowd above 30 years old, which tend to be formal anniversary parties or signature events
“[Bar Cathedral’s] crowd is young and the style is super casual, like sneakers and jeans/ comfortable clothing for dancing,” the spokesperson said.
Always put some effort in no matter where you go
The worst thing you can do is to come looking like you didn’t even try, according to Hassan.
“That means no tracksuits or sweats, but most places are open to hats because of the way you can style them in an outfit. It’s all about the outfit,” Hassan said.
