Casino chic

Being a high roller is no easy task, and looking like one is an even greater challenge. Today’s big earners at the casinos know that in order to play well, you have to look good, too. Looking good while playing can increase your confidence, which will enhance the entire casino experience.

Although designers do not usually design specifically for casino wear, many of the outfits presented at their collections would be appropriate for the casino floor. Valentino’s Spring 2008 Couture fashion show featured dozens of outfits such as the one-shouldered white satin dress with a knotted strap that would make any lady look elegant, classic and powerful. Valentino’s clothes exhibit that feminine sex appeal with items such as lace, occasional flower prints and succulent satin bows. Colors such as red, black and silver are the colors a dame should sport.

While onlookers first notice an outfit’s color, they notice fabric and cut soon after. A dress should look as if it is flowing down your body, and fabrics such as satin have that effect. Edgy, asymmetrical cuts are all right, but classic cuts such as the symmetrical two-strapped dress will definitely ooze femininity and sex appeal that every man in the casino is sure to notice.

When you are questioning whether to wear flats or heels – always go with heels. Slicked-back hair goes best with the classic elegant look we are going for here. Along with the hair, makeup should be bold (as opposed to light and neutral), including smoky eyes and lipstick in colors like red. To get an idea of what I’m talking about you can look up any Valentino ad. There’s a reason why New York Magazine called him “a master of elegance and opulence.”

Fortunately, casino fashion does not discriminate against men, so they also should dress to impress. Men should wear something that makes them look elegant yet masculine and powerful. The one thing that comes to mind is the always fashionable tuxedo. Tuxedos have many variations, cuts and styles, but honestly, as long as it looks good, fits well and has that rough, masculine sex appeal, you made the right decision.

For that “Casino Royale” James Bond look, all you need is the Armani Collezioni tuxedo and a stylish pair of black, patent-leather shoes and you are ready to rake in the cash at the blackjack table. Armani will guarantee you the classic elegant tuxedo with exquisite tailoring and strategic cuts. If nothing else, the name alone warrants attention and exudes class and power.

While Armani and Valentino will make you look elegant, sexy and timeless, they will also set you back a few thousand dollars. For a more affordable version of trendy casino fashions, check out my affordable outfits to the right.

Men: Please stay away from those floral-print Hawaiian shirts; there is nothing elegant, classic or masculine about them. The only turns you will get with those are turns of disgust. I’m sure many of you who have gone to the casino will undoubtedly say that the people there were dressed casually and seldom anyone stood out from the crowd.

It is those few who do stand out who end up being the most talked about, stylish players of the night. Another piece of advice: Don’t look at what everyone else around you is wearing. Be bold, stand out and go for something stylish, something Armani, and you are sure to be the winner of the night. And don’t forget to blow the dice!