
In this guide, we give you an easy to follow guide on the do’s and don’ts of what to wear to a cocktail bar.
A cocktail bar dress code balances formal and casual attire. This fusion is flexible. It means you can mix and match different outfits, yet still inject your individual style and vibe to your outfit. Just remember that even though you should aim for an elegant look, that feeling comfortable is still important.
Sometimes, it may be challenging to decide what’s just right to wear for a cocktail evening. You might worry about making a mistake without even realising it.
Worry not, we’re here to help with an easy-to-understand guide to cocktail bar dress codes for men and women.
Cocktail Bar Attire for Men
Parameter | Do’s | Don’ts |
Tops | Opt for a crisp, button-down shirt in a subtle pattern or white, light blue or pastel shades. Layer a blazer or sports coat over your dress shirt to instantly elevate your outfit. | Avoid wearing t-shirts, tank tops, or overly casual shirts with loud patterns or graphics. |
Bottoms | Choose well-fitted trousers in classic colours — black, navy, or charcoal grey. | Steer away from casual wear like jeans, cargo pants, or shorts. |
Footwear | Wear a pair of dress shoes that complement your outfit. Go in for Oxfords, loafers, or derby shoes in leather or suede. | Say no to sneakers, flip-flops, or sandals. |
Accessories | Elevate your look with a classic watch, leather belt, and subtle tie or pocket square. | Avoid over-accessorising with flashy or bulky jewellery that distracts from your outfit’s sophistication. |
Grooming | Ensure your hair is well-styled, your facial hair is well-groomed, your hands are clean, and your nails are trimmed. | Avoid unkempt hair and facial hair like beards. |
Tabulation 1: Cocktail Bar Attire Guidelines for Men
Cocktail Bar Attire for Women
Parameter | Do’s | Don’ts |
Tops | Choose elegant blouses with lace, ruffles, or embellishments. Opt for classic cocktail dress silhouettes, including A-line, sheath, wrap, empire, and slip. You could also try a stylish top and blazer, or a dressy medium-length skirt with a pretty blouse. Look for midi dresses with a hem between the knee and ankle. Select luxurious fabrics like wool or crepe for a polished finish. Opt for a well-tailored blazer in coordinating colours or subtle patterns. | Avoid overly casual styles like sundresses or mini skirts, or overly dramatic maxis. |
Bottoms | Opt for a sophisticated dress or skirt that falls at or slightly above the knee. Pair a skirt or tailored trousers with a dressy top if you prefer separates. Wear well-fitted tailored pants in neutral hues or subtle prints. Consider a chic pantsuit in a tailored silhouette for a refreshing twist on cocktail attire. You could also try wide-leg pants or cigarette pants For separates, go with either pants or a skirt on the bottom. A stylish, fitted pantsuit is a cocktail-attire classic. | Avoid overly casual bottoms like jeans or shorts. |
Footwear | Opt for heels in a classic style like pumps or strappy sandals to elongate your silhouette. Alternatively, choose dressy flats or loafers in premium materials like leather or suede. | Steer away from sneakers, flip-flops, or casual sandals. |
Accessories | Choose timeless pieces like stand-out earrings, stud earrings, delicate necklaces, or a simple bracelet. Carry a sleek clutch or small handbag that complements your outfit. Choose a neutral colour or subtle metallic finish for versatility. Ensure the bag is large enough to hold your keys, phone, and lipstick. | Avoid overly flashy or statement jewellery that may detract from your ensemble. |
Grooming | Keep hair and makeup polished and sophisticated to complete your cocktail bar look. Opt for a classic bun, polished waves, or a chic ponytail. Choose makeup that enhances your features. Ensure nails are well-groomed and polished for a polished finish. | Avoid unkempt hair and overly dramatic makeup. |
Tabulation 2: Cocktail Bar Attire Guidelines for Women
Cocktail Bar Dress Code Tips
- Before heading to the cocktail bar, check for any specific dress code mentioned on the bar’s website or social media pages.
- Choose quality over quantity. Keep your outfit classy, not flashy.
- Adapt your attire to the weather. Choose breathable fabrics and lighter layers in warmer months. Opt for heavier fabrics and layers in cooler weather.
- Opt for well-fitted garments made from quality fabrics. Choose silk, satin, or chiffon for women. Stick to wool or linen for men.
- Choose classic styles and neutral colours to exude a polished appearance. Avoid shades that could look bridal.
- Ensure your attire is neatly pressed for a polished look.
- Ensure your clothing fits well and flatters you.
- Choose clothing and footwear that let you move easily, especially if you intend to dance for quite some time.
- Ensure shoes are clean and polished.
- Wear your chosen outfit confidently. Feel your best.
Why Do Cocktail Bars Have a Dress Code?
- Branding
Cocktail bars work hard to create an atmosphere that reflects their brand identity or appeals to their target audience. A dress code can attract a specific kind of clientele and set the club apart. The dress code can ensure that patrons’ wear aligns with the desired ambience.
- Keeping Patrons Safe
Implementing a dress code enables bar staff to differentiate guests from potential troublemakers. This practice helps maintain a safe environment for guests and can help prevent unruly behaviour.

What to Wear to Pinstripe Cocktail Bar, Bali
We offer an upscale atmosphere where our guests feel elegant and sophisticated. With furniture adorned in marble and dark wood along with bronze elements, we’ve created a speakeasy bar in Bali atmosphere reminiscent of the bygone 1930s jazz era.
Pinstripe Bar is not your usual cocktail bar. We also house some of the most exquisite cigars. Plus, we offer several experiences to enhance your evenings.
- Live jazz performances by the saxophonist Arie Kurniawan on Thursdays, and Yuri Mahatma and Astrid Sulaiman on Fridays.
- Cocktail masterclass by our expert Head Mixologist Panji. In this masterclass, you learn about fresh ingredients you can use for your cocktails.
So, when it comes to dress code, we aim for smart, chic attire and suggest avoiding sports gear or beachwear like t-shirts and flip-flops.
By dressing the part, you help us maintain our ambience. Come, join us for a special dining and cocktail experience at Pinstripe Bar!