Lookin’ Good: The Key To Smart Poker Outfits

If you’re anything like us, when you’re about to settle down for a session on the felt (virtual or otherwise) the last thing you’re thinking about is the poker dress code.

But we’ll let you in on a little secret. Dressing smart in poker can actually help you during the game. It can present a certain image to players if you’re playing in a live setting. And it can also solve practical issues, whether you’re online or face-to-face.

And no, we don’t mean writing strategy tips on the underside of your sleeve. We’re talking much more useful than that.

The importance of layering

Now this one is especially important if you’re playing a poker tournament or multi-tabling, which can both demand attention and are hard to step away from.

Make sure you have multiple different layers so you can take them on and off as the temperature in the room changes.

This is as important online as it is offline. Imagine you’re playing at bet365 poker (bonus code here) and you get freezing just as something major kicks off. You’re not so comfortable so you can’t concentrate. But running upstairs to get your jumper means you could miss something crucial. In short, you’re in a bind.

But if before you started playing, you made sure you were wearing a t-shirt with a cosy zip-up over it, you simply don’t have that problem. You can easily adjust your outfit for how you’re feeling.

The same goes when you’re playing live tournaments. Imagine being in the WSOP and realising you’re way too hot but aren’t wearing a t-shirt underneath. You just have to grin and bear it while the sweat pours off you.

Not being in the right frame of mind can lead to mistakes and then lead to tilt.

No. Sidestep the whole issue and make sure you’re dressed in sufficient comfy layers.

Poker dress code in casinos

Every casino has a different poker dress code and some are more relaxed than others. In your local, you might simply have to make sure you don’t look super scruffy. In others, you might have to make sure you’re not wearing trainers or football jerseys.

But in some cases, you might have to make more of an effort. Especially in the case of a poker holiday, make sure you double check the poker dress code required of you. You don’t want to show up at a venue and realise everyone else is wearing a shirt and you’re refused entry because of your old t-shirt.

What should you wear to a poker party?

If you’re friend is hosting a poker themed party, or indeed if you’re throwing one yourself, people always get caught up on the dress code.

If you’re attending, simply ask the host what the vibe is. It could be a casual cash game where people dip in and out. No big deal, come as you are. Or there could be a big fancy theme where everyone’s going in dressed to the nines. Make sure you’re on the right page before rocking up to the door.

And if you’re hosting yourself, it’s of course up to you. Simply think about the vibe you’d like at the party and also of what your guests would be comfortable in.

Your opponents and the poker dress code

Everyone knows that poker is as much about the cards you’re dealt as it is about your interaction with other players. You don’t want to give too much away to your opponents when you’re playing face-to-face.

That’s why a whole lot of the time you’ll see players on TV wearing sunglasses, hats and headphones. Completely shutting themselves off.

To be honest, we think this poker dress code is going a little far for most players, especially those newish to poker. Leave your sunglasses, etc., at home.

Think of yourself as a blank slate. Dress well, not sloppy. Don’t you dare put on that joke slogan t-shirt your Mam got you for Christmas last year (and send her this poker present idea list so she doesn’t repeat the same mistake this year).

Then approach the table, cool, calm and collected. You don’t need props to be a good player. Trust your instincts and your unique playing style.