6 Essential Tips: Dressing for Clubs in London

Going to a London nightclub is pretty different to taking a walk on the beach, going to work, having a session at the gym or even hanging out at home ... and that's why we love it! The fact that it's different to all your other ordinary activities means that you'll need to think laterally in how you dress ... not just for looks, but also for practicality and comfort. If you're coming back to the club scene after an extended break or just want some first time tips, we've got 6 essential pieces of advice for dressing for a nightclub in London!

1. Know your dress code
   The 'house' dress code varies from club to club. Erring on the conservative side of caution when it comes to some London clubs might see you knocked back at the door ... so check out the individual dress code before you rock up.
2. Layer
   The streets of London are cold; the nightclubs of London are very hot. Wear layers that you can peel off as you get hotter and hotter - beg, borrow or steal a coat that will cover your legs while you’re standing in line, especially in winter! Girls should think shrugs, cardis and scarves, men should think dress jackets and coats.
3. Keep it covered!
   A lot of clothing listed as 'clubwear' is ultra, ultra skimpy. Of course, there's nothing illegal about that - but if you overdo the sex appeal you'll probably find more than a few unwelcome gropes aimed at you on the dancefloor. You may also find that short skirts and precariously positioned tops are 'accidentally' moved out of position!
4. Think strappy or loose
   Clubbing is hot sweaty business ... but you also want to look sexy. So underarm puddles are to be avoided at all costs! Girls, wear strappy dresses rather than sleeved tops, guys keep those shirts loose.
5. Shimmer and sparkle
   Patterns are completely lost in a nightclub atmosphere, and so are subtle combinations of colors. Anything with a bit of shimmer or sparkle in it tends to look awesome under the UV and strobe lights of clubs.'

Plumage-free zone
For guys, the 'plumage' look (consisting of strategically poking-out chest hair) is definitely out! Part of your 'dressing process should include either waxing it, or covering it up.