To a society club or private club, you usually wear polished clothes. How formal it needs to be differs greatly per club. Some clubs have clear clothing rules, for example about jeans, sneakers or a blazer. If you are a guest, ask your host beforehand what is usual. Below you can read which questions you can ask beforehand and which combinations often work.
What a society club or private club is
Society clubs and private clubs are associations with their own premises, where members come together for dinners, lectures, drinks or simply a quiet afternoon with the newspaper. In the Netherlands there are old, traditional societies in historic buildings, but also modern member clubs for entrepreneurs and creatives. Many clubs have their own customs and sometimes a fixed dress code. In December, many clubs organise Christmas dinners and end-of-year drinks, where members bring guests.
The dress code: ask beforehand
Every club has its own rules. At traditional societies, men are often expected to wear a blazer, sometimes with a tie, and jeans and sneakers are not welcome. Modern member clubs are sometimes deliberately more informal, but there too polished clothing is expected. Because as a guest you do not want to stand out, the simplest step is: ask your host what is usual. That is not an awkward question; members are used to it and appreciate that you take it into account.
If you do not get a clear answer, choose something polished and classic.
For men: the blazer as a starting point
Start with a blazer in a calm colour: navy, grey, brown or a classic pattern. Underneath, a shirt with a firm collar. The Hamilton shirt in white, made of 100% cotton with an Italian collar, can be worn with and without a tie, which is handy if you do not know the rules exactly. Take a tie in your inside pocket; you can put it on if you notice the other men are wearing one.
The trousers may have texture. Slim-fit herringbone trousers such as the Ulysses in taupe grey suit the classic atmosphere of many clubs and combine with a plain blazer. In a more modern club or on an informal afternoon, a wool cardigan with a tailored cut, such as the Maximilian cardigan in beige, can replace the blazer.
Shoes: choose smart, well-kept shoes. Whether loafers or sneakers are allowed depends on the club.
For women: elegant and modest
For women the rules are often less explicit, but the expectation is similar: polished, classic and not too striking. A blouse with an elegant detail is always right. The Rosamund in pearl cream, a lavallière blouse with a satin look, is a calm option for a more formal dinner. Combine it with high-waist pleated trousers such as the Arabelli in navy, or with a knee-length skirt.
A fine-knit polo or twinset is a good alternative for an afternoon programme or a lecture. Jewellery is fine, but keep it to one or two beautiful pieces.
Outfits per occasion
| Occasion | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas dinner in a traditional society club | Dark blazer, white shirt, tie, dark trousers | Satin-look blouse, dark trousers or skirt, pumps |
| Lecture or afternoon programme | Blazer, shirt without a tie, herringbone trousers | Fine knit, smart trousers, loafers |
| Drinks in a modern member club | Wool cardigan, shirt, smart trousers | Blouse, high-waist trousers, ankle boots |
Unwritten rules
- Coat and bag at the cloakroom. In many clubs it is usual to hand in your coat. Bring a small bag, not a large shopper.
- Phone on silent. In many societies, phone calls in the shared rooms are not appreciated, and sometimes photography is not allowed either.
- Follow your host. He or she knows the customs; ask where you can sit and when it is usual to leave.
- Better too neat than too casual. A blazer can be taken off; a forgotten blazer cannot be conjured up.
An evening in December
Many societies organise a Christmas dinner or end-of-year drinks in December, where members bring their partner or guests. Such an evening can be more formal than an ordinary gathering. For men, expect a dark blazer, a white or light blue shirt and a tie. For women, an elegant blouse or top with a skirt or trousers, possibly with a festive piece of jewellery. A dark suit can be appropriate if the invitation or club culture asks for it. Arrive on time, leave your coat at the cloakroom and keep your phone in your bag; this shows that you respect the customs of the house. If in doubt, ask whether there is a special dress code for the evening, such as tenue de ville or even black tie. It is usually on the invitation, but not always clearly.
Colour and fabric in a club interior
Club interiors are often dark and warm: wood, leather, dimmed light. Navy, grey, brown, cream and bordeaux are calm choices for such an environment. Fabrics with texture, such as herringbone, tweed, wool and a satin-like sheen, look good in that light. Whether striking colours are appropriate depends on the club and the occasion.
If you become a member yourself
If you are considering becoming a member, it is handy to have a few fixed combinations that always work. A dark blazer, two shirts, a herringbone or grey trouser and a pair of good leather shoes form a reliable base for men. For women, a few elegant blouses, dark pleated trousers and a knee-length skirt work in almost any club. With such a base you can make a suitable combination for many club moments.
For inspiration, take a look at our Signature Occasions for men and Signature Occasions for women, and at the trousers for men and blouses for women.
Shop the look
Hamilton: shirt with Italian collar, white
Ulysses: slim-fit herringbone trousers, taupe grey
Maximilian: tailored wool cardigan, beige
Rosamund: lavallière blouse, pearl cream
Arabelli: high-waist pleated trousers, navy
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to wear a tie in a society club?
That differs per club. At traditional societies a tie is sometimes expected. Ask your host, or take a tie in your inside pocket.
Can you wear jeans in a private club?
That differs per club. Check the house rules or ask the person who invites you.
What do women wear to a society club?
Elegant trousers or a skirt with a blouse or fine knit are often appropriate. Match the formality to the club.
