Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Dress Code: What to Wear (with photos)

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Last updated:
13 Aug 2026

Our handy guide on what to wear on board this iconic train

With its restored 1920s Art Deco carriages and rich history, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a place where old-world glamour is appreciated and fully encouraged. You may be wondering what to pack for a journey on board an icon like this, so read on for our handy guide on what to wear on the Orient Express.

The Golden Rule: You Can Never Be Overdressed

The same rule applies for all of Belmond’s trains: You truly can never be overdressed on board. A journey on the Orient Express offers the perfect excuse to dust off your finest evening dress or classic tuxedo!

Daytime:

During the day, the dress code on board is smart casual. Think sophisticated yet comfortable. The daytime will be spent relaxing, eating, drinking and watching the European countryside roll by, so comfort is key, but your clothing should still be smart.

Ideas for Women

For ladies, we recommend things like tailored trousers and blouses, and chic midi dresses and skirts. Temperatures can fluctuate, especially when travelling through the alps, so fine knitwear and blazers are perfect for stylish layering. For your footwear, think elegant flats, loafers, or some sensible heels. It's important to note that the moving train can sometimes be tricky to navigate in high heels. But, if you're a seasoned professional, then go for it!

Ideas for Men

For the gentlemen, we recommend a smart jacket or blazer pairs with trousers and a collared shirt. Knitwear is also a good option. Essentially, what you need to avoid are shorts, collarless T-shirts, sweatpants and baseball caps. For shoes, you can wear things like loafers, brogues or Oxfords. Trainers and sandals are not permitted.

Evening: Black Tie

Dinner on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the main event, and the perfect excuse to dress to the nines! As evening approaches, head to your cabin to get ready. Nothing compares to the feeling of walking through the corridors of the Orient Express in your finery for a pre-dinner cocktail in the bar car. The elegant vintage decor of the restaurant cars deserves a matching dress code.

Ideas for Women

For dinner, we recommend going all out with floor-length evening gowns, cocktail dresses, dress suits or jumpsuits.

Ideas for Men

An evening on the Orient Express calls for black tie attire. We highly recommend a tuxedo or dinner jacket, but you could also opt for a dark formal suit with a tie or bowtie. Leather dress shoes are also encouraged.

If you have any questions about the dress code, feel free to contact us at info@luxurytraintickets.com

Lucy Mullins
Luxury Train Travel Specialist
Lucy is LuxuryTrainTickets.com’s dedicated Luxury Train Travel Specialist, helping travellers discover the world’s most unforgettable rail journeys. With a love for vintage carriages, great storytelling, and perfectly planned itineraries, she brings expert insight and personal guidance to every booking.
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