What to Wear

A Fashion Guide to 1890s Paris

The dress code for CHAT NOIR! is 'Vintage Parisian’. All we ask is that guests dress as for a special evening, dinner or night out.

Beyond that, the world of CHAT NOIR is yours to play with: silks, velvets, shadowy glamour, and the spirit of 1890s Paris. Everyone belongs, but it's up to you how far you immerse yourself in our world.

Do You Have to Dress Up?

At CHAT NOIR! we’ll take you however you come, as long as you’re invited — but smart eveningwear is all you really need. Our guests are the beating heart of every Lost Estate experience, and are a real part of building the world and the atmosphere. We just encourage you to channel your inner Parisian Bohemian or Aristocrat:

✔ Suitable: smart dresses and suits are a great starting point
✔ Optional Extras: vintage styling and accessories - waistcoats, cravats, fans, feathers, beads and lace gloves
✖ Avoid: sportswear, trainers, jeans

Get Inspiration!

Vintage Parisian

Inspiration

As you step inside Le Chat Noir you will be surrounded by glittering candlelight, glamour with everything from ruched skirts, lantern sleeves, striking corsets, lace shirts, to suits, velvet waistcoats and silk cravats.
 
 

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Dress Code FAQs

  • I need help with how to plan my outfit! Where do I start?

    Shopping your own wardrobe is always great place to start! Perhaps begin with how you would dress for a smart evening out - a black dress or a suit - then add a little nod to the glamour of Parisian Aristocrats or the spirit of Bohemian artists - a simple cravat or a pair of earrings can be enough to get into the spirit of the night.

  • I’d love an easy accessory to add?

    Amazon is a great option for accessories - particularly if you’re planning last minute.

    Ladies - may search for lace fans, long opera gloves, chokers, beads, feathers

    Gentlemen - look for top hats, pocket watches and cravats.

  • If I want to buy something new, what should I search for?

    Shopping for specific items can be a great place to start:

    Evening dress
    Corsets (‘french vintage corsets’)
    Lantern sleeve shirts
    Lace shirts
    Ruched skirts

    Whilst Le Chat Noir was the original and first cabaret club and very much set itself apart from its competitor down the road however a search for ‘moulin rouge’ outfit or skirt will turn up some good results. (Don’t tell them).

    A search for ‘victorian steam punk’ will also turn up lots of corsets, ruched skirts and tail coats and top hats that may inspire.

  • What if I want to hire a costume?

    We highly recommend Prangsta or Mad World for costume hires or The Carnival Store for more permanent purchases.