Orient Express dress code: What to wear on the legendary train journey

When you think of the Orient Express, a legendary luxury train that connects Europe’s most glamorous cities with old-world elegance. Also known as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, it’s not just a ride—it’s a moving museum of 1920s luxury, where every detail, from the polished wood to the crystal glasses, demands a certain kind of presence. This isn’t a casual train ride. It’s a theatrical experience, and your outfit is part of the show.

The dress code isn’t arbitrary—it’s tied to the train’s history. The original Orient Express, launched in 1883, carried aristocrats, spies, and writers who dressed for dinner even when crossing mountains. Today, the modern version keeps that spirit alive. For dinner, men are expected to wear a suit and tie, or at the very least, a blazer with dress pants. Women wear cocktail dresses, elegant skirts, or tailored trousers with a blouse. No jeans, no sneakers, no T-shirts. If you show up in casual wear, you’ll be politely turned away from the dining car. The staff doesn’t scold—you’ll just notice the silence as others in silk and tweed glide past.

Daytime is a little more relaxed, but still refined. Think smart casual: linen pants, button-down shirts, light wool sweaters, and closed-toe shoes. A hat or scarf adds character, especially when you’re standing on the observation platform watching the Alps roll by. The train’s carriages are climate-controlled, so layering matters. Bring a light wrap or shawl—it gets chilly near the windows at night. And don’t forget your shoes. You’ll be walking on narrow corridors and steep stairs, so comfort meets class.

The dress code isn’t about showing off wealth—it’s about respecting tradition. This train has carried Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot, royalty, and Hollywood stars. The staff still polish the brass by hand. The waiters know your name after one meal. Dressing up isn’t a rule—it’s a gift you give to the experience. You’re not just traveling. You’re stepping into a story.

What about children? They’re welcome, and the dress code applies to them too. No shorts or flip-flops at dinner. A little bowtie or lace dress goes a long way. Many families make it a tradition—kids remember this trip because they got to feel fancy.

And here’s the secret: you don’t need to spend a fortune. You don’t need a bespoke suit. A well-fitted second-hand blazer, a crisp white shirt, and a good pair of shoes will do. Many travelers rent formal wear in Venice or Paris before boarding. Others bring one outfit they’ve saved for a special occasion. The point isn’t brand names. It’s intention.

Some people think this is outdated. But that’s the whole point. In a world of fast flights and airport lounges, the Orient Express asks you to slow down. To care about how you look, how you sit, how you speak to the waiter. It’s not about the train. It’s about the moment. And that moment deserves your best.

Below, you’ll find real stories from travelers who’ve taken this journey—what they packed, what surprised them, and how they got the dress code right without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just daydreaming about it, these posts will help you step aboard with confidence.