Code Conscious

A single scan of the waiting area for Trilogy in Juhu’s Sea Princess Hotel,instantly determines who won’t be getting in tonight. It’s the man who looks most comfortable in either shorts,a T-shirt or a pair of open shoes.

When refused entry,the others waiting in line nod in approval,murmuring: “How can he not know what not to wear?”

But of late,it isn’t just posh nightclubs enforcing dress codes; even restaurants hoping to either set international standards or follow existing ones are following suit.

Two weeks ago,when we reviewed Hakkasan in Bandra,their imposition of a dress code comprising “smart formals” came across as

intimidating. But after clarifying that the code was actually smart casuals,Chantalle Cropp,COO of Hakkasan,Mumbai revealed,“Dress codes are standard for Michelin-starred restaurants anywhere in the world. We strive to maintain the standards set by Hakkasan London in every aspect,and the dress code forms a small but relevant part of these standards.”

But the concept of making a dress code mandatory for dining didn’t begin with Hakkasan,which calls diners ahead to inform them about what they are expected to wear. This has been a regular feature with fine dining restaurants like Zodiac

Grill in Taj Palace which insists

all men wear jackets and Stella in The Leela Kempinski which prefers smart casuals.

Anand Nair,Food and Beverage manager at The Leela Kempinski,Mumbai,says,“In the modern context of hospitality,dress codes don’t make sense. Most people dress in formals,semi-formals or smart

casuals anyway,which pretty much covers the whole spectrum. But if someone comes to Stella,dressed a sleeveless vest or gym clothes then we politely inform them of the

dress code.”

But what is the point of dictating what people should wear,especially if they are willing to spend a minimum of Rs 3,000 on food and drinks? “Dress codes have a great effect in how you feel and are perceived. It’s a matter of social acceptance,” says Ryan Tham,director of Trilogy,the Juhu-based nightclub,notorious for its long lines on weekends. The club is also known for its strict door policy that doesn’t allow patrons—men and women—unless they are dressed in smart casuals.

But,for the management at Escobar,it is a matter of what they expect from their customers. “We expect a level of sophistication and manners,” reveals a spokesperson for the nightclub who did not wish to be named. “We are going for a more warm and mature vibe as we cater to people from in the age group of 25 to over 50 years.”

While dress codes are for the lay public,many places set different standards for high profile customers,celebrities and CEOs. “When it comes to Bollywood celebrities or people from a higher income group,one has to realise that they have the luxury of a completely different set of rules.” said Escobar’s spokesperson. Tham,however,insists that all his patrons receive the same treatment,“Most celebrities wouldn’t come to clubs or restaurants dressed in casuals because they are image conscious.”