All in all, America seems to suffer from an uncanny lack of good taste when it comes to casino attire. On my last trip to Atlantic City I witnessed no shortage of ripped jeans, flip-flops, shorts, t-shirts (in varying degrees of cleanliness), a smattering of wife-beaters and indecently short skirts. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for indecently short skirts, but there is a time and a place. Many of casinos – especially in Atlantic City and Las Vegas – appear to have let their standards slide.

In the earlier days of Vegas, a night at the casino was an occasion to don one's most fashionable and swanky apparel. Some of the most common looks included furs, evening gowns and immaculately tailored suits. While I am not saying anyone should go out and buy a mink or drop thousands of dollars on Oscar-worthy garments, I am suggesting that some American casinos need to spruce up their standards.

By comparison, most European and island casinos look like a James Bond dream. Men aren't allowed in the Casino Monte Carlo in anything less than a jacket and tie. Maxim's in London is slightly less stringent, but holds to a business casual dress code – though on any given day you can see impeccably clad ladies and gents. There are world-renowned venues in Antigua, Germany and Moscow that are largely of the same calibre.

This said, while the percentage of well-clad European and island casino goers is far higher than their American counterparts, not all of them adhere to these standards. You'll find hole-in-the-wall casinos throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, Antigua, etc, that look more like backroom gaming houses of old. The dress code, however, is no better or worse than some of American venues. Furthermore, the majority of these less fashion oriented casinos are not really meant to attract tourists.

Your best bet is to call the casino and inquire about their dress code. In the event you don't have the opportunity to call ahead, business casual will usually get you in with little exception. This means no jeans or t-shirts or sandals (for men). Guys will be safe with khakis or dress pants and golf or dress shirts. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes – that aren't sneakers. Women should adhere to the same standards, but are often allowed to wear strappy, fashionable sandals. Just no flip-flops. In the event you are planning to go to one of the high-roller rooms, you will definitely want to take things up a notch. Of course, not all casinos enforce strict dress code, but it is better to be safe than sorry.

- Patricia Lang, Tower Gaming Media Room Manager