IMAGE GROUP ADVICE SERIES:
Melbourne Cricket Club Members
MCC Dress Code:
History
The MCC Dress Code has been in place since its opening almost 230 years ago. Particularly stringent is the attire required to enter the Long Room, which is often cited as the heart and soul of the Melbourne Cricket Club.
Many exclusive clubs in Melbourne and Australia have maintained dress codes throughout their history despite some protest from outsiders. These clubs have experienced criticism from non-members who believe that dress codes and the firm upholding of a club’s traditional values are outdated and archaic.
Racing Clubs, members clubs and even Spring Racing events have always maintained the standard of dress expected of their members and guests.
“Traditionally, Derby Day has been a strict black and white policy. The editor of Fashion and Flemington, Emily Power told the Sydney Morning Herald that the code could have been inspired by a 1960s Australian Women’s Weekly advertisement. The best black and white outfit on the day would be awarded a $200 wardrobe, sponsored by whiskey maker James Buchanan and Co, for its Black and White label.”
No matter the origins or the opinions on the dress codes upheld by both the MCC and other private clubs, the club maintains that the responsibility of appropriate dress falls on the individual, and if staff feel that the dress codes have not been met, entry to the MCC club will be denied.
In 2012, Image Group wrote an article regarding MCCs policy on skirt and dress length for women. While the club opted against a specific policy to regulate hem length, it relied on and continues to rely on existing dress codes and their right to refuse entry based on attire.
Need help improving your image? Book a time to have your free consultation with a professional image consultant
Book a time for your Free Action Call
MCC Dress Code:
Current Regulations
The MCC code currently stipulates that maintaining dress standards at all events are of paramount concern for the club, after all the MCC is upholding it’s standards. Failure to uphold these expectations can result in denied entry. Here’s what the MCC suggests:
The dress code differs slightly between Members Reserve and the Long Room and Members Dining Room.
The Long Room requires all males wear a lounge suit or tailored jacket, shirt, tie, slacks and dress shoes. And all females are expected to uphold a similarly appropriate dress standard.
Read the Melbourne Cricket Clubs full standards here: MCC’s Dress Code Page.
Upgrade Your Look
Jon Michail and his team at Image Group International dress executives, entrepreneur and thought leaders to look world class. They also partner with their clients to achieve breakthrough results with contrarian and disruptive ways to grow and monetise their personal and business brands. A veteran coach with a Who’s Who clientele, Jon is the CEO and Founder of Image Group International, an Australian-based corporate and personal brand image advisory and coaching organisation that conducts transformational seminars, workshops and one-on-one coaching in over four continents. He is recognized as Australasia’s No. 1 Image Coach.