Dress Code
A guide to costume at House of Kaos events
What "Costume Required" Means
House of Kaos events are immersive — the room is part of the theatre, and every guest is part of the atmosphere. "Costume required" means dressing to the theme of the night, not simply "smart" or "black tie." Think in character, not just in colour.
You don't need a professional or elaborate outfit — thoughtful styling, makeup and accessories can carry a look just as well as a full costume. What matters is that you've made an effort to step into the world of the evening.
The House Style
Across all our events, a few threads run through the House aesthetic, whatever the specific theme:
- Gothic elegance — Victorian and Edwardian silhouettes, corsetry, lace, velvet and tailoring;
- Dark romance — rich jewel tones, deep black, antique gold and blood red;
- Alternative formalwear — think "dark academia meets masquerade" rather than everyday goth streetwear;
- Statement details — masks, gloves, capes, jewellery and makeup that carry the theme through to the last detail.
This Season's Themes
The Reanimation Dinner
Mad scientist & Frankenstein. Think laboratory coats, Victorian surgical chic, stitched-together elegance and electrified hair and makeup.
The Siren's Abyss Ball
Ocean, sirens & the deep. Think sea-dark gowns and tailoring, scales, pearls, shells, driftwood tones and creatures of the deep.
Full details for each event, including any theme-specific guidance, are posted on the Events section of the site as each night approaches.
What to Avoid
We want every guest to feel welcome and safe. Costumes that are offensive, discriminatory, or rely on harmful stereotypes are not admitted, and we reserve the right to refuse entry on this basis — please see our Terms & Conditions for full details.
Practical Tips
- Our evenings involve standing, mingling and often dancing — choose footwear you can comfortably wear all night;
- Layer where you can; venues vary in temperature across the evening;
- If your costume includes a mask, make sure you can eat, drink and talk comfortably in it;
- Arrive with time to spare — elaborate costumes are worth the extra few minutes at the door.
Need Inspiration?
Follow House of Kaos on social media for looks from past events and style inspiration ahead of the next one — links are in the footer of the main site.