Often we get people asking what clothes are appropriate for rugby hospitality, at an event such as the 2018 Quilter Internationals, or the ever-popular Six Nations. This is a great question, because many of our rugby hospitality guests are entertaining clients or business partners as part of a corporate charm offensive, whereas others are simply there to enjoy the creature comforts and celebrity guests of the hospitality area with their friends and family. This situation calls for finesse and balance on the sartorial front, but don’t worry, because we have you covered: this is Engage Hospitality’s guide to getting it right when dressing for rugby hospitality.
No trainers or ripped jeans
Please remember that hospitality is somewhat more formal than only attending the match itself. As such, the appropriate clothing is somewhat smarter than might otherwise be expected. Please refrain from wearing trainers or ripped jeans. Smart-casual is the name of the game, even when entertaining business clients – it’s important that everyone feels comfortable and ready to enjoy themselves, in a less formal environment than the boardroom. Dress as you would feel comfortable attending a nice restaurant.
Rugby shirts are appropriate
Don’t make the mistake of being overly formal however. Remember that this is after all a sporting event, and people are attending to have fun! There’s categorically nothing wrong with supporting your favourite team with a scarf or rugby shirt, and at Engage we’re always delighted to see them. Just leave the shorts and boots at home…
Dress warmly
As some of you are no doubt aware, rugby is a winter sport, and it can be quite cold in the stadium. While there are few sights as inspiring as tens of thousands of England fans singing Swing Low (Sweet Chariot), their breath visible rising in the crisp air of Twickenham Stadium, it’s best not to be shivering so you can fully appreciate it. Bring a nice warm winter coat to keep you warm until the action on the pitch gets your blood flowing! Before and after the match, you will be toasty, ensconced in the comfortable environs of the hospitality facility with hot food and drinks, so worry not.
