The Accor Arena, formerly known as Bercy Arena and Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy, is a indoor sports arena and concert hall located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, France. With a capacity of 20,300 seats, it is one of the largest venues in Paris. The Accor Arena hosts various sporting events, concerts, and other entertainment events throughout the year.
Dress Code Overview
In general, the dress code for events at the Accor Arena is smart casual. However, the specific dress code can vary depending on the type of event you are attending. Concert attendees typically dress more casually, while patrons of sporting events, operas, and ballets tend to dress up a bit more. The venue’s dress code rules prohibit items or clothing deemed unsafe or disruptive. Accor Arena staff enforce the dress code at their discretion. If you are unsure of what to wear, it’s always best to err on the side of caution with smart casual attire.
Dress Code for Concerts
Concerts make up a significant portion of events hosted at the Accor Arena. The acts range from pop stars like Lady Gaga to heavy metal bands like Metallica. For most concerts, comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate. Jeans or trousers paired with t-shirts, tops, and comfortable footwear like sneakers are commonly worn. Shorts and flip flops are also acceptable for warm weather shows. Outfits can be dressed up with layers like jackets or cardigans. Mini skirts and tank tops are fine, but avoid anything too revealing or that may be deemed unsafe or disruptive.
Certain artists or genres may call for more specific concert attire. Electronic dance music (EDM) shows tend to have attendees dressed in bright colors, neon, costumes, tutus, etc. Rap and hip-hop concerts may have fans dressing in streetwear style with tracksuits, baseball caps, chains, and sneakers. Check the Accor Arena’s social media and event pages for any artist-specific dress code guidance. When in doubt, casual jeans and t-shirts can’t go wrong.
Dress Code for Sporting Events
The Accor Arena is home to the Paris basketball team Paris Basketball as well as the Paris handball team Paris Saint-Germain Handball. It also hosts various other sporting events throughout the year like tennis, boxing, motorsports, and more. The dress code for sporting events is generally casual, but leaning towards the nicer end of the spectrum.
Jerseys, athletic tops, polos, t-shirts, and sweatshirts are all common choices. Button-downs and blouses are also appropriate. Bottoms include jeans, trousers, leggings, joggers, shorts, and athletic skirts and dresses. Outerwear like lightweight jackets, fleeces, and hoodies can finish the look. Avoid clothing associated with opposing teams or competitors, which may be prohibited in some cases. Close-toed shoes are recommended for comfort and safety.
Keep in mind that the arena can get cold, so dress in layers. Avoid anything too revealing or informal like crop tops, very short shorts/skirts, or flip flops. Face paint and fun accessories showing team spirit are welcomed and encouraged!
Playoffs and Championships
For major games like playoffs and championships, fans tend to dress up a bit more to show their pride and spirit. Jerseys are still extremely popular, but paired with nicer jeans or trousers instead of athletic shorts. Accent pieces like sports jackets, ties, bowties, and suspenders may come into play as well.
Dress Code for the Opera, Theater, and Ballet
In addition to concerts and sports, the Accor Arena hosts various operas, ballets, and other theatrical productions. For these types of performing arts events, the dress code leans towards the formal end.
For women, elegant cocktail dresses, formal gowns, dress suits, or dressy separates like skirts with nice blouses are recommended. Trouser suits and pant ensembles are also appropriate. Heels and dress flats are ideal over casual sneakers or sandals.Accessorize with dress coats, pashmina shawls, cocktail jewelry and handbags.
For men, suits and sports jackets with collared dress shirts, trousers, and ties are suitable. Turtlenecks, vests, and sweater sets can also work. Loafers, oxfords, Chelsea boots, and dress boots are acceptable over sneakers or sandals.
Haute couture and black tie looks are not necessary, but welcomed if desired. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, shorts, ball caps, ripped or distressed clothing, and casual footwear. The idea is to dress elegantly and formally to match the sophistication of the performance.
General Dress Code Guidelines
In addition to the event-specific dress codes, the Accor Arena has some general guidelines that apply to all patrons and events:
- No ripped, torn, or excessively tight/revealing clothing
- No clothing with offensive or obscene language, images, or gestures
- No face masks that obstruct identity
- No clothing indicating gang affiliation
- No chains, spike jewelry, or anything that can be used as a weapon
- No athletic wear outside of sporting events (no jerseys, shorts, sweatpants, etc.)
- No headwear for men after 6 PM (religious headwear is allowed)
- No bare feet
Security staff at the Accor Arena entrance enforce the dress code policy. Patrons in violation may be refused entry if an item needs to be removed and no alternative is available. Bags and coats may be checked upon entry. Dress comfortably for the event, but remain tasteful, respectful, and appropriate for a public venue. When in doubt, call the Accor Arena ahead of time for guidance.
Conclusion
The Accor Arena accommodates a diverse range of events, so dress codes vary from casual to formal attire. Concerts tend to be casual, sporting events encourage team apparel with jeans or trousers, and theatrical productions call for cocktail or business formal looks. However, the unifying factor is to avoid clothing deemed disruptive, offensive, overly revealing, or potentially unsafe. Be sure to follow all dress code rules enforced by security staff. When in doubt, smart casual is a safe bet to complement the sophisticated entertainment at this iconic Paris venue.