NYC's Most Exclusive Nightclubs: Le Bain, Electric Room, More
It stands to reason that the most stylish city in the world would house its fair share of fashionably fabulous nightclubs. Sure, you can dive bar it here, too, but New York's most sophisticated clubs are too much fun to dress down for -- plus, you'll never get in if you do. Get out your most gorgeous outfits and gear up to shine as brightly as the night at these five stylish spots.
Space Ibiza New York
637 W. 50th St.
New York, NY 10019
(212) 247-2447
www.spaceibizany.com
Space Ibiza New York, a New York version of its Mediterranean cousin Space Ibiza, brings dance culture to a whole new level. The dress code here is ever-trendy, casual-couture. You may get in if you're wearing sneakers and jeans, but if you do go that route, make sure you broke the bank buying them. Everyone here is gorgeous, from the frenetic go-go dancers to the guy wearing shades sitting next to you. So bring your A-game and most fabulous look.
Marquee
289 Tenth Ave.
New York, NY 10001
(646) 473-0202
www.marqueeny.com
Marquee's face lift several years back is holding up nicely and so is its reputation as a fashionably trendy house and techno den. This is a dress-to-impress dance club, so gussying up is essential. You can't go wrong in super-high heels or that little slinky number you need to drink a cocktail before unveiling. Don't try to get in wearing shorts, tank tops or baseball caps --even if they're cute.
Le Bain
444 W. 13th St.
New York, NY 10014
(212) 645-7600
www.standardhotels.com
Le Bain's patrons are as gorgeous as the sweeping views from this rooftop bar and penthouse discotheque. Perched atop the Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District's fashionable heart, coolly sophisticated designer duds rule here — as long as you're not trying too hard. Even hotel guests may be shot down at the door and not granted admission. Look fabulous, expensive and original plus wear the most outre shoes you own (or borrow) and you're in.
Avenue
116 Tenth Ave.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 337-0054
www.avenue-newyork.com
Whatever you do, leave the Wall Street look at home -- it just won't play here. Work attire is verboten at this ultra-chic, two-story lounge which straddles the border of Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Boasting a truly good-looking crowd, Avenue is one of this year's hottest spots, and also one of the hardest clubs to lip gloss your way into, even though the self-assured doormen are actually nice. Guys and girls can't lose if they go Prada from the feet up, including scent. Just don't overdo it.
Electric Room
355 W. 16th St.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 229-2511
www.electricroomnyc.com
Electric Room is firmly wedged in Fashion Week's club rotation -- and for good reason. Intimate in size and super sophisticated, this almost-underground club maintains a distinctive, downtown edge coupled with cool, retro-elegance (think Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett). The club's petite size makes it really hard to swoosh past the doorman. To get in, your fashion-forward look must be polished and the next big thing.
Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.