Is it time to scrap “outdated” dress codes, or is it true that a “little bit of class goes a long way”? 

One of Gordon Ramsay's restaurants is said to have "toughened up" its dress code and made it "more explicit" advising guests against certain items of clothing. 

"We would like all of our guests to feel free to express their own individual style however, we do ask guests to avoid shorts, tracksuits and hoodies. Smart trainers are fine,” the website reads. 

Talking Bollox co-host Calvin O’Brien said, however, dress codes are outdated in most scenarios. 

“At a wedding, [dress codes] are okay, but in terms of restaurants and pubs they go a bit OTT with it,” he told Lunchtime Live. 

“Like I'm on my way to the office and I work in one of the biggest tech companies in the world – and I'm wearing shorts and a t-shirt. 

“They know that’s the best way to get the productivity out of me – what are they getting out of having a dress code? 

“And what's so detrimental about wearing tracksuit bottoms in a restaurant?” 

Stylist Mandy Maher disagreed with Mr O’Brien, calling herself “definitely old school”. 

“Going to a restaurant, it’s nice to make an effort and dress up,” she said. 

“I personally think it’s lovely to dress up and put on a bit of glam when you go to a restaurant. 

“You know me, I could be in a hoodie t-shirt and tracksuit on the best of days. 

“But I think it’s nice when you’re going out for lovey food to put in a bit of effort.” 

Dress codes 'more classy'?

One texter also argued in favour of dress codes in restaurants: “A little bit of class goes a long way... you don’t have to spend hundreds.” 

Mr O’Brien warned against overusing the word “class”, however. 

“People saying it’s more classy – there's nothing classy about having a pint in the pub,” he said. 

“Why are you making it out that you're going to a fine dining experience?” 

Gordon Ramsay’s Chelsea restaurant has been open since 1998 and was awarded three Michelin stars in 2001. 

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