What to Expect on a Cruise: Cruise Clothing

Table Of Content

• Royal Caribbean dress code
• Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes
• Cruise Outfits for Ladies over 50
• Cruise Outfit Packing List for Women
• Are there specific dress codes for activities during the day on a cruise?
• Formalwear on a Cruise: No Evening Gown Needed
• The five must-have cruise outfits to wear from day to night

There are no hard rules about swimsuits, and we’ve seen it all on a cruise. Where whatever makes you feel comfortable, but just know that other people will be wearing what makes them feel comfortable too. Formal night is a big deal to some people on the ship, and if it’s not important to you, it’s good to keep the atmosphere nice for others who do enjoy dressing up.

Royal Caribbean dress code

Make sure to bring along a shawl, scarf or cardigan or two – it’s really a must. Make sure to pack at least 2 bathing suits for your cruise, so when one is wet the other is dry. A short chiffon sarong wrap is a perfect cover up for bikinis or or one piece bathing suits. You’ll want to put on a bathing suit cover up when heading indoors on your cruise or to eat at one of the restaurants. Make sure to pack 2 cover ups, so you can change your look and always have a clean, dry one available.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

T-shirts, shorts, tank tops, hoodies and long-sleeved T-shirts are a no-no for men in the evenings. Most cruises have a dress code for dinner, however, this is recommended and not enforced. Depending on the cruise line, this could range from casual smart to formal clothes. If the cruise is at least a week long, there are at least one or two formal nights.

Cruise Outfits for Ladies over 50

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Women should go with dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits. Packing acceptable attire for a cruise is simple if you remember a few general rules. Here, I'll break down some safe options if you're unsure, and I'll give an overview of the cruise dress codes for each of the "big eight" cruise lines. For a seven-day cruise, consider taking about three to four daytime outfits, two to three casual evening outfits, one to two formal options and two swimwear options. Rather than take your whole wardrobe with you, have outfits that are versatile and can be mixed and matched.

Men should pack a variety of polos and t-shirts for casual nights on a European cruise, along with either dark or light jeans. Similar to women, we've picked hues of blue and white to perfectly align with your Mediterranean cruise. If you'll be spending your port days shopping, dining, and exploring new cities and towns, you'll need cruise outfit ideas that are both stylish and practical. A flowy top or polo shirt, bright-colored capris or khaki shorts, comfortable shoes, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will keep you cool during the day. When the sun goes down, dress it up with a button-down shirt, shawl or cardigan.

Note that formal nights are always optional on the line's weeklong sailings in the Baltic, Mediterranean and Alaska. Uniformity across the fleet is a bit more likely on this small-ship upscale cruise line. In other words, Oceania Riviera's dress code is likely enforced the same as Oceania Regatta's dress code. Typically, cruise chic or smart casual is standard formal attire for formal nights that take place in the main dining room. Bottom line, research different cruise lines and once you select one, make sure you check the itinerary so you can pack accordingly.

Formalwear on a Cruise: No Evening Gown Needed

Although shorts aren’t permitted in the dining room, pairing these fun patterned shirts with jeans is perfect for casual night on a Caribbean cruise for men. Most of the time, men can wear a variety of button-down shirts for Smart Casual nights on European cruises with Royal Caribbean, especially breezy shirts made of linen for warmer sailings. Linen pants are great to pack for warmer months because it's very breathable.

The five must-have cruise outfits to wear from day to night

When planning your wardrobe for a cruise, considering the climate is paramount. For those setting sail on a Caribbean cruise, you’re likely heading to tropical locations with a hot and humid forecast. Consider packing items like linen shirts, flowy dresses, and shorts. Plus, don’t forget swimwear for those beach excursions and comfortable sandals that tackle sand and deck. Princess cruise formal nights are special because the line is one of the few industry holdouts in that it still has an official formal night.

Secondly, it can get windy out on the deck, making it feel cold. If the ship is going full steam ahead, the wind can really pick up, even if the sun is blazing. In this guide, I’ll share my tips and give you all the info you need to help you decide what to pack for your next cruise. Along with sunscreen and lip balm, a good sunhat is definitely a cruise essential. This v neck swimsuit cover up is very flattering over a one piece or bikini.

When it's time to hit the town at night, add some accessories to soften this look like dainty jewelry, colorful slip-on shoes, a Panama hat and a handbag. Be ready for all of the fun cruise ship adventures, from the skydive simulator to the waterpark. Swap flip-flops for dressy sandals or closed-toed shoes before heading to the onboard restaurant.

Many first time cruisers are concerned about what to wear on formal nights on a cruise. It’s understandable, as this is quite different from a typical land vacation. You may imagine, or even remember, the days of dressing to the nines on a cruise. The reality is, as times have changed, so have the cruise line dress codes and expectations. Themed evenings and gala nights are the hallmarks of cruise entertainment, demanding a wardrobe that elevates your style to match the night’s festivities. Flip-flops, sandals, or waterproof slides are a must for pool days and beach excursions.

You’ll be sailing in warm climates and spending your day in the sun or at the beach, so you can plan to wear most of your summer and spring clothes. I’ve chosen a variety of dresses in the image below with differing necklines, material, sleeve length and style. Keep in mind, a more casual dress can be dressed-up with heels, accessories and some bolder makeup.

Since flip flops are not allowed in the evening, make sure to bring comfortable shoes or sandals to wear during dinner in the main room. Even if you typically use your phone as a clock, bringing a watch on board will help you keep a more accurate eye on the time throughout the day. You’ll want to get to all of the ship’s daily activities on time, and a watch can be extra helpful during your port stops to make sure you get back to the ship on time before it departs.

Evening dresses for cruise ships can include dazzling gowns with tasteful cuts or sophisticated cocktail dresses that reflect a timeless cruise cocktail attire. Men are encouraged to don suits or sports coats, adding a touch of suavity with a tie or a pocket square, capturing the essence of cruise line clothing. The tradition of “dressing your best” remains intrinsic to the cruise experience, inviting all aboard to indulge in the night’s festivities with style and grace. For Alaska cruises, women should plan to pack casual outfits that can be versatile for daytime outfits or evening attire. You'll be packing bulky clothes and most of what you wear during the day would pass for evening casual wear.