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Decoding the Celebrity Cruises Dress Code: Think Relaxed Luxury

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Packing for your first cruise on Celebrity and not sure how formal the dress code is? Think “relaxed luxury” when it comes to the Celebrity Cruises dress code. Let’s break down what that means to you.

Celebrity Cruises is a premium cruise line , falling in between mass market lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, and luxury cruise lines like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas. As such, the Celebrity Cruises dress code is not as relaxed as that of the mass cruise lines, nor as formal as that of the luxury lines.

This means you won’t need to pack a long dress or tuxedo unless you want to, but you will need to bring some nicer clothes along with you, something like what you’d wear for church or a cocktail party, depending on your style. Your Daily program, which is delivered to your room, will tell you what attire is expected for the next day, giving you time to prepare.

The Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

Basically, Celebrity expects its passengers to dress nicely, either casual , smart casual , or evening chic .

Onboard Daytime Attire

On the ship during the day, casual wear is appropriate. This means:

• For women: Sundresses, shorts and a top, or pants or jeans and a top are fine. Sandals, sneakers, or low heels work well.
• For men: Long or short pants with T-shirts, short-sleeved shirts, or polos. Sandals or sneakers.

For the Pool

When lounging by the pool or relaxing in the solarium, bathing suits, T-shirts, tank shirts, hats, and sunglasses are fine. If you leave that area, however, women are expected to wear a coverup, and men should wear a shirt.

Pro Tip: Don’t wear graphic tees with curse words, obscene gestures, or controversial themes. Also, leave the camouflage clothing at home as it is illegal to wear in some Caribbean islands.

For the Fitness Center

If you plan to work out, activewear and sneakers are fine.

For Excursions

For excursions, casual resort wear is fine, but be mindful of the sun and weather. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are always a good idea, as well as comfortable shoes suitable for lots of walking.

Also, be prepared to dress conservatively if you plan to visit museums or religious sites, which means covering bare shoulders and knees.

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• Celebrity vs. Norwegian: Comparing Entry-Level Suites on the Edge and Joy
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Onboard Nighttime Attire

For casual venues.

For casual venues such as the Oceanview Cafe in the evening, casual attire as described above is fine. 

Smart Casual

On the ship in the evening, smart casual attire is expected for adults and teens for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the theater. Think comfortable yet tasteful. This means:

• For women: Dresses, or skirts, nice jeans, or pants with nice tops are fine. Nice sandals, low heels, or high heels work well.
• For men: Long pants or nice jeans with collared short-sleeved shirts, polos, or button-down shirts. Loafers or other nice shoes.

Pro Tip:  Smart casual does not include T-shirts, shorts, or flip-flops. Men who wear these to specialty restaurants will be asked to return their cabin and change clothes.

Evening Chic

Each itinerary has one or two “formal” nights referred to as Evening Chic, which you can participate in or not, your call. If you choose not to dress up, Smart Casual attire is still fine for dining and the theater. For Evening Chic nights, photographers will be about the ship, taking portraits, and the captain is usually available on these nights to take photos, so you’ll want to dress nicely. If you want to bring a long gown or a tuxedo, feel free but don’t feel pressured.

• Women: Either a cocktail dress, or a skirt, slacks, or designer jeans with an elegant top.
• Men: Slacks with a button-down shirt or light sweater. A sports jacket is optional, and a suit is fine.

Ultimate Cruise Planner

Need a little assistance organizing and planning your cruise? Our Ultimate Cruise Planner can help!

For Guests of The Retreat

Guests of The Retreat who dine at Luminae are expected to wear casual wear for breakfast or lunch, and smart casual wear for dinner.

Final Thoughts on the Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

In summary, the Celebrity Cruises dress code wants their guests to be comfortable but also to look nice. Keep that in mind while you pack and while onboard, and you’ll be fine.

For more information, please visit Celebrity Cruises’ website .

Happy cruising!

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• Plan Your Trip

What To Wear On A Celebrity Cruise

Published: December 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Cati Nelms

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Embarking on a Celebrity Cruise is an exciting experience, filled with luxury, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. As you plan for your upcoming cruise, one essential aspect to consider is what to wear. The right attire can enhance your enjoyment of each onboard activity and ensure you feel stylish and comfortable throughout your journey.

Choosing what to wear on a Celebrity Cruise requires striking a balance between practicality, style, and adhering to the cruise line’s dress code guidelines. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, dining at a gourmet restaurant, or attending a glamorous evening event, having the appropriate outfits will make you feel like a true celebrity.

In this article, we will guide you through the different types of attire you should pack for your Celebrity Cruise, from daytime outfits to formal wear. We’ll also offer tips on how to accessorize and provide essential packing suggestions. By the time you’re finished reading this article, you’ll be ready to hit the high seas in style!

Selecting the Perfect Outfits

When it comes to selecting outfits for your Celebrity Cruise, it’s important to consider both practicality and style. The key is to pack versatile garments that can be mixed and matched to create different looks throughout your trip. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect outfits:

• Research the cruise line: Before starting your packing, familiarize yourself with the dress code policy of the cruise line. Celebrity Cruises typically have a smart casual dress code during the day and more formal attire for evenings.
• Consider the destination: Take into account the climate and activities of your destination. If you’re sailing to a tropical paradise, pack lightweight fabrics, swimwear, and comfortable sandals. For colder destinations, bring layers, sweaters, and closed-toe shoes.
• Opt for versatile pieces: Choose items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. A few classic staples like a black dress, tailored pants, and neutral-colored tops can be easily dressed up or down for various occasions.
• Pack according to the length of your cruise: If you’re going on a week-long cruise, plan for at least one outfit per day. For longer cruises, consider doing laundry onboard or packing lightweight garments that can be easily rinsed and dried.
• Don’t forget about comfort: Ensure your outfits are comfortable for walking, dining, and participating in onboard activities. Opt for breathable fabrics and shoes that you can comfortably wear for long periods.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a well-rounded selection of outfits that meet the cruise line’s dress code guidelines and cater to your personal style and comfort.

Daytime Attire

During the day on your Celebrity Cruise, you’ll likely be enjoying various activities both onboard and onshore. Your daytime attire should be comfortable, stylish, and appropriate for the activities you plan to partake in. Here are some suggestions for your daytime outfits:

• Casual and relaxed: Opt for casual and relaxed outfits such as shorts, skirts, or lightweight pants paired with comfortable tops. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool in warm weather.
• Swimwear and cover-ups: If you plan to spend time at the pool or engage in water activities, pack your favorite swimsuits and cover-ups. A stylish swim cover-up can also double as a lightweight dress for casual outings.
• Activewear: If you’re planning to hit the gym, go for a jog on the ship’s deck, or participate in fitness classes, don’t forget to pack your activewear. This can include workout leggings, athletic tops, and supportive sneakers.
• Comfortable footwear: For exploring onshore excursions or strolling around the ship, choose comfortable footwear like sandals or sneakers. Make sure to break in any new shoes before your cruise to prevent discomfort.
• Hats and sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun in style by packing a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses. These accessories not only protect you from the sun’s rays but also add a fashionable touch to your daytime outfits.

Keep in mind that even though the daytime dress code is generally more relaxed, there may be dining venues or activities that require a slightly more polished appearance. It’s always a good idea to have a few slightly dressier options on hand for these occasions.

With these daytime attire suggestions, you’ll be ready to explore and enjoy all the activities and amenities that your Celebrity Cruise has to offer.

Evening Attire

Evenings on a Celebrity Cruise offer a chance to dress up and indulge in the elegant atmosphere onboard. The dress code for the evening varies depending on the specific dining venues and activities planned for the night. Here are some recommendations for your evening attire:

• Smart casual: For most evenings, the smart casual dress code is appropriate. This calls for stylish and polished attire such as slacks or skirts paired with blouses or dress shirts. Dresses and jumpsuits in sophisticated styles are also suitable options.
• Consider the dining venues: The dress code may be slightly more formal for specialty dining venues or formal dining rooms. In these cases, opt for dressier outfits such as cocktail dresses, dress pants with a dressy top, or a suit for men.
• Elegant accessories: Elevate your evening attire with elegant accessories like statement jewelry, a chic clutch, or a dashing tie for men. These small touches can transform your look and add a touch of glamour.
• Comfortable footwear: While dressing up for the evening, don’t compromise on comfort. Choose dressy shoes that you can comfortably wear for extended periods, as you may be walking or dancing throughout the night.
• Layers for cool evenings: If evenings tend to be cooler, especially if you’re cruising in a colder climate, bring along a stylish jacket or sweater to layer over your outfit. This will keep you warm without sacrificing style.

Remember to check your Celebrity Cruise itinerary for any designated formal nights or themed evenings. Formal nights call for more elegant attire, such as suits or tuxedos for men and formal gowns or cocktail dresses for women. Themed evenings, on the other hand, allow you to get creative and dress in accordance with the specified theme.

By selecting the appropriate evening attire, you’ll be ready to enjoy the enchanting nightlife and sophisticated ambiance of your Celebrity Cruise.

Formal Nights

Formal nights on a Celebrity Cruise provide an opportunity to dress up in your most elegant attire and truly embrace the glamour of the evening. These special occasions typically occur a few times throughout your cruise and require a more formal dress code. Here’s what you should consider for formal nights:

• For men: Formal nights call for tuxedos, dinner jackets, or dark suits with a tie. Complete your look with polished dress shoes and formal accessories such as cufflinks and a pocket square.
• For women: On formal nights, women can opt for sophisticated floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, or dressy evening separates. Choose elegant fabrics and styles that make you feel like royalty. Enhance your outfit with glamorous heels and sparkling jewelry.
• Consider the color palette: Classic colors like black, navy, and deep jewel tones are always a safe bet for formal attire. However, you can also make a statement with bolder hues or metallic accents to stand out in the crowd.
• Hair and makeup: Complete your formal night look with a polished hairstyle and makeup. Consider an updo or elegant curls for your hair, and opt for a slightly more dramatic makeup look to complement your glamorous attire.
• Capture the moment: Formal nights are the perfect opportunity for memorable photos. Take advantage of the ship’s professional photographers or gather your friends and family for a group picture in your stunning attire.

It’s important to note that while formal nights are a significant part of the cruise experience, participation is optional. If you prefer a more relaxed evening, other dining venues and entertainment options are available where a smart casual dress code is sufficient.

Formal nights offer a chance to indulge in a truly elegant atmosphere and showcase your sophisticated style. By embracing the dress code and putting your own personal touch on your formal attire, you’ll create unforgettable memories on your Celebrity Cruise.

Themed Parties and Events

One of the highlights of a Celebrity Cruise is the opportunity to attend themed parties and events, where you can let loose and have fun with your style. These themed nights add an extra element of excitement and allow you to showcase your creativity through your outfits. Here are some tips for dressing for themed parties and events:

• Research the theme: Before your cruise, find out what themed parties and events are planned. This could include a Caribbean night, 80s disco party, or tropical luau. Understanding the theme will help you plan your outfit accordingly.
• Get into character: Themed parties are a chance to embrace the spirit of the event and get into character. Consider how you can incorporate elements of the theme into your outfit, whether it’s through costumes, accessories, or makeup.
• Shop or DIY: Depending on the theme, you may need to acquire specific items or costumes. You can either purchase them from specialty stores, borrow from friends, or get creative by DIY-ing your own unique costume or outfit.
• Coordinate with your group: If you’re traveling with friends or family, coordinate your outfits to create a cohesive and fun group look. This can make for great photo opportunities and enhance the overall party experience.
• Accessorize: Accessories are key in completing your themed look. Whether it’s a funky hat, statement jewelry, or props that align with the theme, they can add that extra touch of authenticity and fun to your outfit.

Themed parties and events are an opportunity to let your style shine and express your playful side. Don’t be afraid to go all out and fully immerse yourself in the theme. The more creative and enthusiastic you are with your outfit, the more enjoyable the experience will be.

Remember, participating in themed parties and events is optional, so if dressing up is not your thing, there are plenty of other activities and venues available where you can enjoy the cruise in your preferred attire.

Poolside Fashion

One of the most relaxing and enjoyable aspects of a Celebrity Cruise is spending time by the pool, soaking up the sun and taking refreshing dips in the water. When it comes to poolside fashion, comfort and style go hand in hand. Here are some tips for looking chic and comfortable at the pool:

• Swimwear: Choose swimwear that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Opt for styles that suit your body type and personal preference, whether it’s a bikini, tankini, or one-piece. Consider bringing multiple swimwear options to switch up your look throughout the cruise.
• Cover-ups: Cover-ups are essential for moving between the pool and other areas of the ship. They provide some modesty while adding a stylish layer to your swimwear. Options include sarongs, kaftans, or lightweight dresses that can easily slip on and off.
• Protection from the sun: Shield yourself from the sun’s rays with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. These not only add a fashionable touch to your poolside look but also protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable and slip-resistant footwear around the pool area. Flip-flops or sandals with good traction are ideal, as they can easily be slipped on and off and provide protection for your feet.
• Towels and accessories: Pack a stylish beach towel that reflects your personality and coordinates with your overall poolside look. Additionally, consider bringing a tote bag to carry your essentials, such as sunscreen, a book, and a water bottle.

Poolside fashion is all about embracing a relaxed and effortless style while still looking put-together. Choose fabrics that dry quickly and are comfortable to lounge in for extended periods. Don’t forget to apply and reapply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from sunburn.

With the right poolside fashion choices, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the sunshine and refreshing poolside atmosphere on your Celebrity Cruise.

Accessorizing for a Celebrity Cruise

Accessorizing plays a vital role in elevating your outfits and adding that extra touch of style to your overall look. As you pack for your Celebrity Cruise, don’t forget to include accessories that can enhance and complete your ensembles. Here are some tips for accessorizing on your cruise:

• Jewelry: Pack a variety of jewelry pieces to suit different occasions. Statement necklaces, earrings, and bracelets can instantly transform a simple outfit into an elegant ensemble. Consider bringing both statement and dainty pieces to accommodate different outfits and activities.
• Belts: Belts are versatile accessories that can cinch in loose dresses or add definition to a flowy top. Pack a few belts in different styles and colors to add a pop of detail and create flattering shapes.
• Scarves and wraps: Scarves and wraps are not only practical for layering on cooler days but also add a touch of elegance to your outfit. Choose lightweight and colorful options that can be worn around your neck, draped over your shoulders, or even tied as a pareo for the beach.
• Hats and headbands: Shield yourself from the sun and add a chic element to your outfit with a stylish hat or headband. Whether it’s a floppy sun hat, a trendy straw fedora, or a bohemian headband, these accessories can elevate your poolside or excursion look.
• Bags: A well-chosen bag can be both functional and fashionable. Consider bringing a versatile crossbody bag for day excursions and a stylish clutch or small purse for evening events. Choose a design that complements your outfits and has enough room to carry your essentials.

Remember to pack accessories that reflect your personal style and enhance your confidence. Select items that are easy to mix and match with different outfits to maximize their versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, colors, and styles to create unique and eye-catching ensembles.

By accessorizing thoughtfully, you can add the perfect finishing touch to your looks and exude style and confidence throughout your Celebrity Cruise.

Packing Tips and Essentials

When it comes to packing for your Celebrity Cruise, being prepared and organized can help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential packing tips and must-have items to consider:

• Check the weather: Before you start packing, check the weather forecast for your destination. This will help you determine the types of clothing and accessories you need to bring to accommodate the climate.
• Create a checklist: Make a list of all the essential items you need to pack, including clothing, toiletries, medications, travel documents, and electronics. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t forget anything important.
• Roll your clothes: Instead of folding your clothes, roll them to save space in your suitcase and minimize wrinkles. This also makes it easier to see and access your clothing when you’re unpacking onboard.
• Pack versatile items: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. This helps maximize your wardrobe options while minimizing the number of items you need to pack. Stick to neutral colors that can be easily paired with various pieces.
• Don’t forget the essentials: Aside from clothing, make sure to pack travel essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, medications, and toiletries. Also, remember to bring important travel documents like passports, cruise tickets, and identification.
• Consider the dress code: Keep in mind the dress code guidelines of the cruise line when packing your outfits. This includes considering both the casual daytime attire and the more formal evening dress code.
• Organize with packing cubes or bags: Use packing cubes or bags to keep your belongings organized and separate different categories of items, such as clothing, accessories, and electronics. This makes it easier to find what you need without having to unpack your entire suitcase.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes: While you’ll want to have stylish footwear for evenings and special events, don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and exploring the ship.
• Leave room for souvenirs: If you plan on shopping for souvenirs or bringing back mementos from your cruise, make sure to leave some extra space in your suitcase or consider bringing a foldable duffel bag for the trip back.

Lastly, remember to adhere to any luggage size and weight restrictions set by the cruise line to avoid extra charges or inconveniences. By following these packing tips and including essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your Celebrity Cruise.

Preparing your wardrobe for a Celebrity Cruise is an exciting part of the journey, as it allows you to exude style and confidence while enjoying the luxurious amenities onboard. By following the tips and recommendations provided in this article, you can select the perfect outfits for each occasion and ensure you feel comfortable and fashionable throughout your cruise.

Remember to research the dress code policies of the cruise line, pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, and consider the activities and destinations of your cruise when selecting your wardrobe. Whether it’s daytime attire for lounging by the pool, elegant outfits for the evenings, or themed party costumes, be sure to embrace your personal style and have fun with your fashion choices.

In addition to clothing, don’t forget to accessorize thoughtfully, pack essential items, and organize your belongings efficiently. By doing so, you’ll be able to make the most of your cruise experience and enjoy every moment in style and comfort.

As you embark on your Celebrity Cruise, may your outfits reflect the elegance and excitement of the journey, and may you create lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and the luxurious atmosphere of the ship.

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What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Have you ever had that nightmare where you're at work, in school or giving an important presentation, and you look down to discover you're wearing only your underwear (or worse, nothing at all)? If you're new to vacationing at sea, knowing how to dress for a cruise can be confusing — and just as potentially embarrassing if you're not prepared.

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 more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

What do people wear on a cruise?

You can't go wrong with resort-casual clothing for sea days when you'll remain on board your ship. Although some lines will be more or less casual than that, it's a good baseline. But what is "resort casual"?

Khaki pants or shorts with loose-fitting, short-sleeve, button-down shirts or even nice, plain T-shirts work well for men. Women might opt for khaki shorts or palazzo pants with a nice top or a sundress. In most cases, nice jeans (dark wash with no holes) will work well also.

On most ships, this clothing will also be acceptable at night in the main dining rooms. For extra-fee restaurants, you might choose to dress up a bit more -- perhaps collared shirts or long-sleeve button-downs for men and slacks with a blouse, or a dress, for women.

For formal nights, men will want to bring a collared, button-down shirt at the bare minimum. For something a little more snazzy, bring a jacket to wear over your shirt, with or without a tie. Some men opt for suits or tuxes. For women, pantsuits and dressy pants outfits are a great choice, as are party dresses or even ball gowns.

Jeans are not allowed in the main dining rooms on formal nights, and cut-off shorts, baseball caps and flip-flops are banned at all times during dinner in the main dining rooms.

Related: 7 cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Another key piece of clothing to bring is a bathing suit. Whether you're headed to a warm-weather destination and plan to laze by the pool or on the beach, or you're visiting somewhere chilly but want to take advantage of your vessel's hot tubs, it's an item you won't want to forget. Note that cover-ups are required for entry at all restaurants and dining rooms, with the exception of walk-up, poolside window-service venues.

For shore excursions — particularly those in more rugged or active destinations that require a lot of walking — comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy footwear are a must. Bring layers for cold climates and moisture-wicking fabrics for places where it's warm or where you expect to work up a sweat.

Finally, check to see if your cruise line has any special theme nights planned. If so, you might want to pack an outfit for the white party or '80s night.

Carnival cruise dress code

Carnival is one line where casual is the name of the game. Passengers will be just fine in jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, shorts and bathing suits for their days on board or ashore.

At night, nice jeans and nice tops are perfect for eating in the main dining rooms.

On Carnival cruise formal nights, known as "cruise elegant" nights, cruisers wear everything from slacks with nice shirts to tuxes and ball gowns. However, most passengers stick to clothes that fall somewhere in the middle.

Voyages of six nights or longer will have two "cruise elegant" nights, while those five nights or shorter will see only one.

Celebrity Cruises dress code

Celebrity Cruises maintains a dress code that's best described as chic-casual. The demographic on board tends to be a bit more upscale than what you'll find on Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. That means khaki shorts with nice button-downs are more common than jean shorts and tank tops, although you won't be out of place in the latter.

For dinner, you'll want to dress it up even more, as the line has a smart-casual dress code at night in most restaurants, including the main dining room. Anything from unripped jeans to dress pants with nice blouses or button-downs is acceptable.

Related: 10 unexpected items I won't cruise without

Are there formal nights on Celebrity cruises? Yes, there's one on every sailing of six nights or fewer and two on voyages of a week or more, but they have a different name. "Evening chic" nights encourage passengers to go all out with tuxes and evening gowns. However, most men choose slacks with collared or button-down shirts and jackets, sans ties. Most women choose slacks and nice blouses, sundresses or party dresses.

Disney Cruise Line dress code

Disney Cruise Line is synonymous with children, and children like to be comfortable. With that in mind, just about anything goes in terms of dress on The Mouse's ships, which tend toward casual in spite of their stellar service and high price point.

It's not uncommon to see jeans, shorts, T-shirts or bathing suits during the day. Unlike most other lines, the same goes at dinnertime, with jeans and T-shirts just as common as dressier attire like slacks and button-downs.

Exceptions are the line's "dress-up" nights — two on sailings of a week or more and one on shorter voyages. For those, DCL suggests that men avoid jeans and wear jackets. Women should go with dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Some of Disney Cruise Line's added-fee restaurants, such as Remy — one of the most expensive alternative eateries at sea — require jackets for men and don't allow jeans.

Each Disney sailing features a Pirate Night; cruisers wishing to participate should pack their best swashbuckling gear. As is standard at Disney parks, you're also likely to see large numbers of costumes and mouse ears at all hours of the day.

Holland America Line dress code

Although the dress code on Holland America Line ships is technically "cruise casual," you'll rarely spot anyone looking disheveled or like they just rolled out of bed. Most passengers tend toward resort wear or, at the bare minimum, nice jeans with pressed T-shirts.

The casual dress code carries through to dinner, but HAL cruisers can often be found dressing up a bit more — collared shirts or button-downs (sometimes with jackets) and slacks for men and slacks with nice tops or dresses for women.

As for Holland America formal nights, on sailings shorter than a week, there will be one "gala night," where travelers don evening or ball gowns, suits or tuxedos. Voyages of eight to 13 nights will see two gala nights, while any cruises of two weeks or longer will have three chances to dress to the nines.

MSC Cruises dress code

What to wear on MSC cruises largely depends on the crowd with whom you're sailing. On Europe cruises, your fellow passengers are likely to dress up more often — even during the day — with skimpy resort wear and designer bathing suits gracing the pool deck as far as the eye can see. On those voyages, dinner is an even more fancy affair, with elegance as the norm. Expect to see glittering dresses and stylish pants and button-downs with dress shoes, even when it's not formal night.

On cruises that depart from the U.S., expect a more casual vibe, with jeans, T-shirts and bathing suits ruling the day. At night, you'll be fine with nice jeans and a collared shirt or a sundress, although you might want to dress up a bit more to match the ship's ambiance.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Are there formal nights on MSC cruises? Absolutely. They're called "gala dinners," and they appear at least once per voyage, but the number can vary by itinerary. The dress code is strict, with the buffet the only place that will allow T-shirts and shorts. You'll fit in best in a ball gown, cocktail dress, suit or tuxedo.

Norwegian Cruise Line dress code

Norwegian prides itself on allowing cruisers to dress as they please, providing a "come as you are" atmosphere during the day and at night. The most popular clothing is cruise casual, and passengers are free to wear whatever they'd like with an emphasis on comfort.

The only exception is at dinner, when a smart casual vibe encourages travelers to avoid torn clothes or outfits that are suggestive or skimpy.

In a nod to Norwegian's laid-back style, NCL formal nights — dubbed "Dress Up or Not" nights — provide a chance for you to doll up. However, it's not required, and you won't be turned away from the main dining rooms if you choose not to participate. Passengers have been spotted wearing everything from jeans and T-shirts to ball gowns and tuxes, and all coexist in perfect harmony.

Princess Cruises dress code

Princess ' casual daytime mindset means you can wear the same types of clothing on board as you would during a day ashore — activewear, beachwear and jeans or T-shirts are totally fine.

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. Its passengers enjoy a more traditional cruise experience, and they relish the romantic vibe that a formal night can provide. With that in mind, the line doesn't mention super-fancy garb like ball gowns or tuxes; instead, it advises suits or slacks with jackets for men and cocktail dresses or pantsuits for the ladies.

On voyages of less than a week, passengers should plan for one formal night, while sailings of a week to 13 days will have two, and cruises two weeks or longer will have three.

All other nights are listed as "smart casual," which means sundresses or pants with flowy tops for women and nice jeans or slacks with collared shirts for men will suffice.

Royal Caribbean dress code

As is the case with Carnival and Norwegian, Royal Caribbean is a casual line during the day. And, like Disney Cruise Line, it caters to a lot of families. Translation: Wear what allows you to have the most fun in the most comfort. Expect to see shorts or jeans with T-shirts or tank tops and bathing suits or beachwear almost exclusively during the daytime.

At night, you might want to put on something a little less comfortable, but it's certainly not required, unless it's a formal night. (Like Princess, Royal still has those.) What is confusing is that the line has three different dress codes, all of which are loosely enforced: casual, smart casual and formal. The ones that show up on your voyage will depend on the length of the cruise.

The only difference between the first two is that smart casual recommends pantsuits for ladies and jackets for the guys, but skirts or trousers with blouses or collared shirts are fine in both cases. Smart casual also strongly discourages jeans -- even nice ones.

Royal Caribbean formal nights have the highest expectations for passengers, urging them to put on their finest cocktail dresses, evening gowns, suits or tuxes. As with the line's smart casual dress code, jeans are not allowed in the main dining rooms on formal nights.

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Dress code enforcement for dinner

By Kastaka , January 30 in Celebrity Cruises

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I'm a bit worried about the smart casual requirements for dinner - as a tech worker my entire wardrobe is tshirts, hoodies and cords :). Do I need to go buy some nice tops or am I going to be okay? 

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Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jean, and stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. Each itinerary features one to two "formal" nights we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jean, an elegant dress top or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. The Daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and theater.

Most nights, Smart Casual attire is appropriate for dinner in the Main Dining Room(s). For 6 night cruises or less, there will be 1 Evening Chic night where women should feel comfortable in cocktail dresses, skirts, pants or designer jeans with an elegant top. Men should feel comfortable in pants, designer jeans, long sleeved or button-down shirt, sweaters, sport coats or blazers. For 7 night cruises or longer, there will be two (2) Evening Chic nights.

For 6 night cruises or less, there will be 1 Evening Chic night per cruise. For 7 nights or longer, there will be 2 Evening Chic nights while onboard. While Tuxedos and Formal attire is still appropriate, they are not required and guests will feel comfortable in both formal wear and a dressier smart casual style. Jackets are not required.

Ex-Airbalancer

35 minutes ago, Kastaka said: I'm a bit worried about the smart casual requirements for dinner - as a tech worker my entire wardrobe is tshirts, hoodies and cords :). Do I need to go buy some nice tops or am I going to be okay? 

what your profession has nothing to do what you wear when your not working 😁

Spending $50 on new clothes to go on a cruise doesn’t seem like that big a deal.

25 minutes ago, LB_NJ said: Spending $50 on new clothes to go on a cruise doesn’t seem like that big a deal.

Maybe $200, some black jean , 3-4 nice collar shirts , is all you need 😁 , 

wait for some sales 

WestLakeGirl

I wouldn’t want to wear the extremely casual clothes I have at work on the dress-up nights unless eating in the buffet.

Yes,  buy some khakis or nice jeans and a couple of polos.

Just off Apex, they might as well get rid of "chic" night.   People are dressing the same as every other night.   Slowly the slobs are winning.  

cruisestitch

3 hours ago, Kastaka said: I'm a bit worried about the smart casual requirements for dinner - as a tech worker my entire wardrobe is tshirts, hoodies and cords :). Do I need to go buy some nice tops or am I going to be okay? 

Perhaps you already have some clothes that you saved for special occasions like weddings.  Shop in your closet.  Sparkly or silky scarves can dress up a plain top. Be creative.

For guys that don't like wearing pants and don't really have any what I would suggest is going to Underarmour and buying one or two pairs of GOLF PANTS. They are extremely comfortable, lightweight and easy to pack, and once worn are indistinguishable from traditional khaki-type trousers. Pair that with a nicer looking polo-type shirt and you can wear that outfit for the whole cruise. 

Photo of example from Amazon. Honestly this exact outfit, including shoes, would be totally fine for Chic Night on a Celebrity Cruise. 

13 minutes ago, cruisestitch said: Perhaps you already have some clothes that you saved for special occasions like weddings.  Shop in your closet.  Sparkly or silky scarves can dress up a plain top. Be creative.

5 minutes ago, kwokpot said: For guys that don't like wearing pants and don't really have any what I would suggest is going to Underarmour and buying one or two pairs of GOLF PANTS. They are extremely comfortable, lightweight and easy to pack, and once worn are indistinguishable from traditional khaki-type trousers. Pair that with a nicer looking polo-type shirt and you can wear that outfit for the whole cruise.  Photo of example from Amazon. Honestly this exact outfit, including shoes, would be totally fine for Chic Night on a Celebrity Cruise.   

I wonder if op is a male or female 🤔 😁

I thought the op was male 

3 hours ago, Ex-Airbalancer said: Yes , what your profession has nothing to do what you wear when your not working 😁  

Profession may not affect what you wear but living in Silicon Valley it is more of a way of life in the region rather what one does.    Our culture is more of a relaxed one and no one give a damn what someone else  is wearing.   I can tell you many of the corporate leaders like Steve Job or Mark Zukerberg were never looked down on or denied entrance to any place they went.

Having said that, @Kastaka   you are ok with your cords but probably need to pick up some collard shirts -   You can keep it casual with collard golf shirts/

2 minutes ago, Ex-Airbalancer said:   I wonder if op is a male or female 🤔 😁 I thought the op was male 

Cruise dress code topics will never cease and sometimes can be pretty eye opening. I was on NCL's flagship Viva in December after a 7 year hiatus from sailing with them and it was pretty eye opening what people will wear for dinner when there's no dress code. NCL has no dress code for any restaurant EXCEPT for their French restaurant, Le Bistro. I was pretty shocked to see guys going to the Specialty steakhouse, which mind you is a beautiful setting, literally as if they came directly from the main pool deck. Flip flops, board shorts, TANK TOP, floppy hat. That's how guys came to dinner. 

2 hours ago, CruiseRQA said: Yes,  buy some khakis or nice jeans and a couple of polos.   Just off Apex, they might as well get rid of "chic" night.   People are dressing the same as every other night.   Slowly the slobs are winning.  

What would you expect? The only thing you “can’t” wear on Chic nights that you can on other nights is jeans that aren’t designer jeans, which is basically a distinction without a difference.

4 minutes ago, Jim_Iain said: Profession may not affect what you wear but living in Silicon Valley it is more of a way of life in the region rather what one does.    Our culture is more of a relaxed one and no one give a damn what someone else  is wearing.   I can tell you many of the corporate leaders like Steve Job or Mark Zukerberg were never looked down on or denied entrance to any place they went.   Having said that, @Kastaka   you are ok with your cords but probably need to pick up some collard shirts -   You can keep it casual with collard golf shirts/

I guess it depend on what you consider to be a tech worker 

I was thinking of a HVAC tech , 

Steve Job or Zuckerberg always / does dress very nicely in all of the picture I have seen  If I worn cords my wife would divorce me 😁

5 minutes ago, Mark_K said: What would you expect? The only thing you “can’t” wear on Chic nights that you can on other nights is jeans that aren’t designer jeans, which is basically a distinction without a difference.

Kirkland is a designer jeans 😉

4 minutes ago, Ex-Airbalancer said: I guess it depend on what you consider to be a tech worker  I was thinking of a HVAC tech ,  Steve Job or Zuckerberg always / does dress very nicely in all of the picture I have seen  If I worn cords my wife would divorce me 😁

Nahh... that's why they call us techie's.     Really doesn't matter whether if your an Accountant, Engineer or Line Worker.

I guess I would consider an HVAC technician - Blue Collar --- but at least they have a collar.  Ok... I'm joking and hope I don't offend anyone.

But the question is whether you would divorce him if he wore cords.   LOL

Oops, it looks like this is more contentious than I was expecting! I'm female, by the way. I have some corporate polo shirts from a few companies ago, it sounds like they'll be okay?

3 hours ago, CruiseRQA said: Yes,  buy some khakis or nice jeans and a couple of polos.   Just off Apex, they might as well get rid of "chic" night.   People are dressing the same as every other night.   Slowly the slobs are winning.  

Well I guess I am a slob with either darker dress pants or Khakis and either a polo shirt or a button down short sleeve shirt without a jacket. Thanks for judging and perhaps I shouldn't cruise anymore, but not a chance that is happening.

Get the popcorn out! 😁

11 minutes ago, Kastaka said: Oops, it looks like this is more contentious than I was expecting! I'm female, by the way. I have some corporate polo shirts from a few companies ago, it sounds like they'll be okay?

Kataska, if you are going on a Caribbean (or other warm weather cruise), you might want to buy an inexpensive sundress or 2. They are my go to and so easy to throw on with a pair of sandals. Also take up very little room in suitcase.

12 minutes ago, Kastaka said: Oops, it looks like this is more contentious than I was expecting! I'm female, by the way. I have some corporate polo shirts from a few companies ago, it sounds like they'll be okay?

I'm sure you will look beautiful.   On our last cruise we Invited my BIL and SIL to join us.   Even though we sent them the dress code my BIL showed up with just T shirts..   When he showed up for cocktails Iain had to politely tell him he needed a collar.    I went back with him and gave him a couple of Shirts that just didn't fit me right and they looked great on him.  

It should be pointed out the collared shirts are only required in the Main Dining Rooms in the evening and If you wish to be more casual you can dine in the Ocean View Cafe (buffet) .  They have really nice dinners but not table service.

6 minutes ago, MarEll1 said: Kataska, if you are going on a Caribbean (or other warm weather cruise), you might want to buy an inexpensive sundress or 2. They are my go to and so easy to throw on with a pair of sandals. Also take up very little room in suitcase.

It's a Fjords cruise - I do own some dresses, just nothing suitable for colder weather :). 

A solid color, slimmer fitting tee will be fine depending on how you dress it up.  They just don’t want oversized, sloppy, wordy t-shirts in the dining room.  A couple of tees like this will work beautifully with some dressier shoes and accessories.

4 minutes ago, Kastaka said: It's a Fjords cruise - I do own some dresses, just nothing suitable for colder weather :). 

I don’t have many cold weather dresses either. When we went to Alaska last summer (on Regent which is way more strict than Celebrity ie, no jeans anywhere after 6) I mainly wore black pants and switched out a couple tops. I think you could just get a couple nicer tops and you’d be fine. A solid color tee would work and if it’s short sleeved bring a cardigan. Or if you have a scarf throw that on with it. You’ll be fine.

Have fun - the fjords are on our list.

I started reading this thread and was only 3-4 posts in when I started to wonder why all the posters assumed you were identifying as male! Wear whatever makes you comfortable! When I see the tank tops and baseball caps in the dining room these days, it is clear that there are no more rules, at least no one is enforcing any. Does Celebrity still not allow people in wearing shorts (except on the first night)?  They used to send them back to put on pants, at least the men. For women they do allow capris, only a bit longer than shorts, so all these suggestions are only a guideline. For me, hairy pits and legs don't really go with the white tablecloths, but I am also a live and let live person, certainly willing to admit that the world is much less formal now. 

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What to wear on a cruise: daytime, formal nights & more.

Experts share their top recommendations for versatile cruise clothing.

What to Wear on a Cruise

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Know what types of clothing, shoes and accessories are best to wear on a cruise.

When it comes to cruising in style, packing the right attire for every occasion is essential. Including a few key versatile items on your cruise packing list will prevent your suitcase (and the limited closet space in your stateroom) from becoming overcrowded – and keep you looking appropriate for all events.

Although most cruise lines outline their suggested dress codes in the FAQ sections of their websites, be sure to also review the specifics of your cruise itinerary. Not only will the destination and weather factor into what you should wear on your cruise, but you'll also want to know if formal nights require black-tie attire, themed dress parties need costumes or shore excursions necessitate unique clothing or footwear.

Whether you'll be lounging by the pool or attending a glamorous dinner, our list of must-have items and suggestions from industry experts will help you navigate dressing for your next cruise vacation.

For relaxing sea days, prioritize comfort above all else. Depending on your planned activities, any of the following casual options are considered acceptable attire:

• Skirts or skorts
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Breezy lounge pants
• Bathing suits
• Cover-ups 
• Sun hats or baseball caps

Travel writer Jill Schildhouse always packs her VOTEPRETTY sundress . "This is my go-to cruise workhorse," says Schildhouse. "It's light and breezy, and the pockets come in very handy." She adds that the sundress can be worn to casual dinners on the ship or on shore excursions, and it can even double as a swimsuit cover-up. "I've taken it all over the world and it always arrives wrinkle-free," she says. Schildhouse has received many compliments on this classic sundress, which is available in multiple colors.

Sheri Griffiths, host of YouTube series CruiseTipsTV , suggests wearing comfortable, broken-in shoes on a cruise. She recommends avoiding brand-new footwear during your voyage to prevent blisters and daily discomfort. A basic sneaker can be worn for just about any cruise itinerary, from Alaska to the Caribbean . Griffiths says, "We love these Adidas Stan Smiths because they wear in quickly and have a timeless style."

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

In the evening, most cruise ships adopt a dress code in their main dining rooms and specialty restaurants that incorporate smart-casual or resort-wear attire. The following clothing choices will suffice:

• Maxi dresses
• Elegant tops
• Long- or short-sleeved button-down shirts
• Polo shirts
• Blazers and ties (typically optional, unless otherwise stated)
• Shawls or wraps
• Closed-toe dress shoes
• Sandals or heels

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, shares her best advice for cruise footwear. "I always pack my Rothy's shoes for any cruise because they're infinitely comfortable, work as both a formal and [an] informal shoe and can be tossed in the laundry if they get dirty." She notes that she has several pairs, but two of her go-to styles are The Point and The Ballet Flat . McDaniel adds that the shoes work in every occasion, from strolling along the ship decks to perusing cobblestone streets on shore. "I bought both [pairs] 5 years ago, and they look as new today as they did out of the box despite literally hundreds of hours of wear," she says.

Jason Leppert, founder of YouTube channel Popular Cruising , always packs his signature Hawaiian shirts to wear day or night. He says, "I love the RSVLTS collection because they can play casually with shorts or more dressy with slacks for dinner."

Formal Nights

While more casual these days, cruise formal nights still call for a bit more sophistication and style. Appropriate options include:

• Cocktail dresses
• Evening gowns
• Dress shoes

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer for The Points Guy, always packs a gown or a fancy cocktail dress for a formal night. "I work from home and don't have a reason to dress up otherwise, so I look forward to it." Still, Kosciolek is a firm believer that travelers should wear what is most comfortable for them while on vacation. She adds, "My dinner won't taste any better or worse based on what others are wearing."

Mikkel Woodruff, editor of cruise site Sometimes Sailing , always brings her Omega Sailing Bracelet on cruises. She says, "I like to bring jewelry that reminds me of the ocean and being on the sea." Woodruff appreciates the bracelet's versatility, noting how easily it can go from shore excursions to formal evenings to everyday activities.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Shore Excursions

When heading off the ship for a shore excursion, opt for comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear to make the most of your adventures on land. Consider packing the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Mesh water shoes
• T-shirts or tank tops
• A waterproof jacket

Freelance travel writer David Swanson shares his favorite versatile cruise shoes. He discovered a comfortable pair of Danner multitasking shoes that worked for dinners, casual events and multiple days of cycling on a recent European cruise. "I didn't think I'd find something to do dual duty, but I love this comfy pair from Danner, an outdoor brand [that is] new to me but has been around since 1932," says Swanson.

Paul Thornton, host of The Joy of Cruising Podcast , always packs his Coofandy linen shirts and shorts for hot Caribbean days and breezy cruise ship evenings. "I love Coofandy because they enable this senior to look 'youthful' on the beach and excursions," says Thornton. He adds that the brand is also his go-to retailer for White Party-themed nights on board.

Read: Beach Packing List

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Cruise Line Dress Codes

Dress codes can vary significantly from one cruise company to the next, so it's a good idea to check with your specific line before filling up your suitcase. Once you're on board, be sure to read the daily program for reminders about the dress codes required at the events and dining venues during your voyage.

Azamara Dress Code

• Daytime: Fairly casual attire is suitable throughout Azamara 's ships during the day. However, baseball caps, distressed denim, tank tops and bathing suits cannot be worn at Discoveries, Aqualina and Prime C restaurants (and shoes are required).
• Evening: At night, women typically wear casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, blouses and knit tops, while men are welcome to wear collared golf and polo shirts, shorts and pants. Sport coats are optional. Note: There are no official formal nights on Azamara's voyages.
• Themed Nights: Be sure to pack an all-white outfit for Azamara's signature White Night dinner and deck party.

Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Pack casual, comfortable attire to sail with Carnival Cruise Line , such as T-shirts, polo shirts or relaxed tops paired with shorts, capris, khakis or jeans. Athletic wear paired with a lightweight sweater or jacket are suitable for those looking to stay active. 
• "Cruise casual" attire for men typically suggests longer dress shorts, pants or jeans and a collared polo shirt. Women usually wear sundresses, blouses, skirts, dress shorts and capri pants.
• "Cruise elegant" typically translates to dress slacks, dress shirts and sports coats (suggested) for men, with some wearing suits, ties or tuxedos. Women choose dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits and elegant skirts with blouses, while some may wear evening gowns. Kids should follow the adult dress code, opting for school dance- or party-appropriate attire. Note: Jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, shorts, T-shirts, sportswear, exercise clothes, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suits are not permitted. The number of "cruise elegant" evenings varies based on the length of the cruise.
• Carnival Journeys cruises feature a "Throwback Sea Day," where guests can relive the '80s by day (outfits included) and dress up for a themed Captain's Cocktail Party by night. 
• Cruises between early December and Christmas Day feature an "Ugly Sweater Contest."
• Costumes are suggested for Halloween cruises between the end of September and October. However, when choosing a costume, keep in mind that full masks are prohibited (masks covering half of the face are allowed).

Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, smart casual resort wear is suitable throughout Celebrity Cruises ' ships. (Think: sundresses, shorts, polos and button-down shirts paired with sandals, low heels and loafers.) Bathing suits with cover-ups, T-shirts, tank tops, hats and sunglasses are only appropriate poolside. Cruisers should avoid wearing these items in the dining areas.
• Evening: Most evenings, guests are expected to wear comfortable yet tasteful attire. This entails dresses, skirts, long pants or jeans, stylish tops and button-down shirts. Shorts and flip-flops do not meet the evening dress code. Depending on your voyage, there will be one or two formal nights that require "evening chic" wear. Passengers can dress to impress in formal gowns, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, dressy jeans or blazers.

Costa Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, Costa Cruises ' passengers may wear casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts and sundresses. Beach clothing and flip-flops are not permitted in ship restaurants. Depending on the itinerary, some shore excursions may have specific dress codes.
• Evening: Most nights require resort attire; however, Costa hosts one or two Elegant Evenings per cruise, when men may wear dark suits or tuxedos and women can wear evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
• Themed Nights: Costa recommends that guests pack white clothing for its White Night events and white, red and green clothing and accessories for its Italy-themed evenings.

Cunard Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Shorts, T-shirts and sundresses are appropriate daytime wardrobe options on sailings with Cunard Line . Swimwear is acceptable by the pool but should not be worn in indoor dining areas.
• Evening: In the evenings, passengers are asked to wear smart attire, which includes dress shirts and trousers for men, and cocktail dresses or sophisticated tops and skirts for women – similar to what you'd choose for dinner at a trendy restaurant or a special occasion. Voyages lasting seven nights host at least two Gala Evenings, during which guests are requested to adhere to a more formal dress code. 
• Themed Nights: Gala Evenings employ themes ranging from specific colors (such as black and white or red and gold outfits) to the roaring '20s to masquerade balls.

Disney Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: On Disney Cruise Line sailings, cruise casual attire is acceptable during the day; outfit options include sundresses and shorts and tees. Swimwear and tank tops are not permitted in dining venues.
• Evening: After the sun sets, polished attire like collared shirts and jeans without rips are acceptable. Bathing suits, tees, tank tops and sports attire are not allowed. Adult-exclusive dining venues on Disney ships call for elegance; formal or semiformal wear is recommended.
• Themed Nights: On three- and four-night sailings, there is typically a pirate-themed deck party and one optional dress-up night for guests of all ages. Sailings lasting seven nights or longer add one formal and one semiformal night, when women may wear a formal dress or pantsuit and men can opt for a suit or dress pants with a jacket.

Holland America Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Plan on wearing casual attire aboard Holland America Line 's ships during the day. When indoors, guests must wear shirts, cover-ups and footwear.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual clothing is acceptable. However, in table service restaurants, shorts, bathing suits, distressed jeans and tank tops are prohibited. Grand Voyages cruises host formal nights, when suits and dresses are appropriate.
• Themed Nights: Once per cruise, Holland America hosts an Orange Party in celebration of King's Day. Pack your favorite orange clothing and accessories for this event, which honors the cruise line's Dutch heritage.

MSC Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Guests of MSC Cruises dress fairly casual during the day in T-shirts and shorts.
• Evening: Collared shirts, dresses and tailored pants are expected at night in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and entertainment venues. There is one optional Gala Night, when varying levels of elegance are acceptable. Guests should wear what makes them feel comfortable, ranging from tuxedos or ball gowns to dressy jeans and polo shirts.
• Themed Nights: MSC hosts a White Night Party (where guests wear all white) and a Sunshine Party, where guests don cheerful colors.

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, plan to wear cruise casual attire like summer dresses, jeans, khakis, shorts and casual shirts on Norwegian Cruise Line voyages. At the buffet and outdoor restaurants, swimwear can be worn with a cover-up and footwear. In dining rooms and specialty restaurants, Norwegian does not permit tank tops for men, jeans with rips or tears, flip-flops, baseball caps or visors.
• Evening: In Norwegian's upscale specialty restaurants, smart casual attire is the norm. Women can wear slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts and tops, while men should opt for jeans or slacks, a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Children ages 12 and younger may wear shorts in all restaurants. On each cruise, there is one particular "Dress-Up or Not Night," when guests can wear fancier clothing (if they choose).
• Themed Nights: Pack an all-white outfit for the White Hot Party and formal attire for Norwegian's Night Out.

Princess Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: In Princess Cruises ' restaurants and public spaces, casual resort wear is required. Shoes must be worn in the dining areas, and pool or beach attire, ball caps and frayed jeans are prohibited in restaurants.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual attire is acceptable in restaurants. However, on formal evenings, women may wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits; while men may opt for tuxedos, dark suits or dinner jackets with slacks. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Elevated resort wear, including jeans, shorts, T-shirts and tennis shoes, is appropriate before 6 p.m. on Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: At night, elegant casual attire is recommended. Women typically dresses, pantsuits or slacks paired with blouses or sweaters; a collared shirt and dress pants for men is the norm, with the option for sport jackets and ties. On cruises lasting 16 nights or longer, there are two evenings when guests can choose to wear formal or semiformal attire. Wardrobe choices include dark suits and cocktail dresses or tuxedos and gowns. Note: On the last night of every voyage, the dinner dress code is "relaxed casual" to accommodate guests packing for early morning flights.

Royal Caribbean International Dress Code

• Daytime: A relaxed, casual style is acceptable during the day on cruises with Royal Caribbean International . However, swimwear should be limited to the pool deck. 
• Evening: On most nights, guests wear smart casual attire, which includes collared or button-up shirts, dresses, skirts, blouses and pantsuits. Jackets, sports coats and blazers are encouraged but not required. On formal evenings and for the Chef's Table dining experience, cruisers are expected to wear black-tie attire, which includes tuxedos, suits with ties, cocktail dresses and evening gowns. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.
• Themed Nights: Offered on cruises lasting four nights or longer, themed nights may include toga parties, masquerade balls, decade themes and black and white nights.

Silversea Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual attire akin to what you'd wear at a five-star resort is suitable during the day aboard Silversea Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: Evening attire is categorized into three groups: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, women wear pants, blouses, skirts, and casual dresses, while men wear open-neck shirts and slacks. On informal evenings, ladies often choose dresses or pantsuits, and gentlemen typically wear jackets (ties are optional). Formal night is always optional; if you choose to participate, outfits may include cocktail dresses, gowns, tuxedos and suits. The number of formal nights per cruise varies by voyage length.

Seabourn Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual resort wear like jeans and shorts are welcome in all lounges and dining venues on Seabourn Cruise Lines ' ships. Athletic apparel and swimwear should only be worn in the pool area, on the deck or at the spa and fitness center.
• Evening: After 6 p.m., the dress code is "elegant casual." Men are expected to wear slacks with collared shirts or sweaters (jackets are optional), while women can choose pants, skirts, pantsuits or dresses. Elegant jeans are allowed in all dining venues except The Restaurant. On formal evenings in The Restaurant, men may wear tuxedos, suits or slacks and jackets, while women can opt for evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

Viking Ocean Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: On Viking Ocean Cruises ' ships, casual daytime clothing such as shorts, pants, jeans and comfortable walking shoes are acceptable. Athletic wear including exercise clothing, swimsuits and cover-ups may only be worn in the fitness center, pool zones and sports deck.
• Evening: While there are no dedicated formal nights, the dress code after 6 p.m. calls for elegant casual attire for all dining venues, lounges, bars and theaters. Jeans are not permitted (with the exception of the World Cafe, where the dress code remains casual in the evenings). For women, wardrobe options include dresses, jumpsuits, skirts or slacks paired with elegant tops. Jackets and ties are optional for men, but trousers and collared shirts should be worn in the evenings.

Virgin Voyages Dress Code

• Day or night, cruisers on Virgin Voyages ' ships are encouraged to wear attire that expresses their personal style. Just note: In restaurants, bathing suits are not permitted, and shoes are necessary. There are no formal nights; guests can dress up or down, depending on what makes them feel their best.
• Themed Nights: Pack something scarlet red for the Scarlet Night Party, which occurs once per voyage.

Why Trust U.S. News

Dana Freeman is a highly experienced cruise writer who embarked on her first cruise with her grandmother when she was just 12 years old, and she hasn't stopped since. Having sailed on more than 20 different cruise lines and completed over 30 voyages, Freeman's cruise expertise spans from small ships accommodating only eight passengers to massive ones accommodating over 5,000. To curate this article, she leveraged her extensive knowledge of the cruise ship industry, combined with her strong research skills.

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Dress Codes

Shipboard dress is casual during the day. Shorts and tasteful T-shirts are acceptable even in the dining room. At dinner, dress codes will vary daily, among the following:

Casual: Slacks and sport shirt for men (no jeans); slacks and blouse, sundress or pantsuit for women.

Informal: Jacket with or without tie for men; dress or pantsuit for women.

Formal: Dark suit or tuxedo for men; evening gown or cocktail dress for women.

Most 3- and 4-night cruises have one formal night; most 7-night cruises have 2 formal nights; most 10-night cruises have 3 formal nights, and so on. In general, the longer and more expensive (per day) cruises will be the most formal on formal night, but a dark suit and tie is acceptable attire on even the most exclusive ships. (In other words, don't buy a tuxedo for a single cruise).

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Evening Chic on Celebrity Cruises: What It Is and What to Wear for a Glamorous Night Out!

Planning a cruise with Celebrity Cruises and wondering what to wear on those special evening chic nights? Or even when they are?

Most cruises have Formal Night, but Celebrity cruises likes to do things a little differently…

To get some clarity on what to expect (and when,) we’ve got you covered.

Table of Contents

What Nights Are Evening Chic On Celebrity Cruises?

Evening Chic nights are special events that encourage passengers to dress up and enjoy a glamourous and sophisticated atmosphere onboard. Typically, the number of Evening Chic nights varies based on the length of your cruise.

For cruises that last 4-to-6 nights, you can expect to have one Evening Chic night. Meanwhile, on 7-to-11 night cruises, you’ll have two chic nights to look forward to.

Finally, if you’re embarking on a 12-night or longer voyage, your cruise will feature 3 Evening Chic nights.

It’s important to note that Celebrity Xpedition cruises do not have Evening Chic nights—instead, they promote casual attire for the entire duration of the cruise.

Remember, although Evening Chic nights are primarily scheduled on port days, the actual day may vary depending on the cruise itinerary.

So, it’s a good idea to check your specific itinerary or ask the crew for the exact dates once onboard.

What Is Evening Chic?

Evening Chic is a dress code that Celebrity Cruises has introduced as their version of formal nights. It encourages you to dress to impress, showcasing your unique, glamorous, and sophisticated style.

Unlike traditional formal nights, which usually require tuxedos or gowns, Evening Chic allows you to express your personal flair while still maintaining an elegant atmosphere.

During Evening Chic nights, feel free to wear a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, designer jeans, or an elegant dress top or blazer. You have a lot more flexibility.

Some guests even choose to pack a tuxedo or gown for these special evenings to capture memorable onboard photos.

The key is to combine comfort with a touch of glamour, so you can enjoy the night to the fullest.

Celebrity Cruises typically schedules Evening Chic nights based on the duration of your cruise. For cruises lasting 4 to 6 nights, you can expect one Evening Chic night.

On 7 to 11-night cruises, there will be two such nights, while cruises of 12 nights or more will have three. However, be sure to double-check your cruise’s specific itinerary, as schedules may vary.

Celebrity Cruises’ Dress Code Policy

Celebrity Cruises encourages guests to embrace their sense of style and sophistication on board. They have designed their dress code policy to cater for both comfort and elegance.

Evening Chic nights are a part of this policy, allowing you to showcase your unique fashion choices.

Guidelines for Men

Evening Chic means your attire should reflect a polished and refined look very similar to smart casual. Opt for dress shirts paired with slacks or chinos to create a classy ensemble.

Feel free to don a blazer or a sports jacket to elevate your outfit further.

Remember, footwear should complement your attire, so choose loafers or dress shoes to complete your look.

While some men may go the extra mile and wear a tuxedo or suit, it’s not required but encouraged for those who love dressing up.

Standard Evening Chic outfits for men are your basic smart casual outfits, think:

• Pants or chinos (not jeans, unless designer and NOT ripped) with a dress shirt, button-down shirt or long sleeves
• Optional sport coat or blazer
• Tuxedo or dinner suit
• NO Flip Flops, jeans, or T-shirts

Guidelines for Women

Women can choose from a variety of options, such as cocktail dresses, elegant skirts, or dressy tops paired with slacks or designer jeans.

If you’re feeling particularly glamorous, you may even opt for a gown to make a statement, but its completely unnecessary.

An elegant top with a dressy skirt is a great look.

Accessories like scarves or pashminas can add a touch of sophistication, while dressy shoes, such as heels or stylish flats, will add the finishing touch to your outfit.

Just ensure that your outfit aligns with the guidelines provided, and you’ll be ready to enjoy an unforgettable night full of elegance and style.

Guidelines For Kids

On chic night, it is mandatory for boys to wear full-length trousers in the main and some specialty restaurants.

However, smart pumps are allowed as long as they are not trainers.

In addition to the footwear, boys must also wear a collared shirt or a smart collared polo to complete their outfit.

It is important to note that adherence to the dress code is required in order to maintain the desired atmosphere in the restaurant on these special nights.

Not wearing formal attire or smart casual can get you denied access to the main dining room or specialty restaurants.

Evening Chic Nights on Celebrity Cruises

Cruise Length and Frequency

Evening Chic nights are a glamorous and sophisticated event on Celebrity Cruises. Depending on the length of your cruise, you can experience different numbers of Evening Chic nights.

For cruises of 4 to 6 nights, there is one Evening Chic Night, while for cruises lasting 7 to 11 nights, you’ll have the pleasure of participating in two Evening Chic nights.

If you’re lucky enough to be on a cruise of 12 nights or more, you’ll enjoy 3 Chic Nights.

Remember, dressing up for these events is key to making the night memorable and fun, so pack accordingly!

Specific Cruise Ships

It’s important to note that not all Celebrity Cruises ships follow the same dress code rules.

Most of the Celebrity Cruises ships offer Evening Chic nights, giving you the opportunity for more sophisticated attire and a special night out.

On the other hand, the Celebrity Xpedition cruise ship has a different dress code policy. For those planning to cruise on this specific ship, casual attire is acceptable throughout the entire cruise duration.

This will allow you to focus on exploring the remarkable destinations without worrying too much about dressing up for specific nights.

Additional Tips for Evening Chic

When preparing for Evening Chic night on your Celebrity cruise, remember to embrace your personal style while sticking to the dress code.

Although many think of it as a ‘formal night,’ it really is just smart casual attire. You don’t have to rent out a ball gown or suit and tie.

Don’t worry too much about over-(or even under)-dressing. As long as you’re dressed to impress (NO FLIP FLOPS!), you’re on the right track.

To best prepare for these nights, consider the length of your cruise. On a 7-night cruise, typically, two evenings are designated as Evening Chic nights.

You can plan two outfits OR take advantage of the laundry service onboard.

Planning your outfits in advance can help take the stress out of getting ready for the big night.

Make sure to pack versatile clothing items that can be dressed up or down. For example, a flattering pair of slacks, a skirt, or even designer jeans can be matched with various tops to create different looks.

Bring a few elegant dress tops or blazers to mix and match with your chosen bottoms. This way, you’ll have several outfits that are both chic and comfortable.

Accessorizing can add an extra touch of glamour to your ensemble. Whether it’s a statement necklace, a pair of eye-catching earrings, or a stunning clutch, the right accessories can elevate your outfit and showcase your personal style.

Don’t forget to bring along complementary shoes – think heels or dressy flats – for a complete, polished look.

Even though you are cruising in warm climates, it’s a good idea to pack a light sweater, a scarf, or a pashmina.

The evenings may cool down, and you’ll want to stay comfortable while enjoying the ship’s decks or your stateroom veranda .

Finally, remember that Evening Chic nights are an opportunity to make memories with loved ones or new friends.

Don’t stress about the outfit too much. A formal gown is the last thing you need to make the night memorable.

Don’t forget to take pictures before or during the event to capture the fun and add them to your souvenir collection.

Summary: Evening Chic on Celebrity Cruises

When planning for your Celebrity cruise, you’ll want to know when to don your evening chic attire. Typically, on a 7-night cruise, you can expect formal nights on days 2 and 6, which often coincide with sea days.

However, on a 9-night cruise, the evening chic nights might vary, so it’s best to check your specific itinerary for more accurate information.

As you prepare for your evening chic outfits, keep in mind that the goal is to dress up in a sophisticated and glamorous way.

This can include wearing a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or even a blazer.

Some guests may choose to go all out with a tuxedo or gown for special onboard photos, but that’s entirely up to you and your personal style.

Don’t worry about the weather on your cruise; it’s always a good idea to bring along a lightweight sweater or fleece, as nighttime temperatures might drop, especially when enjoying the starry sky from your stateroom veranda or on one of the ship’s decks.

A scarf or pashmina can also add a touch of elegance while providing warmth during the cooler evenings.

Prepare for your Celebrity cruise’s evening chic nights by packing a few stylish and elegant outfits, along with some versatile accessories to stay comfortable during the cooler nighttime hours.

With a touch of glamour and sophistication, you’ll be ready to enjoy the fantastic dining experiences, take memorable photos, and create lasting memories during your time on the ship.

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Why Your Next Vacation Should Be On Celebrity Cruises

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What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (day, evening & formal night)

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What to Wear on a Cruise – The Ultimate Guide

Planning a cruise is so exciting! You might be wondering what to pack and what to wear on a cruise, during the day, evening and even on formal nights.

In this post, we’ll go over the basics of cruise line dress codes, as well as ideas for cruise wear for sea days, shore excursions and dinners on a cruise ship. I’ve also included cruise packing checklists to help you plan your cruise outfits.

What to Wear on a Cruise – Cruise Line Dress Codes (2021 & Beyond)

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.

My first cruise was on the Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. Can you guess what we wore on formal night ?

My husband wore a black tuxedo and I wore a floor champagne evening gown with gorgeous beading at the top.

True story – My brother got married just a month before, and these were our bride’s maid and groomsmen outfits. I was so thankful to be able to have a place to wear them again!

Yet, we weren’t out of place and certainly at that time, most men were either in a dark suit or tuxedo. Most women wore long gowns or cocktail dresses on formal nights on a cruise.

While you definitely can still wear an evening gown and tuxedo, most popular cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes over the last few years. You can still expect to dress up on a cruise , but there are more opportunities to dress less formally if you prefer this as well.

Read more: 

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

What to Wear on a Celebrity Cruise (evening chic explained)

What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night

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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cruise Line Dress Codes – What to Expect

Each cruise line has it’s own dress code, however most have a version of casual , smart casual, and formal nights . The terminology that cruise lines are using reflect subtle changes to the dress code.

A casual dress code means includes casual pants or nice jeans for men (no holes), along with a nice shirt or polo. For ladies, capri pants, nice jeans and a cute top, or a sundress are all great. Most of the time, first and last evenings of your cruise, will be a casual dress suggestion.

Cruise tip: Most cruise lines don’t allow shorts in the dining room, so men, make sure you pack at least a pair or two of pants.

Smart Casual

The smart casual dress code may also be called resort casual. A good guideline is to dress as you would at a nice restaurant at home. For men, this can include dress pants or khakis and a nice polo, short or long sleeve buttoned shirt. For ladies, a casual dress or pants with a pretty top is perfect.

Cruise tip:   The ship’s air conditioning may be quite cool in the dining room. Bring a light shawl, scarf or cardigan to cover your shoulders.

Formal Night

Dressing up for formal night  remains a tradition on a cruise vacation. These days, the formal night dress code may be called a gala evening , evening chic or dress your best , but it is a night where people tend to put on their best cruise attire . You’ll usually have 2 formal nights during a 7 day cruise.

How formal is formal night?

How formal is formal night on a cruise? This does depend on the cruise line. Tuxedos and dark suits are always appropriate. However, in most cases men can feel comfortable wearing a suit or dress pants and a dress shirt. For ladies, an evening gown, cocktail dress, pant suit or “little black dress” are great choices.

Keep in mind, that if you’re not feeling like dressing up, you can always eat in more casual clothes in the buffet and most casual restaurants on the ship.

Read more:   What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (Q & A)

Read more about specific cruise line dress codes:

Celebrity Cruises – What to Wear on Chic Night (including photos)

Norwegian Cruise Line – What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

What to Wear on a Cruise During the Day

What to wear boarding a cruise ship.

When boarding your cruise ship, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes . Cruise boarding procedures can take an hour or more.

Make sure to dress for the weather and wear warmer clothing if you’re going on a cool weather cruise. You may want to explore the cruise ship soon after you board .

On a Caribbean or other warm weather cruise, dress lightly and casually for the first day of your cruise. A light sundress or cute shorts and a top are perfect outfits for the first day of your cruise vacation. Men can wear a tshirt or polo style shirt and shorts.

If you’re cruising with kids , you can have them put a bathing suit on under their clothing. This way they can hit the pool and water slides as soon as you finish lunch on embarkation day .

It’s a good idea to bring an embarkation day bag. Here’s a list of 23 essential items to pack in your cruise carry on that will be helpful.

Cruise tip: Don’t forget to take an embarkation day photo. It will be a great memory of your amazing cruise vacation !

Cruise Day Wear for Sea Days

Most cruise lines are quite casual during the day. In our experience, family oriented cruise lines are understandably much more “casual” than “higher-end” cruise lines. Cruise casual, resort wear or country club casual are all terms used by the cruise lines as a recommendation.

Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses are all appropriate day wear for sea days . If you’re by the pool, it’s important to know that bathing suits are not permitted in the buffet or inside the cruise ship, so make sure to pack a cover up.

Read more:   What Not to Wear on a Cruise; Rules and Guidelines

What to Wear on Shore Excursions

Beach and water activities.

Deciding what to wear on a cruise port day, will depend on your plans and excursions. If you’re going to the beach , you can wear a bathing suit under a light sundress or cover up. Bring some water shoes or flip flops too.

You may want to pack a change of clothing in your beach bag , along with your other beach day essentials .

Tours and Sightseeing

If you’re going on a tour or sightseeing shore excursion, there will likely be a lot of walking involved. Dress comfortably for the weather and make sure to wear comfortable shoes . A casual summer dress or shorts and a t-shirt is great.

Cruise tip: Keep in mind that if you are visiting religious buildings, such as a church or synagogue, it’s often suggested to cover your shoulders. I usually throw a very light cardigan or scarf in my handbag for these occasions.

Read more:   Cruise Wear for Ladies over 40 (flattering & affordable)

What to Wear in the Evening on a Cruise

Non-formal nights.

Most evenings on a cruise will be casual, smart casual or resort casual dress code. Many cruise lines now allow wearing nice jeans to the main dining room on a cruise, a change from the past.

A casual dress for ladies, or a nice pair of pants and a stylish top is perfect. A good suggestion for men is a polo style shirt and pants or a pair of dark jeans.

Related post: 50 Useful Items to Pack for your Cruise

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.

Generally, formal nights, sometimes called gala evenings or chic evenings , call for a tuxedo, suit or dress pants and a sports jacket for men. However, in our experience in recent years, this has relaxed quite a bit and tuxedos in particular are far less common. Suits and dress pants, with or without a jacket and tie, have become the norm.

For ladies, dressing in an evening gown, cocktail dress, or fancy outfit is perfect. I like to think of it as “wedding guest” attire.

Something to remember is to dress in what you enjoy. If you love the glamour of a long gown and tuxedo, go for it! If you prefer a little black dress, that works well too (plus you can wear it for years!)

Cruise tip: Check your cruise line dress code and judge accordingly, however you can also check your cruise line roll call or Facebook group to get a better idea of how people are really dressing on a cruise. In some cases, in practice, things are more or less in keeping with the dress code.

Cruise Line Dress Code Exceptions to Note

There are a couple of exceptions out of the mainstream cruise lines, that fall on either end of the cruise dress code spectrum.

Norwegian Cruise Line: NCL has a Freestyle concept and therefore does not impose a dress code in it’s dining rooms (however rules of decorum* are in place). You can feel comfortable either dressing up or dressing down. Think of it as “You do you” .

Cunard: On the other end of the pendulum is Cunard, which prides itself on tradition and a more formal dining experience. Therefore, jackets are required nightly by men and it is quite common to see tuxes and gowns on Formal nights. For more information on what to expect on a Cunard Cruise, you may enjoy this post (Queen Mary 2 Cunard Cruise) that details it.

Luxury Cruise Line Dress Codes

Luxury cruise line dress codes vary from one cruise line to the other, however it may surprise you to know that many luxury cruise lines don’t have formal nights, and instead are Country Club Casual.

Oceania and Azamara are elegant, but not formal, however Silversea does have formal nights. Check with your cruise line for details.

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Cruise Outfit Packing List for Women

What to bring on a 7 day cruise.

Here’s a list of clothing to bring on a 7 day Caribbean or warm weather cruise . Please adjust the to your personal preferences and style.

Full disclosure – I like to shop, I over-pack and I bring too many shoes. 

My own cruise outfit list is larger than this, but based on feedback in my Life Well Cruised Facebook community , I think this is a sufficient base. Adjust to your own preferences, style and luggage allowance.

Cruise Clothing Packing List for Ladies

• Shorts and t-shirts
• 2-3 bathing suits
• 1-2 cover ups
• undergarments and sleepwear
• pool flip flops
• sundresses for day
• gym clothes and sports shoes
• Capri pants and/or nice jeans
• Cute flowy tops to pair with pants or jeans
• casual dresses
• 1-2 fancy dresses (maybe one Little Black Dress)
• shawl or light sweater
• sweatshirt or sweater
• evening bag or clutch (optional)
• 1-2 evening dress shoes
• 1-2 comfortable day shoes or wedges

Related posts:

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

What to Pack for a Bermuda Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

What I Wore on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise – Cruise Outfits

Cruise Wear over 40: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women 

Plus Size Cruise Wear: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Curvy Women

What Shoes to Bring for a Cruise (for day, evening & shore excursions)

15 Best Beach & Tote Bags for a Cruise

Cruise Outfit Packing List for Men

• shorts and t-shirts
• work-out clothes
• 1-2 pairs jeans
• 1-2 buttoned shirts
• 2 dress shirts
• sweater or sweatshirt
• running or walking shoes
• dress shoes
• casual shoes
• baseball cap or hat

Related:  Cruise Wear for Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

What Should Children Wear on a Cruise?

If you’re going on a family cruise , you might be wondering how dress codes apply to children. Generally, dress codes are quite relaxed for kids. Most cruise lines are fine with children wearing nice shorts in the dining room and restaurants for evening dinners.

That being said, it’s not uncommon for families with children to get dressed up on formal nights. It does make a great time to take family photos and have memories that will last a lifetime.

Teenagers can dress casually on a cruise most of the time, but should follow dress codes in the main dining room.

20 Cruise Packing Tips all Cruisers Need

21 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On

Cruise Outfit Tips

If you’re trying to pack light for a cruise , or even carry on only, here are a few tips:

• Rather than bringing several dresses, you can repurpose the same one or two by changing accessories from one evening to the other.
• Scarves, belts and jewelry can make an outfit feel new again. The reality is, no one cares or even notices if you wear the same outfit more than once.
• You can also bring one pair of white pants or dark jeans, and bring a couple stylish tops to go with them.
• A useful tip when planning your cruise outfits of the day is to wear your tighter dresses early on and save the looser styles for the last few days. It might sound like I’m joking, but I’m not 😉
• I personally love shoes and have to restrain myself from bringing too many. However, you can do with 3-4 pairs of shoes on a cruise and be just fine.

Read more:  How to Pack Light for a Cruise

How to Pack your Cruise Outfits

Garment bag.

If you’re bring formal wear, a garment bag (like this one on Amazon) for suits and dresses keeps things nice and neat and easy to put away when you get to your cabin.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great when packing for a cruise . They’re also a helpful items to keep your cruise cabin organized .

You may also want to pack your clothing in packing cubes. The benefit to this is keeping organized, which makes unpacking so much easier, on the first day of your cruise .

I like these packing cubes , which come with a laundry bag and get 5 * reviews on Amazon.

What to Wear on a Cruise YouTube Video

In this video I share more information about how to plan your outfits for a 7 day cruise. It’s full of real tips that you can use as you’re planning what to wear on your upcoming cruise.

If you enjoy cruise content on YouTube, I’d love it if you subscribed to the channel !

Recap: What to Wear on a Cruise (Day, Evening and Formal Nights)

We’ve gone over what to wear on a cruise during the day, evening and on formal nights. I hope this post has given you some ideas of what to wear on the first day of your cruise and shore excursions as well.

Whether you prefer to dress up on a cruise or be more casual, there is something for everyone. Please keep in mind that if you would rather not eat in the main dining room on formal night, you always have great casual options on a cruise.

Do you enjoy dressing up when on a cruise or do you prefer to keep it casual? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

If you’ve found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-)! Please share on Facebook or Pin and save for later on Pinterest (buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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18 Comments

very Impressive! good job and thanks for sharing such a unique post.

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.

Great advice. I’m cruising to Aruba on Friday, so I’m right in the midst of packing our suitcases right now. The formal nights completely annoy me. I feel like it’s just an income opportunity for the cruise line. I do like to dress up, but trying to fit everything into one big suitcase and a carry-on is tough. I am bringing those vacuum bags to try and squeeze in everything for our ship days, our excursions, and our dress-up dinners. It’s definitely going to take some squeezing, but I am kind of glad they’ve toned down the formal nights. I’m just bringing a maxi-skirt with a nice top and we’ll probably opt-out of the second one.

I’m so excited for you! Love Aruba! You’re right about the packing. I’m really trying to bring less these days (but I’m an over packer).I also wear items on “formal nights” that are dressy but comfortable, and ideally pack well.

Have a great cruise!

That’s a good idea to bring some more formal clothes. I would think that would be nice to have if you are on a fancier trip. I’ll have to make sure to pack a suit and that my wife packs a nice dress if we go on a cruise.

If you enjoy dressing up a couple of nights, you’ll adore formal or chic nights on a cruise. It definitely feels elegant.

Do check the cruise line dress code before you book, just to make sure that you choose a cruise ship where you’ll have this experience.

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment,

I do like to dress up, but trying to fit everything into one big suitcase and a carry-on is tough. I am bringing those vacuum bags to try and squeeze in everything for our ship days, our excursions, and our dress-up dinners. It’s definitely going to take some squeezing, but I am kind of glad they’ve toned down the formal nights.

I’m a little bit like you. I love that it’s just a little less formal than years ago, but dressing up makes the evenings special. Great idea to pack with vacuum packed bags!

I have also found that gowns are downright odd on Princess formal nights now. There are always a few of us that wear them, but to-the-floor is gawked at. Not that I mind. And, Club Class Dining people seem to dress up more than others. On our Feb 2020 Hawaii cruise there were several white tie dinner jackets. On the opposite end, if you DON’T dress on formal nights, you are gawked at and should stay out of the main dining rooms.

Thanks for sharing your experience and what things have really been like onboard. When we’ve done holiday sailings we have found people dressed a little more (more suits and even tuxes) and other sailings less. Interesting about Club Class though.

Thanks again for your comments,

I dont see the tuxedo. You will have to point it out to me?

Each cruise has it’s own dress code, and tuxedos are definitely welcome. Some cruise lines are quite traditional and a tuxedo will be worn by many men (ie. Cunard). Other cruise lines, despite listing tuxedos among their dress suggestions, tend to have less passengers who are actually wearing them. What cruise line do you usually use?

So glad I found your YouTube channel, then website. Although I’ve been on a number of cruises (Disney, Carnival & RC), I regularly get great tips and ideas from you. Our next cruise is on RC NEXT week, February 27, 10 day western Caribbean. Can. Not. Wait!! Thus will be the third family reunion style cruise we have done with my wife’s family – this time sans kids – who are all now 18+. With this in mind, we chose Radiance of the Seas for the simple pleasure of cruising. Peace!

Very exciting!! Enjoy your cruise!

HI MY FIRST TIME GOING ON A CRUISE I HAVE READ A LOT OF YOUR SUGGESTIONS I WILL NOT BE GOING UNTIL 2024 SO I HAVE PLENTY OF TIME TO GET READY.. ONE THING I FEEL WOULD BE I GOOD IDEA …WHEN YOU GET THE FOLDABLE HAMPER SET IT UP AND START PUTTING YOU LIST OF TO GET ITEMS IN SIDE,, YOU WILL HAVE PLENTY OF ROOM ..I HAVE FOUND THIS OUT THANK YOU

Happy planning!

Thank you so much! I’ve been stressing about what type of clothes to pack for our first cruise as a family (it’s a surprise 40th for my husband). Thanks to your post, I feel much more relieved and have a better idea of what we need. Again, THANK YOU!

So exciting! Enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Onboard Dress Code FAQs
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What is the onboard dress code?

Whatever the itinerary, destination, or occasion—when you pack, think casual chic.

DURING THE DAY

For warmer climates, pack swimsuits and cover-ups, walking shorts and shirts that protect from the sun, lightweight slacks, skirts or sundress, and a light sweater or jacket. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are always encouraged.

For cooler climates, bring clothing with long sleeves, sweaters, and pants that can be layered. In areas prone to snow or rain, waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, and umbrellas are recommended. 

Around the globe, consider appropriate shoes and gear for the excursions you have planned and the terrain you’ll encounter. For instance, you may pack water shoes if hiking a waterfall or a headscarf or conservative dress for visiting museums, mosques, temples, and churches. 

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. Make sure you bring active wear and sneakers if you plan to hit the gym!

Poolside, bathing suits with coverups, T-shirts, tanks, hats, and sunglasses are welcomed. 

In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through coverups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

SMART CASUAL 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jean, and stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

EVENING CHIC

Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jean, an elegant dress top or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. The Daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and theater.

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