A cruise is an exciting part of your vacation planning, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming when its comes to the outfit. From casual daytime looks to elegant eveningwear, knowing what clothes to wear on a cruise can make all the difference in how confident and comfortable you feel on board. Whether you’re heading off on a luxury getaway, adventure cruise, or just looking to unwind solo, this guide will help you master the art of cruise ship dresses and budget-friendly outfits.
Let’s dive into what you need to pack for daytime lounging, formal dinners, and adventurous shore excursions—all without breaking the bank!
What to Wear to a Cruise
Mastering Cruise Dress Codes on a Budget
Cruising is an exciting way to explore the world, but understanding cruise dress codes can sometimes feel like deciphering a foreign language. And if you’re traveling on a budget, it might seem like you’ll need to spend a fortune to look the part.
1. Decode the Dress Code
Cruise lines typically have three dress categories:
- Casual/Resort Wear: Comfortable daytime attire for lounging by the pool, exploring the ship, or dining at casual venues. Think sundresses, shorts, and T-shirts.
- Smart Casual/Evening Chic: Evening attire that’s a step above casual. Think cocktail dresses or slacks with a nice top.
- Formal/Night Chic: A chance to dress up! Women often wear cocktail or evening gowns, while men go for suits or tuxedos.
Tip: Check your cruise line’s specific guidelines as they vary (e.g., Norwegian is more casual, while Cunard is more formal).
2. Build a Capsule Cruise Wardrobe
Stick to versatile pieces that can mix and match. A simple sundress can work for casual days, be accessorized for smart casual evenings, and even dressed up for formal night with the right jewelry.
- For Women:
- 2-3 sundresses
- 1 little black dress (LBD)
- 2 pairs of neutral bottoms (shorts, skirts, or pants)
- 3-4 tops (mix casual and dressy)
- 1 lightweight cardigan or wrap
- For Men:
- 1-2 pairs of dress pants
- 1 blazer (skip the tux; a dark suit works for most formal nights)
- 2-3 collared shirts (casual and dressy)
- Neutral shorts/pants for daytime
- 1 pair of nice loafers
3. Budget-Friendly Shopping Tips
- Thrift Stores: Great for formal dresses, blazers, or unique accessories.
- Fast-Fashion Retailers: Affordable places like H&M, Target, or Uniqlo offer cruise-friendly outfits.
- Off-Season Shopping: Shop sales at the end of summer or holidays to snag great deals.
- Rental Services: For formal nights, consider renting a gown or tux from sites like Rent the Runway or The Black Tux.
4. Smart Packing Strategies
- Accessorize Smartly: Accessories are your best friend on a budget. A statement necklace or tie can completely transform an outfit.
- Multi-Use Items: A sarong doubles as a cover-up and a scarf. A plain T-shirt can pair with shorts by day and a skirt by night.
- Minimize Shoes: Stick to 3 pairs – casual sneakers, dressy flats/loafers, and sandals.
5. DIY Formal Wear Hacks
- Ladies: A maxi dress can pass as formal with some heels and earrings.
- Men: Add a pocket square and tie to a blazer, and you’re cruise-formal ready without the tux.
6. Embrace Theme Nights on a Budget
Some cruises have fun theme nights (e.g., 80s parties, white parties). Instead of splurging, look for theme-friendly items at thrift stores or dollar stores before boarding.
7. Plan for Laundry
Many cruise ships have self-service laundries. Packing fewer items and doing laundry mid-trip saves space and money. Bring travel detergent for handwashing smaller items.
Confidence is Key
Remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune to look fabulous! With a little planning and creativity, you can master the dress codes and enjoy your cruise in style.
Clothes to Wear on a Cruise
What to Wear During the DayTime on a Cruise:
During the day, you’ll likely be enjoying the sunshine on deck, exploring new ports, or participating in onboard activities. Comfort is key, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish!
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- Sundresses: Flowy sundresses are perfect for staying cool and comfortable while still looking chic.
- Tops and Shorts: Pair lightweight tops with high-waisted shorts or denim cutoffs.
- Jumpsuits and Rompers: These one-piece wonders are easy to wear and great for casual outings.
- Swimwear and Cover-ups: Pack 2-3 swimsuits and pair them with sarongs, kaftans, or oversized shirts as cover-ups.
- Footwear: Opt for flip-flops or casual sandals for lounging, and sneakers for walking-intensive days.
Budget Tip: Check sales racks at stores like Target, Walmart, or H&M for versatile, affordable basics. Thrift stores are also great for finding unique pieces on a budget.
Cruise Ship Dresses for Every Occasion
What to Wear During the Casual Evening Attire on a Cruise:
Evenings on a cruise ship typically require a little more effort, especially if you’re attending a formal dinner or themed event. Here’s how to pick the right cruise ship dresses for different occasions:
Smart casual is the go-to dress code for most dinners and evening activities.
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- Women: Midi dresses, wrap dresses, or tailored skirts paired with stylish tops.
- Men: Chino pants or dark jeans paired with a button-down shirt or polo.
Budget Tip: A simple black dress can be styled differently each night with scarves, jewelry, or cardigans. For men, stick to neutral-colored shirts that pair well with a single pair of chinos.
What to Wear During the Format Nights on a Cruise:
Formal nights are the perfect opportunity to dress up and take some stunning photos.
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- Women: Floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, or jumpsuits with elegant jewelry.
- Men: A suit or blazer with dress pants and a tie (or even a tuxedo for more formal cruises).
Budget Tip: Borrow or rent formalwear instead of buying new. You can also find elegant options at discount stores like Ross or TJ Maxx.
What to Wear During the Special Events or Theme Nights on a Cruise:
Many cruises include fun theme nights, like tropical or 80s parties.
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- Women: Maxi dresses with tropical prints or playful accessories.
- Men: Hawaiian shirts or bright polos.
Pro Tip: Bring one or two inexpensive themed outfits to participate without overpacking.
Excursion-Ready Clothes for Cruise Wear
When you’re heading off the ship for excursions, you’ll want practical clothing that matches the activity.
- Activewear: Comfortable leggings, moisture-wicking tops, and sneakers are great for hiking or ziplining.
- Beachwear: Swimwear, rash guards, and flip-flops for water-based activities.
- Layering Pieces: A lightweight rain jacket or cardigan for changing weather.
Style Tip: Keep excursion outfits simple and durable. Neutral tones work best and can be mixed with other items from your wardrobe.
Budget-Friendly Cruise Outfits
Cruising on a budget? Here are some tips to pack smartly and stylishly without spending too much:
Multipurpose Clothing: Stick to items that can be dressed up or down. A casual sundress can work for both daytime and dinner with the right accessories.
Shop Off-Season: End-of-season sales are the perfect time to snag summer clothes at a discount.
Accessorize Smartly: A scarf, statement necklace, or belt can transform any outfit.
Borrow or Rent: For formalwear, borrow from friends or use rental services to avoid buying expensive gowns or suits.
How Many Outfits Should You Pack for a Cruise?
The number of outfits you’ll need depends on the length of your cruise:
5-Day Cruise:
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- 3 daytime outfits
- 2 casual evening outfits
- 1 formal outfit
- 2 swimsuits
7-Day Cruise:
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- 4-5 daytime outfits
- 3-4 evening outfits (including 1-2 formal)
- 2-3 swimsuits
2-Week Cruise:
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- 8-10 daytime outfits
- 6-7 evening outfits
- 3-4 formal outfits
- 3-4 swimsuits
Pro Tip: Many cruise ships offer laundry services, so you can pack fewer items and wash them mid-trip.
Packing Checklist: Clothes to Wear on a Cruise
Daytime Wear
- 3-5 sundresses or rompers
- 2-4 pairs of shorts
- 5-7 casual tops (tank tops, t-shirts)
- Swimwear (at least 2 sets)
- Cover-ups or sarongs
- Comfortable sandals and sneakers
Evening Wear
- 2-3 casual dresses or tailored separates
- 1-2 formal dresses or suits
- Flats, low heels, or dress shoes
Extras
- Activewear for excursions
- Lightweight jacket or cardigan
- Accessories: Sunglasses, jewelry, hats
FAQs About Clothes to Wear on a Cruise
Can I wear jeans on a cruise?
Yes, jeans are fine for casual settings, but avoid distressed or ripped styles for dinner.
What should I wear to dinner on a cruise?
Smart casual outfits are typically required. Women can wear dresses, skirts, or tailored pants, while men can opt for collared shirts with slacks.
Are sneakers appropriate for a cruise?
Absolutely! Sneakers are great for excursions or long walks on deck.
Do I need formalwear for every dinner?
No, formalwear is only needed for specific formal nights. Most dinners are smart casual.
Read More: Viking Cruise Vacation With Family And Kids
How to Dress for a Cruise
Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be stressful. By focusing on versatile, budget-friendly pieces that fit the ship’s dress code, you’ll be prepared for everything from poolside relaxation to elegant dinners. Whether you’re looking for cruise ship dresses or practical daytime outfits, the key is to plan ahead and pack smart.
So grab your suitcase, plan those outfits, and get ready to enjoy your vacation in style.
Happy cruising! 🚢✨
