How to Dress for a Cruise

Sun, sand and pristine waters offer cruise-goers the time to relax, enjoy and take part in hundreds of activities available on today's major cruise lines. Today's popular cruises cross the globe from the Caribbean, to the Bahamas to Alaska and can provide fun and entertainment for the entire family or to celebrate a luxury wedding. Today's major cruise lines include Carnival, Norwegian, Princess Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International. Dressing with comfort and style in mind is important for any cruise trip; avoid being caught without the right clothing! Both men and women can make use of some good fashion sense and a little pre-planning. Just a little organization can make it easier to have a good time, and just let go and relax for a fantastic getaway on the ocean.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Contact Your Cruise Line

1. Find out whether there is a cruise dress code. Call your travel agent or sales representative for details on each particular line's requirements.
2. Ask about policies and specific guidelines for different areas of the ship.
3. Ask about current events, and other attractions that may have a strict dress code.

Take a Look at Your Current Clothes First

4. Take a look at your current wardrobe. Find some fashionable pieces that worked well for you this spring and summer.
5. Make sure to include plenty of light cotton fabrics.
6. Make note of items you would consider 'dressy casual'. It's the key theme for most of today's popular cruises, and semi-formal styles are great for other events on board.
7. Pack for summer fashion in mind. Women can count on including capris, shorts, loose drawstring pants and trendy gaucho pants in casual colors and styles. Men's styles should include khakis, dressy shorts for evenings on the town, and plenty of polo shirts. Think 'casual golfer' for most of your trip.
8. Colors should range from white, khaki, pastels, to prints that are suitable for your body type.

Consider Your Evening and Beach Activities

9. Pack 2-3 formal events outfits. Most cruises feature special concerts, events, clubs and casinos late into the night (and morning!).
10. Pack at least 2-3 outfits that are comfortable and eye-catching.
11. Cardigans for cooler nights are perfect for women; light cotton shirts and jackets work great for men.
12. Don't forget your jacket! Even when you're traveling to exotic, warm destinations, don't forget that cooler nights will require cardigans, sweaters or light jackets.
13. Stay fashionable with beachwear. Select printed sarongs, fitted tank tops and khaki shorts to complete a classy beachwear look.
14. Coordinate the bag. Totes, oversized bags and even luggage should pull your outfits together, and are great ways to carry a change of clothing if you need it.
15. Take sandals AND shoes. Pack a range of footwear including both open and closed-toe styles. Rubber shoes and sandals are great for the beach, but formal shoes will be needed for nights out.

What to Look For:

• Traveler's Boutique for Cruise Wear: http://www.atravelersblessing.com/
• Cruise Clothing: http://www.cruiseclothing.co.uk/index_flash.html
• Cruise Reviews: http://www.cruisereviews.com/

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid excessively high heels, or shoes that are too new to be comfortable yet.
• Make note of shows and events that may be black-tie only.
• Obtain docking schedules and weather advisory information from the cruise's information center.
• Dress for comfort, flexibility, form and function!