cruise ship dinner dresses

Your cart is empty

🚚 FREE GROUND SHIPPING OVER $250 & Easy Returns

Designer Cruise Dresses

If you’re going on your first cruise, figuring out what to wear for the formal events can feel like a daunting task. There’s the Captain's dinner, dinner in the main dining room, and other snazzy cruise events you want to stand out for.  

To avoid sticking out among the crowd, it’s important that you find the right cruise formal wear to bring with you on your exciting vacation. Understanding the different cruise events and the cruise line’s dress code is key before stocking up on garments.

Nevertheless, participating in formal events on cruise ships is fun! For most people, it allows them to dress up and wear designer cruise dresses they wouldn’t typically wear.

Formal Cruise Event Attire

Before you buy clothes to wear, it’s best to look at the dress code your particular cruise line has set. Cruise ships have hundreds of events happening every night and certain events may have different codes than others. Some dress codes can be “resort casual,” “smart casual,” or “formal” for certain events or daytime wear.

Typically, there are one or two dinners aboard the ship that require formal wear, mainly dinners. Depending on how long your cruise is, there will be somewhere between one and three dinner nights where formal wear is the dress code. Other events that may require you to dress up formally could be the casino or shows.

When a cruise line has a “formal” dress code requirement, it typically means men wear suits or tuxedos and women wear  gala dresses and  evening gowns .

Styles To Bring On a Cruise

Cruise lines and luxury cruise lines are your place to make a statement with the type of designer cruise gowns and styles you bring along with you. Staying on top of the trends is another factor to consider when finding the right cruise ship dresses.

For spring or summer colors, the trending tones seem to be pastel colors, specifically  soft pink and  blue tones . Colors to stay away from onboard a cruise ship are  brown or warm tones relating to this color.  Black , however, is an exception.

Navy , white, and lighter colors are the perfect tones to choose for your nautical voyage. When it comes to patterns and styles, off-the-shoulder dresses, halter tops, spaghetti straps, and sequins can add beauty to your sophisticated look.

Why Buy From NYD?

NewYorkDress is a company that keeps up with the trending fashion for any kind of sophisticated, formal event. We feature exclusive designers that offer the best formal and gala dresses to bring as your formal cruise dinner dresses. Our selection of styles is perfect for cruise formal wear, and we love to make sure our customers look fabulous and elegant wherever they go. We like to make our dresses affordable for every woman who’s going to steal the show in the selection of their choice. Get ready for your voyage by shopping from our designer cruise gowns today!

LaDivine CH135 Dress

Terani 1912E9202 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS2045 Dress

Andrea and Leo 5024 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS1986 Dress

Cecilia Couture 1409 Dress

La Femme 28176 Dress

Ivonne D 117D66 Dress

MNM Couture M0042 Dress

Clarisse 4852 Dress

Andrea and Leo A5007 Dress

Terani 1921M0473 Dress

Marsoni M140 Dress

MNM Fouad Sarkis 2284 Dress

Terani 2011M2159 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS6110 Dress

LaDivine CM327 Dress

Terani 1911E9128 Dress

Andrea and Leo 13493 Dress

Cecilia Couture 1405 Dress

LaDivine CD989 Dress

Janique K7031 Dress

Mac Duggal 5615 Dress

Cameron Blake 115604 Dress

Lucci Lu 1196 Dress

La Femme 28206 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS22666 Dress

Colors Dress 1768 Dress

Terani 1913M9414 Dress

Mac Duggal 26612 Dress

Terani 2111M5289 Dress

Lara 29924 Dress

Recently viewed, our return policy.

We take pride in our quality products and service, and we value our relationship with you. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we are happy to accept your item(s) back for store credit or exchange within 7 days of receiving your order. Store credit never expires.

Store credit will be issued for the total amount of the order minus shipping costs, discounts and promotions. A $12 return shipping label is available, which would be deducted from the store credit amount if you choose to use our label. The return label can only be issued for Domestic orders. Any return shipping costs, taxes, duties, or customs fees incurred for international orders are non-creditable and are the responsibility of the customer.

Your order must be in perfect condition, unworn with tags attached. Please follow our very simple return process:

• Email us at [email protected] within 7 days of receiving your order
• Make sure to include your order number in the request.
• Advise if you would like an exchange or store credit. For exchanges, make sure to include the style, size, and color for the new order.
• Your package must be postmarked within 5 days of receiving your RA number.
• Store credit cannot be exchanged for a refund.

Please note all sale items are FINAL and are not eligible for exchanges or store credit. We do not accept return requests past 7 days of receiving your order.

Orders sent back without an RA number are subject to a 50% fee and will ultimately delay your store credit or exchange order.

Processing time for Returns is 2-4 business days. Once processed, you will receive an email with your store credit number that you can apply to an order now or in the future. If you placed an exchange order you will receive an email when your order is shipped.

Upon inspection, if it is determined that the item has been worn, altered, tampered with, or damaged without prior notification your return authorization will be voided and the item will be shipped back to you.

A Note About Sizing

All of our dresses are sized in US sizes according to each designer’s specifications; therefore, the size you normally wear may not be the size you would wear in a dress from our site. Before you choose your size, we recommend looking at the size chart for the dress you are interested in to make sure you are choosing the best size for your measurements. To make sure you are getting the best size, click on the ‘Size Chart’ link above the dropdowns or at the bottom of the size dropdown on your dress of choice. 

CANCELLATION POLICY

Your order can be cancelled at no charge prior to processing.*

In-Stock Items If you wish to cancel an in-stock item from your order after it has been processed,* a 25% restocking fee will be applied and deducted from your payment.

Pre-Order Items 

If you wish to cancel a pre-order item from your order after it has been processed,* a 50% restocking fee will be applied and deducted from your payment.

Special Order Items 

Special Orders are unable to be cancelled as these items are cut specifically for you.

*Processing/Processed- payment verified, item(s) ordered and confirmed by our vendors.

Your satisfaction is our top priority. If you are unsatisfied for any reason please let us know and we will make it right. Please contact us if you need us to help. We are here to serve you.

Free Shipping over $199

• New Arrivals
• Long Dresses
• Short Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Cocktail Dresses
• Cruise Dresses
• Formal Dresses
• Graduation Dresses
• Homecoming Dresses
• Military Ball Dresses
• Party Dresses
• Prom Dresses
• Semi Formal
• Wedding Guest Dresses
• Shop All Occasions
• Black Dresses
• Blue Dresses
• Gold Dresses
• Green & Mint Dresses
• Nude & Neutral Dresses
• Pink & Blush Dresses
• Purple Dresses
• Red Dresses
• Silver & Gray Dresses
• White & Ivory Dresses
• Yellow Dresses
• A-Line Dresses
• Casual Dresses
• Little Black Dress
• Little White Dress
• Mermaid Dresses
• Off the Shoulder Dresses
• Print Dresses
• Sleek Dresses
• Dresses Under $100
• Dresses Under $200
• Plus Long Dresses
• Plus Short Dresses
• Plus on Sale
• Plus Formal Dresses
• Plus Holiday Dresses
• Plus Wedding Guest Dresses
• Plus Cocktail Dresses
• Plus Prom Dresses
• Plus Party Dresses
• Shop All Plus Occasions
• Plus Mermaid Dresses
• Plus Sleek Dresses
• Plus Print Dresses
• Plus A-Line Dresses
• Shop All Plus Styles
• Plus Black Dresses
• Plus Nude & Neutral Dresses
• Plus Blue Dresses
• Plus Pink & Blush Dresses
• Plus Red Dresses
• Plus White & Ivory Dresses
• Plus Silver & Gray Dresses
• Plus Green & Mint Dresses
• Plus Purple Dresses
• Aleta Couture
• Alyce Paris
• Andrea & Leo
• Dancing Queen
• Dave & Johnny
• Ellie Wilde
• JVN by Jovani
• Shop Formal
• Bachelorette Party
• Bridesmaids
• Destination Bridal
• Guest Dresses
• Mother of Bride/Groom
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Prom on Sale
• Bridesmaids on Sale
• Long on Sale
• Short on Sale
• $19 Dress Sale
• Warehouse Sale - Up to 95% Off

Cruise Dresses, Casual and Formal Cruise Dresses

• Dress 33 in <br><br>Hollow to Hem 32 in 2
• Floor Length 2
• Blue Floral 1
• Burnt Orange 1
• Champagne 1
• Diamond Blue 1
• Dusty Blue 2
• Light Blue 1
• Ocean Blue 1
• Rose Gold 1
• Teal Floral 1
• White Floral 2
• White Multi 1
• Yellow Floral 1
• bar-mitzvah 1
• cocktail-dresses 2
• graduation 1
• homecoming 4
• rehearsal-dinner 1
• semi-formal 4
• short-formal 1
• hourglass 3
• pear_shaped 1
• Annva USA 1
• Do + Be Collection 1
• Lovely Day 1
• Luxxel Clothing 1
• Mustard Seed 1
• Best selling
• Alphabetically, A-Z
• Alphabetically, Z-A
• Price, low to high
• Price, high to low
• Date, old to new
• Date, new to old

The highest price is $149.00

V-Neck Short Glitter-Knit Homecoming Party Dress

Short homecoming v-neck metallic party dress, juliette by velvi sequin mini hoco dress, tori by velvi ruched mini homecoming dress, short blush pink wedding-guest party dress, amy by velvi little white party dress, short ruffled casual summer dress, little white dress chloe by velvi, malibu by velvi fringe-wrap mini dress, ace by velvi one shoulder little white dress, kiara by velvi corset white short dress, vera by velvi short a-line party dress, isla by velvi front-tie casual wrap mini dress, formal long dress greta by velvi, short dress tahlia by velvi, formal long dress sydney by velvi, statement-shoulder ruched tess mini dress, sochi by velvi feather cocktail dress, cali by velvi long print maxi dress, sleeved tiered gingham short casual swing dress, short tiered casual summer dress with ruffles, short black cocktail dress with long sleeves, cap-sleeve short ruffled graduation party dress, ruffled one-shoulder short black party dress, all aboard what types of dresses will i need for cruise wear.

Have fun in the Caribbean sun in short casual dresses, cold-shoulder cruise dresses, or light and breezy a-line dresses. For sun-kissed shoulders, a variety of sleeveless open-back dresses, short strapless cruise dresses, and off-the-shoulder casual summer dresses in lightweight fabrics work best in the sultry heat.

Beautiful floral-print cruise dresses, sassy multi-tiered casual dresses, and stylish midi dresses with nautical stripes are well-suited for passengers that are having a tropical drink or two at the ship’s bars, visiting cruise ports, or exploring their options at the buffet line. When the sun goes down and the tropical breezes bring cooler temperatures, long flowing maxi dresses, shift cruise dresses with bell sleeves, and long-sleeve sheath dresses help to battle the chill for shopping excursions and fun activities once the ship has docked.

Simply Dresses has fancy cruise dresses for nighttime fun. Beautiful lace evening dresses for cruises and charming high-low party dresses with low v-necks are sure to impress when you are summoned for dinner at the Captain’s table. Sexy little black dresses with sparkling sequins and elegant empire-waist gowns with layers of silky chiffon are overflowing with style for specialty parties or entertainment venues.

Browse this collection of cruise dresses that makes it easy and fun to find stylish cruise wear that keeps you cool and comfortable on the ship’s deck or radiating sophistication on the dance floor. A large selection of these cruise dresses are offered in plus sizes, as well as misses. Don’t forget your camera, because you are sure to be making a picture-perfect fashion statement for beach excursions or heating up the night for a romantic dinner for two while wearing a beautiful designer cruise dress from Simply Dresses.

Be the first to know about the latest deals, style updates & more!

Your cart ( 0 )

Your cart is empty.

• Prom dresses 2024
• Modest prom dresses
• Affordable prom dresses
• Junior prom dresses
• Plus size prom dresses
• After prom dresses
• Two piece prom dresses
• Classic prom dresses
• Short prom dresses
• Long prom dresses
• Long sleeve prom dresses
• Strapless prom dresses
• Tight prom dresses
• Lace prom dresses
• Mermaid prom dresses
• Sequin prom dresses
• Satin prom dresses
• Floral prom dresses
• Black prom dresses
• Red prom dresses
• Green prom dresses
• White prom dresses
• Pastel prom dresses
• Mauve prom dresses
• Blue prom dresses
• Pink prom dresses
• Orange prom dresses
• Yellow prom dresses
• Gold prom dresses
• Silver prom dresses
• Purple prom dresses
• Lavender prom dresses
• Champagne prom dresses
• Burgundy prom dresses
• Ashley lauren
• Sherri hill
• Cinderella divine
• All designer collections
• Formal gowns
• Formal dance
• Formal pantsuits
• Winter formals & balls
• Plus size formal dresses
• Homecoming dresses 2024
• Modest homecoming dresses
• Plus size homecoming dresses
• Cheap homecoming dresses
• Long homecoming dresses
• Short homecoming dresses
• Mini homecoming dresses
• Knee length homecoming dresses
• Tight homecoming dresses
• Strapless homecoming dresses
• Long sleeve homecoming dresses
• Floral homecoming dresses
• Blue homecoming dresses
• Pink homecoming dresses
• White homecoming dresses
• Black homecoming dresses
• Purple homecoming dresses
• Lavender homecoming dresses
• Green homecoming dresses
• Orange homecoming dresses
• Yellow homecoming dresses
• Gold homecoming dresses
• Silver homecoming dresses
• Champagne homecoming dresses
• All quinceañera dresses
• Blue quinceanera dresses
• Pink quinceanera dresses
• Black quinceanera dresses
• White quinceanera dresses
• Red quinceanera dresses
• Purple quinceanera dresses
• Lavender quinceanera dresses
• Green quinceanera dresses
• Orange quinceanera dresses
• Yellow quinceanera dresses
• Champagne quinceanera dresses
• Gold quinceanera dresses
• Silver quinceanera dresses
• Cheap quinceanera dresses
• Long sleeve quinceanera dresses
• Ball gowns dresses
• Birthday dresses
• Formal dance dresses
• Graduation dresses
• Holiday dresses
• Prom dresses
• Military ball dresses
• Pageant dresses
• Quinceanera dresses
• Sweet 16 dresses
• Cruise dresses
• Family celebration dresses
• Rehearsal dinner dresses
• Dating dresses
• Bar mitzvah dresses
• Black tie dresses
• White graduationdresses
• Wedding dresses
• Bridesmaid dresses
• Mother of the bride dresses
• Wedding guest dresses
• Mother of groom dresses
• Reception dresses
• Bridal shower dresses
• Black tie wedding guest dresses
• Bridal dresses
• All wedding collections
• All bridesmaid collections
• Mini dresses
• Strapless dresses
• Trumpet dresses
• Backless dresses
• Bows dresses
• Sweetheart dresses
• One shoulder dresses
• Evening gowns dresses
• Little black dresses
• Mermaid dresses
• Sleeveless dresses
• Two piece dresses
• Formal pantsuits dresses
• Midi dresses
• Sleeves dresses
• Empire waist dresses
• Ruched dresses
• Semi formal dresses
• Babydoll dresses
• A-line dresses
• halter dresses
• sexy and sleek dresses
• illusion dresses
• low v-neck dresses
• Corset dresses
• fit & flare dresses
• open back dresses
• Long black dresses
• Bodycon dresses
• cut out dresses
• little white dresses
• Pleated dresses
• v-neck dresses
• Fall collection
• Spring collection
• Summer collection
• Winter collection
• All new collections
• High-low dresses
• Long dresses
• Short dresses
• Knee length dresses
• Tea length dresses
• Pastel dresses
• Embroidery dresses
• Neon dresses
• Floral dresses
• Ombre dresses
• Metallic dresses
• Lace dresses
• Polka dot dresses
• Stripe dresses
• Print dresses
• Sequin dresses
• All fabric dresses
• Apple body dresses
• Busty body dresses
• Hourglass body dresses
• Pear-shaped body dresses
• Petite body dresses
• Slender body dresses

• Plus size black dresses
• Plus size mother of the bride dresses
• Plus size evening dresses
• Plus size sleeves dresses
• Plus size red dresses
• Plus size blue dresses
• Plus size purple dresses
• Plus size wedding guest dresses
• All plus size collections
• All dresses on sale
• Formal gowns on sale
• Cocktail dresses on sale
• Mother of the bride on sale
• Bridesmaid dresses on sale
• Prom dresses on sale
• Plus size dresses on sale
• Homecoming dresses on sale
• Long dresses on sale
• Short dresses on sale
• Party dresses on sale
• Quinceanera dresses on sale
• Ball gowns on sale
• Adrianna papell
• Alex evenings
• Alexander by daymor
• Alyce paris
• Aleta couture
• Andrea and leo
• Ava presley dresses
• Cameron blake by mon cheri
• Cinderella couture
• Colors dress
• Dancing queen
• Elizabeth k
• Feriani couture
• Gls by gloria
• Ieena duggal
• Ivonne d for mon cheri
• Jasz couture
• Johnathan kayne
• Juliet dresses
• Jvn by jovani
• Ladivine by cinderella divine
• Lara dresses
• Marsoni by colors
• Mgny by mori lee
• Mnm couture
• Montage by mon cheri
• Portia and scarlett
• Primavera couture
• Princesa by ariana vara
• Rachel allan
• Tadashi shoji
• Terani couture
• Tiffany designs
• Vizcaya by mori lee
• No products in the cart.

• Prom Dresses 2024
• Modest Prom Dresses
• Affordable Prom Dresses
• Junior Prom Dresses
• Plus Size Prom Dresses
• After Prom Dresses

Prom By Style

• Classic Prom Dresses
• Short Prom Dresses
• Two Piece Prom Dresses
• Long Prom Dresses
• Long Sleeve Prom Dresses
• Strapless Prom Dresses
• Tight Prom Dresses
• Lace Prom Dresses
• Mermaid Prom Dresses
• Sequin Prom Dresses
• Satin Prom Dresses
• Floral Prom Dresses

Prom By Color

• Black Prom Dresses
• Red Prom Dresses
• Green Prom Dresses
• White Prom dresses
• Pastel Prom Dresses
• Mauve Prom Dresses
• Blue Prom Dresses
• Pink Prom Dresses
• Orange Prom Dresses
• Yellow Prom Dresses
• Gold Prom Dresses
• Silver Prom Dresses
• Purple Prom Dresses
• Lavender Prom Dresses
• Champagne Prom Dresses
• Burgundy Prom Dresses

Prom By Designer

• Ashley Lauren
• Sherri Hill
• Cinderella Divine
• All Designer Collections

• Formal Gowns
• Formal Dance
• Formal Pantsuits
• Winter Formals & Balls
• Plus Size Formal Dresses

All Homecoming

• Homecoming Dresses 2024
• Modest Homecoming Dresses
• Plus Size Homecoming Dresses
• Cheap Homecoming Dresses

Homecoming By Style

• Long Homecoming Dresses
• Short Homecoming Dresses
• Mini Homecoming Dresses
• Knee Length Homecoming Dresses
• Tight Homecoming Dresses
• Strapless Homecoming Dresses
• Long Sleeve Homecoming Dresses
• Floral Homecoming Dresses

Homecoming By Color

• Blue Homecoming Dresses
• Pink Homecoming Dresses
• White Homecoming Dresses
• Black Homecoming Dresses
• Red Homecoming Dresses
• Purple Homecoming Dresses
• Lavender Homecoming Dresses
• Green Homecoming Dresses
• Orange Homecoming Dresses
• Yellow Homecoming Dresses
• Gold Homecoming Dresses
• Silver Homecoming Dresses
• Champagne Homecoming Dresses

• All Quinceañera Dresses
• Blue Quinceanera Dresses
• Pink Quinceanera Dresses
• Black Quinceanera Dresses
• White Quinceanera Dresses
• Red Quinceanera Dresses
• Purple Quinceanera Dresses
• Lavender Quinceanera Dresses
• Green Quinceanera Dresses
• Orange Quinceanera Dresses
• Yellow Quinceanera Dresses
• Champagne Quinceanera Dresses
• Gold Quinceanera Dresses
• Silver Quinceanera Dresses
• Cheap Quinceanera Dresses
• Long Sleeve Quinceanera Dresses
• Ball Gowns Dresses
• Birthday Dresses
• Black Tie Dresses
• Formal Dance Dresses
• Graduation Dresses
• Holiday Dresses
• Prom Dresses
• Military Ball Dresses
• Pageant Dresses
• Quinceanera Dresses
• Sweet 16 Dresses

Cruise Dresses

• Family Celebration Dresses
• Rehearsal Dinner Dresses
• Dating Dresses
• Bar Mitzvah Dresses
• White Graduation Dresses

Wedding/MOB

• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Wedding Guest Dresses
• Mother of Groom Dresses
• Reception Dresses
• Bridal Dresses
• Bridal Shower Dresses
• Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
• All Wedding Collections
• All Bridesmaid Collections
• Mini Dresses
• Ruched Dresses
• Strapless Dresses
• Semi Formal Dresses
• Trumpet Dresses
• Babydoll Dresses
• A-Line Dresses
• Bows Dresses
• Halter Dresses
• Sweetheart Dresses
• Sexy and Sleek Dresses
• One Shoulder Dresses
• Illusion Dresses
• Evening Gowns Dresses
• Low V-Neck Dresses
• Corset Dresses
• Little Black Dresses
• Fit & Flare Dresses
• Mermaid Dresses
• Open Back Dresses
• Sleeveless Dresses
• Bodycon Dresses
• Two Piece Dresses
• Cut Out Dresses
• Formal Pantsuits Dresses
• Little White Dresses
• Midi Dresses
• Pleated Dresses
• Sleeves Dresses
• V-Neck Dresses
• Backless Dresses
• Long Black Dresses
• Empire Waist Dresses

New Collection

• Fall Collection
• Spring Collection
• Summer Collection
• Winter Collection
• All New Collections
• High-Low Dresses
• Long Dresses
• Short Dresses
• Knee Length Dresses
• Tea Length Dresses
• Pastel Dresses
• Embroidery Dresses
• Neon Dresses
• Floral Dresses
• Ombre Dresses
• Metallic Dresses
• Lace Dresses
• Polka Dot Dresses
• Stripe Dresses
• Print Dresses
• Sequin Dresses
• All Fabric Dresses
• Apple Body Dresses
• Busty Body Dresses
• Hourglass Body Dresses
• Pear-Shaped Body Dresses
• Petite Body Dresses
• Slender Body Dresses
• Black Dresses
• Blue Dresses
• Green Dresses
• Nude Dresses
• Pink Dresses
• Red Dresses
• Burgundy Dresses
• Gold Dresses
• White Dresses
• Chocolate Dresses
• Yellow Dresses
• Ivory Dresses
• Silver Gray Dresses
• Orange Dresses
• Purple Dresses
• Champagne Dresses
• Plus Size Black Dresses
• Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Plus Size Evening Dresses
• Plus Size Dresses
• Plus Size Sleeves Dresses
• Plus Size Red Dresses
• Plus Size Blue Dresses
• Plus Size Purple Dresses
• Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
• All Plus Size Collections

Dresses On Sale

• All Dresses On Sale
• Formal Gowns On Sale
• Cocktail Dresses On Sale
• Mother of the Bride On Sale
• Bridesmaid Dresses On Sale
• Prom Dresses On Sale
• Plus Size Dresses On Sale
• Homecoming Dresses On Sale
• Long Dresses On Sale
• Short Dresses On Sale
• Party Dresses On Sale
• Quinceanera Dresses On Sale
• Ball Gowns On Sale

Designer On Sale

• Mac Duggal Sale
• Jovani Sale
• La Femme Sale
• Tarik Ediz Flash Sale
• Sherri Hill Sale
• Cinderella Divine Sale
• Adrianna Papell
• Alexander by Daymor
• Alex Evenings
• Aleta Couture
• Alyce Paris
• Andrea and Leo
• Ava Presley Dresses
• Colors Dress
• Dancing Queen
• Elizabeth K
• Ellie Wilde
• Feriani Couture
• Gatti Nolli Couture
• GLS by Gloria
• Ieena Duggal
• Ivonne D for Mon Cheri
• Jasz Couture
• Johnathan Kayne
• Juliet Dresses
• JS Boutique
• Ladivine by Cinderella Divine
• Lara Dresses
• Marsoni by Colors
• MNM Couture
• MGNY by Mori Lee
• Montage by Mon Cheri
• Portia and Scarlett
• Primavera Couture
• All Designers
• Rachel Allan
• Tadashi Shoji
• Terani Couture
• Tiffany Designs
• Vizcaya by Mori Lee

from $700.00

• Nude Silver

from $550.00

• Black/Royal
• Black/Silver
• Bright Fuchsia
• Spring Green

from $1,500.00

from $598.00

from $348.00

• Bright Orange
• Dark Platinum
• Light Blush

from $800.00

• Grey/Silver

from $869.00

from $605.00

• Sky Blue/Diamond White

from $578.00

• Vintage Lilac

$199.00 $398.00

• Emerald Green
• Beige/Multi
• Forest Green

from $438.00

• Electric Fuchsia

from $790.00

from $583.00

from $900.00

• Black-Silver
• Niagara Blue-Diamond White

from $590.00

from $1,590.00

• Nude/Silver

from $649.00

from $1,573.00

• Taupe Lavender
• Barbie Pink
• Blue Turquoise
• Ivory/Blush

from $538.00

Shop Chic Cruise Dresses 2024, Beautiful Cruise Dinner Outfits Collection

If you want to look sexy and sophisticated at the same time for a cruise dinner, it is time to go through the cruise dresses collection of Couture Candy. Showcasing the best options of 2024, the cruise dinner dresses collection has a myriad of items to select from such as cruise maxi dresses, cruise casual dresses, long cruise dresses, formal cruise dresses and so on. While shopping for cruise evening dresses, keep in mind that the perfect option is available for every body type such as cruise dresses plus size, petite cruise dresses and many more. Among the best cruise dresses, there are fitted tea-length cute cruise dresses, modest cruise dresses for formal night in different colors and romantic cruise dinner dresses featuring the most sophisticated designs on high-quality fabrics like velvet, silk etc.

Couture Candy’s Cruise Evening Dresses for Your Special Occasion

If you are a bride who is looking forward to an amazing wedding celebration on a cruise, it’s the perfect opportunity to browse through the mind-blowing cruise wedding dresses in order to come across the perfect one that will go with your personal style, the venue and the overall vibe. Go with fitted if you want to show off the curves and flaring if you want a more traditional look.

Gorgeous Cruise Formal Night Dresses for a Memorable Outfit

of the best and renowned designers experimented with creating cruise formal night dresses collections. Similarly, Couture Candy is here with to charm all the fashionistas with more positive and stunning designs. With the good times, our 2024 cruise dresses in mini, maxi, midi, long, short,long, full sleeve, and off the shoulder styles are a sure thing to add to your celebration and holiday season wardrobe. Whether you are looking for a Floral Off Shoulder Trumpet Gown, Embroidered And Velvet A-Line Dress, One Shoulder Fitted Beaded Jersey Mini Dress With Sash, or a One Shoulder Fitted Beaded Jersey Full Sleeve Dress With Sash, Couture Candy 2024 edit of formal cruise dresses and cruise cocktail dresses has got all your style preferences covered.

Shop now and save up to 71% on our featured bestsellers of standard and plus size dresses for cruises.

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

What To Wear On A Cruise: Dressing For The Vacation Of Your Dreams

By Taylor Fuller | Published on January 24, 2024

So you've booked your dream vacation sailing on the open seas, but you're not sure what to wear on a cruise. Don't worry — cruise vacations take the stress out of travel, and your wardrobe should reflect the laid-back vibes you'll feel as you sail through paradise. The quintessential cruise style is easy to pull off; think vibrant colors, tropical prints and lightweight fabrics.

When you're planning a weekend away, it's important to pack smart. Whether your plan is to cruise through islands, posting up on stunning beaches and swimming in warm, crystal-clear waters, or to hike ancient ruins and wander through medeival cities, this guide will help you pick out the best cruise wear for your trip.

1. What To Wear On A Weekend Getaway Cruise

Packing outfits for vacation can be overwhelming, especially if you're one to overpack for a trip. If that's you, a weekend getaway  can be the perfect challenge for you to curb your bad habits and stick to packing for versatility. The best advice I can give is to pack for the vacation you want to have. Weekend cruises are a great way to unwind and explore another world in a short amount of time, so pack for busy days where you'll be going from the beach to a museum, out to lunch and then back to the beach. For example, pack a swimsuit and some chic sunglasses for the relaxing beach day you're craving, and bring along a breezy cover-up and sandals or comfortable shoes, so you can check out the cool town during lunchtime.

If you're new to cruising, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that there are activities and events that happen onboard the ship in the evenings and on sea days. Most cruise vacations include at least one formal night where everyone dresses their best for a special dinner. Cruise formal wear still embraces the relaxed energy of sailing, so outfits like a lightweight sport coat, chinos, a colorful dress or a jumpsuit will fit right in. You'll also want to include some smart casual looks, which means something that's a step up from sneakers and sweatpants for your other evening meals.

For sea days when traveling in a warmer climate, you'll definitely want a swimsuit if you plan to take advantage of the onboard water park. However, if you're cruising through a colder region like Canada, you'll want a jacket and some warm layers, so you can stay comfortable on deck.

2. Packing For Your Vacation Plans

Planning ahead for your cruise vacation will help you pack for every moment. Most onshore excursions require reservations, so discuss with your family or travel buddies what kind of activities you cannot miss on your trip ahead of time. If you book an excursion that requires physical activity, opt for comfortable clothing you can move around in like leggings, shorts, sneakers, hiking boots if you're hitting trails, a light jacket (depending on the region you're exploring) and a sturdy backpack. Though hiking boots can take up precious suitcase space, they're essential for exploring a tropical jungle or mountainous terrain, and can double as comfortable shoes for long days spent sightseeing. If you have whale-watching on your agenda, pack a jacket in case it's cold or misty, a hat so you don't get sunburnt, and binoculars.

A quick weekend cruise can take you to some amazing places. I recommend using your time wisely and trying to see as much as you can. For example, a two-night Cyprus cruise  is all about beaches, history and incredible cuisine. Pack outfits that you'll be comfortable in even when the sun is scorching hot, so you don't have to worry about going back to the ship to get changed midday. Effortless flowy skirts and airy linen shirts make great cover-ups for swimwear that will protect your skin from the sun as you explore ancient sites. Comfortable shoes are a must for a trip like this, whether that's a flat sandal with straps or sneakers. Just make sure you're wearing something that won't get caught in the cobblestone streets of Cyprus. Add some fun accessories like a hat or sunglasses and a tote bag to carry all of your souvenirs, and voila  — you have an all-day outfit mapped out.

If cooler climes and rugged mountains call to you, consider a cruise to Canada . Of course, British Columbia requires a different packing strategy than a trip to The Bahamas or the Mediterranean. Even when cruising in the summer months, be sure to dress for the destination, not the season — layers are your friend here. Pack some thin thermals you can layer under your clothes if necessary, so you can spend the day comfortably strolling along the Inner Harbour and checking out Victoria's most notable landmarks. Don't forget a hat and gloves and some wool socks to keep your toes warm, too! When you're hanging out onboard, a thin, packable windbreaker or jacket will come in handy, so you can sit out on the deck with a cup of coffee, admiring the breathtaking scenery.

Still unsure about what to wear on a cruise? Whether you're packing cruisewear for women, men or non-binary people, I recommend getting creative. My favorite part of going on a vacation is that I get to wear things I wouldn't normally wear in my day-to-day. I love putting together patterns and colors that may feel a little funky and wearing sunglasses the size of my face. Take risks with your wardrobe! Your dream vacation will only be that much more memorable.

No matter what type of cruise you're looking for, you're sure to have a blast when you pack the perfect cruise wardrobe. Whether you're interested in history and want to explore ruins or would rather relax on the beach with a cold beverage in hand, there's a cruise getaway waiting for you. So what are you waiting for? Start searching for your next weekend adventure.

Get away this weekend on a cruise .

STARTING FROM 

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Related Articles

The Best Time to Visit Bermuda | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Girls and guys weekend trip ideas: How to plan a cruise getaway | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Best Long Weekend Getaways to the Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Can You Take Days Off Without PTO? Here's What You Need to Know | Royal Caribbean Cruises

EXPLORE MORE

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Occasionwear

Information links, formal cruisewear.

Our Favourites

Price High To Low

Price Low To High

Title Ascending

Title Descending

casual cruisewear

summer cruise

winter cruise

Under £10

£10 - £20

£20 - £30

£30 - £40

£40 - £50

£50 - £60

Above £60

3/4 Sleeve Rochette Jacket

Floral pleated maxi dress, ruched 3/4 sleeve blazer jacket, textured longline jacket, straight leg stretch trouser, tailored jacquard jacket, ruched hem chiffon bolero, petite butterfly print buckle detail dress, cowl neck ruched stretch jumpsuit, pleated halter neck maxi dress, cropped knitted shrug, floral print tie waist maxi dress, mesh longline kimono, double fluted 3/4 length sleeve dress, petite pleated midi dress, palm print mesh overlay maxi dress, embellished cuff top, sleeveless ruched bodycon stretch dress, petite floral print buckle detail dress, cross front midi dress, petite sequin trim chiffon cape dress, elasticated mesh layered skirt, floral drape twist ruched maxi dress, floral pleated swing dress, embellished frill swing dress, abstract print chiffon draped tunic dress, twist front stretch dress, floral print chiffon cape dress, curve straight smart trousers, floral print dipped hem jacquard dress, abstract print chiffon overlay dress, tropical print maxi dress, lace top overlay pleated midi dress, floral frill detail halterneck dress, spot print frill hem midi dress, embellished stretch twist waist ruched dress, curve shirred waist maxi dress, floral frill detail wrap dress, floral print dipped hem midi dress, spot print wide leg wrap jumpsuit, petite abstract print pleated midi dress, petite spot print buckle detail dress, tie dye print layer midi dress, sequin tie back detail top, sequin trim overlay jumpsuit, floral frill premium stretch ruched dress, floral print back detail maxi dress, ombre buckle detail maxi stretch dress, petite floral frill detail wrap dress, fit and flare lace midi dress, burnout tie sleeve overlay top, floral chiffon frill midi dress, scarf print halter neck maxi dress, drape twist maxi stretch dress, floral contrast tapework dress, tiered embellished neck chiffon dress, embellished flapper dress, contrast spot print fit & flare dress, curve spot print midi dress, petite ruched wrap midi dress, knot detail premium stretch midi dress, paisley print halter neck maxi dress, abstract zebra print tiered midi dress, curve paisley print chiffon vest top, floral print chiffon tiered midi dress, abstract plisse twist front dress, petite cold shoulder paisley hanky hem top, petite button detail textured jacket, marble print wrap mesh dress, luxe floral fit & flare maxi dress, sleeveless floral halter neck midi dress, petite floral chiffon cape dress, drape twist stretch ruched maxi dress, petite paisley print dipped frill hem dress, floral print chiffon cape jumpsuit, luxe colourblock fit & flare maxi dress, floral print side ruched dress, limited floral halterneck shift dress, sleeveless sequin trim stretch dress, sleeveless frill detail chiffon dress, flute hem lace midi dress, premium stretch gathered ruched wrap dress, leaf print luxe stretch shift dress, velvet twist front maxi stretch dress, pleated halter neck wide leg stretch jumpsuit, contrast print stretch lace dress, petite floral print chiffon dress, button back printed shift dress, ruched sleeveless stretch maxi dress, curve chiffon overlay floral dress, foil spot print top and necklace, lace bodice wide leg jumpsuit, angel sleeve cropped wrap jumpsuit, floral print chiffon maxi dress, floral print premium stretch dress, floral print pleated midi dress, abstract print twist drape ruched maxi dress, leaf print twist detail shift dress, zip detail stretch legging.

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Cruise Formal Night Explained: 10 Things to Know (What to Wear and More…)

Formal night on a cruise is a classic tradition, but for many passengers, it can also lead to lots of questions. Do I have to dress up? What can I wear? When are the formal nights?

We’ve taken dozens of cruise and know that for those unfamiliar with formal night, it can feel a bit unnerving trying to figure out the ins and outs of dressing up. No one wants to head to dinner underdressed. At the same time, some people don’t want to dress up at all and prefer to know what other options they have.

Below, we’ve covered some of the most frequent questions about formal night on a cruise.

In This Article...

What Is a Cruise Formal Night?

Just as the name implies, formal night is the evening on the cruise when the dress code goes from the casual style that’s normal around the ship to more elegant. It’s a chance for passengers on the ship to put on their best and have an evening out that feels more special than just going to grab dinner in the dining room.

You’ll find people around the ship dressed up, having drinks, taking formal pictures, and enjoying dinner and a show. Think of it as a special event where many passengers have an elegant “date night” that’s more memorable than just another dinner on the ship.

Do I Have to Dress Up?

Absolutely not. Your cruise is your own. If you don’t want to dress up for the evening, then you certainly don’t have to do so. Many people choose to keep it casual. If you decide that shorts and a t-shirt are as formal as you want to get, you won’t be alone.

However, if you do decide to not dress up, it’s a good idea to dine outside of the main dining room or higher-end specialty restaurants. These are spots that request nicer dress during formal night.

Even if casual dress is allowed in the dining room during formal night, you might feel out of place with others wearing suits or evening gowns.

What Can I Wear to Formal Night? Do I Have to Wear a Tux or an Evening Gown?

Perhaps the biggest question around formal night on a cruise is what to wear. What’s acceptable is wide-ranging. No, you don’t have to go out and get a tuxedo or a formal evening gown unless you want to.

For instance, you can go all out and dress up in your best. And you will see some people around the cruise ship go this route. But you don’t have to wear a suit or tux to enjoy the evening.

Women can simply wear a cocktail dress or a nice blouse with pants. For men, it’s fine to wear a suit, or even a buttoned-down shirt and a pair of slacks if you don’t want to get too fancy. Nice jeans would also be ok, although we’d suggest something slightly more dressy.

That said, not everything goes. There are some clothing items to avoid if you plan to eat in the dining room on formal night. This includes shorts, tank-tops, t-shirts, and swimsuits, as well as flip-flops. If you’d wear it to the pool or the beach, you don’t want to wear it to formal night.

• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Women): Gowns, dresses, skirts, blouses with pants
• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Men): Tuxedoes, suits, button-down shirts, slacks, nice jeans
• Avoid Wearing (Men and Women): Shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, flip-flops

Is The Dress Code Strictly Enforced?

Don’t worry, you aren’t likely to be denied entry to the dining room, even if you are dressed casually. It’s not like an exclusive nightclub that bars entry.

While the name might be “formal” or “elegant” night, you won’t be out of place as long as you dress nicer than a t-shirt and shorts. Remember, the cruise lines want you to enjoy yourself and not be worried about if you should be in a tuxedo.

For that reason, as long as you avoid wearing something very casual (e.g. flip flops, shorts, and a tank top), it’s likely to be no issue. Even so, we’d highly recommend dressing up somewhat if you plan on eating in a dining room or a nicer specialty restaurant. Not only will you feel more comfortable around others who are dressed up, but it also adds to the atmosphere of formal night for others.

Where Should I Eat If I Don’t Dress Up?

While the main dining room is the spot for formal eating during the evening, you won’t go hungry if you decide not to take part in dressing up. Every cruise ship offers a number of different places to eat, with many casual dining options for those who aren’t getting fancy for the evening.

For instance, instead of the main dining room you can head to the buffet or one of the 24-hour restaurants around the ship. The restaurant’s atmosphere will give you an idea of if it’s ok to eat there dressed casually or not. The fancy steakhouse? You want to go formal. The spot serving pizza? Shorts and a t-shirt are just fine.

Is Formal Night For Everywhere on the Ship?

While you’ll definitely see people dressed up all around the ship, the only place where you’ll find any sort of suggested or required dress code is in the dining room and/or specialty restaurants.

So if you are just hanging out around the ship — having a drink in a bar, playing in the casino, watching an evening show — then you are perfectly fine dressing down. You won’t be the only one. While many people participate in formal night, a considerable chunk of passengers don’t.

How Many Formal Nights Are There During the Cruise?

The number of formal nights varies based on the length of your cruise. The rule of thumb is that a week-long cruise will have two formal nights during the trip (i.e. Day 2 and Day 5). Shorter trips normally have one.

It may be that if you are on a very short cruise (e.g. three days), there might not even be one formal night. For instance, we’ve been on one short cruise with “Wear Your Best” (i.e. the nicest thing you packed) instead of formal night. 

Does Everyone on the Ship Dress Up?

No. If you decide to not dress up, then you certainly won’t be out of place. Many people choose to dress casually and just eat somewhere else other than the main dining room or higher-end restaurants. Even so, formal nights are popular and when you walk around the ship in the evening on one of these nights, there is no mistaking that it’s dressier than normal.

How Will I Know When it Is Formal Night?

Nothing would stop you in your tracks like heading down to dinner in a pair of shorts and then realizing everyone else is dressed up! Fortunately, you’ll get plenty of notice when it is formal night.

The most obvious spot will be with your daily cruise planner delivered to your cabin each day or through the cruise line’s app. There will be some mention of the dinner attire. It may be referred to as “formal” or “cruise elegant” or some other name. They all mean the same thing: Time to get dressed up!

As well, there are almost always announcements from the cruise director throughout the day sharing what is going on during the day and evening. They will usually mention it when it is formal night, so keep an ear out for announcements.

In the worst case, even if you don’t see any notice at all, you will definitely not miss the fact that many people are dressed up when you head to dinner that evening. That should give you a little time to head back to the room and dress up if you want to join in.

Do I Need to Dress Up at Any Other Time Than Formal Night?

For the most part, the only time you’ll need to dress anything other than casual is if you participate in formal night. That said, there are some spots where some nicer clothes are a good idea even if that evening’s dress code is casual.

Specifically, if you plan to visit any of the higher-end specialty restaurants on the ship, such as the steakhouse, then there may be a dress code.

Even if there is not, dressing up to fit the style of the restaurant is smart. So while it’s ok to dress casually at a burger joint on the ship, you’ll want to dress a little nicer if you go to the formal Italian or seafood spot for dinner.

Bottom Line on Cruise Formal Nights

The formal nights on a cruise are a fun way to do things a little differently. If you’re not someone that gets dressed up often, don’t worry. The rules around what’s formal and what’s not are flexible. As long as you make some sort of effort to dress a little nice, you’ll be fine. And if you want to go all out, you won’t be alone!

If you’re someone who likes to keep things casual, then that’s no issue either. While we’d suggest not eating the main dining room or nicer specialty restaurants on that night, you can wear what you want around the ship.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, cruising with a baby: what to know from someone who’s done it, answered: how much cash should you take on a cruise, 12 cruise tips that feel wrong (but are 100% right), how much cruise lines spend on food (less than you think), 44 must-have alaskan cruise tips, tricks, and secrets, 11 tips cruise lines don’t want you to know (but they aren’t against the rules).

I dressed up in an old maxi dress that was really oversized that I found from my daughter’s wedding 9 years ago. It was so flowing and pretty, so heck YEAH I wore it! I wore a nice outfit each night, like a skirt or dress. My embarkation outfit for the first night I modified by taking off the pants and putting on a skirt. I even kept the high boots on, which really worked! The last night I had a long ‘cover up’ dress that I gussied up with a sparkly throw and wedge high sandals.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

47 Major Crimes Were Alleged on U.S. Cruise Ships in the First Three Months of 2024. Here’s What to Know

The best gift ever for people that love cruises this might be it…, nearly 100 passengers fall ill with stomach virus on princess cruise, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer
• John Lewis Brands
• Customer services
• Our services
• Track order
• My John Lewis
• Partnership Credit Card

Formal Cruise Dresses

Adrianna Papell Jersey Tuxedo Maxi Dress, Midnight

£179.00

Very pleased with this dress the fabric is heavy so it falls perfect and true to size looking forward to wearing it on our...

Phase Eight Donna Maxi Dress

£149.00

Stunning dress ...Fits perfectly - a quality dress ! A dress that will suit so many occasions. ...Would be good if had the...

Pros: fit, color, shape

Live Unlimited Curve Knot Front Pleat Dress, Black

Was £119.00 , now £49.00

A beautiful dress ...Perfect for a formal summer evening.

Lace & Beads Avalon Sequined Bodice Maxi Dress, Blue

Was £105.00 , now £63.00

Making a dramatic entrance at your next event, this maxi dress by Lace & Beads boasts embellished detailing. Complete with...

Little Mistress Embroidered Floral Bandeau Maxi Dress, Purple

Was £200.00 , now £120.00

Carving a sleek silhouette with its ballgown shape, this maxi dress by Little Mistress boasts intricate embroidered detail....

Gina Bacconi Hillari Floral Embroidered Knee Length Dress

Was £200.00 , now £100.00

Elegant dress ...Lovely stylish dress , with plenty of stretch in the fabric

Pros: stretch, style

Adrianna Papell Knit Crepe Tiered Knee Length Dress

£130.00

Beautiful black dress ...This is a beautiful dress and gorgeous fit. I have the black dress ...Beautiful dress ...So looking...

Pros: fit, dress, quality

Gina Bacconi Drucilla Dress, Spring Navy

Was £260.00 , now £182.00

Feel elegant in the Drucilla dress by Gina Bacconi, perfect for formal events, weddings and evening parties. This piece...

Jolie Moi Pauline Abstract Print Dress, Navy Multi

£76.00

Designed from comfortably soft Jersey fabric in a flattering fit and flare silhouette, this Jolie Moi dress is printed with...

Pros: fit, weight, color

Gina Bacconi Dita Floral Jacquard Midi Dress, White/Pink

Was £240.00 , now £120.00

unflattering dress ...When it arrived,, the material was thick polyester and the ivory colour was unflattering. The dress...

Adrianna Papell Beaded Sheath Dress, Navy

Was £289.00 , now £202.30

Tailored to a sheath silhouette, this knee-length dress by Adrianna Papell is decorated with hand-sewn beadwork in a dazzling...

Boden V-Neck Empire Maxi Dress

Was £140.00 , now £77.00

Beautiful dress ...Long, but that's how I like to wear my dresses ....I bought it for formal nights on our holiday cruise ,...

Pros: fit, length, color

Aab Curved Hem Midi Shirt Dress, Nude

£58.00

Shirt dresses are a staple wardrobe piece and Aab have designed theirs to work both as formal smart wear or can be dressed...

Gina Bacconi Pelia Crepe Midi Dress

Was £180.00 , now £126.00

Fabulous dress , little long, but I am 5' will wear with heels. ...A very simple, but elegant, dress .

Pros: fit, color, simple

KAFFE India Vivi Cocktail Dress, Midnight Marine

£74.99

A sleek bodycon style for instant polish, this knee-length dress by KAFFE has a delicate lace embroidered neck. Fashioned...

Adrianna Papell Long Beaded Dress, Icy Sage

Was £249.00 , now £124.50

A masterclass in formal dressing, this floor-length dress from Adrianna Papell is made from a comfortable fabric with a...

Phase Eight Averie Floral Print Midi Dress, Multi

Was £149.00 , now £119.00

Beautiful dress ...The dress is Fully lined in pale pink. Love the flecks of gold which are very subtle but elevate it to...

Pros: fit, flattering, color

Jolie Moi Kynlee Frilly Shoulder Midi Dress, Pink/Multi

£31.20

Bought for cruise ...Bought this dress for a cruise and loved it fitted very well and gives a good shape there's a bit of...

Monsoon Kaftan Tie Dye Midi Dress, Turquoise

Was £75.00 , now £60.00

This dress really makes you look forward to warmer weather. ...Gorgeous Dress !...I was looking for an easy care dress that...

Pros: fit, hangs well, color

Jolie Moi Sapphire Floral Mesh Midi Dress

Was £85.00 , now £58.50

Dress matched the description, very comfortable fit, true to sizing....Beautiful dress ...A beautiful flattering dress ideal...

Pros: fit, comfort, pockets

Scarlett & Jo Pleated Skirt Dress, Navy/White

£100.00

Beautiful dress ...I am looking forward to wearing it in my next cruise and special events....Fantastic dress ...Bought this...

Pros: fit, shape, comfort

Scarlett & Jo Verity Maxi Gown Dress, Wine

£95.00

Fit is true to size. I feel this will dress up or be suitable for many less formal occasions too. ...Lovely floaty and flattering...

Hobbs Jaci Monochrome Knee Length Shift Dress, Ivory/Navy

Was £159.00 , now £119.00

Lovely dress ...I would recommend the dress and jacket as even with the cost of alterations it is an investment.

Pros: fit, dress, length

Jolie Moi Carleigh Floral Ruffle Hem Dress, Pink

Was £79.00 , now £58.50

The pretty pink colour is more dusky but adds an elegance and it fits well being true to size, all in all a great value...

Related Products

Allsaints frieda denim jumpsuit, khaki green, truly collar jumpsuit, black, white stuff selina slouchy jumpsuit, monsoon kids' stripe belted jumpsuit, aspiga ashley jumpsuit, related pages, formal lace dresses, tall formal dresses, casual pink dresses, dress code semi formal, formal clothes.

• Prom Dresses
• Long Prom Dresses
• Short Prom Dresses
• Plus Size Prom Dresses
• Mermaid Prom Dresses
• Corset Prom Dresses
• Long Sleeve Prom Dresses
• Sexy Prom Dresses
• Sequin Dresses
• Two Piece Prom Dresses
• Strapless Prom Dresses
• Unique Prom Dresses
• Black Prom Dresses
• Pink Prom Dresses
• Purple Prom Dresses
• Red Prom Dresses
• Burgundy Prom Dresses
• White Prom Dresses
• Blue Prom Dresses
• Royal Blue Prom Dresses
• Light Blue Prom Dresses
• Navy Blue Prom Dresses
• Blush Prom Dresses
• Yellow Prom Dresses
• Orange Prom Dresses
• Green Prom Dresses
• Sage Green Prom Dresses
• Silver Prom Dresses
• Gold Prom Dresses
• Short Long Sleeved Prom Dresses
• Two Piece Short Prom Dresses
• Black Short Prom Dresses
• Sexy Short Prom Dresses
• Best Selling Prom Dresses
• Jovani Prom Dresses
• Princess Prom Dresses
• Prom Dresses for Sale
• Cheap Prom Dresses
• Prom Dresses Under $100
• Prom Dresses Under $200
• All Formal Dresses
• Long Formal Dresses
• Short Formal Dresses
• Semi Formal
• Plus Size Formal Dresses
• Long Sleeve Formal Dresses
• Semi Formal Dresses
• Special Occasion Dresses
• Winter Formal Dresses
• Evening Dresses
• Vintage Formal Dresses
• Sequin Formal Dresses
• Red Formal Dresses
• Black Tie Dresses

• All Wedding Gowns
• Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses
• Plus Size Wedding Dresses
• Boho Wedding Dress
• Beach Wedding Dresses
• Short Wedding Dresses
• Wedding Dresses Rental
• Mermaid Wedding Dresses
• Simple Wedding Dresses
• Black Wedding Dresses
• Casual Wedding Dresses
• Cheap Wedding Dresses

• Wedding Guest Dresses
• Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
• Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
• Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
• Long Bridesmaids Dresses
• Short Bridesmaid Dresses
• Plus Size Bridesmaid Dresses
• Black Bridesmaid Dresses
• Burgundy Bridesmaid Dresses
• Emerald Green Bridesmaid Dresses
• Gold Bridesmaid Dresses

• Mother of the Bride and Groom Dresses
• Mother of the Groom Dresses Plus Size
• Long Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Short Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Mother of the Bride Pant Suits
• Long Sleeve Mother of Bride Dresses
• Petite Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Tea Length Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Grandmother of the Bride Dresses
• Modest Formal Dresses
• Black Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Gold Mother of the Bride Dresses
• Dusty Rose Mother of the Bride

• Plus Size Formal Dress
• Short Plus Size Dresses
• Long Plus Size Dresses
• Plus Size Cocktail Dresses
• Plus Size Party Dresses
• Plus Size Special Occasion Dresses
• Plus Size Sequin Dresses
• Plus Size Pant Suits
• Plus Size Black Dresses

• Featured Party Dresses
• Metallic Dresses
• Dusty Rose Dresses
• Sage Green Dress
• Nude Dresses
• Hoco Dresses
• Short Homecoming Dresses
• Plus Size Homecoming Dresses
• Long Homecoming Dresses
• Long sleeve Homecoming dresses
• Green Homecoming Dresses
• Red Homecoming Dresses
• White Homecoming Dresses
• Black Homecoming Dresses
• Quinceanera Dresses
• Quince Dresses
• Red Quinceanera Dresses
• Sweet 16 Dresses
• Short Cocktail Dresses
• Little Black Dress
• Holiday Dresses
• Birthday Dresses
• Graduation Dress
• All Graduation Dresses
• White Graduation Dresses
• 8th Grade Graduation Dresses
• Junior Dresses
• Burgundy Dresses
• Blush Dresses
• Champagne Dresses
• Emerald Green Dresses
• Fuchsia Dresses
• Gold Dresses
• Hot Pink Dresses
• Lavender Dresses
• Navy Dresses
• Pink Dresses
• Purple Dresses
• Royal Blue Dresses
• Rose Gold Dresses
• Red Dresses
• Turquoise Dresses
• Teal Dresses
• White Dresses
• Sexy Dresses
• A Line Dresses
• Mermaid Dresses
• Strapless Dresses
• Ruched Dresses
• Halter Dresses
• Backless Dresses
• Short Sleeve Dresses
• Maternity Dresses
• Corset Dresses
• Glitter Dresses
• Satin Dresses
• Velvet Dresses
• Floral Dresses
• Tulle Dresses
• Lace Dresses
• Chiffon Dresses

• Adrianna Papell Dresses
• Alberto Makali
• Aidan Mattox
• Andrea & Leo
• Ava Presley
• Alex Evenings
• Cinderella Couture
• Ladivine by Cinderella Divine
• Connected Apparel
• Colette by Daphne
• Dylan & Davids
• Divine Apparel
• Ellie Wilde
• Elizabeth K
• High Couture
• Jessica Angel
• JS Collections
• Laundry by Shelli Segal
• London Times
• Maya Brooke
• Morgan & Co
• MGNY Madeline Gardner New York
• Nina Canacci
• Portia and Scarlett
• Primavera Couture
• Rachel Allan
• R&M Richards
• Rina Di Montella
• SL Fashions
• Stella Couture
• Sydneys Closet
• Terani Couture
• Plus Sizes Dresses on Sale
• Mother of the Bride Dresses on Sale
• Formal Dresses on Sale
• Cheap Formal Dresses
• Cheap Bridesmaid Dresses
• Dresses Under $50
• Formal Dresses Under $100
• Wedding Dresses Under $100

1220 Maple Avenue Suite 1205 Los Angeles CA 90015 United States

(888) 861-1422

Summer Cruise Dresses

Jovani 67999 strapless l..., jovani 67999 strapless long prom dress.

Dylan & Davids Long ...

Dylan & davids long sleeve sequin formal beaded dress.

Dylan & Davids Corse...

Dylan & davids corset satin formal evening dress.

Jovani 59146 Long Prom D...

Jovani 59146 long prom dress.

Jovani 58673 Prom Long S...

Jovani 58673 prom long spaghetti strap floral dress.

Dylan & Davids Long Spaghetti Strap Prom Formal Gown

Dylan & Davids Long Sleeve Formal Evening Party Dress

Cinderella Divine CD7483...

Cinderella divine cd7483 long fitted corset prom dress.

Cinderella Divine CD7475...

Cinderella divine cd7475 formal long sleeve dress evening gown.

Cinderella Divine CD0192...

Cinderella divine cd0192 long sleeve evening formal dress.

Dylan & Davids Long Formal Black Evening Mermaid Dress

Dylan & Davids Long Sleeve Formal Fitted Evening Dress

Dylan & Davids Long Sleeve Hand Beaded Mother of The Bride Dress

Andrea & Leo A1035 P...

Andrea & leo a1035 prom long strapless floral print ball gown.

Dylan & Davids Fitte...

Dylan & davids fitted corset long formal prom dress.

Cinderella Divine BD105 ...

Cinderella divine bd105 long prom formal evening gown.

Cinderella Divine CD980 ...

Cinderella divine cd980 one shoulder long mermaid prom sequin dress.

Cinderella Divine CD243 ...

Cinderella divine cd243 off shoulder long sleeve formal prom dress.

Cinderella Divine CD242 ...

Cinderella divine cd242 long sleeve pleated formal prom dress.

Cinderella Divine CD230 ...

Cinderella divine cd230 sleeveless long formal sexy prom dress.

Dylan & Davids Forma...

Dylan & davids formal mermaid fitted evening dress.

Cinderella Divine CD988 ...

Cinderella divine cd988 prom long off shoulder gown.

Dylan & Davids Spark...

Dylan & davids sparkling long formal ball gown.

Dylan & Davids Long Formal Black Tie Ball Gown

Jovani 66938 Long Prom D...

Jovani 66938 long prom dress.

Cinderella Divine 7488 F...

Cinderella divine 7488 formal evening long prom dress.

Jovani 4280 Long Formal ...

Jovani 4280 long formal prom dress.

Dylan & Davids Short...

Dylan & davids short sleeve formal mother of the bride dress.

Cinderella Divine BD104 ...

Cinderella divine bd104 classic formal bridesmaids prom dress.

Dylan & Davids Long Formal Fitted Sequin Prom Dress

Cinderella Divine CH198 ...

Cinderella divine ch198 sequin formal long prom dress.

Cinderella Divine J816 L...

Cinderella divine j816 long fitted formal dress.

Dylan & Davids Long Off Shoulder Glitter Prom Dress

Dylan & Davids Long Formal Square Neckline Evening Dress

Cinderella Divine KV1050...

Cinderella divine kv1050 long formal evening prom dress.

Cinderella Divine UV007 ...

Cinderella divine uv007 long formal fitted metallic evening prom dress.

Dylan & Davids Cowl ...

Dylan & davids cowl neck satin midi formal cocktail dress.

R&M Richards 7102W P...

R&m richards 7102w plus size mother of the bride pant set.

Cinderella Divine CH175 ...

Cinderella divine ch175 stretch long sleeve wrap formal dress.

Dylan & Davids One S...

Dylan & davids one shoulder formal evening dress.

Cinderella Divine KV1057...

Cinderella divine kv1057 formal long off shoulder dress.

Cinderella Divine J9273 ...

Cinderella divine j9273 prom fitted sleeveless evening formal mermaid dress.

Cinderella Divine CD231 ...

Cinderella divine cd231 long prom corset fitted dress.

Long Two Piece Lace Crop...

Long two piece lace crop top prom dress.

Cinderella Divine CD0168...

Cinderella divine cd0168 long sleeve fitted formal dress.

Jovani 55885 Long Prom D...

Jovani 55885 long prom dress.

Cinderella Divine CH225 ...

Cinderella divine ch225 prom long spaghetti strap evening gown.

Marina Long Mother of th...

Marina long mother of the bride jacket dress.

Cinderella Divine KV1061...

Cinderella divine kv1061 long formal fitted dress.

Cinderella Divine CB069 ...

Cinderella divine cb069 prom long dress evening gown.

Collection: Summer Cruise Dresses

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

What to Wear on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

Last updated: November 7th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

If you’re having trouble figuring out what to wear on a cruise, don’t worry, we’re here to help. Packing a suitcase for your upcoming vacation onboard shouldn’t be difficult—in fact, it’s all part of the fun.

The key is to know exactly what to expect onboard and to familiarize yourself with Celebrity Cruises’ “Relaxed Luxury”. Here are some tips that will help you decide what to wear on a cruise to get ready for smooth, stylish sailing.

What clothes should you wear on a cruise?

What to wear on a cruise depends on where you’re sailing. While many of our cruises sail to warm beach destinations such as The Bahamas and the Caribbean , we do offer cooler weather cruises to places like Alaska and the Mediterranean during shoulder season that require warmer clothes like jackets and waterproof wear.

If you’re traveling to a warm and sunny destination, here are some things you should wear on your cruise:

While onboard, you’ll be spending a lot of your time in the pool or lounging nearby on the sun deck. You’ll also be sporting swimwear at many of the ports you visit  during your trip. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack a handful of swimsuits in your bag. Aim to bring at least three if you’re going on a seven-day cruise.

Swim coverups

While it’s perfectly acceptable to stay in your swimsuit while lounging beside the pool, you’ll need a cover-up to walk from your stateroom to the pool, and vice-versa. Keep in mind, depending on where your stateroom or suite is located, you may go through other common areas of the ship (in addition to the elevators) on your way to the pool. Make sure your swim cover-up is something you will feel comfortable in while walking around others.

Read: What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Sweater or fleece

Even if you’re taking a cruise around the Caribbean , it’s smart to take a light sweater or fleece to wear at night when the temperature tends to cool down. After all, you won’t want to get chilly while enjoying the starry sky from your stateroom veranda or on one of the ship’s decks.

Scarf or pashmina

This is an easy clothing item you can drape over your shoulders to dress up an outfit, or to warm you up if you’re outside and there is a chill in the air. You may also be required to cover your head and shoulders if entering a mosque, or bare arms if visiting a church, so pack something that enables you to respect the local culture.

Bring some fun pieces to accessorize your outfit. You may also want to buy some new items while shopping in the ship’s boutiques, so remember to leave a little extra room in your suitcase just in case.

Sunglasses and sun hats

Aside from lathering up on the SPF, protect yourself from all that sunshine by bringing a sun visor, baseball cap, or wide-brimmed straw hat on your cruise—ideally, one that won’t blow away in a sea breeze. You should also bring at least one pair of sunglasses on board.

Read: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Even if you typically use your phone as a clock, bringing a watch on board will help you keep a more accurate eye on the time throughout the day. You’ll want to get to all of the ship’s daily activities on time, and a watch can be extra helpful during your port stops to make sure you get back to the ship on time before it departs.

Casual, comfortable attire

T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts are all perfectly fine clothes to wear on a cruise ship to have lunch in the Oceanview Cafe and other restaurants with a casual dress code. You can also dine in casual pool clothes at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

If you’re having dinner in the main restaurant or any meal at one of the specialty restaurants , you’ll follow a “smart casual” dress code on most nights. This means long pants, jeans, a dress or skirt, a stylish top, or a button-down.

We want our guests to feel comfortable, so Celebrity Cruises’ dress code for smart casual is fairly flexible, though there are some restrictions. T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurants at any time. In addition, shorts and flip-flops are not permitted during the evening hours.

The smart casual dress code works for all areas of the ship in the evening, including in bars and lounges and during shows and events at the ship’s theater.

If you’re headed for Alaska or northern Europe, or the Mediterranean in the cooler months, think about packing these items:

Wicking tops, lightweight fleeces, and even pants that zip off into shorts are all a good idea for Alaska, especially if you’re out hiking.

Waterproofs

Some of the world’s most beautiful scenery gets that lush shade of green for a reason; the occasional rain shower. Bring a waterproof that folds down small, and a waterproof cover for your camera.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

Footwear should not be an afterthought when packing your suitcase for a cruise. While you might have the urge to throw in a pair of flip flops and call it a day, there are a few other essential shoes you’ll need to bring along on your trip.

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

These shoes will take you back and forth from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa. They also come in handy if you choose to visit the onboard spa . Lightweight water shoes are great for some ports in the Mediterranean, where beaches tend to be pebbly.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking around the ship during days at sea, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers will also be useful if you try out a fitness class or use the gym equipment in the ship’s state-of-the-art fitness center.

If you’re headed somewhere like Norway or Alaska where hiking is one of the most popular activities, it’s worth packing a good pair of walking boots.

Shoes or sandals for dinner

Since flip flops are not allowed in the evening, make sure to bring comfortable shoes or sandals to wear during dinner in the main room.

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

While of course you’re welcome to stay in your swimsuit almost all day long on a cruise, there are certain occasions when Celebrity Cruises dress code requests otherwise.

If you’re wondering what to wear on a cruise during dinner in the main dining room, meals at specialty restaurants, or shows in the theater, the Celebrity Cruises dress code for these occasions is usually “smart casual”. This means a dress or skirt, stylish pants, smart jeans, a stylish top or button-down. We’d prefer that shorts, tank tops and flip flops were kept for the pool.

What do you wear on a dressier night on a cruise?

Our more formal nights are called “Evening Chic” nights because they’re all about guests looking their absolute best—and loving it. These are the nights when you want to dress up in your most fashion-forward and stylish clothes, while also being elegant and sophisticated.

The Celebrity Cruises dress code for Evening Chic nights is cocktail dresses, skirts, pants, or designer jeans with an elegant top, or dress shirt, button-down shirt, or sweater, and an optional blazer. There’s no need to wear a tie unless you want to.

Our Evening Chic dress code leaves a lot of room for you to show off your personal style, although we’d ask you to leave your ripped jeans or favorite college sweatshirt in your stateroom. You can wear anything from designer denim paired with a blazer to a cocktail dress with a killer set of heels.

If you were looking forward to wearing a tuxedo or formal gown on Evening Chic nights, you can absolutely do that as well. There is no such thing as being overdressed on Evening Chic nights.

All cruises that are seven nights or longer will feature two Evening Chic nights. Shorter cruises feature one Evening Chic night. On all other nights of the cruise, guests are asked to wear smart casual attire.

If for whatever reason you choose to skip Evening Chic nights, you can always dine in one of the specialty restaurants (in smart casual attire) or at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

On Celebrity Cruises, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible while onboard. During the day, we encourage you to wear casual attire such as t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts.

If you’re spending the day at the pool, you can also have lunch or dine in casual pool clothes at the Mast Grill located next to the pool deck.

Just remember that while walking from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa, you’ll need to wear a swim cover up.

You’ll also be required to wear appropriate clothing in the Fitness Center; suitable shoes for the treadmills and exercise bikes, for example, just as you would in the gym at home.

If you plan to use the spa, which we would encourage, don’t worry about bringing a robe; these are provided for you.

Now that you know how effortless and stress-free it is to choose what to wear on a cruise, book your cruise and start planning out your perfect cruise vacation outfits. Browse itineraries on our website and book your next luxury getaway with Celebrity Cruises.

Related Itineraries

Key West & Perfect Day

• 4 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
• Starting from $590 USD

Bahamas & Perfect Day

• Starting from $819 USD

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day

• 6 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $1159 USD
• 3 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• Starting from $1445 USD

Bahamas Getaway

• Starting from $2189 USD

Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

• 8 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $6586 USD

Related Articles

How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

17 Invaluable Cruise Tips From a 20-Year Cruise Veteran

12 Wildlife Photography Tips for Beginners

Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities: Everything You Need to Know

11 Cruise Picture Ideas

How to Prepare for Your First Cruise

When’s the Best Time to Go on a Cruise?

Top 10 Best Winter Cruises

How to Spot Marine Mammals From a Cruise Ship

When Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?

14 Essential Cruise Packing Tips

Accessible Travel Guide

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

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.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for a cruise

Understanding The Cruise Dress Code: Casual Vs. Formal Dinner Attire Explained

Cruise , Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Cruises are a very casual way to travel. However, the formal dining room is the one place where rules most certainly apply. Trying to decipher a cruise dress code can be cryptic if you’ve never sailed before.

While guidelines can vary between cruise lines, these general rules apply. Read on to learn what to wear for casual and formal cruise dinner attire, as well as resort wear on board!

Understanding the Cruise Dress Code

Written By: Renée Olson

Packing for a cruise can be confusing and tricky. Perhaps when you learned there would be formal nights onboard, you had nightmarish flashbacks to ill-fitting prom tuxes and figure skater-style sequin dresses.

Don’t worry–being ultra-casual won’t be a hindrance on your cruise, and you can fit in with the formal dining nights with ease. While people certainly rock formal wear, my goal is to pack carryon only for the flights to and from the cruise terminals and to make sure my clothes in my travel capsule wardrobe are as versatile as possible.

Start by reading these general tips for packing for a cruise:

• 10-Step Guide to Packing for Any Trip
• What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
• What’s in My Carry-on Bag for a 2-Week Cruise
• What to Pack on a Cruise: 7 Things to Bring and What to Leave Behind
• Understanding the Cruise Dress Code
• 10 Unexpected Things You’ll Experience on a Cruise

Packing Tips

Yes, you’re on vacation – but the cruise dress code of “no shoes, no shirt” still applies when you aren’t by the pool. Make sure you’re dressed when shopping onboard, playing in the casino, or having lunch at the buffet.

• Bring a skirt that you can easily wear with two tops, or a peplum top to wear over a dress to maximize your dinner options.
• Bring sundresses that you can wear to dinner one night and then worn as a cover up the next day.
• Choose sandals that are elegant and can be worn from beach to dinner. Faux leather are a great choice.
• Bring one pair of heels that match everything and one clutch for dinner to avoid over packing.
• Check with your cruise line’s policy on denim in the dining room and shorts for men.
• Error on the side of “over dressed” if you’re unsure how formal your ship is.

The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!

outfit 1 |  outfit 2 |  outfit 3  |  outfit 4 |  outfit 5 |  outfit 6

On Board Attire

Tank tops, sundresses, sandals, shorts and the like are all fair game. Just make sure you have a pair of shoes and cover-up over your bikini. Bring at least two bathing suits – you won’t want to wear a suit that is still wet from yesterday’s swim!

Take a look at these stylish swimwear  options for more ideas!

Casual/Smart Casual

Cruise ships tend to have more casual nights in the dining room, but according to the cruise dress code this doesn’t mean sloppy.

Choose pretty sundresses, flowy skirts, or lightweight pants for these evenings. Sophisticated sandals are appropriate, if you’d prefer, in lieu of heels. Leave the beach flip-flops with your bathing suit.

Take a look at some of our favorite summer dresses for travel abroad!

collared shirts

Men should wear casual slacks, khakis and open collared shirts are perfect for these nights. Boat shoes or other loafers are the shoe of choice for most male cruisers. Flip-flops for men in the dining room generally aren’t allowed.

Strapless Black Dress

Business Casual

Although less common these days, some cruises have business casual nights as well. These nights should be one step up from casual. Add a jacket for men, heels for the ladies.

Business casual doesn’t mean office attire, but it does mean slightly nicer attire in terms of a cruise dress code. Glam up your more casual outfits with statement jewelry or a beautiful scarf.

We love Nadri fine jewelry ! It takes up no room, sparkles, and dazzles an outfit!

Floor Length Gown

Formal/Elegant

The cruise dress code for formal or elegant attire is cocktail or black tie on these nights. Keep in mind; if you don’t feel like packing dressier clothing, you can also have dinner in the casual dining room. But we say have fun with it. How often are you able to dress up?

This is your night to shine in cocktail dresses or floor length gowns. Choose fabrics that are special and appear high end, such as silk, sequins, or chiffon. Imagine you’re going to a formal wedding and want to look your best. Avoid cotton dresses or casual pants on these evenings.

If you’re not a fan of dresses, opt for a sleek and chic pantsuit instead!

Suit and Tie

As for men, don’t leave your beautiful girl without a dashing escort! Pack your suit and tie (and don’t forget the charm).

Shop Cruisewear

Maxi Skirt  |  Off-the-Shoulder  |  V Neck   |  Cover-Up  |  Tunic  |  Sandal

With these guidelines, you’ll never be turned away from the dining room or feel out of place with other cruisers. Packing smart leads to smooth sailing on board.

How do you work your travel wardrobe around a cruise dress code? Please comment below!

For more cruise packing tips, please read:

• What to Pack for the Bahamas
• What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
• What to Pack for Alaska Cruise
• What to Wear on a Cruise to the South Pacific
• Caribbean Cruise Wear Essentials
• What to Pack for a Transatlantic Cruise

Hope you liked this post on decoding a cruise dress code. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio:  Renée Olson is a freelance producer who spends her free time traveling with her husband, Matt. She loves great coffee, wine, and anywhere with a sandy beach. Follow her travel adventures on her blog, Avec Amour , or on Instagram or Twitter .

We were well and truly ‘caught’ with a recent Alaska cruise on one of the prestigious cruise lines…..We had pre-booked a dinner in one of the special restaurants where you pay for that dinner, before we left home, on a specific night.We were not intending to attend any of the formal events. Unfortunately, we were not told at any time before cruising that the night we had chosen was a ‘Formal’ night and my husband and I went to dinner in our best (casual) travelling clothes,only to be told that we would not be allowed in as my husband was not wearing a jacket! We explained our dilemma (we were on a 10 week trip through North America & Scandinavia-no need for formal clothes!!!) and the maitre d’ thought for a moment before giving my husband a dark jacket he had handy, telling him to hang it over his arm as he walked in and out. SO gracious a solution,BUT, it would have been averted if we had been told what the formal nights were when booking our special dinner night.Full marks to the staff member (and we had a really wonderful dinner!!).

Wow that sounds horrible! You should have been told in advance especially with a super strict dress code. Always a good idea to pack a versatile dress and some costume jewelry – it’s amazing how a little sparkle goes a long way!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources
• Brian Israel
• Briana Bonfiglio
• Dan McCarthy
• Dori Saltzman
• Jennifer Arango
• Kelly Fontenelle
• Keri-Anne Slevin
• Louis Intreglia
• Sarah Milner
• Tom McCarthy

Here Are the Suggested Dress Codes for Each Major Cruise Line

Most cruise lines require resort or elegant casual attire at dinner most nights. Photo: Shutterstock.com

The vast majority of cruise lines maintain a casual dress code during the day, but once the evening hours roll in, dress codes can change dramatically. What was okay in a main restaurant at lunch may not be okay for dinner.

To help you prepare your clients for their next cruise, we’ve compiled the dress codes for the main ocean-going cruise lines. Recommended attire is for dinners in the main and specialty restaurants. (Buffets tend to remain casual even after the sun goes down.)

Azamara Overall: Resort casual. Formal evening wear is not expected or required, though guests are free to dress formally if they’d like.

Recommended for Women: Sportswear, casual dresses, skirts, pants and capris, blouses and knit tops.

Recommended for Men: Sportswear, collared golf and polo shirts, shorts, pants, a sport coat (if desired, not required).

Not Permitted: Bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, bathing suits, shorts and torn/distressed jeans are not allowed in the dining room or specialty restaurants.

When dining at Windows Café, guests must wear footwear and a cover-up or shirt.

Atlas Ocean Voyages Overall: Resort casual.

Recommended for Women: Sportswear, casual dresses, skirts, pants and capris, blouses and other nice tops.

Recommended for Men: Nice sportswear, collared golf and polo shirts, nice shorts, trousers or khakis, nice jeans.

Not Permitted: Swimsuits (wet or dry).

Carnival Cruise Line Overall: Casual by day, smart casual after 5:30 p.m. The only exception in the dining room is on embarkation day, which is “come as you are,” though footwear must be worn at all times.

The dress code at Fahrenheit 555, specifically, is cruise elegant, with smart jeans allowed on Cruise Casual evenings.

Recommended for Women: Casual dresses, casual skirts or pants and blouses, summer dresses, capris or dress shorts, and jeans. On Cruise Elegant Nights, recommended attire for women is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirt and blouses, and evening gowns.

Recommended for Men: Casual pants, jeans, dress shorts, and collared sport shirts. On Cruise Elegant Nights, recommended attire for men is dress trousers, dress shirts, sports jacket, and suit/tie or tuxedo for those that want to go all out.

Not Permitted: Gym or basketball shorts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, baseball caps. On Cruise Elegant Nights, shorts, t-shirts, jeans and sportswear are furthermore not permitted.

All items worn during a Carnival cruise should not contain any messages that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, or sexual innuendo/suggestions. All clothing and accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial commentary, or hatred or violence in any form.

Celebrity Cruises Overall: Smart casual. 

Celebrity expedition sailings in the Galapagos feature casual attire for the entire cruise.

Recommended for Women: Skirt, pants or jeans with a casual top. On Evening Chic night, cocktail dress, or skirt, pants or designer jeans with an elegant top.

Recommended for Men: Pants or jeans with a short sleeve sport shirt. On Evening Chic night, pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt of sweater, optional sport coat or blazer.

Not permitted: T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant(s) or specialty restaurants at any time. Shorts and flip-flops are not allowed in the evening hours.

Cunard Overall: Resort casual by day, smart attire by evening (jacket optional), except on Gala Evenings, which is black-tie.

Recommended for Women: Skirt and blouse, cocktail dress. On Gala Evenings, cocktail dress, gowns, and pantsuits.

Recommended for Men: Trousers and dress shirt. On Gala Evenings: Full suit or tuxedo.

Not Permitted: Swimwear

Disney Cruise Line Overall: Cruise casual. Dress-up nights are optional, but recommended.

For adults-only restaurants, dress code is “polished.” While formal and semi-formal wear is recommended, dress pants, designer jeans, and collared shirts and blouses are accepted.

Recommended for Women: Shorts, t-shirts, summer dress, capris. On optional dress-up nights, dress or pantsuit.

Recommended for Men: Shorts, t-shirts, jeans, trousers, polo shirts. On optional dress-up nights, trousers with polo or button-up shirt and jacket.

Not Permitted: Swimwear and tank tops. No t-shirts or sports attire are permitted in adults-only restaurants.

Holland America Line Overall: Smart casual, except on Dressy Nights, which are semi-formal (or formal depending on guest’s preference)

Recommended for Women: Capris, slacks or skirt and blouse, summer dress. On Dressy Nights, dresses, skirts or slacks with a blouse.

Recommended for Men: Designer jeans, slacks, polo shirts. Slacks and collared shirts (jacket and tie or tux optional).

Not Permitted: Shorts, t-shirts, pool/beachwear, distressed jeans, men’s tank tops.

MSC Cruises Overall: Resort casual.

Recommended for Women: Tailored pants, nice shorts, skirts and dresses. For Gala Nights (always optional), gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits.

Recommended for Men: Tailored pants, nice shorts and collared shirts. For Gala Nights (always optional), dress pants and button-up or polo shirts, tuxedos (jacket and tie optional).  

Not Permitted: Swimwear at any time. Shorts, flip-flops, tank tops at dinner. T-shirts on Gala Night.

Norwegian Cruise Line Overall: Cruise casual.

Recommended for Women: Summer and casual dresses, skirts, regular or capri pants, jeans, nice tops, blouses. For upscale specialty restaurants, dresses, skirts, nice jeans, dress pants and blouses.

Recommended for Men: Khakis, jeans, shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts. For upscale specialty restaurants, nice jeans or slacks with a collared shirt.

Not Permitted: Tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors, faded or ripped jeans.

Oceania Cruises Overall: Resort or country club casual.

Recommended for Women: Dress, skirt or tailored pants, dress capris, blouses, sundresses.

Recommended for Men: Collared, button or turtleneck shirts, slacks, dress shoes.

Not Permitted: Casual jeans, shorts, t-shirts, baseball caps, sandals and tennis shoes.

Princess Cruises Overall: Resort casual.

Recommended for Women: Skirts/dresses, slacks, blouses, sweaters. On Formal Nights, gowns, cocktail dresses, pantsuits.

Recommended for Men: Trousers and collared or dress shirts. On Formal Nights, Dress pants and shirts (jacket and tie optional), dark suits, tuxedos.

Not Permitted: Pool/beach attire, shorts, ball caps, jeans with fraying and/or holes.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Overall: Casual before 6 p.m., elegant casual after that. Casual wear is permitted on the final evening of the cruise.

On sailings of 16 nights or longer, formal and semi-formal are optional on two evenings.

Recommended for Women: Slacks or skirt with blouse or sweater, pantsuit, dress.

Recommended for Men: Slacks and collared shirt (sport jacket optional).

Not Permitted: Shorts, t-shirts, jeans baseball caps.

Royal Caribbean International Overall: Casual by day, smart casual in the evening. The Chef’s Table dining experience has a formal dress code.

Recommended for Women: Jeans, sundresses, skirts, pantsuits, blouses. On Formal Nights, cocktail dresses, gowns, elegant pantsuits.

Recommended for Men: Trousers, polos, collared shirts. (Sport coat or blazer optional.) On Formal Nights, full suit (tie optional), tuxedos.

The dress code applies to children of all ages.

Not Permitted: Swimwear, bare feet, flip-flops, baseball caps, tank tops, robes. Shorts at dinner.

Seabourn Overall: Resort casual by day; elegant casual or formal after 6 p.m.

Recommended for Women: Slacks or skirt with blouse, pantsuits, dresses. On Formal Nights, evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits are required.

Recommended for Men: Slacks with collared dress shirt or sweater. On Formal Nights tuxedo, full suit or slacks with jacket and tie is required.

Not Permitted: Swimsuits, short shorts, exercise attire, cover-ups. No jeans at dinner.

Silversea Overall: Resort casual by day; country club casual, semi-formal or formal by night (varies by schedule).

Recommended for Women: Pants, blouses, skirts, casual dresses, pantsuits. On Formal Evenings, evening gown, cocktail dress, elegant pantsuits.

Recommended for Men: Slacks and open-neck shirts. On Informal Evenings (semi-formal) nights, jacket is required and on Formal Evenings, dark suits, dinner jackets or tuxedos with tie is required.

On Formal Nights, guests may dine at La Terrazza and choose to dress informal (dresses or pantsuits for women, jackets for men). This option also applies to Seishin and Stars on Silver Spirit. Dining at The Grill is always casual.

On seven-night sailings in the Baltic, Mediterranean and Alaska, Formal Evening is optional, though a jacket is still required.

Not Permitted: Swimwear, baseball caps, t-shirts, sports shorts, ripped jeans. 

Viking Cruises Overall: Casual by day, elegant casual by night.

Recommended for Women: Dresses, skirt or slacks with blouse or sweater.

Recommended for Men: Trousers and a collared shirt. (Jacket and tie optional)

Not Permitted: Swimwear.

Virgin Voyages Overall: Whatever you want it to be.

Recommended for Women: Dictated by each cruiser’s personal style.

Recommended for Men: Dictated by each cruiser’s personal style.

Not Permitted: Simply put, be respectful. Cover-ups and shoes are encouraged in restaurants but not required.

Windstar Cruises Overall: Country club casual.

Recommended for Women: Nice jeans, pants, skirts, elegant tops, casual dresses or sundresses.  

Recommended for Men: Nice jeans, khakis or slacks, polo shirts, button-down shirts, shoes other than athletic shoes. (Sport coats optional)

Not Permitted: Swimwear, clothing with offensive language or graphics, flip-flops.

MOST VIEWED

• Report: Delta Air Lines Plans to Drop Baggage Recheck on Arrival to U.S.
• Four Spots Onboard the All-New Sun Princess We’re Not in Love With
• Catering Strike Causes Delays at Toronto Pearson Airport
• Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Taiwan Earthquake Update: Train Services Resume, Flights Operating Near Schedule
• Horseshoe’s Jubilee Tower Becomes the Versailles Tower at Paris Las Vegas
• California Bans Drip Pricing: What It Means for Travel Advisors
• The NCL Stranded Passenger “Fiasco”: Your Replies
• Here's What Each River Cruise Line Includes

Unique Ways Travel Advisors Enhance Their Clients’ Journeys

Here are some of the ways that advisors can enhance their clients’ journeys.

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

Starting June 2024 Windstar will begin paying commission 29 days prior to the cruise departure.

Austin joined Explora Journeys in Nov. 2020 as the brand's chief sales officer. 

Celestyal is offering seven National Geographic Day Tours available across Greece and Croatia.

Suppliers from across the travel industry are expressing their gratitude to the trade.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships will not be returning to Labadee any time soon. 

For three days only, Virgin is opening its status match program to members of airline and hotel loyalty programs.

What to Wear on a Cruise for Ladies Over 60

Sharing is caring!

Are you going on a cruise and wondering what to wear as a women over 60? Stylish cruise wear isn’t only meant for those under 30. These days there are beautiful cruise outfits for mature ladies, that are flattering, versatile and youthful looking. 

This list of ladies’ cruise wear includes long and short dresses, tops and pants, and formal outfits that can be worn during the day or evening on a cruise.

This list of cruise outfits for ladies over 60 includes tops and dresses that have sleeves and that are flattering on the different curves we all have.

As a woman over 50 myself, I firmly believe that everyone looks good on a cruise!

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my  disclosure policy  for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cruise Wear for Ladies Over 60

These cruise outfits are perfect if you’re going on a 7 day cruise or planning on a longer cruise.

Please keep in mind that you can rewear your clothing or mix and match your tops and pants. If you’re trying to pack light for your cruise, this is the trick!

1. Sleeveless Boho Style Sundress

A comfortable sleeveless dress is an essential if you’re packing for a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise . It can also be worn with a cute white jean jacket or light blazer on casual evening dress codes on your cruise ship.

Recommended: Sleeveless t-shirt sundress (check price & more than 5000 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

2. Casual Short Sleeve Summer Dress

If you prefer a little sleeve, this short sleeve summer dress is light and flowy. It’s also available in gorgeous patterns and solid colors.

This dress is perfect as an embarkation day outfit, but also works well for sightseeing in any cruise port of call.

Recommended: Casual short sleeve dress (check photos & over 4000 great Amazon reviews)

3. Casual Dresses & Sundresses

If you’re looking for a nice casual short dress with sleeves , this one is loose and very flattering! It’s also available in sleeveless styles, which is great for daytime in cruise ports on any hot weather cruise itinerary.

Recommended: Long Sleeve Dress (see price, reviews & styles on Amazon here)

4. Short Sleeve Dress with Pockets

This short sleeve dress with pockets is practical and looks nice on ladies of every body shape (thin, pear-shaped, plus size). It comes in several colors and pattern from small- XXLarge.

Recommended: Short sleeve dress (check price & over 14,000 Amazon reviews)

5. Printed Tunic Dress

I love this printed tunic dress ! It’s available in several colors and patterns, whether you like the trendy Boho style or a tropical floral look.

Recommended: Printed tunic dress with sleeves (check price & 8000+ reviews on Amazon here)

6. Mid Length Summer Dress

This light dress is so pretty, with short sleeves, buttons and a front tie. The delicate flower pattern is very trendy and flattering.

Related: Mid length small print floral dress (check price & different colors options on Amazon)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

7. Casual Long Maxi Dress

This long casual dress is should be on your Caribbean or Bahamas cruise packing list . It can even be worn as a long swimsuit cover up for port days.

Recommended: Long maxi dress (see other patterns & check Amazon reviews here)

8. Sleeveless Loose Maxi Dress

This pretty sleeveless maxi dress is loose, but has a beautiful fit. It can be paired with a light cardigan or cute jacket, making it versatile to wear both on and off the cruise ship

Recommended: Sleeveless maxi dress (check price and reviews on Amazon here)

9. Front Tie Cardigan

This light cardigan (without buttons) can be worn open or tied in the front – perfect worn over dresses and tops.

Recommended: Light cardigan (size small-XXLarge)

10. Romper Jumpsuit with Wide Leg Pant

This romper jumpsuit makes for a great evening outfit on any cruise itinerary, from Caribbean, to Mediterranean to an Alaska cruise.

It’s available in several colors, as well as in small through plus size (S-3XL) and is very flattering.

Recommended: Romper jumpsuit (check price & 14,000+ Amazon reviews here)

11. Ladies Plus Size V Neck Floral Dress

This plus size dress is a great cruise outfit for ladies of any age. The mid length style is perfect for dinners in the cruise main dining room or specialty restaurants.

Recommended: Mid-length floral dress (see different styles & size options)

12. Maxi Dress (available in plus size)

This maxi dress has a figure flattering high waist, with a beautiful neckline. If you prefer a little sleeve rather than a tank or sleeveless dress style, this maxi dress is perfect for ladies 50, 60, 70 (or any age).

Recommended: Maxi dress high waist (sizes small-plus size)

13. Chiffon Overlay Evening Dress

This pretty cocktail dress is both comfortable and flattering! It’s also available in beautiful floral print accents and solid colors.

Recommended: Chiffon overlay cocktail dress (check price & see photos & 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

Blouses and tops are perfect to mix and match with a pair of black or white pants, or even a nice pair of dark jeans.

14. Flutter Sleeve Ladies Top

This flutter sleeve top is comfortable and looks great. The bottom layer is stretchy, while the outer layer of the top is fluttery and very feminine. If you’re looking for a top that can hide a bit of a tummy, you’ll love this flattering blouse.

Recommended: Fluttery sleeve top (pattern)

15. Flutter Sleeve Top (solid color)

The same top is available in this gorgeous moth orchid color (dark pink/burgundy shade). Both are beautiful shirts and would work great in a capsule wardrobe for a cruise.

The top is available in smaller and larger sizes.

Recommended: Flutter sleeve top (check price & Amazon reviews here)

16. Long Sleeve Chiffon Blouse

This v-neck chiffon blouse is so pretty, and great worn in the evenings on a cruise to the main dining room, specialty restaurants and shows. Pair it with white pants or jeans for a beautiful smart casual.

Recommended: Chiffon blouse (check price and color options on Amazon here)

17. Elegant Casual Top

This elegant casual top is loose and flattering, which looks great with a skirt or pair or pants.

Recommended: Elegant casual top (check price & 7000+ Amazon reviews here)

18. Jean Jacket

Jean jackets are trendy again, and look great on women of every age! A little tip is to size up if you want a more relaxed fit.

If you’re cruising in the Mediterranean in September or October or Canada/New England anytime, a cute jean jacket is great over a sundress or maxi dress. You can definitely wear it on a cruise in the evening as well.

Recommended: White jean jacket (other colors available too)

More Cruise Outfit Lists You’ll Love

If you’re looking for different styles of cruise outfits and inspiration, these cruise wear outfit lists can help.

• Plus Size Cruise Wear: 25+ Beautiful Cruise Outfits
• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women
• 25+ Fashionable Cruise Outfits for Ladies (affordable cruise wear)
• 25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise
• What I Wore on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise
• What I Wore on a 7 Day Bahamas Cruise
• 15 Best Beach and Tote Bags for a Cruise
• What Shoes to Bring for a Cruise (for day, evening & shore excursions)
• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Guide
• Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise
• 50 Must-have Amazon Cruise Essentials

Final Thoughts on What to Wear on a Cruise for Ladies Over 60

As a woman of any age, it can be hard to know what to wear on a cruise, much less finind cruise wear that is flattering to our bodies as we are over 50, 60, 70 or any age.

In this post I shared dresses, tops and some light jackets that have sleeves and are made with materials that look good, even if we have some “problem” areas. Remember there is no age where you can and cannot wear certain outfits, so try different items to see what looks and feel right for you.

Final reminder – you are beautiful and will look fabulous on your cruise!

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Follow me on  Facebook at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  YouTube at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  Pinterest at Life Well Cruised Follow me on  Instagram at Life Well Cruised

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .