You’ve browsed brochures, booked your trip, and now it’s time to decide what kind of cruise clothes you’ll wear on your vacation. For many people, especially first time cruisers, this is a little intimidating. What kind of dress is expected? Will I need a formal outfit? Should I buy a new wardrobe?

You may be surprised to learn that you probably have the right cruise clothes. Cruise lines can vary in the specifics for their dress code, but in general, it’s safe to assume that daytime shipboard dress is casual. Dinner is when the dress code really comes into play.

Even short cruises usually have a formal night, while longer cruises may have several. When a formal outfit is required, men should wear a dark suit with a tie, or even a tuxedo, and dress shoes. (Now is no time to be a rebel and wear tennis shoes with a tux.) For women, an evening gown or cocktail dress is appropriate.

There may also be nights that the dress is described as informal or smart casual. For these nights, men should wear a jacket, either with or without a tie. Women should expect to wear a dress or a pantsuit, or even a cocktail dress.

For other nights, a casual outfit is called for in the dining room. This definitely does not mean jeans and T-shirts! Men should wear slacks and a collared shirt, such as sport shirt or polo shirt, but leave the tie in the cabin. A perfect casual outfit for women could be slacks and a blouse, a sundress or dress, or a pantsuit.

There’s no need to worry about being caught by surprise with a formal night. Dinner events on a cruise are planned, and the cruise line can supply you with the schedule. You’ll know before you leave home when a formal outfit is needed, and when a casual outfit will do. If need be, many large cruise ships have formalwear shops, so if you want to dine in a tuxedo but don’t happen to own one, you can rent one on-board. One tip – if you’re planning to rent, do it early for the best selection.

Outside of dinner, cruise clothes are generally casual, although if you usually wear jeans and T-shirts, your definition of casual may need a change. For most activities, men should consider cotton shorts with a polo shirt or a button-down patterned shirt. Sandals are appropriate, although sneakers may be a better choice for on-shore tours where you may be walking long distances. Women should expect to wear shorts or slacks, with a nice T-shirt or casual blouse.

When sightseeing, you want to dress casually and comfortably, but leave the big logos and funny T-shirts at home. They label you as a tourist, and humor does not always translate well to other cultures, so that shirt that seemed so cute at home may be very offensive elsewhere. Keep in mind what your plans include when going on shore. Churches, temples, or mosques especially may have their own dress codes, and could deny admittance if you aren’t dressed respectfully or adequately covered.

Having the right outfit to wear on a cruise doesn’t require buying a new wardrobe (although if you’re looking for a reason to shop, it’s a great excuse). You may have all the cruise clothes you need right in your own closet!

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