Once a cruise has been booked, for me a next exciting part is planning outfits and what to pack – my mum is a dress maker so I design them and she kindly makes them, I like to have things that no one else would have and to be different – and Its even better if there is a formal night on board we can get even more creative!!
However for some people this can be a part they worry about and they have no idea what sort of thing to take! Is there any formal nights on board? What do you wear on a formal night? What does smart casual mean?
Lets have a look at these attires and see what they really mean!
Casual
To most people (except me!), casual means – jeans!
The good news is that denim in the form of jeans, jackets, shorts and skirts is generally a perfectly acceptable daytime casual cruise look, often combined with a T-shirt but check before you go for lunch – those designer jeans may cut it for a buffet style restaurant but some lines don’t allow jeans in their restaurants!
Fitness go-ers can feel free to lounge around in lycra during the day, of course no cruise suitcase is packed until it contains some swimwear and cover ups (bear in mind swimwear and flip flops are almost always a big no no at mealtimes).
For him: A casual polo shirt – a freshly pressed pair of lightweight trousers – and deck shoes. Nautical and nice!
For her: A maxi dress is your perfect casual cruise companion as it looks good with flip flops by the pool!
Smart Casual
Now this is where it gets tricky. Whenever I see this I am automatically confused – After all, don’t the two phrases contradict each other?
When choosing a dress, a good thing to think about is if you were going to a posh lunch or afternoon tea with the girls. If you can’t imagine ever wearing it during the day, it’s probably too dressy for a Smart Casual night at sea. Tea dresses, simple shifts, wrap dresses and maxis all say stylish and smart (but casual!!). Whereas sequins, ball gowns, mini dresses or slinky bodycon styles all scream ‘wow you are over dressed!’
For him: A long-sleeved shirt with trousers and smart shoes is a great look. Add a smart v-neck sweater or blazer if temperatures drop.
For her: Now the blouse is back, why not add a couple to your collection to alternate with your dresses with a skirt or tailored trousers? A cigarette trouser is a great option too!
Formal
Go all out I say…when do you get the chance to find a gorgeous dress, dress up and enjoy yourself….AT SEA?!
For men it’s easy – time to dig out the dickie bow and the penguin suit for the ultimate in black tie glamour. That said, and formal suit with ties are also acceptable on most formal nights!
For ladies, formal nights are the night we look forward to – and if you want to its time to break out that knock ‘em dead floor-skimming showstopper or for an equally glam look, a shorter cocktail dress is equally acceptable.
For him: The classic tuxedo. Why not?
For her: You’ll know your perfect dress when you find it, and with so many options out there, there’s something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to throw a little sparkle at it – now’s the time to shine in a red carpet-worthy outfit.
Do you feel more prepared to go and pack your suitcase now?!!
