13 Dress Code Mistakes You'll REGRET Making on a Cruise

Cruise line dress codes aren't are complicated as they seem, but there are some mistakes you don't want to make. These dress code guidelines and cruise tips are updated for cruising in 2023 & beyond!
Whether you're a first time cruiser, or have been on many cruises, this video is full of cruise outfit advice. Cruise lines like Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America all have rules about what to wear on a cruise. In this video we go over the cruise tips you need to know what to wear, and what not to wear on a cruise vacation.
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
Some video footage courtesy of Princess Cruises, RCCL and NCL
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[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner

[@kivrinsagchannel791]

Are rompers allowed for the main dining room and restaurants it's short but it's super cute

[@faustfilms]

@@kivrinsagchannel791 All of this advice, and I've watched several of your videos, seems odd to me. My partner and I never wanted to go on a cruise (for too many reasons to list here), but we were given a gift of one several years ago (just before Covid). I don't think there were any buffets, certainly none we attended. Breakfast was made in your room with the assistance of your butler as you woke in the morning (you filled out a card the night before to say what you wanted served to you...I liked smoked salmon and champagne). Lunch was usually out in the country we stopped at. Dinner was always in the main dining hall, and, as a man, you were not allowed out of your suite without a suit and tie after 5:00. There were no children, and no one went into the pool, although we frequently had drinks there. So my cruise experience seems different than the one you advise. I don't know why, although I know I will never go one one again. Buch of stuck up old white people, shit, I'm 52 and the youngest on the boat! Nope, no fun.

[@Stllno]

😂

[@trainboy192]

My main clothing mistake once was assuming my summer shorts fit at the end of January. Try everything on before you pack them.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha it can happen to us all 😂

[@stephanieparker5528]

True, I usually take at lease 2-3 pairs of my fat pants for those last days on the cruise!

[@TropicLuv]

As much as I like the laid-back casual dressing on most cruise ships, I do like to get dressed up in the evening for dinner. Not super fancy, but nice it makes the evening more like a celebration. 🎉

[@bethcoddington4721]

Gurl.. you are NOT kidding

[@lindabradford9591]

Yep I always try everything on that I'm taking on a cruise. No uh oh surprises.

[@Edwards-Videos]

1:41 Come on, if you have to tell people at the door that baseball caps, bare feet, swimsuits, flip flops, and pool wear are not acceptable in a dining room it shows how little common sense people have nowadays.

[@FD2003Abc]

Sad but so true. I am not a big cruiser but I go to all-inclusive resorts and the dinner dress code for men is collars, long pants and covered shoes (e.x. tennis shoes).

[@Syzygy-Transit]

You can never go wrong with dressing up rather than dressing down.

[@MrsDauphinee]

The statement you made about dressing for dinner, "you dress like you were going to a nice restaurant for dinner at home". I believe says it all and is very true. Also, not being bothered what others are wearing is an excellent tip too. I have sat next to people on a cruise and their whole evening was. spent critiquing what others were wearing. Life is too short for such nonsense; just have fun, you paid for it!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Absolutely! Well said 👏

[@karenvonbargen4472]

I live in a rural area, nice means not too muddy, lol!

[@wendyfung3727]

I go to a cruise with my husband just to have some sweet memories and also trying to get back the feeling 45 yrs ago when we dated. That is why I like to dress up a bit to make myself looks great in front of him. I think it is a respect to follow the dress code of the cruise, but don't make it a stress. Everyone has different attitude towards this, mind you own clothes only! Don't border another people as you pay for the trip to relax and enjoy life.

[@bayousbambino427]

Formal night is an event. One should dress appropriately for the event, out of respect for the others at the same event. Showing up to a black-tie evening in your polo shirt and chinos breaks the atmosphere. Everyone wearing whatever they want is just a jumbled mess that negates the whole point of a formal night, leaving those who dressed up wondering why they were told it was supposed to be a formal event. You would't wear a bikini to a funeral. So why wear jean shorts an a t-shirt to formal night?

[@angiehughes6583]

The main mistake I have made with clothing on a cruise is not dressing, warm enough. The dining room usually feels cold to me, and having bare legs, I was just freezing. So, pants or tights for me! Even in the Caribbean, the inside of the ship is much cooler than the outside!

[@sct4040]

We were freezing in our Canada cruise in September.

[@happycook6737]

True in tropics also. Waay hot outside then expensive places run air con waay cold inside.

[@NightOwl222]

Great tip!

[@marilynruiz746]

Thank you, Angie we get cold easily and were wondering the same.

[@ellina9816]

Good to know, thank you!

[@KateD]

Another tip is to check any excursion clothing requirements. Some religious sites require shoulders and knees covered (and refuse entry to those who don't comply), others recommend comfortable walking shoes, etc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very true 👏

[@Lisa-je5bb]

That's true,in italy,ladies have to wear a skirt when they visit cathedrals if not,they make you put on a paper one

[@lesleyhawes6895]

Back when I hadn't visited every cathedral in Spain or Italy, I used to pack a sarong type skirt that I could just tie on over shorts or other unacceptable outfits, and also wear as a beach/pool cover-up. My husband used to have problems though, they wouldn't let him in even if he did wear a sarong over his shorts! Bit less strict these days though!

[@StevePauli]

This is really true like in Rome or Venice.

[@jenniferstjohn8404]

I love to dress up for a cruise. My husband wears a nice dress shirt and pants and on formal nights, a jacket, while I like a long summery gowns/dresses with lovely jewelry. However, I do it for me and I don’t mind what others wear. So, like you said “Do you”, and enjoy! 🎉

[@ThestuffthatSaralikes]

I WANT to “dress” for dinner… at least one night. I wish they still had the “full on Formal Night” I mean when else does an adult outta school get to really dress up and with suits/tuxedos and gowns..?!! I’d LOVE that!!

[@user-il7xd3uc9r]

Get a membership at the country club

[@janetflanagan973]

On ships of Princess/Celebrity type or dressier ships, on "Formal" or dressy evenings I DO wear a dressy long formal if I feel like it! My husband will wear a suit. MY CRUISE! And I enjoy myself! Go ahead, TRY it if you want, nothing like being outside on deck, feeling pretty with your man and a glass of champagne! Or, if solo, enjoy it because you CAN!

[@thewaywardwind548]

> To each his own. The last time I wore a tuxedo was 51 years ago when I was best man at a friend's wedding. I swore then that I would never again wear one and I haven't. If a ship had a requirement that a tux was required, my decision would be very simple. I would travel on a different cruise line. Life is too short to be miserable. Dress slacks and a sport coat with a tie is my limit for dressing up. I will wear a suit to a funeral but that's about all.

[@nancefair9291]

One thing for kiddos, all my blonde and red haired grandkids wore SPF 50 rash guards during the day. Mixed and matched with swim trunks. Helped immensely to keep serious sunburns at bay.

[@DEPUTYGETSOME]

My problem with dress codes is that cruise lines post restrictions and then don’t enforce them. It makes me feel foolish that I’m following the rules and the table next to me is in a swimsuit and t shirt when I thought they’d kick me out for wearing that. Don’t give a dress code if you’re not going to enforce it.

[@JulieWallis1963]

Absolutely agree 100% Same with enforcing the “No sunloungers to be saved”

[@peterb8814]

I agree. If they have dress codes then enforce them. We were on Navigator of the Seas Feb 3 to 10 2023 and there were people in main dining room for dinner wearing shorts and flip flops and baseball caps, even on formal nights. I hate packing a suit, tie and dress shoes for a holiday, but I do it because that is what the cruise line supposedly wants everyone to do. Long pants for dinner is a choice I make anyway, but when I felt like I was in the minority wearing a jacket and tie for the first of two "Formal Night" dinners, I promptly repacked my dress shoes and tie for the second one. Don't bother with "Formal Nights" if dress codes are not enforced. I thought baseball caps at dinner table was frowned upon as well.

[@yanmeiliu6801]

1:06

[@peterb8814]

@@yanmeiliu6801 ?? Not sure what you wanted me to see at 1:06 of Ilana's video.

[@SuperGman314]

I understand regarding the formal Night dress codes not being enforced- have been dressed formally myself and table mates( females) showed up in a thong “ swimsuit” with sheer coverup. Not a prude but I really don’t want to see “ all that” hanging out all over the place while I’m eating 😊

[@RonnieCarey-hu1gk]

My first cruise over 20 years ago we had NO IDEA about formal dress night. We showed up in Hawaiian dress/shirt & sandals . Realized the mistake when everyone was in ball gowns & tuxs. They didn't turn us away but they did put us in a small room tucked in the back corner with the other misfits & actually the entertainers too. We were all laughing & having a great time in our own little private room. Worked out to be the BEST experience! Happy accident

[@vickyburton2434]

I love the formal nights! I feel special wearing a few nice pieces of jewelry and a gown. A cruise is my only chance to do this!❤❤❤❤❤

[@georganastabler7465]

I too love dressing up,yet I have a theory if you have good jewelry wear it any where you go.

[@vickyburton2434]

@@georganastabler7465 that is what everyone says!

[@dand3975]

Glad you finally made it to the Prom.

[@vickyburton2434]

@@dand3975 that would be correct…..as an adult.🤪

[@thomaswattle9828]

the man who speaks well does well, the who dresses well does even better.@@dand3975

[@georgehny]

Even old dogs like myself can learn new things :) Been cruising since 1984 and never realized that Camo is illegal to wear, even to own, in many Caribbean islands. I guess because I don't wear it I never thought about it yet a good thing to know. George in NY

[@mchapman1928]

Camo should be illegal everywhere except while you are actually hunting.

[@janreynolds3794]

My husband and I love dressing up on formal night; suit and tie for him and I usually wear a cocktail type dress. The other nights, we wear nice casual; slacks and shirt for him, sometimes with sports jacket and I wear a casual dress or nice slacks and top. Being retired, we seldom get a chance to dress up anymore, so we take the opportunity while cruising.

[@cherylschneider6903]

I hate when people wear ball caps to the dinning table.

[@cljcjones]

When you are semi bald sometimes you like to cover you head. Please, be sensitive to follicly challenged person…

[@PASwiftUTube]

I think it is a shame that dress code are getting so very casual or disappearing altogether. Dressing up is something I really enjoy on a cruise.

[@t.n.12]

Why would a missing dress code prevent you from dressing up?

[@adee801]

@@t.n.12 I am not the original poster but I tend to agree with the sentiment. there is something magical about looking around and seeing everyone dressed up. The evening just feels more elegant. But I certainly don't judge anyone else.

[@sallyrucker8990]

There are a lot of different types of cruise lines that can accommodate different kinds of passengers, thank goodness. If you love formal, and less chaos, there are always fifty plus cruises. I have been on cruises, although that was thirty years ago. Times have certainly changed. I don’t believe the large number of people accommodated today would be anything I would enjoy. It almost seems as though cruising today is a lot less expensive than it used to be, with so many families attending.

[@Binga7686]

@@t.n.12. I dress up anyway because I don’t get the opportunity to that because of my job. If people don’t like to dress up then they can go to the cafe where they can do what they like. Sometimes after a busy port day if I We don’t feel like changing up skip the dinning room and go up to the buffet where we can just have what we want without dressing up.

[@annewalden3795]

I suggest you dress to please yourself and be comfortable.

[@tammystreasures8766]

In the old days, everyone dressed up to get on planes. But back then most people couldn’t afford to fly. I’m just grateful that the opportunity has opened up to more people. I also think spending hours in one seat is more comfortable wearing more casual clothes.

[@amandaregis313]

I remember those days. I'd have to wear my Sunday best, not only on Sunday, but to the doctor or dentist, and a nice summer dress when going into town from my grandfather's cottage where we lived in shorts and tshirts or swimsuits. Travel by plane or train required something nice too.

[@chiarac980]

I m italian, please, no.😅

[@tammystreasures8766]

@@amandaregis313 My grandmother wouldn’t go out to get her mail without dressing up. 😂 I had to dress up just to take her to the grocery store. My mom is in the hospital right now and she’s embarrassed she can’t put on her own clothes. The first thing she asked for was her lipstick. 😂

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

On Cunard, the formal nights are really formal nights. The woman wears formal dresses or sparkly top and dress pants or suit in the men usually wear tuxedos. Most people actually chose Cunard cause they wanted imagine there on a real cruise liner in their heyday. . Many from an older generation, but there’s also some younger people that still like to dress formal and then take pictures.

[@lynn6221]

I love dressing for high tea. And then again for supper. I take daytime clothes for day excursions, then cocktail dress for high tea. Then evening gowns for supper. I love all of the clothing changes every day.

[@conniebruinsma5681]

My first cruise was a transatlantic on the QM2 and even for a "youngster", the formal wear and elegant surroundings along with the feeling of reliving history made that trip my favorite to date.

[@BonVoyageCruiseTravel]

Thank you Ilana for your helpful tips on what to wear. I just try to dress for dinner like it is a nice event. I’m glad to have an occasion to dress nice! It doesn’t have to be hugely expensive, just pulled together. Like you said, you have to worry about you and not everyone else that is way more casual. I don’t even pay attention! I’m on vacation!😂

[@anitahenriquez2082]

We cruise a LOT on SilverSea, Seabourn and Regent. It used to be very formal with full length gowns or cocktail slacks and tops. Now we can get away with a black cashmere sweater and black slacks but with good jewelry. Another option is palazzo pants and a blouse with a bit of sparkle. Only Cunard demands practically ballgowns, but Europeans tend to dress up more. High heels are a poor choice on a ship as the floor and decks are unsteady. Dressy flat shoes are a better choice.

[@leemendoza4685]

Thanks for sharing all these practical tips. I love cruising and we always follow the dress codes of every cruise line. However, I appreciate your reminders that are comparable for the convenience of men and women. Appreciate your information!!! God richly bless you. 🙏🥳🥰💖

[@richardgotshall2703]

When I cruised with Oceania, I was one of only a handful of men who wore a tie to dinner . But a member of the wait staff complimented me as we were leaving.

[@Rich22C]

Wear a tie only if it makes you feel better.

[@dawnjackson1802]

Hot tip. The cruise line treats you better if you dress nicely. Better tables and staff. More reservations if you show some class.

[@harperwood3562]

Thank you!! First time cruiser in a few months, and your channel has been invaluable for tips and advice. Fantastic.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad the videos are helpful as you plan :)

[@angelamarcano7808]

So glad that you have made this video for first time cruisers. I can’t believe how many cruise ships have relaxed their dress codes over the years. I took several cruises with my parents in the 80’s . On the Cunard and Princess, they always had two formal nights and passengers were expected to wear tuxedos and formal gowns to the dining room on those nights, long pants, jackets and cocktail dresses on other nights. I love fashion and didn’t mind but I have to admit that I overpacked for a 7 day Caribbean cruise. I had 3 different outfits for each day. One for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That’s 21 outfits, with matching shoes and accessories!😆 I agree this was way too much and required so much luggage that there’s no way I’d do that today but I am shocked and saddened at what people wear on cruises today and the fact that people have to be taught what is acceptable dress in a dining room.🥲

[@bayousbambino427]

So many people have been steeped in the "me first! My feelings first!" attitude. The idea of doing something for someone else--like dressing appropriately for the event/environment--is completely foreign to them. In their heads, it's always, "uh cun do whutevuh uh want". I mean, just look at how many American airplane passengers had lunatic meltdowns over having to wear a mask!

[@paulawatson2781]

Is this Kiefy CALYOU ET? Great comment!!! 😂🤣😂👋💞🙏🌺

[@sharontorgerson2556]

It really is not just a matter of wanting to live in a floating hotel for awhile but you need a whole special wardrobe. I did not know all this was required to be a passenger on a cruise.

[@Nonna_Lisa_B]

LOVE your choice in cute dresses! I'll be shopping soon 😁

[@ceceliamoreno1845]

We always would rather be overdressed than underdressed and we enjoy looking nice for each other. Every night we are chic. Otherwise it’s room service or the buffet.

[@HOlsen-xe1xy]

For formal night hubby wears black dress pants and long sleeve black dress shirt with a tie with a nice silver and black design.

[@susiegeorge4973]

The trouble now is that the cruise lines don’t enforce the dress codes. On our last Princess cruise guys were wearing shorts and sandals on the dance floor at night and on formal nights only about a third of the men passengers had ties and coats on.

[@luvinarosejackson6106]

Hi. Ilana Earlier this month I went on my very 1st cruise. It was amazing on the rhapsody of the seas in the caribbean. Thank you for your videos they guided me through every aspect of my experience. Although there is no strict rule on dress code in the mdr. One of the nights I noticed a gentleman came to dinner in a tank top. I'm sure everyone thought it was tasteless, but the crew still have accomodate everyone... I surely used your tip on dressing smartly because the crew makes a lot of effort to make our experience a great 1..I will definitely be on another cruise soon 🇹🇹❤️

[@susancampbell1045]

Always, the right advice. Thanks Illana. I have my cruise clothes (May). In storage bags.

[@paulawhite496]

The more casual/country club code of Viking was relaxing and kept the mood warm and friendly.

[@StevePauli]

We often sail Viking and the “dress like you are going out for dinner “ is great advice. To me, baseball caps are a real no no unless you are out eating poolside or on an open deck.

[@sheleenc]

love your cruise planner! One of the mistakes, and it was all my fault since I am the one who does all the packing, my husband has some nice button down shirts with collars BUT sleeveless, sleeveless is NOT allowed in the MDR or any of the specialty's either. That was a lesson learned. I am glad I had packed other shirts for him

[@AlexHernandez-yb9rx]

The clothing mistake I made is back in 2014, went on a cruise with my mom and daughter. It was my mom’s first (and only) cruise. We pretty much packed for Bahamas (we lived close to Port Canaveral so we are used to the hot weather). But on the first night, when we went to eat MAin Dining (on Disney cruise), we were so cold. We didn’t think of being cold inside the ship-in the dining room, in the theater, etc. It was May. So we figured it’s going to be hot. We went to the shop on the ship and we each got a Disney Cruise hoodie jacket. My mom still uses hers. My daughter and I have outgrown our jackets 😂 but it was nice to have a Disney Cruise jacket for a few years anyways. I now know if I go on a cruise to bring a sweater or something to keep the “chill” off of me and keep me warm. 😊 I also think on my next cruise, which should be Sept, I’m going to try to pack lighter than normal (that is a BIG HUGE CHALLENGE, but we will see 🤷🏻‍♀️)

[@kvietimas]

These were great tips. We are on a cruise now, and your videos helped me a lot. Thank you!

[@amandaregis313]

On Holland America, so hubby mentioned, they have an orange night. And our cruise this summer will have two formal nights, theirs, and embarkation day falls on our 39th anniversary, so we can have some fun with it. He even got me trying on dresses last weekend.

[@jc1400]

I was on a cruise with a formal night and I watched couple after couple walk into the main dining room with shorts, tank tops, flip flops . Big sign saying not allowed, but didn’t stop anyone. This was on RCL

[@janenestmj]

My first cruise over 20 years ago we had NO IDEA about formal dress night. We showed up in Hawaiian dress/shirt & sandals 😂. Realized the mistake when everyone was in ball gowns & tuxs😂. They didn't turn us away but they did put us in a small room tucked in the back corner with the other misfits & actually the entertainers too. We were all laughing & having a great time in our own little private room. Worked out to be the BEST experience! Happy accident 😊

[@marilyn6556]

I can’t stand pretentious people who are all show. We dressed nicely, but I didn’t wear a ball gown. My husband wore a dress shirt, sports jacket, and pants. That’s us. If people want to cut others down because they don’t like their clothes, then they’re not my kind of people.

[@estellachin5827]

We have been cruising over 20 years (1-2 per year) minus the 3 that had us stranded on dry land so while not the golden elites, reasonably seasoned. I have to be honest and that is we had always enjoyed dressing up for some of the dining occasions where necessary. The moral is when you dress for the occasion, you not only respect and show respects to others, the venue, you also show you have respects for yourselves. That's not to suggest you need to be pretentious, rather, just a mutually pleasant experience. Not suggesting you have to be in a tux or a ballroom gown; smart casual is perfectly acceptable unless otherwise stated. I have actually seen male passengers attending formal nights/captain nights in opened toe sandals and Ts. I have to admit that Dining management and the wait staff were ever so graciously and diplomatically to redirect and their abilities to address a rather sensitive situation to everyone's satisfaction though you could never please everyone. After all, when we accept the conditions imposed on us by Homeland Security/TSA when travelling, there is nothing wrong to being considerate to our fellow cruise passengers when we are all looking to have a good and fun time. Lighten up everyone.

[@stevesmith5899]

Hi I told you 2 years ago that the pandemic would hurt the cruise industry hard. However things are about back to normal now thank goodness. Love the guidelines. Did a Trans Atlantic last year ship half full very comfortable. Off to Canaries Saga next month. So more formal than usual so your advice is welcomed. Happy cruising Steve xx

[@LifeWellCruised]

Enjoy your cruise Steve!

[@debesevening3335]

We just got off the Mardi Gras and evidently 90% of the folks aboard needed to see this video. I saw everything from people wearing pajamas and slippers (I KID YOU NOT!) at the Buffett and what I am positive had to be a top (but worn as a dress) that appeared to have been painted female pax. We cruise quite a bit, and this was a serious change in what I have seen pre covid.

[@bigboy0625]

"Pants" 🤣 we say trousers 👖 in the UK always make me laugh 😃

[@mikeh2613]

Love your videos, very well presented and informative. Thank you.

[@chh6128]

A big factor in formal night attire is often luggage limits. Most people fly to the port and trying to fit 8 days in a carry on forces choices. You simply can’t fit a big fancy dress or sports coat in the luggage.

[@Lisa-je5bb]

Hi elana,I think you could include dressing in layers on you list. I went to Alaska one year when it was in the 70 during the day . I had on a shirt,a pullover fleece and my coat because the day started about 30 degrees.i also bring a sweatshirt hoodie and a windbreaker

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re right :)

[@jelainevanmerlin8342]

Your tips on cruising ...right on. I love the thrill of being a cruiser. In my history, I spent over 25 years as a cruise specialist using Desk Top publishing to create personalized brochures for my clients itinerary. & Bon Voyage package. Today marketing technology is the number one player with photos, videos and more. Today, personalization video now comes into our living room. Thanks for all your wonderful tips.

[@mackellar829]

I am Elite PLUS on Celebrity and now cruise Xclusively with Celebrity. As a Floridian it is rare to have the occasion to dress 'up' so I wear a jacket and tie nightly plus bring my tuxedo and a dinner jacket with different cummerbund and stud sets. I have found that the STAFF in MDR are grateful for my effort and they often express their disappointment that dress codes have become so relaxed. Wives who allow their husbands to dress like a schlump should be embarrassed. If couples can't afford a sport coat & tie for a cruise vacation they should book a Carnival cruise.

[@sylviamcquillan3541]

Thank you for the advice. Going on my first cruise this June. Going to Alaska on the Cunard June 20-30🙋‍♀️🇨🇦

[@theresamimnaugh1190]

Love your videos. You’re absolutely correct that most cruise lines aren’t as formal as they once were. I know Royal Caribbean Formal Night was tuxedos and gowns 30 years ago when I first started cruising. Although I do miss a little of the dressier moments, I’m very happy to wear smart casual now. Easier to pack and wear! And I’m not having to send a tuxedo and beaded gown out to the laundry to be pressed!

[@paulaswann6990]

Absolutely love Royal Caribbean. Happy cruising to you.

[@GaryYoung1970]

Taking my first cruise here soon I find your videos very informative and helpful tips thank you. Going on the Norwegian Jewel first trip so excited to go

[@elizabethhuffman8478]

My husband and I tend to go full formal. We *adore* getting dressed to the 9's and having a quiet evening together.

[@naturalPaths]

Ociania’s country club casual was perfect for my husband and me. It made packing and cruising so simple.

[@harlanabraham7772]

Howdy IIana, already subscribed and hit the like button. I always bring several pair of pants. I never wear jeans to a MDR or specialty restaurant. Always bring a suit with me. Never walk around in bare feet anyway. Most cruise lines don't even offer Barefoot wine. It can be very cool in the dining rooms regardless of the time of day. Usually, I bring plenty of collared shirts. Very important to wear to dining room. Have been on Cunard. If you don't have a jacket they will not let you in the dining room. I dress my way. If someone doesn't like it they don't have to look at me.

[@newyrnewme7609]

This was so helpful. I have cruised for years and have never heard you can’t wear camouflage clothing in certain countries.

[@aoifedonnelly8464]

I used your ultimate cruise planner for my last cruise and absolutely loved it. Looking forward to using again once we book our next cruise 😊❤

[@TheGaredbug]

Most cruise lines offer tuxedo rentals for men. After trying to keep a suit in good shape from an airline flight and not having much success with that, we decided to do the rental the next time. It was perfect!!!! .They ask you to send in measurements (a form tells you exactly what to measure and how) There were 2 formal nights on this cruise and when we first got to our cabin the tuxedo was hanging in a bag in the closet and also two freshly laundered white shirts, tie. etc. They all fit like a charm! We will always do this in the future because it is a pain to try to keep a mens suit nice and their dress shirts with no wrinkles. I highly recommend this service.

[@bobcochran2890]

Formal nights are so passé. We’ve done a number of ocean cruises on Viking’s small ships. No formal nights ever. Nice casual wear is fine in the evenings.

[@patti1044]

Thanks - great conversation. We travel very light by choice as I hate wrangling luggage particularly when using trains and buses on our extended travel. Always start checking local weather a couple weeks before you cruise (bigger issue in Europe,etc) and adjust accordingly. Had to wonder at the lady complaining at CS that she didn't bring warm clothes on her cruise from LA in January - she was expecting Caribbean temps. We pack a capsule wardrobe that mixes well and plan on having laundry done on our longer trips. Next trip is 35 days with 2 cruises and land travel with the goal as always of 22" and personal item each..... we will see.

[@gregjerome1911]

We also pack to carry-on intentionally, I think it’s easier for men than women, but can be done. We were in Europe/Med for 18 days & did just fine, if anything had too many clothes. We did laundry 1 day on the ship.

[@davedove67]

It's important to pay attention to dress requirements for excursions too. Many religious sites want knees and shoulders covered.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good point

[@havantgirl]

I never even thought about the camouflage, this video was worth it for this alone! I don’t have a huge amount but I do have some comfy pants which I might have considered bringing

[@gregjorgensen7271]

Carnival Panorama was VERY relaxed on dress code, I saw shorts, t shirts, baseball hats all over the place every night including both formal nights…

[@deenah99]

We love cruising with NCL because they have a very relaxed dress code. My husband brings khaki pants and collared shirts for dinner. I bring capris with nice tops, a skirt, and a dress.

[@pamelasmith9331]

I enjoyed your video and appreciate the information.

[@katherineforseculton2597]

We got off our cruise yesterday and I'm astonished at what some people thought was appropriate to wear in the MDR. Some of these people have not been taught how to dress or behave in a restaurant at all

[@Brownhairkid]

#13 was priceless. 😊

[@gailnewwoman]

I’m sorry but please don’t wear your pajamas to breakfast in public. 🙄. I’ve actually seen that.

[@MySnowball14]

if i'm hungover i absolutely will lmao

[@kimjones7391]

I agree with you! I was shocked to see people in their sleep wear at the buffets. I think it’s disrespectful and tacky! People need to have respect not only for those around them but for themselves. I’ve now decided I’ll pay more for a cruise and travel with those who have respect.

[@thezeppa1948]

I travel with Viking a lot and love that there are no formal nights. One can wear shorts at the buffet, but in specialty restaurants, we wear smart casual ones. The men have to wear slacks and a button-up shirt. Oh, the special restaurant are free.

[@TexasScout]

Back in 1967 my brother and I went with my parents to a convention down in Mexico City we stayed at a big hotel there in like five bars and six nightclubs in the hotel itself. I can remember being in one of the nightclubs at night and loosening my tie just a slightly in the bouncer coming over and jerking it back up they were very strict about dress codes in nightclubs.

[@athlestanthefirst1275]

I always change into a polo shirt or the ubiquitous Hawaiian shirt for dinner, but we stopped getting dressed up more than that for the formal night; just don't want to pack those clothes especially when flying to the port.

[@angelaherring5443]

We choose to not get involved on formal night because we prefer comfort. We will do the lido buffet. Other than that we love the dining room. On the first night of embarkation we make reservations at the steakhouse. We both wear a nice shirts and blouse. I love watching and learning from your videos. Thank you.

[@robertowen6499]

All good advice again Llana.My wife loves the opportunity to dress up on a few nights of a fortnight cruise and especially on say an Atlantic crossing.I think that it is only fair to do likewise and get a suit or a Tuxedo out.Nothing worse than seeing a couple where the Woman has made the effort and the man turns up in Chinos or even shorts and an open necked white shirt. I actually enjoy it too , though all the extra gear and shoes bring a weight penalty of course.I suspect that on some of those ultra luxury ships you will see people wearing noticeably expensive and well made ,yet casual clothes if not suits and Ball Gowns!😂

[@beerbarnbrewing9160]

I’m all for a couple formal nights on a 9 night cruise. But nicer shorts with collared shirts for men should be allowed on smart casual nights. Especially in the Caribbean😊!

[@kathryncashner3294]

If you are in the Med and plan to visit any religious buildings while in port, many have dress code requirements. These are typically shoulders covered and legs covered to below then knees. You can accomplish this with a shawl, etc. Some places even sell pieces of fabric that you can tie around your waist or around your shoulders....or just review the rules before you go!

[@pierrefireball2505]

My brother and I have had cruises on Cunard's ships. The dress code is much more formal, we are both in our 60's, so it is fine for us. The service, the attendees, and the food are up to 5-star hotels. More so if you already have had a cruise with them. They are very aware of you on these ships. You do feel very special when you are guests on these ships. They make you feel you are royalty. We always book suite with them, they make us feel we are back home.

[@jeffgorham8819]

I've been know to bring my tux along (helps that I own one!) but it depends on the cruise line and how long the cruise is. Going on a 10-day NCL one in a few months (with several days touring on either side), and I'm leaving it at home, if only to free up some space.

[@bronniepaterson4694]

Hi just discovered you.. We’ve been cruising a few times… All sound advice here,pretty common sense really,but as we know sometimes that leaves us! The air con can be quite fierce especially in cooler places and days.. We mainly cruise P&O from UK. …. Will definitely be looking at your past video’s…..👍🇬🇧

[@dolfantina4279]

I always carry a large scarf ❤ As some countries, you have to have your shoulders covered before entering some churches. And also I have one large enough to wrap a skirt as well.

[@margaritaisabelcabrera6491]

I enjoy tour video, all the people that complain about the dress code of the formal night why they don't go to the buffet instead to the dinnig room, some of us enjoy getting dressy after 9 PM. As somebody said "as sun goes down....dress up"🎉

[@crazy4dariver]

Love your channel.

[@nancyannesunboxings]

Thanks so much! Very helpful!

[@laurenschenck5355]

It is so important to listen to the dress code and just so everyone is happy comfortable and enjoying the crusie 💘💙🛳️🛳️💝🖤❤️🌈🖤💝🛳️🖤❤️❤️💓💙💘💓💚💛💜💔💕💗💗❣️❣️💓💖💘🌈🌈❤️🖤🛳️🛳️💝❤️🌈💙💙💘💚💔💔💔💔💚💛💖💘🌈🌈🌈🖤🖤🛳️💓💝❤️❤️💖

[@karenvonbargen4472]

So, Alaska cruises have a different vibe, you can eat in jeans and hiking boots in the MDR. The crowd is much more outdoorsy and the dress code is pretty lax. Obvs don’t look like you were just mud wrestling a bear but pretty much whatever was ok.

[@Susi.312]

Good to know, we are going to Alaska in August. Do you think your statement applies to most ships? We are sailing on Princess and am hoping it is more relaxed with the dress codes!

[@dianneunderwood8456]

Yes planning what to take to wear for day and evening (dining room) can be quite a challenge. and of course the longer your cruise the more you will need to take! Our first cruise (over 15 years ago) we had several pieces of luggage to accommodate gowns, suits and tux. while we enjoyed dressing up for the formal nights, we decided that our next cruise would have less emphasis on that aspect and more on the relaxation and comfort. We recently had the good fortune to take a 20 day cruise and only packed one carry-on and one backpack each. No we aren't in our 20's (but in our 70's) and it worked out very well! Not to mention we didn't have any waits at the airports at the baggage carousels. With the more relaxed dress codes, it fits with our outlook to just enjoy our holiday -- we certainly wouldn't show up in torn jeans, shorts, etc for the dining room so having the option to be less formally dressed is a good one.

[@klyn9966]

Good information, thank you!

[@user-il7xd3uc9r]

Casual , it’s vacation after all Some people have to dress up every day for work It’s nice to have a fuss-free relaxing time !

[@conybrown5371]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@belindag5720]

I am old school. I like dressing in the evening for dinner. Sometimes after dinner when I am walking around the ship I feel over dressed so I find myself changing again after dinner.

[@trinbagoroj]

You should also mention the wearing of camouflage (camo) clothing in the Caribbean by anyone is strictly illegal and you can be arrested.

[@bonitarobinson113]

thank you...very informative

[@kimbragg2097]

Thank you this is very helpful ❤

[@denneyhoward417]

Thank you, well done.

[@PartyPlansPlus]

As with all of your videos, you were right on the money. Too bad I didn't see this one before I went. LOL Seriously, just out of dumb luck, I did have in my outfits things to wear for a Beatles party, a '60s party and the wear all white night. The only thing that really surprised me about my trip on the Celebrity Silhouette was that I usually freeze on cruises. Not this time. It actually was warm and I live in Florida so I'm used to warm.

[@kikihodges8695]

We arrived on our first cruise without our luggage and had to go to dinner in what we were wearing- logo tee shirt and trainers. We were mortified but everyone was lovely about it and obviously it was a talking point. There were 30 couples without luggage but luckily reunited after 3 days.

[@Ashley-up3ou]

I feel like I'm a big overpacker. I think that's a good #14. I have so many favorite pairs of shoes for example. They don't ALL need to come.

[@kstaffen-justlovescruising]

My one comment here is that while guests more and more decide that they want to dress more casually on formal nights, a quick look at the officers and crew and how they are dressed tells the true story. When they are dressed more formally, that means that they are dressing for how they want guests to dress. So while they won't turn people away, it's not what they want. If they didn't care, they wouldn't dress up more that night.

[@rebecca46107]

I have been on many cruises - last May I cruised, but dressed on formal night. The only shoes that I could wear was a pair of dress flips flops. (I had an impending surgery coming up and those were the only ‘dress shoes’ I could wear).My grandson mentioned that I was wearing flip flops, but other than athletic shoes, that’s all I could wear. I no longer judge people who don’t fit what I think they should wear, I don’t know their financial or health situation. I stayed in on some of the ports that I had been to already while my family went to ports - super fun time, no regrets.

[@lemonz0880]

amazing video!

[@connieramsey6798]

Thank you!

[@cafsixtieslover]

I love dressing up on cruises which is why I like cruising with Cunard. It is the only chance I get to dress up. A few years ago we were on a Med cruise with MSC and on formal night the ladies dressed up in lovely evening dresses and they were accompanied by men in cut off ragged jeans and teeshirts. My husband was one of the only men in a dinner suit. On our last cruise with them there was no formal night at all.

[@YTcommieD]

So, MSC don't have formal night anymore ? I'm going to MSC cruise in Feb next year.

[@travelwithdebandnick]

My idea of formal and most people is completely different. My formal is a dress that maybe a bridesmaid would wear for a wedding. And that is how i dress on formal night. The clothes that i see most people wearing on formal night, and that includes 95 per cent of the woman vloggers i follow on you tube, is to the level that i would wear out to the supermarket or a Cafe. Im not sure how that can be called formal maybe im old fashioned, but formal to me is dressing to the 9s, not just a dress that can also be worn to the local shops i love formal night on a cruise as there's nowhere where i live where i can get dressed up so i just wear the same day clothes that i wear out to a restaurant or something. (i dress pretty nicely even during the day at home. Im not a tee shirt and jeans woman it's either nice trousers and a nice top or a lovely dress for my normal day wear, so i love the chance to go all out on a cruise :) ive heard people say "im on holiday, im relaxing, im not dressing up" but i say "im on holidays it's my chance to dress up" :) i guess everyone is different and people probably won't understand my thinking about getting dressed up, the same as i dont understand there thoughts on dressing down. Each to there own i guess :)

[@tammystreasures8766]

Great attitude! You’re absolutely correct, everyone is different.

[@LifeWellCruised]

There’s nothing wrong with dressing to the nines and enjoying it. You’re right though, things have changed and everyone has their own idea of how they prefer to dress for these evenings :)

[@joywebster2678]

The guide for what others wear is seen in the avg. Stores. If you must go into bridal stores for evening gowns, or a fancy boutique by appointment, then you know it's no longer mainstream. If you come from such wealth that still engages in debutante balls, country clubs, ladies wearing long gloves to dinner, then that is a class issue, not a style choice for the rest of us.

[@PQV-8898]

Who the hell cares? Dress whatever the hell you want.

[@lyndahollier]

I love a chance to dress up! Formal Night, here I come!

[@ourbestlifeericaandkevin]

Virgin has best dress code! You do you!