Dinner Looks for a Luxury Cruise: What to Wear Without Overpacking

When I was prepping for my first luxury cruise, I reached out to my high school bestie. She’s a “cruise only” traveler and her line of choice is ultra-luxe Regent Seven Seas. I was ready for an extensive list of must-haves and assumed I’d need multiple suitcases to carry a grand wardrobe.

Boy, was I wrong. She advised me to choose a few timeless classics in neutral colors that fit well and work together to create different outfits. Small, easy-to-pack accessories are the key to changing your looks, she advised. And bring a knockout dress or two and rewear them. She reminded me that no one’s tracking your outfits onboard.

After our conversation, I was relieved that I didn’t have to fret about fancy evening wear. I focused my shopping on finding pieces that would work for me onboard and when I returned home.

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A Sophisticated Suit is Your Cruise Dinner Power Move

When you want a comfortable, chic look for dinner, a two-piece pants set is an easy, elegant option. Elegance Miss offers a Paris-made collection that hits all the style points. Crafted of easy-care fabric, the sets come with wrap-style tunics, relaxed-fit blouses or button-front tops paired with flare pants that work with heels or flats.

An event-worthy jumpsuit is an alternative fit for this look. The right one for evening wear will be impeccably styled and constructed in a fabric that feels rich on your skin.

Dressed Up, Not Overdone: Chic Alternatives to the Cruise Formalwear Cliché

Have you considered packing an old bridesmaid dress for a cruise formal night? Don’t. Despite what you’ve been told, you really can’t wear it again. Donate it to your local thrift shop and find a sophisticated dress that makes you the center of attention.

The minimalist styles featured in Crescent’s special occasion collection are sophisticated and timeless. Solid color choices include go-with-everything neutrals or brilliant jewel tones. Easily change the look with jewelry and shoe swaps.

Or channel your inner “Emily in Paris” with a selection from the Elegance Miss Parisian Dress collection. Choose one of the head-turning prints. Or, for the most wardrobe flexibility, go with a neutral ivory, anything-but-basic black or glittery gold.

If you prefer a looser fit, look for goddess styles in luxurious silk. The one-size-fits-most dresses and caftans from Vanner House easily transition from day to evening with the addition of lots of gold jewelry and strappy sandals.

You Are What You Carry: The Prettiest Bags and Clutches for Cruise Nights

If you’re a jewelry person, you won’t have a problem accessorizing your evening cruise looks. I’m not, so I rely on a wardrobe of clutches, purses and bags to dress up and change my outfit.

It’s so easy to choose a night purse. You don’t have to fret about capacity, weather resistance or safety features. Night bags just wanna have fun.

If you only want to pack one bag, a simple black phone wallet clutch, like the jetty from shortyLOVE is your go-to. The zip-around style expands ever so gently to hold your essentials while keeping its slim profile.

I always pack at least one glam evening clutch. Metallic fabrics and twinkle beading are glam touches to look for. Online retailer Urban Expressions has a great selection of ever-changing, get it or it’s gone styles, including Art Deco-retro fans and clamshells.

If you’re a multipurpose handbag gal, a convertible woven tote from Sol and Selene goes from day to night in a flash by removing the strap. The gold accents provide a luxe touch and – bonus – a removable zip pouch holds all your makeup essentials.