What Do You Wear on a Formal Night on a Cruise?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning to embark on a luxurious cruise soon? If yes, then you must be wondering what to wear on formal night.

Formal nights are an integral part of cruise culture, where passengers dress up in their best attire and enjoy a night of fine dining and entertainment. In this article, we will guide you on what to wear on a formal night on a cruise.

What is Formal Night?

Formal night is an evening where passengers are required to dress up in formal attire. It’s usually held once or twice during the entire cruise, depending on the length of your trip. The dress code for formal night varies from cruise line to cruise line, but it’s always best to check with your specific cruise line before packing.

What Should Men Wear?

Men are required to wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a dress shirt and tie. Black shoes and socks should be worn to complete the look.

If you don’t have a tuxedo or suit, most cruise lines offer rental services onboard. However, it’s always best to bring your own attire as rental prices can be quite expensive.

Tips for Men

  • Make sure your attire fits properly.
  • Choose classic colors such as black or navy blue.
  • If you’re wearing a tuxedo, opt for a black bow tie instead of a regular tie.
  • Avoid wearing sneakers or sandals as they’re too casual for formal night.

What Should Women Wear?

Women have more options when it comes to dressing up for formal night. A long gown or cocktail dress is appropriate attire.

It’s important to choose an elegant dress that’s not too revealing. Dress shoes with low heels are recommended over high heels as they’re more comfortable for dancing and walking around the ship.

Tips for Women

  • Choose a dress that flatters your body type.
  • Avoid wearing dresses that are too tight or too short.
  • If you don’t want to wear a dress, opt for a pantsuit or skirt suit.
  • Accessorize your outfit with jewelry and a clutch bag.

What Should Children Wear?

Children are not required to dress up in formal attire but it’s always nice to see them dressed up for the occasion. Boys can wear slacks with a dress shirt and tie, while girls can wear a nice dress or skirt with a blouse.

Tips for Children

  • Choose comfortable attire that they can move around in easily.
  • Avoid clothing with too many embellishments as they can be uncomfortable.
  • Choose classic colors that match with the rest of the family’s attire.

In Conclusion

Formal night on a cruise is an exciting event where passengers get to dress up and enjoy an evening of fine dining and entertainment. It’s important to follow the dress code set by your specific cruise line and choose attire that’s appropriate for the occasion. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to look stylish and sophisticated on formal night.