Hi Ladies,

I love your site!  I am going on a cruise soon.  

What do I wear to dinner, the show, and dancing?  I don’t mean on formal nights.  Just regular nights.  

What do I wear during more casual times like in port on excursions?

Thanks,  Anne

Hi Anne,

Oh what a fun time you’ll be having! Here are several ideas for what to bring. The good news about going on a cruise is that you can pack more than you usually do because once you are on the ship you unpack once, and that is it! Also, since there are many activities it’s fun to change your look to suit the different events. Some of these items we found are pricey, but  look around and you should find similar versions of these styles in other stores as more cruisewear starts drifting in.

NOTE: Please excuse the lack of  ”real” models in this post. It’s frustrating for us too.  We rely on photos of clothing from various stores that sell on the internet and these are the models they use. Unfortunatley, they are all super skinny and young, but we have chosen garments that we know will be age-appropriate and look good on most over 40 women.

Breezy and Easy A classic oversized scarf with a chain motif is the inspiration behind this floaty Michael Kors Flutter top. Pair this top  with black capris leggings or skinny pants and you have a look that is ship-shape.  (Nordstrom)
Exotic Edge! Flutter sleeves, big and small, seem to be everywhere this spring. Here they grace this pretty Diane Von Furstenberg ‘Harley’ Dress with it’s calming Fern print. Although this dress looks a little short on this gal (she’s probably 6’1″”!) it can work - alone or with some capri leggings. This feminine floral would be perfect for a casual deckside dinner when you’ve been touring all day and just want to slip into something more comfortable, darling! (Nordstrom)
Chic in  Cork!Finding the perfect sandal to take on your cruise is always a challenge. It has to be comfy and go with a lot of your clothes. This Michael Kors ‘Hamilton’ Sandal fits the bill. Not only does its minimalist style work with sundresses, shorts and pants, but the pretty tan shade works with about any color. Don’t forget your pedicure! (Nordstrom)
Perky and Practical This fun navy Milly Polka Dot Ikat Tote is just what you need to look sporty and classy on your cruise. Just the right size for toting a few souvenirs back to the ship too! (Nordstrom)
Ship Deck Sundress When it calls for casual but, you still want to look a little dressy this shapely black shift dress with shiny brass grommets atop the shoulders and flanking the zippered bodice is a modern choice. By who else but Michael Kors?  (Nordstrom)
Chic ShortsOrange spice sums up the zesty look of these cute and practical Bermuda shorts from Jones New York. Fresh without being gaudy and the right choice for excursions. Warning! Wearing 6 inch high heels like these with these shorts may cause you to fall off the ship deck! (Jones New York)

Calypso QueenDid you say Caribbean? Cruise anywhere, especially to tropics, and you will look mind blowing in this festive, over the rainbow  Abi Ferrin ‘Gloria’ Print Jersey Halter Dress. Added bonus: That high empire waist and flare skirt draws the attention away from your tummy if you’ve been enjoying those cruise meals a little too much. Now get out on that dance floor and shine! (Nordstrom)
Artful Eyewear If you ever wanted to treat yourself to something special for your cruise, these would be our choice. They’re one of the newest pairs of sunglasses from Prada, and with their ornate designer arms they possess standout style. Don’t be leaving those on the beach!
Ship Ahoy!Sexy and summery this gorgeous maxi dress halter will will turn heads in port and at sea. Be sure to wear a little heel to let this dress flow. So classy. No wonder they call it the Riviera Maxi. (Boston Proper)
Wonderful WedgeLove the casual vibe of these cute Keelyn Sandals from Michael Kors. Suede and with jute wedges they’re fit for fun and adventure. Great with a sundress, capris or anything else. ( Nordstrom)

Crop it OffYou can never go wrong bringing along a pair of casual cropped pants and nothing says holiday more than white ones. Top your copped pants off with a loose tunic, shirt or t-shirt and a pair of flats, or wedges and you look ready to set sail and vacation in style. (Chicos)

Do you have a favorite casual outfit you’ve taken on a cruise. Email a snapshot to myphoto@fabulousafter40.com. We’d love to post it.