After spending countless weeks at sea over the years, I’ve seen it all when it comes to cruise fashion fails.
As I’ve said many times, picking clothes for a cruise isn’t exactly easy. It’s definitely more challenging than packing for a regular city trip.
For this reason, even the most experienced cruiser makes mistakes, and these are the most common ones.
Forgetting Formal Night Attire
Most cruises have at least one formal night, and showing up in casual clothes is how you end up feeling like the odd one out.
I know that some lines have relaxed their policies (no, you don’t always need a tux), but please pack at least one dressy outfit. A simple cocktail dress or nice pants outfit for ladies and a nice shirt for men will be enough.
When in doubt, the trick is to always stay in the middle. Neither too formal nor too casual.
Dressing Inappropriately for the Main Dining Room
I know some passengers love complete freedom and believe everyone should dress however they want, but all cruise lines have dress codes for the Main Dining Room, and it’s only fair that they’re respected.
As always, I recommend checking your cruise line’s specific dress code policy, but generally, you should avoid the following in the dining room:
- Tank tops, basketball shorts, bathing clothes and sportswear.
Clothing That Could be Considered Offensive or That Displays a Message
Another thing many people overlook is offensive T-shirts or hats, especially those with messages targeted at someone.
For example, you must avoid clothes with swear words written on them, words that may offend someone, or that promote hatred or violence in any form.
Remember that most cruises are family-friendly, and it’s important to ensure all guests feel comfortable and respected.
Underestimating Ship Air Conditioning
Cruise ships keep their indoor spaces cold, like really cold! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched people in sundresses or short-sleeve shirts shivering when getting inside.
The contrast between that tropical outside air and the indoor temperature is quite shocking. So, make sure you always bring a light sweater, wrap, or jacket to dinner, shows, and other indoor areas.
Also read: 7 Alaska Cruise Mistakes that Can RUIN Your Cruise
Wearing Camouflage in Caribbean Ports
Here’s a fact many cruisers aren’t aware of: wearing camouflage clothing is actually illegal in several Caribbean countries, including Barbados, Jamaica, and Antigua. You could actually be stopped by local authorities!
The restriction exists because camo is reserved for military personnel in these countries. I’ve witnessed fellow passengers being forced to return to the ship to change before being allowed to continue their excursion.
To avoid these kinds of mistakes, remember to check the article with the 7 things you should never wear on a cruise ship.
Packing No Collared Shirts
Even if you sail on the most casual cruise lines, it may be better to wear collared shirts for men in some specialty or fancy restaurants.
Packing at least one polo shirt or button-down ensures you’ll be perfect for basically all the dining venues on board. They are also quite versatile, so they can be worn with shorts during the day and with slacks at night.
Bringing Only Flip-Flops
Flip-flops are cruise essentials, but they shouldn’t be your only footwear option. Many cruise lines’ dress codes specifically prohibit them in the main dining rooms at night.
Instead, pack at least one pair of closed-toe shoes or dressier sandals.
In addition, they’re terrible for shore excursions. Even if you don’t plan on walking much (which is nearly impossible on a cruise), make sure to pack at least one pair of comfortable sneakers.
Wandering in Swimwear Beyond Pool Areas
We’ve all seen it: someone strolling through the atrium or grabbing lunch in the buffet wearing nothing but a dripping swimsuit.
Not only is this explicitly against most cruise line policies, but it could also be uncomfortable for other passengers. Just toss a cover-up or t-shirt and shorts in your pool bag before heading out. It’s as simple as that.
Additionally, many cruise lines require appropriate attire (beyond just swimwear) in all indoor areas.
Skipping Evening Accessories
After packing all your clothes, don’t forget those small but necessary accessories!
Ladies, a small evening bag or clutch is better than carrying your beach tote to dinner. Gentlemen, a belt and perhaps one nice watch can really change a look.
These tiny additions make a huge difference in how put-together you appear. And practically speaking, you’ll want somewhere to stash your cruise card and phone without lugging around a day bag.
Overlooking Port-Specific Dress Codes
Some ports have specific requirements, especially when visiting religious sites. Many churches and temples require covered shoulders and knees, regardless of gender or the temperature outside.
So, do your research. Look into your ports of call before packing because nothing ruins a day faster than being denied entry to that cathedral you were dying to see.
Ignoring Theme Night
I know that not everyone likes theme nights on cruise ships, but I think it feels a bit isolating when you’re the only person not dressed in white at the massive white night party.
Of course, it is not mandatory to follow theme nights, but I think it is also a fun thing to do when you are on vacation.
The most common ones are usually white parties, 70s disco nights, Caribbean deck parties, and, of course, formal nights that we have already seen earlier.
You can check the cruise daily program and the app for the calendar, but you can already get a preview from these schedules:
- Royal Caribbean Theme Nights 2025: Schedule for All Ships!
- Carnival Theme Nights 2025: Schedule for Every Ship!
- NCL Theme Nights 2025 Schedule
- MSC Theme Nights 2025: Schedule for all Ships!
I have tried several of them but these are the most durable and sturdy.
