European Cruises

Posts Tagged ‘evening wear’

Once you have decided you are going on a wonderful European cruise vacation, I guess that is all you can think about until it comes time to packing. Then comes a little bit of stress that begins to set in. The stress is mainly due to the big decision of what clothing to take with you. It is not such a chore to do this if you take a deep breath, sit down with a cup of coffee and start by making a list.

To begin with, determine what the climate is going to be like at the various ports en route. For the most part, they will all be the same with a few degrees variation. So let us assume you are going to be going on your cruise during the summer months.

The first thing you need to determine is what type of events will be taking place on the cruise ship. If you have never been on a cruise before then you are going to be surprised at what takes place onboard. There will most likely be all kinds of activities and you are going to want to dress accordingly so having said this plan for three types of venues.

1. Formal
2. Semi casual
3. Casual

For your formal, it will most likely be for a formal dinner and dancing while on the cruise. Therefore, you will want at least one formal outfit which for men consists of a dinner jacket with possibly a bow tie. Ideally, it would be good if you could take one piece of clothing and perhaps some accessories to change the look as you may have a formal event as well on your return trip. A suggestion would be an outfit that you would wear a light jacket. One time you could wear it without and the next time with it.

Then for your semi casual, you may need an outfit that would be appropriate to wear to an evening of live entertainment such as a show. Here you want to plan for something you will not only be wearing on the ship but during your trips and stays at the various ports.

Finally, there is your casual wear and this includes your bathing suit. Even if you figure, you are not likely going to wear one, take it with you anyway. There is something magical about a cruise that just entices you to do things out of the norm.

Coordinate your clothing. Take one top that will go with a pair of pants, skirts, or shorts. This way you can mix and match your outfits. Rather plan your outfits per day. Also, try to take clothes that will not crease easily. Some materials are better than others are for this. You will want accessories such as jewelry (preferably costume jewelry) and scarves, which can really change the look of an outfit. Take a maximum of three pair of shoes such as one formal, one dressy sandals and then a casual pair. Take one warm outfit in case you run into cooler weather.

Then add your list of miscellaneous items that you need. Make sure everything is on your list. If you leave it until the last minute, you will be sure to forget something.

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