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What to Wear on Your Cruise

The Code: Our cruise on Royal Caribbean will have 2 formal, 1 smart casual, and 4 casual nights.

Formal attire includes suits and ties or tuxedos for men and cocktail dresses for women.

Smart Casual attire includes jackets and ties for men and dresses or pantsuits for women.

Casual attire includes sport shirts and slacks for men and sundresses or pantsuits for women.

Nightly Casual Option: The Windjammer cafe is the laid-back evening choice -- though it still has some restrictions: No bare feet are allowed. Tank tops and caps are not allowed during dinner. (There goes my funny hat night idea.)

Written Restrictions and Jeans: No bare feet, caps, tank tops or bathing suits are permitted in the dining room. Shorts are not allowed during dinner. Royal Caribbean : "As long as jeans are tasteful with no blemishing, tears or mis-sizing, the guest will more than likely make it through the doors. In this day and age of fashion, there are designer jeans that are very expensive. As a contemporary cruise line, we will not limit our guests on their choice to put their best 'fashion foot' forward as long as it meets our basic standards. The maitre d', however, does reserve the right to request that an inappropriately dressed guest change their attire before being seated." (I smell a dollar bet on who can get tossed out of the dining room!).

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What to Wear While in Port:

Dress to Impress: Style and fashion are important in Spain, Italy, and France. White sneakers, baseball caps, fanny packs, and jean shorts will shout out "I'm a tourist!!". To blend in, keep to neutrals -- scarves and inexpensive jewelry can add a splash of color. While low heels and dressy sandals are stylish, they aren't practical for trekking around. European style trekking shoes are comfortable and still stylish. Check out Ecco, Mephisto, or Dansko for style ideas. (Leave the flip flops for the pool or beach.) Skirts and dresses are more the norm by locals, but a nice pair of capris will work nicely. Shorts are becoming more popular in Europe, so a nice pair of stylish shorts can also work. (Just not too short.) The more conservative, the better. Visits to churches, especially in Rome, require modest attire. No bare shoulders or knees. Paper clothing -- no, I am not joking -- is sold outside St. Peter's if you find yourself in the wrong attire. Women: carry a scarf to cover your shoulders and pack a light skirt to change into if you are wearing shorts. Men: wear a shirt with short sleeves (t-shirts are acceptable) and convertible cargo pants (the kind that the lower pant leg zips on/off) are a nice option for men.

Weather

Just like here in the States, Spring weather can vary greatly. Plan your wardrobe accordingly. Averages are in the low 70's, but highs and lows vary anywhere from 60 to 80. Versatility is key. Pack for both extremes and you'll be ready for whatever the day may bring.