Dressing up for formal/elegant nights on a cruise can be expensive. However, there are many ways to save money on your cruise attire without sacrificing style. In this guide, we will share some tips and strategies to help you dress up for formal elegant nights on your cruise without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Dress Code
1. Overview of common cruise dress codes:
Cruise Casual:
Comfortable and relaxed attire for daytime activities and casual evenings. Think shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals.
Smart casual:
A step up from casual wear, combining comfort with a slightly more polished look. Opt for dress pants or skirts paired with a blouse or a collared shirt.
Formal aka Elegant:
The pinnacle of elegance, where you can showcase your most glamorous outfits. Men can wear suits or tuxedos, while women can opt for cocktail dresses or evening gowns.
Flexibility of dress codes on modern cruise lines
Cruise lines nowadays understand the need for flexibility and inclusivity, allowing guests to express their personal style within the dress code guidelines.
It’s no longer solely about tuxedos and ball gowns, but more about looking and feeling your best within your means.”
Traveling on Carnival Cruise? Check out their dress code.
Preparing for Elegant Night
Plan ahead
Begin planning your cruise elegant night outfits early.
This will give you time to shop and find the perfect outfit for your budget.
Pack light
You don’t need to bring a whole new wardrobe for a formal night. Just pack a few key pieces that can mix and match to create different looks. This will save you space in your luggage and money on your cruise bill.
Be comfortable
The most important thing is to feel comfortable in your outfit. If you are not comfortable, you will not enjoy yourself. Choose an outfit that you feel confident in and that you can move around in easily.
How to save money on any formal dress
Building a Versatile Cruise Wardrobe:
1. Utilizing the power of mix-and-match outfits:
“Creating a versatile wardrobe doesn’t mean buying countless clothes. Instead, focus on a few key pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various looks. For example, pack a pair of tailored pants or a skirt that can be paired with different tops for both smart casual and formal nights.”
Tips for Saving on Cruise Attire
Explore thrift shops
Thrift shops are a great place to find affordable formal wear. You can often find gently used gowns, suits, and other formal attire for a fraction of the price you would pay at a department store.
How to look expensive on a budget
How to Save Money for Cruise Elegant Night
Time is on your friend
When you have more time, you can be selective and hunt for specific items, colors, and styles. Visit multiple thrift shops to increase your chances of finding the perfect outfit. Some thrift stores even have club cards or discounted days, allowing you to save even more.
Affiliate Disclosure: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on a product or service link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we genuinely believe in and have personally used. Your support through these affiliate links helps us continue to provide valuable content and maintain the upkeep of this website. Thank you for your support!
Shop online
Online platforms like SHEIN, eBay, Temu and Amazon can offer great deals on inexpensive formal wear.
However, be mindful of sizing differences and always read the details provided by the sellers.
Some online retailers, particularly, SHEIN offer a wide range of affordable dresses and elegant pantsuits, including plus-size options.
Read my full review of purchasing elegant dresses on SheIn.
Take advantage of the detailed sizing information provided on these websites to find the perfect fit
Here is one of the suits purchased on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3JuEQqag
I have also had very good luck buying items from Temu. Download the app and get $100 in coupons. https://temu.to/k/ussRhH7ocJqd53j or use this code when signing up: afh04439
Capitalizing on sales, discounts, & clearance racks
Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and clearance sections both in-store and online.
Patience pays off, as you can find stylish pieces at remarkably lower prices.
Sign up for newsletters or follow your favorite brands on social media to stay informed about upcoming sales and promotions.
Many stores offer sales and discounts on formal wear throughout the year. Call formal ware stores to find out about clearance or sidewalk sales.
Check retailers like JCP and Macy’s after Christmas and Easter at retailers in local malls.
How to save money when shopping for clothes
Borrow elegant wear from friends or family
Instead of buying new clothes, consider reaching out to friends or family.
See if anyone has any elegant wear in their closet that you could borrow for the occasion.
It’s a fantastic way to save money while still looking fabulous!
Don’t forget the shoes
The right pair of shoes can make or break an outfit. Invest in a pair of comfortable and stylish shoes that you can wear for the entire evening.
DIY Fashion Hacks
1. Upcycling and repurposing clothing items:
Get creative and transform your existing clothes by adding embellishments, altering hemlines, or combining different pieces to create unique outfits.
For example, you can add lace trim to a plain dress or sew a brooch onto a blazer for a personalized touch.
Creativity with accessories
A simple outfit can be transformed with the right accessories.
Add a statement necklace, a pair of sparkly earrings, or a fancy belt to dress up your look.
You can also use accessories to cover up any minor flaws in your outfit.
Accessories such as statement jewelry, scarves, or bow ties can instantly elevate your look without breaking the bank.
Pack a few key accessories that can add flair to different outfits.
Embracing Your Personal Style
1. Encouraging individuality and self-expression within cruise dress codes:
Remember, cruise dress codes are guidelines, not limitations.
Use them as a canvas to showcase your personal style and creativity.
Don’t be afraid to incorporate unique elements that reflect who you are.
Styling tips
Tips for incorporating your personal style while adhering to dress code guidelines:
Consider adding personal touches to your outfits, such as a favorite accessory or a pop of color that reflects your unique personality.
Confidence is key – rock your chosen outfits with pride!
Packing Tips
1. Planning your outfits in advance:
Before you start packing, plan your outfits for each formal night.
Create a cruise capsule wardrobe, ensuring each piece can be mixed and matched to create multiple looks.
Lay out your chosen outfits and accessories, ensuring you have everything you need.
Use packing cubes to better organize your suitcase and help you know where items are.
Packing essentials
Formal night outfits: For the formal nights, consider a classic dress or a suit paired with a collared shirt and tie.
Look for timeless styles that can be dressed up or down.
Choose colors and fabrics that can easily transition from smart casual to formal attire.
Final Thoughts on saving money for elegant nights
Dressing up for formal elegant nights on a cruise does not have to be expensive. By following these tips and strategies, you can dress up for formal nights without straining your finances.
Embrace the challenge, explore thrift shops, leverage online bargains, borrow from friends, and get creative with accessories.
With a little effort and resourcefulness, you can create fabulous looks that will make you shine on your cruise. I hope these tips help you save money on your cruise attire. Happy cruising!