Article for Women Issues

No
I am not going to discuss Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' fashion sense. Going on cruises -- you know
aboard a ship -- is more than just a vacation. This is a time when dressing up is a must especially in the main dining hall and night socials. Though many cruise ships have loosened their dress code policies
there are still premier lines that keep the old dressing up traditions. It is a good thing
too
because most people who go on cruises are people who want to break the monotony of their lives. Dressing up gives them an opportunity to break from their routine and lets them get the most from their cruise vacation. Dressing up is not really a problem
it is the packing that frustrates many. By many
I mean us
women.

How many times have you tried to shut and zip up an overflowing suitcase only to be denied at the port or airport because your luggage is at least 20 pounds overweight? Dressing up on cruise does not mean that you have to pack your whole wardrobe. Cruise fashion means smart and practical packing. Being stressed out because of too much luggage makes us look haggard even in our best evening dress. Before you pack
it is important to be familiar about your cruise's itinerary. This gives you a general idea what clothes
accessories
and shoes to pack. Since the itinerary and dress code of the cruise is usually printed with the brochure
you should have no problem with this. If you like to be sure
call the travel agency that promotes the cruise. In general
cruises often require that you attend three kinds of activities: a formal social
smart casual affair
and a casual/sporty activity.

Since you won't be spending the day locked up in your cabin
remember to pack good day wear aside from your stilettos. Day wear can mean anything from swimsuits
shorts
t-shirts
and jeans depending on wear you are going. Bahamas cruises certainly merit good swimsuits
sarongs
and other breezy wear. If you are thinking of a Scandinavian tour
hiking boots
jackets
hiking clothes
and gloves are must-haves. Bring sweatshirts
wraps
or lightweight windbreakers for sudden changes in temperatures.

Nighttime aboard on the ship usually involves socials that require dressing up. If your itinerary specifies several strictly formal events
just bring a formal dress or two and key pieces of jewelry. There are dresses that are designed to function in multiple ways: asymmetrical
tube
halter
or with straps. You could buy and pack one of these and save on luggage space. Your staple black dress is fine as long as you change the accessories that go with it. Wraps
shawls
earrings
and necklaces are good additions to your outfit. If you prefer pantsuits
bring a pair of versatile dress slacks and several tops to go with it. Cruise Diva editor Linda Coffman actually advises concentrating on the waist up. People hardly notice what pants or shoes you wear as long as they notice change on your tops and accessories.