15 of the Best Cruise Dresses & How to Style Them

by Freya Wilcox
15 of the Best Cruise Dresses

It may seem like the year has only just begun, but days lounging on the deck of a beautiful cruise liner, basking in the summer sun, really aren’t that far away. Perhaps you have already banished the winter blues by heading to the travel agent!

But what to pack for a cruise? We know that there are rules to follow when it comes to your wardrobe at sea, so take a look at our favourite cruisewear dresses – and the celebrities that have inspired each look – to get you prepared to board.

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15 of the Best Cruise Dresses

From high-end striking statement pieces to floaty summer shades, our top 15 cruisewear dresses are sure to turn heads as you arrive at the Captain’s table.

Maxi dresses add a touch of glamour to any evening do and will certainly suit the occasion, but if you’re wanting to show off that tan (not to mention some gorgeous shoes) a cocktail or midi dress will work wonders.

A high neck and bodycon style suits a smaller frame, whereas a round or v-shaped neckline and skater-style skirt or floaty maxi are incredibly flattering if you’ve got curves. Off the shoulder dresses are very much on trend and can work for all shapes and sizes, too – give one a go and you’ll never look back!

Fashionable styles this season include lace, appliqué, tulle and satin, and there are plenty of high street brands that are showcasing them, as well as some more high-end. The variety on Net-a-Porter is really worth a look if you’re wanting something extra special, but Asos and Topshop (amongst others) also boast an extensive range with some really unique pieces. If you hurry, you may still be able to pick up a bargain in the sale!

When contemplating what to wear on a cruise in terms of colour, you can’t go wrong with a classic black dress. However, the catwalks are also embracing colour this summer and so are our favourite high street shops. Our list of cruise clothing therefore includes shades to suit every skin tone and – with any luck – everyone’s favourite hue, too.

There are lots of cruise outfit ideas to choose from in our shortlist. We particularly love the multi tie maxi from Coast which can be worn in 15 different ways to suit any shape (the genius of this is still hard to believe!). There are also some amazing styles from Anthropologie, where the fashion is just as beautiful as the homeware (trust us), as well as delicate lace detailing on several styles from Asos, Very and New Look. And, as it’s summer, we couldn’t leave out classic floral prints, with both subtle and vibrant styles included in our top 15. Which ones will you be packing?

Anthropologie £258
Anthropologie £258
Asos £65
Asos £65
Asos £70
Asos £70
Coast £109
Coast £109
Miss Selfridge £27
Miss Selfridge £27
Miss Selfridge £41
Miss Selfridge £41
Net-a-Porter £470
Net-a-Porter £470
New Look £29.99
New Look £29.99
Selfridges £985
Selfridges £985
Ted Baker £229
Ted Baker £229
Topshop £59
Topshop £59
Topshop £125
Topshop £125
Topshop £220
Topshop £220
Very £50.00
Very £50.00
Asos £85
Asos £85

How to Dress for a Cruise: Shoes at Sea

That’s the dresses sorted, but what about the shoes? With dinner, drinks and dancing on the cards, be sure to go for a shoe that you’re comfortable in. If you fancy a heel or a wedge, we recommend more neutral colours so that they go with everything. Try a nude, metallic or gold. Or if you’re wanting to opt for brighter colours, just ensure that as many of your cruise clothes complement each other as possible. This should prevent you having to take multiple cases just for your favourite frocks.

Also, remember that pretty flats will take up less space in the suitcase and can be worn not only during the day, but also for dancing ’til dawn!

Neutral coloured shoes

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Cruise Outfit Accessories

If your choice of cruise outfits are more simple, adding a statement necklace and earrings could turn a day time look into an evening one. We also love the idea of a gorgeous hair accessory to complete any dinner cruise outfits.

Accessories

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Celebrity Inspiration

We love the variety of dress styles that celebrities are currently rocking. Whatever size or shape you are, there is sure to be something that inspires your cruise ship outfits. From Naomi Watts in intricate lace to Emma Stone in delicate sequins, these looks showcase classic, Hollywood glamour and fashion forward style. One thing that is apparent this season is that colour is very much in. Go for blues, golds, reds, pinks, or even bright yellow, as we’ve seen at the recent Golden Globe Awards.

Naomi Watts, amongst many other famous faces, loves Self Portrait, and this beautifully intricate lace midi dress is smart yet edgy with the contrasting colours and hem line.

Naomi Watts in Self Portrait

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Emma Stone is pretty in pink in this starry number. Her simple and elegant hair do ensures her outfit stands out from the crowd.

Emma Stone in Valentino

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Naomie Harris dazzles in this striking metallic gown. The plunging neckline looks gorgeous with her petite frame.

Naomie Harris in Armani

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Kaley Cuoco dazzles in this blush pink gown – a really popular colour this year. The light tulle fabric is so elegant and perfect for those hot summer evenings.

Kaley Cuoco in Marchesa

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Brie Larson is the epitome of Hollywood glamour with this beautifully bold red gown. We love the touches of sparkle and gorgeous sweetheart neckline.

Brie Larson in Rodarte

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How To Style Your Cruise Wear

  • For special evenings on the ship, think Hollywood glamour.
  • If a dress is more simple, adding accessories can really transform it.
  • If you’re not confident in heels, wedges or smart sandals can look just as good with your cruise clothes.
  • When planning what to pack for a cruise, go for styles that suit your body shape – you’ll exude confidence!
  • Take a few cruise outfits that complement each other. That way you can wear the same shoes, belt, jacket or necklace with various dresses.

It’s never too early to start planning cute outfits for a cruise and, in this case, they should certainly come under ‘travel essentials’ on your list. Happy holidays!

Read more great articles on women’s fashion here at alexie.co.

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