Formal night for women, what is appropriate

[jima53]

My wife is trying to decide what would be nice to wear on the formal nights without going the formal gown route. We would appreciate hearing about what you wore and felt comfortable with your fellow passengers. We are leaving in a month and would appreciate your help. This will be our first 7 night cruise and although we are not fancy people we want to have a nice cruise and feel good about it.

Thanks
Jim and Linda

[dakrewser]

The best visualization would be for her to consider what she'd wear to the company holiday party, an evening wedding reception, or a "white linen table cloth" restaurant in a major city. But, then, I'm a guy. :)

[Krazy Kruizers]

A long black skirt with a couple of fancy, dressy tops will suffice. Those long black skirts can be worn anywhere - anytime.

[Spot]

EXCELLENT ADVICE Dave, as a woman I would have told her the same (but added - remember this is the tropics).

[Lois R]

Hi:) formal nights.......your wife can wear a cocktail dress~long gown~dressy pants suit~any or all of the above.
I just returned from sailing on the Zuiderdam.....I saw quite a few different outfits...most everyone looked lovely.
First formal night, I wore a velvet dress...not to the floor, (tea length)...which is just above the ankles. It was black with a beautiful scarf.....nice earrings and pendant and I thought I was right in step.
2nd formal night I wore ivory flyaway pants with a beautiful black and ivory glitttery top to match.
I saw women more dressed up than I was and some not so dressed up. I sat next to a woman at the Captain's Reception who was wearing black slacks and what I would consider a "casual top"......so, to each his/her own.

Right now, if you live near a Dillards....they are having a BIG SALE...everything is 75% OFF.....if you want something new and save money at the same time:D

[ekerr19]

A long black skirt with a couple of fancy, dressy tops will suffice. Those long black skirts can be worn anywhere - anytime.

KK: I'm with you - they also pack & travel well too! I have one long, sleeveless black dress that can be worn with a fancy jacket if the weather is cooler - I usually always bring at least one long black skirt too, it can be paired with different tops.

dave - you are right - even though you're a guy. ;)

For us anymore, comfort is as important as dressing up. I always make sure I (and DH) will be comfortable in our formal clothes before I pack them. It makes a huge difference. :)

[CrazyforCruisin]

HI,
When we were on the Alaska Cruise we saw everything from glittery gowns to skirts and sweaters and sandals on formal nites. On our first formal nite I wore a very simple white linen shift with a matching sheer jacket and white high heel sandals. With my hair done and some sparkly jewelry and on the arm of my handsome huband in his tux, I looked great. The 2nd formal nite, I wore a long gown which was also very simple. With me it is the accessories that make the difference. I did not spend alot of $$ on either outfit. This coming cruise, I have a long black chiffon skirt which I will wear with 2 different tops. Simple and elegant to me is the key. No matter what she wears, I am sure she will look beautiful. Have a wonderful cruise!

[RuthC]

Fabric can make a difference---I agree with KK that a long black skirt with beaded tops will do the trick, so long as the skirt fabric is "dress up".
Slacks in crepe, silk, chiffon overlay, velvet, with the same tops will also do quite well.
A "mother of the bride"-type dress would do if your wife doesn't really want to go formal.

If your wife doesn't have clothes in her closet, and doesn't want to spend too much more she should try second-hand shops. I've done very well in such places.

[Jacqueline]

I agree with Crazyforcruzin- hair, accesories, jewelry and makeup can make you seem more *formal*.
I have a few smashing costly ballgowns BUT I also have my secret waepon for the comfortable formal night - Chico's travel pants (they look silky but have an elastic waist) with a sequined top. Add a few diamonds and instant formal. Really. Could be faux jewelry for the same effect. Have great shoes and a good pedicure to complete the picture.

[iluvcruzin]

There have been long conversations on what is appropriate formal wear. After receiving my documents with a couple of photos advertising formal rental for women, I totally lost any fear of being dressed appropriately. A plain black skirt and blouse will suffice. If the rental is basic, it will be acceptable to be basic. Jewlery seems to dress things up. Bring your credit card.. (just kidding :D )

[Aussie Gal]

As K.K. said a black skirt is fine. I usually take a long black skirt and have different dressy tops to wear with the skirt, as well as a couple of other formal outfits. As we will be away for a month this time, I am only bringing the black skirt and the tops as we need to conserve our weight.

Jennie