No dress up

[Dajbman22]

What I don't understand is the group on here claiming anything less than a ball gown on a woman and black-tie tux is not formal enough, when if you read RCI's suggested dress for formal night, it is a cocktail dressfor women and a suit or tux for men. The word "gown" isn't even mentioned on their dress code. That's the suggested dress, anything nicer is even above and beyond, and to turn your nose up at people for even following RCI's non-enforced suggestions is asinine.

 

FWIW, I do plan on packing my tux as usual, but I would gladly share a table with a couple in jeans and a sundress, all things else equal.

Edited March 5, 2014 by Dajbman22

[homeschoolmama]

A gown is NOT necessary. Rccl in fact has some of the most "casual" formal nights. Dressy pants and flowy or lacy tops are seen as much as cocktail dresses. People dress up but according to one's personal comfort. Just remember you are not dressing for others but for your special evening. There are those who will always complain others aren't dressy enough and then there are those who throw on shirts, and go to the buffet and casino. Where what you want and ENJOY!

 

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[LetsGetWet!]

I simply don't appreciate people trying to inject their opinion and pretend like it is actually a published rule to be adhered to. That gives a false impression to people.

Nothing wrong with interjecting opinion - if that isn't appropriate than 95% of the threads here are in violation. Agree though that there's a difference between opinion and a published rule. There's also a difference between mandatory and suggested. RCI has a "suggested" dress code which certainly isn't mandatory - and even the suggested attire doesn't say "only gowns and tuxes" but something significantly less.

[graphicguy]

OP....my last cruise on RCCL was on the Allure of the Seas. Attire ran the gamut, even on formal nights. I think we saw a total of 6, maybe 7 guys in tuxes.....FOR BOTH FORMAL NIGHTS...same for women in gowns. Thre were probably 30% dressed in suits/dresses. The vast majority of men were dressed in khakis or jeans, while women wore pantsuits or jeans.

 

There was one night we went to the MDR on a formal night with jeans, not to eat there, but just to peak in and see what was on the menu. We were going to leave to change when the Maitre'D told us to just come on in as we were.

 

No need to worry or be intimidated.

 

The more I sail, the less and less I see of the "formality" in the Main Dining Rooms.

 

For reasons I can't explain, this is an issue for RCCL more than just any other cruise line I've been on. Go figure.

[jbond]

For reasons I can't explain, this is an issue for RCCL more than just any other cruise line I've been on. Go figure.

I'd say it's more of an issue for CC than any cruise line or cruise I've been on.:mad:

[Sherlock43031]

I'd say it's more of an issue for CC than any cruise line or cruise I've been on.:mad:

 

if it weren't for these endless formal, rum runner, smoking thread how would the usual suspects have some of the ridiculous post counts they have?

[galavant3]

Nothing wrong with interjecting opinion - if that isn't appropriate than 95% of the threads here are in violation. Agree though that there's a difference between opinion and a published rule. There's also a difference between mandatory and suggested. RCI has a "suggested" dress code which certainly isn't mandatory - and even the suggested attire doesn't say "only gowns and tuxes" but something significantly less.

 

I agree that the dress code isn't mandatory but it is being requested that you dress a certain way. There are not "dress code" monitors at the door nor should there be. Grownups understand that they are being asked to dress a certain way and they are free to comply or ignore. It isn't worth the effort on anyone's part to try and enforce a dress code.

[graphicguy]

I'd say it's more of an issue for CC than any cruise line or cruise I've been on.:mad:

 

Perhaps you're right. Once on board, I don't hear of any protests and comments as I read here.

[graphicguy]

if it weren't for these endless formal, rum runner, smoking thread how would the usual suspects have some of the ridiculous post counts they have?

 

Never thought of that. Interesting observation.

[jbond]

I agree that the dress code isn't mandatory but it is being requested that you dress a certain way.

No it isn't requested, it's suggested. There's a big difference between suggested, requested and required.

[MommaBear55]

I agree that the dress code isn't mandatory but it is being requested that you dress a certain way. There are not "dress code" monitors at the door nor should there be. Grownups understand that they are being asked to dress a certain way and they are free to comply or ignore. It isn't worth the effort on anyone's part to try and enforce a dress code.

 

LIKE!

 

Because of knee issues, heels and a rocking ship do not work for me,so I always wear flats. Depending on my mood, I either pack a simple dress, a few scarves and fancy (not expensive) necklaces OR flowing black full leg pants and sequined tops. DH, depending where he is in the diet vs weight gain cycle, wears shirt/tie/ dark pants, or a suit. We like to dress up to make it feel like a special occasion. I really have to admit, I have admired those with lovely dresses, pant suits or pretty dresses, and any man in a tux makes me think that he might just be James Bond. However, I have really never noticed those who are more casually dressed. Well, except for the guy at our table who wore the tuxedo patterned t shirt or the kid in the ball cap... Dress as you would for any nice occasion, then relax and enjoy. My mother always said the best accessory is a smile.

[TC1957]

I agree that the dress code isn't mandatory but it is being requested that you dress a certain way. There are not "dress code" monitors at the door nor should there be. Grownups understand that they are being asked to dress a certain way and they are free to comply or ignore. It isn't worth the effort on anyone's part to try and enforce a dress code.

 

 

Please show me on the RCI site where they REQUEST that you dress in certain attire. I can find where they SUGGEST certain attire, but see no request.

 

 

 

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[booze brothers]

I would rather sit with the guy that shows up in the tuxedo T Shirt than some stuffy people that will judge others for not wearing a a tux.

 

Good response.

[xprmntl1]

I would rather sit with the guy that shows up in the tuxedo T Shirt than some stuffy people that will judge others for not wearing a a tux.

 

Amen brother.

 

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[LetsGetWet!]

This can be a VERY subjective guideline, depending on the area of the country a person lives. In Texas you can go into virtually any of the top restaurants in the state on any given night and 99% of the time you will see men in jeans and a starched shirt. You will also probably see sneakers on some people. On CC...if you say you are going to wear denim and sneakers to the MDR of "Formal Night" some of the hoity-toity posters will have a heart attack. :p

Not sure where you're at in Texas, but I can assure you that here in Dallas you won't find anywhere near 99% of the men in denim and sneakers. Starched, creased jeans with a dressy shirt and (most likely) western boots, sure - although that will be the minority. Sneakers? Almost never, unless you're thinking that Texas Roadhouse is a top restaurant. ;)

[Havingfun2010]

RCCL does not have a mandatory dress code rather it's only "Suggested Guidelines" and states so on its website. http://www.royalcaribbean.com/customersupport/faq/details.do?pagename=frequently_asked_questions&pnav=5&pnav=2&faqType=faq&faqSubjectId=334&faqSubjectName=Life+Onboard&faqId=255

 

You can still dine in the MDR even on formal nights regardless of what the CC fashion police will post. I no longer bring dresses or heals rather just a pair flats, black slacks & top .There will be men in tuxes and suits just as there will be men that will have on Dockers and collared polo shirt. Your waiters will tell you to come regardless of the fact that you do not dress up.

 

Go and enjoy!

 

20 years ago, it was "suggested" to dress a certain way on "formal" night. It is "suggested" that you dress a certain way when you attend a funeral out of "respect". Same for a wedding. No one wants to see you dress in jeans at these events, but the word "suggested" still applies. What is right and wrong is based on whether one is centered around the thought it is their vacation and I will do what I want, or whether they will show "respect" and at least dress with a tie and/or dress. The word "suggested" is a polite way of telling you what is expected at the event. Whether you chose to respect the suggestion, is up to you, however the word is not a free card to do what you want.

[jbond]

20 years ago, it was "suggested" to dress a certain way on "formal" night. It is "suggested" that you dress a certain way when you attend a funeral out of "respect". Same for a wedding. No one wants to see you dress in jeans at these events, but the word "suggested" still applies. What is right and wrong is based on whether one is centered around the thought it is their vacation and I will do what I want, or whether they will show "respect" and at least dress with a tie and/or dress. The word "suggested" is a polite way of telling you what is expected at the event. Whether you chose to respect the suggestion, is up to you, however the word is not a free card to do what you want.

Comparing going to a personal event such as a wedding or a funeral to going on a vacation is ridiculous.

I've never been to a funeral where people march around the church waving napkins singing O Solé Mio. Ridiculous comparison, yes, just like yours.

[graphicguy]

Comparing going to a personal event such as a wedding or a funeral to going on a vacation is ridiculous.

I've never been to a funeral where people march around the church waving napkins singing O Solé Mio. Ridiculous comparison, yes, just like yours.

 

Hmmmm...you just gave me an idea about what I want people to do at my funeral.:D

[graphicguy]

20 years ago, it was "suggested" to dress a certain way on "formal" night. It is "suggested" that you dress a certain way when you attend a funeral out of "respect". Same for a wedding. No one wants to see you dress in jeans at these events, but the word "suggested" still applies. What is right and wrong is based on whether one is centered around the thought it is their vacation and I will do what I want, or whether they will show "respect" and at least dress with a tie and/or dress. The word "suggested" is a polite way of telling you what is expected at the event. Whether you chose to respect the suggestion, is up to you, however the word is not a free card to do what you want.

 

Help me out here, as I'm not following you.

 

I have certainly been to weddings where Hawaiian shirts would be welcome. Some wore them, some didn't. The couple was moving to Hawaii after the wedding. I've never seen any suggestion, at any funeral, that anyone needs to dress a certain way. Dress out of respect? What respect are we talking about, here?

 

When you say "no one" wants to see me (or anyone else for that matter) dressed differently than your "tie and/or dress", who are these "no ones" are you speaking about? For example, is it the guy in the jeans, western shirt and cowboy boots sitting at my table you're talking about? He doesn't have a tie, and is wearing jeans. Or maybe it's the guy wearing a golf shirt (that would be me, BTW)? I've certainly been delighted to welcome plenty of "those no ones" to my table.

 

You used that term "respect" a lot. Do you think I respect you more for wearing a tux or tie? Forget about me, how about anyone else? Do you think they respect your more? You might want to recheck your thinking.

 

Personally, I AM ON VACATION. I WEAR SUITS AT WORK. No need for them on vacation. Matter of fact, the more casual I can be on vacation, the better my vacation will be.

 

The only respect I want (I prefer the term earned) comes from the people that mean the most to me, my family, my friends, my business colleagues. Anyone else's respect? Particularly total strangers? I really don't care.

[LetsGetWet!]

I am absolutely sick of this Main Dining Room shaming on this website.

I was just perusing ship reviews on the main CC site itself, and it appears maybe your first complaint should go to the site itself! (No comments from me, just the exact quotes from CC.)

 

Liberty CC review:

 

Liberty of the Seas Dress Code

Seven-night cruises have two formal nights and five casual nights. A decent number of men choose to wear tuxedos for formal dining, though dark suits were more common on our sailing. Women are typically found in cocktail dresses or gowns.

 

On five-night cruises, there is just one formal night. However, it is not compulsory, and many choose not to participate and dine in Windjammers or Jade to avoid the formal attire.

 

Freedom CC review:

 

Freedom of the Seas Dress Code

Seven-night cruises typically feature two formal nights and five casual nights. Theme outfits are encouraged but seldom seen. Many men don tuxedos for formal dining, though suits are just fine and quite common. Women opt for cocktail dresses or gowns. No one looks askance if you don't observe a formal night; plenty of families opt for a more casual experience, bypassing the formal nights for laid-back dinners in Windjammer.

[LMaxwell]

I was just perusing ship reviews on the main CC site itself, and it appears maybe your first complaint should go to the site itself! (No comments from me, just the exact quotes from CC.)

 

 

There are a number of articles on CC that intend to "help" cruisers but are factually inaccurate, misleading, and the source of the information difficult to verify. The way this advice is worded makes it seem as if they are a mouthpiece for the cruise line when in fact they are just a persons subjective opinions or interpretations based on their own limited personal experience in many cases.

 

It would be best if only facts were given and then trust people are intelligent enough to take all relevant facts and make their own decisions.

 

Sometimes the information on a review is worth exactly what you pay for it: nothing. But it is very, very difficult to know this.

[Havingfun2010]

Help me out here, as I'm not following you.

 

I have certainly been to weddings where Hawaiian shirts would be welcome. Some wore them, some didn't. The couple was moving to Hawaii after the wedding. I've never seen any suggestion, at any funeral, that anyone needs to dress a certain way. Dress out of respect? What respect are we talking about, here?

 

When you say "no one" wants to see me (or anyone else for that matter) dressed differently than your "tie and/or dress", who are these "no ones" are you speaking about? For example, is it the guy in the jeans, western shirt and cowboy boots sitting at my table you're talking about? He doesn't have a tie, and is wearing jeans. Or maybe it's the guy wearing a golf shirt (that would be me, BTW)? I've certainly been delighted to welcome plenty of "those no ones" to my table.

 

You used that term "respect" a lot. Do you think I respect you more for wearing a tux or tie? Forget about me, how about anyone else? Do you think they respect your more? You might want to recheck your thinking.

 

Personally, I AM ON VACATION. I WEAR SUITS AT WORK. No need for them on vacation. Matter of fact, the more casual I can be on vacation, the better my vacation will be.

 

The only respect I want (I prefer the term earned) comes from the people that mean the most to me, my family, my friends, my business colleagues. Anyone else's respect? Particularly total strangers? I really don't care.

 

Your post says it all - if you really believe that you should dress for a funeral any way you want than say the exact words that I stated - I will dress the way I want because I am on vacation and I will do what I want. Strangers are just as important to gain respect from. Why do you wear a suit and tie at work? My guess it is partly out of "respect" for the position you are in. So you do know the meaning of it. Most of your arguments just don't fly. (and if the invitation says to dress Hawaiian, and you do, than you "respected" the wishes of the event).

[LetsGetWet!]

There are a number of articles on CC that intend to "help" cruisers but are factually inaccurate, misleading, and the source of the information difficult to verify. The way this advice is worded makes it seem as if they are a mouthpiece for the cruise line when in fact they are just a persons subjective opinions or interpretations based on their own limited personal experience in many cases.

So in other words, much like most of the info in threads here? ;) There's much more than "facts" given here - from both sides. For instance, the "fact" claimed by many that "lots" (insert random percentage here) will not be wearing tuxes/suits and cocktail dresses/gowns on formal nights.

[ryano]

So in other words, much like most of the info in threads here? ;) There's much more than "facts" given here - from both sides. For instance, the "fact" claimed by many that "lots" (insert random percentage here) will not be wearing tuxes/suits and cocktail dresses/gowns on formal nights.

 

Good point but CC's blanket statement that says "Many men don tuxedos for formal dining" is clearly false.

 

I think even the most seasoned cruisers here that cruise 4 or 5 times a year will agree with that.

 

It might have been that way 8 years ago when Freedom was first put into service but times are changing. I wont insert a random % but I will say based on my limited observation, the % of those who don a tuxedo like myself is pretty low.

[LMaxwell]

So in other words, much like most of the info in threads here? ;) There's much more than "facts" given here - from both sides. For instance, the "fact" claimed by many that "lots" (insert random percentage here) will not be wearing tuxes/suits and cocktail dresses/gowns on formal nights.

 

 

I agree, no one here really has a handle on what a "lot" is or not.

 

I still believe that the guidelines and suggestions are more of an FYI than an actual request. New cruisers may not know about any of this so when the cruise line publishes terminology they are simply clarifying and explaining, not demanding or stating it is a must have. Remember, people come for a cruise vacation from MANY different backgrounds and cultures.

 

RCI is just explaining what their definition of "formal" means so that everyone has a basic understanding. One cultures formal may mean something different than another culture. Once that fact is out of the way, participation is optional and up to the guest to make their own choice based on relevant information.