How do you really feel about formal nights?

[LuvsDamships]

Happy to see you back, Dave. :)

 

And who knows---maybe someday you'll get a chance to make an offering of your pillow chocolates at my altar! :D Stranger things have happened. ;) Have you considered the first or second (or both) cruises of the E-dam?

 

Ive been examining the itineraries and the prices. Its very expensive for a HAL cruise, but it would be a lot of fun. The Rev and Mr. Clothes (Chris) are a lot of fun, and Scotty is hot to trott but spastic, so I know I would have a good time. Mitch isnt interested in cruising Europe, so I would be alone and that is a problem.

 

But who knows? I could go. And if I do I will gladly make offerings to the Chcoholate lady.

[RuthC]

Mitch isnt interested in cruising Europe, so I would be alone and that is a problem.

Ah, but you wouldn't be---alone, that is. You'd be with so many that already know you, and many more who would love to!

I do know what you mean---I sailed solo a few times before I married, and many, many times since my husband died. It's more fun with a partner, but can still be very enjoyable without---especially when you already know lots of people on board.

And I'm not saying this just to get your pillow chocolates (I swear ;) ).

[monsoon20009]

Not to stir up an already festering thread (ahem), but I've learned to take my sartorial cues from Lady Hydrangea Prisspott (nee Hedge), fashion maven extraordinaire. Her Ladyship's views on the subject of men's formal dress are timeless, just as formalwear should be:

Time and time again her Ladyship must point out that traditional is safest because a true gentleman does not call attention to himself. This standard evolved in the Victorian era and still applies. Think of this as the visual equivalent of the loud obnoxious party guest. If you show respect for your host and those around you by retaining a conservative, traditional look others will always see you as elegant. If you wear a garish cummerbund and tie set then your personality may be assumed to be garish as well. The phrase “timeless elegance” is what one should aim for and doesn’t this phrase imply retaining traditional values in dress and manner?

The simple fact that some web site or sales person or the office fashion plate has stated that something is acceptable doesn’t mean it’s always acceptable in all instances. There are

no rules

in formal attire or in dress in general, only traditions and customs. So, if some pompous windbag (her Ladyship knows what you’re thinking) starts quoting “rules” don’t listen. Educate yourself about what is traditional and how formal attire has evolved and make informed decisions. Her Ladyship makes every effort to avoid giving rules and rather attempts to educate her readers so that they can make decisions that display a classic elegance, an impression of ease with their choices and wear their attire with confidence.

Her Ladyship's opinion of the various styles of men's formalwear can be found at http://ladyprisspott.blogspot.com/ .

 

All that being said, I love formal nights. I don't have to wear a suit to work and rarely attend formal events, so the chance to dress up makes a great occasion even more special.

[monsoon20009]

I just noticed that my last post didn't update the discussion board--there was a system hang when I submitted it, and it got added to the thread but wasn't showing up as "last post." So for those of you subscribed to this discussion (and who wouldn't be??), now you're up to date.

[Lvteks]

HAL won this time.

 

DH is not very thrilled about Formal night, but did go along for the first one on our recent Amsterdam Alaska cruise. I would appreciate something between the Lido and Pinnacle as an alternative for the other times. Or as someone suggested an area of the Dining Room really spiffed up for "Formal" and another for casual but not sloppy. Actually the option may induce more people to opt for "designated distinguished dining". I enjoy sharing dinner with a group but being with DH matters most so we compromise. Some of the multi-dining ships do look appealing in that we could still socialize on his comfort level. Lately itineraries like Alaska and So. America have required greater speculative packing. The Caribbean and such are more fun to dress up for because the other clothes are, well, minimal. They seem more festive that port-intense (must see!) travel.

 

Blessings,

 

Gail

 

P.S. Felix is not nice. I hope my favorite port, Roatan along with the entire area makes it safely through its track.

[RevNeal]

Lady Hydrangea Prisspott (nee Hedge), fashion maven extraordinaire.

 

FOFLOL

 

I would love to get her Ladyship and Christopher together and watch them "go at it." If I can get the "Sartorial Wit" to come to the board and make a few remarks, I will. Most of his remarks, however, can't be posted in polite company when it comes to "her Ladyship." :D

[Krazy Kruizers]

We still love formal nights. DH always wears his tuxedo on those nights. I have long black skirts and several fancy tops that I always wear.

I know that there will be some who will disagree with me, but that all right, it's just my opinion, I don't think ladies should even wear fancy dress pants on those nights. We still have a couple of exclusive clubs in our area where the fancy dress pants are not allowed. Remember - JMO

[jima53]

I'm not from a background of dressing up for dinner. We rarely eat out, enjoy our times at home. I'd rather not have to but the wife says it is nice to once in a while, so I do.

 

Jim

[RevNeal]

I'm not from a background of dressing up for dinner. We rarely eat out, enjoy our times at home. I'd rather not have to but the wife says it is nice to once in a while, so I do.

 

Thanks, Jim, for the honesty. I find it both interesting and, in its own way, refreshing. As I suspect is true for a not-insignificant number of men, you dress up because your wife wants you to do so. :) I must admit that we've heard this kind of statement many times on this board, and I cannot help but be truly and sincerely touched. A critical component of agape love is doing what the beloved wants, even if its not something one care's to do ("considering the needs or desires of another as more important than your own"). You remind me of my late Dad, who (1) had to wear a uniform most of the time during his adult-and-active years, and (2) otherwise never dressed up unless (3) Mom wanted him too. As he once said: "I've always been a man under orders, and I know who determines Regulation Dress in this house ... and it's not the General, it's the Chairwoman of the Joint Chiefs." :D

[LILynn]

I really like dressing up - but with that said it is such a hassle these days. I am leaving for 2 week cruise on the Prinsendam this month. There are 4 formal nights. We are visiting 11 ports and only have 2 sea days. We have tours set up in most ports. After touring all day the last thing I want to do is run back to the ship and change for formal night.

 

Since we can only bring 2 suitcases each with a limit of 50 pounds per suitcase, it makes it so hard to pack for this number of days.

 

So, if it was up to me I would pass on the formal nights and not have to worry about bringing so many outfits with me.

[JimVrhovac]

If you get the two of them together let me know and I will be there to render First Aid that is necessary after the cat fight ( excuse me - debate).

 

Ruth & Jim

[RevNeal]

I really like dressing up - but with that said it is such a hassle these days. I am leaving for 2 week cruise on the Prinsendam this month. There are 4 formal nights. We are visiting 11 ports and only have 2 sea days. We have tours set up in most ports. After touring all day the last thing I want to do is run back to the ship and change for formal night.

 

Since we can only bring 2 suitcases each with a limit of 50 pounds per suitcase, it makes it so hard to pack for this number of days.

 

So, if it was up to me I would pass on the formal nights and not have to worry about bringing so many outfits with me.

 

LILynn ... you are aware that one can go over the 50 pound limit, aren't you? You have to pay extra for that, of course -- $25 per bag on AA -- but sometimes it's worth it. When cruising a long cruise I would rather pay a bag-over-weight fee than not have something I need.

 

For my 20 day South American Cruise I'm taking 1 black suit and several sets of clerics (I won't be needing a Tuxedo, etc). I'm hoping to pack it all into one bag that, when full, will be just within the max size limits but will be heavier than the 50-pounds allowed. I consider the extra $25 charge worth it to only have to cary one bag on such an international itinerary.

[RevNeal]

If you get the two of them together let me know and I will be there to render First Aid that is necessary after the cat fight ( excuse me - debate).

 

Jim ... LOL ... you got it right the first time. "Cat Fight."

[bepsf]

Ive been examining the itineraries and the prices. Its very expensive for a HAL cruise, but it would be a lot of fun. The Rev and Mr. Clothes (Chris) are a lot of fun, and Scotty is hot to trott but spastic, so I know I would have a good time. Mitch isnt interested in cruising Europe, so I would be alone and that is a problem.

 

But who knows? I could go. And if I do I will gladly make offerings to the Chcoholate lady.

 

David--

 

As of posting, I have yet to finalize a travel partner to occupy the other half of 5182 for the inaugural...

...and with M&D next door, you'd be perfectly safe.

(from me at least - Mom can get into asking her 20 questions is she thinks she has half a chance at pairing me with someone - just ask Scotty about dinner at Space Needle...)

:eek: :cool:

[RevNeal]

David--

 

As of posting, I have yet to finalize a travel partner to occupy the other half of 5182 for the inaugural...

...and with M&D next door, you'd be perfectly safe.

(from me at least - Mom can get into asking her 20 questions is she thinks she has half a chance at pairing me with someone - just ask Scotty about dinner at Space Needle...)

:eek: :cool:

 

I'll let Dave know you posted, and about what.

I don't think he's checking the board right now. The last I got from him (last week) he's at a photo shoot somewhere in the upstate New York area.

 

As for being safe from you ... well ... I don't think that's his concern. I've seen pictures of Mitchell, and I would say that you're not exactly his type. Me, on the other hand ... well ...

[Lynne Myrna]

3. The Captain and his staff look at their passengers and choose who they would like to dine with, likely based in part on how presentable they are. (I have no idea if the staff has any information on how much money people make or how often they attend formal charity receptions on land.)

4. You can't win if you don't play.

5. If you don't play, that's less competition for me.

__________________

 

Well.........Lar-Dee-Dar

[dvdfreakmc]

Wow, just read through the posts and this is a lively discussion.

 

I know I am Johnny come lately, but doesn't HAL already allow opt outs from formal night by having dining in the Lido and in your room through Room service. To me it seems the best of both worlds without any additional changes. Those whom like formal wear (like myself) get to go to the dining room or the Pinnacle, and those that don't want to dress up have options in the Lido and room service.

 

I am a little confused why some might encourage those that want to be more casual to head to another line, when there seems to be room enough and options for all right on HAL.

 

Our whole family loves dressing up (Cameron loves his dark suit and bow tie and Werin even gets pearls for her neck and paw). However, a big part of the dressing up, is seeing everyone dressed up. I don't really care about one or two couples that don't, but I love it when everyone has that "dressed" up fun all together.

[gbamber]

tyvm revneal and others (sorry I can't scroll back through 11 pages to get everyone's correct names who have helped me.)

 

I just returned from my cruise, and there was no problem for me on Formal Night. I was graciously accepted as is.

 

A little background: I was born without arms (thalidomide). This means that the best I can do re. clothing is loose slip-on shoes without socks, pants that some might call "jogging pants" but are nicer and dark blue (if you can see the waist, they are elastic) and a higher-end t-shirt which has no writing and is darkish grey with a pocket (essential for holding my room keycard!).

 

I require the looseness of the shoes and pants so I can use my feet. I can't tuck in a shirt, so my shirt hangs loose, but is a type that looks good.

 

My dining experiences were excellent. The waiter helped me cut anything too tough. Remind me to never order crab! I had no idea it would be in the shell... very inconvenient! I was also not charged extra for my diet colas once they realized that I wasn't drinking alcohol or tea/coffee. Very nice of them. The top waiter-person always dropped by and asked if I needed anything.

 

I can't wait to sail again!

[Old As Dirt Mom]

David--

 

As of posting, I have yet to finalize a travel partner to occupy the other half of 5182 for the inaugural...

...and with M&D next door, you'd be perfectly safe.

(from me at least - Mom can get into asking her 20 questions is she thinks she has half a chance at pairing me with someone - just ask Scotty about dinner at Space Needle...)

:eek: :cool:

 

I'll let Dave know you posted, and about what.

I don't think he's checking the board right now. The last I got from him (last week) he's at a photo shoot somewhere in the upstate New York area.

 

As for being safe from you ... well ... I don't think that's his concern. I've seen pictures of Mitchell, and I would say that you're not exactly his type. Me, on the other hand ... well ...

 

:confused:

[RevNeal]

It all depends upon how one reads it, and what one reads into it. :)

From me, at least, there's nothing "hot" at all going on. One must know oneself and be true to oneself ... and true to one's commitments.

 

Middle-aged-mom ... If you want to ask me about anything, feel free to e-mail me.

[tech]

commitments aren't so hard to understand.

 

They hide in plain sight for most of us.

[iancal]

I have not read this post for some time. Interesting to see how the tone of the comments has altered with the change in the survey results. Clearly, the survey is far from scientific and I would have thought that it would have been biased in favor of enforcing the dress code. Nothwithstanding that, only 22 percent of respondents appear to be in favor of this type of enforcement...a very small minority. NoNoNannette must be on the popular side of this issue, as am I. I also suspect that the market reseach gurus at HAL have done their homework (no surprise). My DW does like to dress up, but fortunately for me she understands that I wear suits or jackets most days,work long hours, and spend a fair amount of my own time on airplanes and in airports. For me, it is not about formal or casual, pleasing DW or not pleasing DW, or caring more about DW than myself. It is simply about doing what we both want to do on our vacation-and there are not enough of them. Relax on the ship and watch the world go by. Perhaps we will be escorted to a dining room table with a plastic tablecloth, paper napkins, and kechup on the table. As long as the company is good and we can order a decent taste of the grape.

[RevNeal]

I have not read this post for some time. Interesting to see how the tone of the comments has altered with the change in the survey results. Clearly, the survey is far from scientific and I would have thought that it would have been biased in favor of enforcing the dress code. Nothwithstanding that, only 22 percent of respondents appear to be in favor of this type of enforcement...a very small minority. NoNoNannette must be on the popular side of this issue, as am I.

 

The "popular side" of the issue is, as of right now, overwhelmingly in favor of dressing up. Remember, the poll is about more than just "should the dress code be enforced?" I suspect that, had that been the precise question, with a simple "yes/no" option as the only answers, the results might have been less lopsided. As it is, here's the "current" breakdown:

 

How do you really feel about Formal Nights?

Hate it and wish they'd do away with it. --39-- 7.56%

Don't dress up and it makes me feel a little out of place. --5-- 0.97%

Don't dress up, but it doesn't bother me. --9-- 1.74%

Dress up because I'm supposed to, but would rather not. --123-- 23.84%

Enjoy dressing for it and don't care what others do. --79-- 15.31%

Love it and wish everyone would dress up, but don't let it bother me. --147-- 28.49%

Wish they would enforce the formal dress code. --114-- 22.09%

 

Now, I realize that many people have different opinions and different ways of reading and analyzing such a varied grouping of responses, however I don't see how one could reasonably say that Nannette's disregard for, and refusal to participate in, the Formal Night Dress Code could be classed as being "popular." Granted, if your only focus is going to be on enforcement, then true ... most don't want the code "enforced." However, that is a VERY narrow way of reading the poll, totally disregarding the wealth of information that can be gleaned from its findings. While not "scientific," in the strict sense, it still tells us a lot about those who have voted.

 

According to the above responses, the "most popular" grouping would have to be with those who observe/abide by/participate in the Formal Dress Code. I would re-group the answers thusly:

 

Those who "Love" and expressly enjoy taking part in Formal Nights = 65.89%

 

A total of 50.58% at least wish that everybody would dress up, while another 15.31% "don't care what others do." True, only 22.09% want the code enforced. But that group shares STRONG affinities with 28.49% who wish that everyone else dressed up too. (I am in that group, by the way).

 

The extreme minority on this subject can be found among those who Don't dress up and either don't care or feel a bit conspicuous about it. This group of people would be the one in which I suspect Nannette could best be placed. They total a whopping 10.27% of all respondents. Hardly the "popular group," wouldn't you admit?

 

This leaves us with the final group -- those who observe the Formal Night code for several different reasons but "would rather not." This group comprises 23.84%, the second largest single group of respondents. They tend to be classifiable with those who don't like the Formal Night Dress code, on the one hand, but also with those who nevertheless observe it on the other. I particularly appreciate this group of people: they are the ones (frequently husbands) who help turn Formal nights into an overwhelmingly smashing hit by "playing along." Rather than it being a 65% compliance event, on average it's a 90% compliance event.

 

On the whole, I find the results of this poll to be not at all surprising. It demonstrates what I have long asserted: that, on average, the VAST majority of HAL cruisers observe the Formal Night Dress code ... and MOST -- 65% -- even enjoy doing so. On the other end, only a very VERY tiny percentage (7.56%) claim to hate it.

[bUU]

3. The Captain and his staff look at their passengers and choose who they would like to dine with, likely based in part on how presentable they are.

Gosh, you make them sound like bimbos! :D

[bUU]

I have not read this post for some time. Interesting to see how the tone of the comments has altered with the change in the survey results. Clearly, the survey is far from scientific and I would have thought that it would have been biased in favor of enforcing the dress code. Nothwithstanding that, only 22 percent of respondents appear to be in favor of this type of enforcement...a very small minority. NoNoNannette must be on the popular side of this issue, as am I. I also suspect that the market reseach gurus at HAL have done their homework (no surprise).

One of the big problems with unscientific polls, applied against a bias sampling, is that practically any interpretation of the results is as good as any other. It is true that 78% of respondents have said that they wouldn't allow the relaxing of the dress code to affect them, however, that is just one possible interpretation, and no better than any other, because the poll is useless as a foundation for any assertions whatsoever, since it is unscientific and the sample is biased.

 

If you want a clear indication of how things are, look at what the cruise line does. They're relaxing the dress code. That indicates clearly that the real numbers -- not just these fake ones -- are such that relaxing the dress code seems to be the best direction for the cruise line. That's the most reliable information available, and far more reliable than any online poll.