Style Guide: What to Wear on a Cruise
Your ultimate white outfit guide for the perfect vacation wardrobe
Planning a cruise? Whether you're sipping a piña colada on the pool deck, exploring tropical islands, or dressing up for formal night, your cruise outfits should be equal parts stylish and effortless. At Shop Something White, we’ve curated the perfect white vacation looks to keep you cool, confident, and camera-ready from sunrise to sunset.
If you're asking yourself what to wear on a cruise, we're here to help. Keep scrolling for a full breakdown of cruise outfit ideas that fit every moment of your trip, featuring five must-have white pieces from our Vacation Shop.
1. The Beach Day Essential
Light, breezy, and easy to throw on—the Cute as a Button Lace Top brings elevated style to your beach day look. Pair it with flowy shorts or a sarong for an effortlessly chic outfit you can wear from sand to lunch spot. The scalloped lace details and flattering shape make it a standout even off the beach.
When to wear it:
• Poolside lounging
• Beach excursions
• Daytime photoshoots by the water
2. The Casual Chic Day Look
Light, airy, and effortlessly flattering—the Crochet Off-White Midi Dress is made for island strolls and breezy afternoons. This dress is soft and unlined, making it perfect to throw on over a swimsuit or style with sandals and gold jewelry for a casual coastal vibe.
When to wear it:
• Exploring port towns
• Afternoon cocktails
• Sea day lounging with style
3. The Must-Have Cover-Up
Honeymoon Beach Cover-Up in White
No cruise is complete without a go-to cover-up. The Honeymoon Beach Cover-Up in White is sheer, soft, and adjustable with side ruching—ideal for beach club days or those moments when you want to slip into something light and breezy after a dip in the ocean.
When to wear it:
• Over a bikini or one-piece
• Morning walks on the deck
• Sunrise yoga or spa appointments
4. The Cruise Dinner Dress
At the Beach White Crochet Maxi Dress
Breezy meets bold in the At the Beach White Crochet Maxi Dress—a statement piece that effortlessly transitions from daytime adventures to chic cruise dinners. With its sheer knit crochet, plunging back, and flattering silhouette, it’s the kind of dress that turns heads while still feeling relaxed and romantic.
When to wear it:
• Dinner at the ship’s upscale restaurants
• On-deck golden hour drinks
• Brunch or wine tastings
5. The Elegant Night Out Dress
Every cruise calls for one show-stopping look—and this is it. The White Palm Maxi Dress brings elegant resort energy with a flowy silhouette and tropical flair. Whether you’re dancing under the stars or posing for formal night photos, this dress makes a statement without trying too hard.
When to wear it:
• Captain’s night
• Ship photo ops
• Fancy dinner under the stars
Final Tips for Cruise Outfits
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Stick to lightweight fabrics. Cruises can get hot and humid, so breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and crochet are key.
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Pack for multiple occasions. From poolside lounging to formal dinners, a good mix of cover-ups, dresses, and chic tops will keep you ready for anything.
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White always works. A white wardrobe on a cruise not only looks fresh and elevated, it also complements every backdrop—from deep blue seas to golden sunsets.
Ready to Pack?
Explore our full Vacation Shop to find more effortlessly chic pieces for your cruise. Whether you’re setting sail for a honeymoon, girls trip, or just a week of escape, these outfits will have you looking as dreamy as the destination.
