12 Easy, Breezy Cruise Outfit Ideas

Between daytime excursions, lazy afternoons by the pool and semi-formal dinners, cruises require a few wardrobe changes throughout the day. This variety of activities poses problems for travelers trying to streamline their packing list. If packing for a summer cruise stumps you, take inspiration from these simple vacation-ready outfits.

92282242

92282242

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 11: Helena Bordon outside the Tome show at Skylight Moynihan station on September 11, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Melodie Jeng/Getty Images)

Photo by: Melodie Jeng

Melodie Jeng

A matching shorts and top set makes for an easy outfit that’s breathable and so cute. It’s perfect for a day filled with tourism fun.

91169241

91169241

Photo by: Christian Vierig

Christian Vierig

Hawaiian shirts are totally acceptable on cruise ships or any other kind of tropical vacation. Give it a fashionable twist by rolling up the sleeves and tucking it into an equally-as-bright skirt.

91162707

91162707

MILAN, ITALY – JUNE 18: A guest outside Canali during the Milan Men’s Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2017 on June 18, 2016 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

Photo by: Christian Vierig

Christian Vierig

Linen pants or shorts and a relaxed button-down are must-haves for guys. These pieces are lightweight enough to wear during the day, yet nice enough to dress up at night.

91178883

91178883

Photo by: Christian Vierig

Christian Vierig

And, ladies, definitely bring along some white linen pieces, as well. This sleeveless jumpsuit is comfortable enough to wear while trekking around a port city and chic enough to wear for evening with tons of jewelry and espadrilles.

ss17m-st-paris-day3-0333.jpg

ss17m-st-paris-day3-0333.jpg

Photo by: Kirstin Sinclair

Kirstin Sinclair

Men should bring along at least one (lightweight) blazer to wear for nice dinners on the boat or for chilly days spent roaming a nearby city.

92223612

92223612

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 09: A guest outside Cushnie et Ochs on September 9, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

Photo by: Christian Vierig

Christian Vierig

A simple striped tunic serves as swimsuit cover-up or easy, lightweight dress for warm, casual days. Multi-purpose items save serious suitcase space when packing light!

91503115

91503115

Photo by: Daniel Zuchnik

Daniel Zuchnik

A relaxed shirt and short set looks polished and put-together with little effort. A straw Panama hat is a must, for men and women.

92279303

92279303

Photo by: Daniel Zuchnik

Daniel Zuchnik

Linen pants and an oversized button-down are extremely versatile and each can be dressed up or down. Block-heel sandals are both practical and stylish.

img_3602.jpg

img_3602.jpg

Sean Julian is seen attending the KATAMA presentation wearing a B Squared jacket, Ben Minkoff bag, and Christian Louboutin shoes during New York Fashion Week Men’s Collection F/W 2017 on July 14, 2016 in New York City.

Photo by: Matthew Sperzel

Matthew Sperzel

Not into Hawaiian shirts? A blazer in a bright tropical print works, too! White pants and a T-shirt keep the look casual.

92306004

92306004

Photo by: Christian Vierig

Christian Vierig

Leave heels at home. Flat, strappy sandals work with everything from dresses to shorts to cropped pants.

91518093

91518093

Photo by: Daniel Zuchnik

Daniel Zuchnik

Sleek sneakers (and, duh, Hawaiian shirts) are always a good idea. Ditch trouser socks for no-show ones and wear sneakers with slacks or shorts.

img_9416.jpg

img_9416.jpg

Photo by: Matthew Sperzel

Matthew Sperzel

Be sure to pack at least one pair of jeans for unexpected chilly temps. Flowy, bright blouses and messy up-dos give an effortless look to shorts or cropped pants.

The Takeaway: Don’t overthink your outfits too much. Keep it simple, colorful and comfy. Happy cruising!

Keep Reading