What Cruise Influencers Wish You Knew About Cruise Fashion

When you’re charting the open sea, the rules might look a little different. You’re existing under maritime law, after all, and your daily routine might include the unthinkable, like skydiving through a wind tunnel or swinging across a zipline. The fashion scene is no exception. While you might have preconceived notions of dress codes and formal attire, the truth is, no one’s going to judge you for what you roll up in. But that doesn’t mean you can’t put a little thought into your cruise persona. Still unsure what to pack? We spoke to cruise influencer Josh Corjay (@joshcruises) and fashion influencer Jordan Blackwell (Lil Miss JB Style) for their advice on what to wear on your next cruise.

According to Blackwell, what you decide to don depends on the kind of vacation you’re looking to have, the ultimate goal being enjoyment. “Whenever I'm on a cruise I usually peep two styles: casual athleisure and boho chic,” she says. “Some people go on cruises to really relax so they reach for easy tanks and breezy shorts paired with some smart sandals. Others are definitely wanting to live their luxe life wearing crochet, wide-brim hats, and easy slides with rattan tote bags. I personally lean towards the eclectic rich auntie who jets off on various adventures with bright flowy sets, colorful dresses and fun sandals!”

Corjay adds, “Cruising is really judgment-free. Some people will dress to impress, and others just dress casually. Both are okay and both will exist on the same cruise ship together.” Comfort, he says, is key. “Not only are you on vacation, but there are also a lot of moving parts when on a cruise ship. There can be a lot of ‘go go go’ if you want to do everything.”

“What people often don't know about boarding day is that it's like trying to check into a hotel early,” Blackwell says, meaning you can drop off your bags and enjoy the ship’s amenities, but you can't actually get into your room for a few hours. So it’s important to pack a little day bag, filled with the bare necessities. “I personally recommend a breezy matching set with an easy to carry bag for your essentials paired with comfy shoes,” she says.

“My go-to is a nice t-shirt and my favorite pair of khaki shorts,” Corjay says. “I try to find something that is both comfortable but looks a little nicer—in case my luggage somehow gets lost or delayed getting to my room.” His sneaky tip? Pack your bathing suit in your day bag for an optimal swimming experience. “This is so you can enjoy the pools immediately on boarding day with fewer crowds. Most people pack their bathing suits in their suitcase, which sometimes takes a few hours to show up to your room. So you can enjoy the pool while everyone else waits for their bathing suits!”

When you’re lazing away your days on the ship, consider a bathing suit your second skin. “You will spend more time in a bathing suit than you might think,” Corjay says. “So in that vein, pack multiple bathing suits that you can rotate through so you always have a dry bathing suit.” And when you’re not swimming, don’t be afraid to lean into athleisure, “especially if you were up late the night before,” he says.

Blackwell adds, “I love a good crochet cover-up or oversized button-up and a swimsuit. You'll be cozy enough to lay poolside while having the cover you need when you're ready to grab a snack or lunch at the restaurants, which usually require you to have clothes.”

When it comes to excursions, Blackwell likes to prioritize function. “If you're doing a lot of walking DON'T wear uncomfortable shoes or heavy material. Stick with breathable fabrics and a good pair of bottoms that will prevent chafing,” she says. “For water activities, treat it the same way you would for your day on the ship. For more adventurous excursions like hikes, reaching for a good workout set will make the most sense.”

Corjay agrees. “If doing a non-water activity, wear your best breathable athletic wear. A nice dri-fit shirt and some gym shorts will help you stay cool.”

“Cruises are not as formal these days as they were 10-plus years ago,” Corjay says. But while a tuxedo is very rarely enforced these days, you can still have fun dressing up for that nighttime show. “For dinner and nightlife, dresses are the easiest because you'll always look good and they take up very little room in your suitcase,” Blackwell says. “I personally love a good slip dress moment. Another alternative is a nice top with a midi skirt which will be equally as chic but provide more coverage.”

Corjay says, “My go-to is a nice, light, breathable short sleeve button-up shirt, and my favorite pair of shorts or pants. Nothing too formal, but a nice simple collared shirt.”

As with any vacation, shoes tend to be the one thing people overpack. “You do not need a suitcase full of shoes,” Corjay says. Try to ensure each pair you bring serves a different function. “I always like to have three pairs of shoes with me on vacation: chic sandals, stylish sneakers, and comfy heels,” Blackwell says. “My faves right now are Sam Edelman sandals, my go to New Balances and Dolce Vita heels. For accessories I'm never without a good bucket hat, rattan bag and my signature gold jewelry!”

For Corjay, it’s one pair of tennis shoes that you can dress up or down, one pair of sandals for the pool or beach, and—if you insist on a third—one more pair of comfortable shoes for walking around the ship.

The breezy button down is a vacation classic for a reason; it’s extremely versatile. “You can style it tons of ways, and on those days where you end up in the sun more than you planned, it will keep you from getting sunburnt,” Blackwell says. Corjay says one clothing item passengers might not think to bring is a jacket. “I know, if you are going on a Caribbean cruise, a jacket is probably last on your list. But it can get cold inside the ship, and it can get cold on the breezy outdoor decks at night.” He also suggests bringing a lanyard to hold your cruise card, “which you will need for everything on the ship: purchases, getting into your room, and getting on and off the ship.”

And as much as we might not want to, Blackwell recommends leaving that ultra-chic, oversized sun hat at home. “I know for the photos you will look like that girl but with as windy as it gets on board, you won't actually be able to wear it unless it comes with a tie option,” she says. To save space while packing, she suggests focusing on pieces that you can easily mix and match, “in case an outfit you had in mind doesn't actually work out or you need more options. That's why a button up or a sarong comes in handy because they can be multi-purpose pieces that can stretch out your vacay wardrobe without taking up too much suitcase space.”

Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.