Taking a Cruise – What to Wear for Men

Casual & Designer Cruisewear, Lightweight, Staying Cool

Jun 24, 2009

When taking a cruise to Cuba, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic or any number of other warm and balmy seas - it is always wise to prepare a fresh new wardrobe.

Taking a Caribbean cruise is one luxury that is becoming increasingly affordable and popular amongst men of all walks of life as they seek an escape from the everyday as well as a chance to soak up the sun, experience new sights, sounds and tastes, and explore places that they might never have been before! Amongst all this excitement, however, it remains of paramount importance to dress appropriately and fashionably for the occasion.

Light Colours, Light Fabrics, Trend Setting Style

Cruise ship participants are a feisty, fun-loving bunch. Not only are the employees and crew nearly universally jovial and fun loving, but the clients themselves are often there to have a load of fun and to relax.

The visual atmosphere not only on board the cruise ship but also in many ports of call in the carribbean seas is very bright, playful, and energetic – it should be your goal to match or exceed all of these aesthetic qualities.

T-shirts are excellent choices for wear on a cruise – not only do they impart a more casual look but they can really stand out if they are designer labels such as Ed Hardy, that is – a style that is aggressive, colourful, and artistic.

From Ed Hardy's current collection of ringers and t-shirts for men, standout contenders include the "True 'Till Death" design in a vibrant blue, or the extremely cool looking and appropriately named "You Only Live Once" short sleeved tee in a more organic green.

Ed Hardy also offers some excellent polo shirts and denim jean combinations that would look excellent on more athletic physiques ; The teal coloured "Ring" polo is a great choice to match the crystalline waters of the ocean, though those with a more unconventional style may choose the sunny "Third Eye" in bright yellow to match with their personalities.

For those searching local boutiques, men's outfitters, or thrift shops the most important thing to keep in mind when selecting fabric is to ensure it is entirely constructed from cotton or linen, with no polyester blends entering the mix. These fabrics are breathable and entirely comfortable under a hot sun. With regard to colour, the general rule is – the brighter the better! Not only are you setting sail with a fun crowd, but you want to stand out amongst them while repelling the sun's rays.

Ballroom Dancing, Formal Cruise Ship Dinners, Evening Wear

Not all cruise events are entirely free from convention – most outings include at least one formal (and catered!) event during the excursion that will require a full suit of clothes and a good pair of dancing shoes.

As the rule goes with regards to casual wear on a cruise ship, this rule must also go double for those attending a ball or cruise ship formal dinner. While the suit may stay dark black or navy should the gentleman wish, it is of utmost importance to carry forward those bright tones into one's shirt, tie, and accessories. Not many designers do this better than Ted Baker or Etro.

Etro, in particular, makes some stunning evening dress shirts that would fit the situation perfectly – either in patterns such as slight paisley or jacquard or more traditional striping presented in unconventional colour co-ordinations – Etro is a modern forerunner of more aggressive and self-confident style.

Given the circumstances, a bold print is exactly what the doctor ordered for a formal cruise function and will impart flair and personality to your fellow diners and dancers.

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