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A plus size, size 18 curvy woman wears a great cruise wear dress. This midi-length fixed wrap dress with 3/4 sleeves and ruffle hem is perfect if you're looking for what to wear on a cruise!,

What To Wear On A Cruise

Perfect Your Cruise Holiday Packing List

You've booked your dream cruise and the countdown is on! It's time to fine tune your holiday wardrobe and perfect your cruise packing list. But just what does a travel wardrobe look like for a holiday that has it all?

Go For Cruise Wear That's Wrinkle-Resistant

DID YOU KNOW - Because of fire safety regulations, cruise ships don’t provide irons in staterooms (cabins) or allow you to bring travel irons or steamers.

Ships usually have self-service laundry rooms with irons for passengers to use but these work on timers and there may be only one or two for the entire ship. So choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics - this is where stretch jersey fabrics come into their own! With 4 way stretch and excellent recovery, they're wrinkle free and don't require ironing.

CRUISE FASHION TIP #1: Use a hard shell suitcase when packing for your holiday, especially if you’re flying to your embarkation city. Softer shell cases compress under pressure, like the pressure of hundreds of kilos of other people’s luggage in the baggage hold! A suitcase with a solid case will ensure that extra weight does not crush the clothing inside.

Showing Australian fashion brand L&F's cruise wear collection, a range of curvy women wear wrap dresses, floral print tops, white shirts and bamboo jersey tops - great shopping for your cruise holiday!

If you favour natural fibres, you’ll have to work a bit harder to get your cruise outfits looking good once unpacked. Go for a compromise and look for fabrics that blend natural and synthetic fibres. Or better still look to some of the more eco-conscious fabrics such as Lyocell or Tencel, which are much more wrinkle-resistant than similar lightweight fabrics like silk or rayon.

What To Wear On A Cruise

Explore easy-care cruise outfits...

These travel pants are the ultimate in comfort and style for your next adventure. Featuring a vibrant paisley print, they offer a fun and chic design that stands out while still being versatile enough for travel. Made with a soft, cool-touch fabric, they keep you comfortable throughout long flights or sunny sightseeing days, providing breathability and ease. The pull-on style ensures a relaxed fit, making them effortless to wear—no zippers or buttons to fuss with. Plus, they come stocked in two heights.
 
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Over 40 woman wears an empire line midi dress with flutter sleeves and twist front bodice. A good dress for wedding guest outfits, bold print makes it a pretty summer dress. Made in Australia by Australian and New Zealand women's clothes brand, Leina & Fleur, stocks sizes 8-24 in this event ready style.
 
New
Plus sized woman wears pull-on style culottes made of slinky jersey fabric that provides a soft, fluid drape that moves with you. Wrinkle-resistant, these culottes stay fresh and smooth all day, making them ideal for travel or busy days filled with events. With their vibrant floral print and effortless design, these culottes are a must-have for a chic, resort-ready look. Dany Culotte in Malibu are stocked in size 8-24.
 
New
Image of 40 year old woman wears a floral midi length dress with twist bodice, flutter sleeve and high-low hem. Perfect dress for beachside resorts, casual summer outings or easy resort style. Made in Australia by fashion brand Leina & Fleur. Milly Dress in Malibu is stocked in sizes 8-24.
 
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A plus size, size 18 woman wears a navy blue, V-neck top with short sleeves and tailored wide leg pants in Emerald green with white bamboo jersey scarf to showcase a smart-casual cruise wear outfit for women.

Embarkation Day Style

The first port of call is embarkation day - the day you’ll board the cruise ship. As the first day of the cruise holiday for all passengers, embarkation day dress is typically a casual affair. For women, this might be short sleeve tops with cropped pants or shorts, or a sundress. This is your first day on board and there’ll be lots you want to explore, so it’s important to be comfortable - that includes your footwear!

Cruise lines employ photographers to take photos of passengers enjoying their cruise holiday, starting from embarkation day. If you’re going to want an embarkation day photo as a memento of your holiday, make sure your outfit is one you'll want to look back on. 

Just like when checking into hotels, cruise ship cabins or staterooms, aren’t usually ready for you to access until mid-afternoon and checked luggage might take a while longer to arrive. So think about your outfit with any activities you may want to enjoy on embarkation day in mind. 

For example, if you'll be wanting to hit the pool or spa, it’s a good idea to have your swimsuit handy. There will be changing areas accessible in public areas but you might want to consider wearing your swimwear under your clothes. 

CRUISE FASHION TIP #3: As your stateroom might not be available until later in the day, take a waterproof bag and a change of underwear in your embarkation day carry-on bag for when you’re ready to change out of your wet swimsuit.

What To Wear On A Cruise - Sea Day Cruise Wear

Depending on the duration of your cruise holiday, there'll be at least one or two days where you'll be at sea all day. This will be when you get to really indulge in all of the on-board facilities and activities available. Consequently, these will be your most casual days, dress wise.

A swimsuit and pool slides are essential. Be sure to pack two bathing suits, one to wear while the other is drying. Cruise ships tend to have a 'shoes and shirt required' dress code when passengers are not on deck and by the pool so have a cover-up and slip-on shoes handy to move about the boat in, and casual clothing options to wear for activities, shopping and dining.

Good cruise wear outfits for women, the image shows a size 18, pus size woman and a size 10, 40 plus woman wearing floral print jersey tops, skirts and wide-leg pants - all made in Australia by women's clothes brand L&F.

casual cruise wear

Short sleeve tops are perfect for casual cruise wear. Look for semi-fitted cuts that skim rather than cling to the body. L&F's tops are tailored to glide over the body and won't grip like T-shirts can. In bamboo jersey, these tailored tops take on a wearable luxury and are lightweight, thermo-regulating, and moisture wicking - great for hot and tropical climates.

CRUISE FASHION TIP #4: Be sure to take a cover-up or light jacket to counter the super-powered cruise ship air conditioning.

Casual Cruise Wear Tops

Explore casual tops in luxe bamboo jersey...

A good white top for your capsule wardrobe, this V-neck , 3/4 sleeve top is made in luxurious white bamboo jersey.  Shown on a size 18, plus size woman,  this classic top makes a great work blouse. Made in Australia by Australian andNew Zealand women's clothing brand, Leina & Fleur, this white jersey top is available to shop online in sizes 8 to 24.
 
Sale 20% OFF
 
Final Sale 40% OFF Sold Out
A good plus size top, this round neck, short sleeve top in black bamboo jersey is comfortable for work and casual wear. Made in Australia by ladies clothing brand, Leina & Fleur, shop black tops for women online in sizes 8 to 24 in L&F's online fashion boutique.
 
Sale 10% OFF
A size 10 woman wearing a Sawyer top in French Navy bamboo. A made in Australia style for women. Size 8-24.
 
Final Sale 40% OFF Sold Out

What To Wear On A Cruise - Shore Excursion Outfits

Keep your port stops front of mind when packing for your cruise holiday. Be sure to have destination-appropriate clothing so you can make the most all the sightseeing opportunities on offer.

Size 10 and size 18 women wear floral print flutter sleeve tops and wide legs pants, geometric print short sleeve tops, and navy, white and green smart/casual outfits. Colourful cruise wear, Australian women's clothes brand, L&F's spring/summer 2023 fashion makes for great clothing to pack for your cruise holiday.

Many European cities for example, have cobbled streets so choose footwear that's suitable for uneven surfaces.

If your shore excursions are beach-based, then your on-board pool and casual wear will work perfectly.

For city explorations, keep comfort and practicality front of mind. A wide-leg pair of pants allows for effortless style, looking chic in a city location while still allowing for ease-of-movement.

CRUISE FASHION TIP #5: Be mindful of the dress codes of different cultures you might be visiting. It's worth having a poncho or scarf close to hand for additional coverage when visiting more sensitive locations.

Cruise Wear Wide Leg Pants

Shop wide leg pants for shore excursions...

Plus sized woman wears pull-on style culottes made of slinky jersey fabric that provides a soft, fluid drape that moves with you. Wrinkle-resistant, these culottes stay fresh and smooth all day, making them ideal for travel or busy days filled with events. With their vibrant floral print and effortless design, these culottes are a must-have for a chic, resort-ready look. Dany Culotte in Malibu are stocked in size 8-24.
 
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Image of 40 year old woman wearing Palazzo pants while lounging in the sun. Summer ready pants are favoured due to its cool dry touch jersey fabric to help you feel comfortable during the summer months. Fashion brand Leina & Fleur proudly stocks sizes 8-24.
 
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Wide leg pants for summer don't come much better than this! Worn by a size 12 woman, these wide leg pants are in easy care jersey with a blue, caramel and white floral print. Worn with a clay coloured one-shoulder top, these wide leg culottes are made in Australia by Australian and New Zealand women's clothing brand, Leina and Fleur. Shop wide leg pants in petite to plus sizes.
 
Sale 10% OFF Sold Out
Full body front view of 40 year old woman wearing a denim culotte. This easy pant style looks like a skirt but has all the features of wide leg pants. Made of high quality vintage denim. This culotte has an above the knee fit on an average height woman perfect for comfort and mobility through spring summer seasons. Australian made garment, crafted for New Zealand and Australian women. Shop this look in plus sizes and petite sizes.
 
Sale 10% OFF

What To Wear On A Cruise - Evening Cruise Wear

Offering both casual and formal dining options, you can pick and choose how dressy you want your cruise evenings to be. Typically cocktail dress codes are as formal as most cruise ships get but it is worthwhile checking the requirements of the dining rooms on board before you leave to ensure you're keeping all your options open!

Looking for evening wear for your cruise holiday? This range of cocktail attire by Australian women's clothes brand L&F answers your cruise wear needs! Showing a range of women wearing a red velour, long sleeve wrap dress as a cocktail dress, silver sequin cocktail pants, and metallic foil print midi skirt and flutter sleeve tops with black evening wear basics, these looks create a cruise wear evening capsule.

A classic little navy or black dress will see you through most situations. Eveningwear perfect with fine shoes and glossy jewellery, and adaptable for casual dining with paired back accessories, these classic dresses make versatile companions.

Take at least one cocktail dress for formal dining or gala events. Have some fun and play up to the glamour of a cruise holiday! Look for opulent textures like velveteen or metallic finishes.

Eveningwear separates offer multiple outfit possibilities. Using only a handful of styles, you can re-create looks night-after-night. Think cocktail pants and dinner jackets, cami tops and shimmering skirts. There's a world of potential!

Cruise Cocktail & Evening Wear

Explore Up Late evening looks...

A size 10 woman wears the Zsa Zsa Maxi Dress in Green Mikado. Evening wear wrap dress with frill sleeves and ruffles made in metallic jersey. Made in Australia for women size 8-24.
 
Sale 60% OFF
A size 10 woman wears a glamorous wrap dress for cocktail wear. Made in Australia wit pink foil mikado fabric with detailed design and flutter with with tears. Low neckline and flattering for all shapes petite to plus size ladies clothing. Made in Australia for women size 8 - 24.
 
Sale 60% OFF
A size 10 woman wears a glamorous maxi dress with a ruffle hem and low v-neckline. Featuring a flutter sleeve and made in shiny purple jersey with a foil print. Made in Australia for women for evening gown cocktail wear. Size 8 - 24.
 
Sale Sold Out
A size 10 woman wears the Eddy Cami in Twilight. A shimmer jersey cami top with wide shoulder straps for bra coverage. Made in shimmer jersey with a high low hem line. Made in Australia for women size 8 - 24.  Styled back with the Jonas pant in Megenta.
 
Final Sale 20% OFF

Cruise Wear Packing List

This travel capsule is based on a 7-day cruise so if your cruise is longer, simply multiple it by the number of days you'll be at sea.

3 Plain Tops
2 Decorative Tops
2 Pairs of Pants
1 Skirt for day/casual dining
2 Pairs of Shorts
3 Dresses for daywear/casual dining
1 Light Jacket
1 Classic Dress
1 Cocktail Dress
2 Evening Separates
2 Swimsuits
1 Poolside Cover-Up
Day bag - to hold drink bottle, sunscreen, book etc.
Evening bag
1 Pair of Comfortable Shoes
1 Pair of Slip-on Shoes for Poolside
1 Pair of Sandals
1 Pair of Evening Shoes
Underwear

For more tips on handy things to pack on your cruise, check out shouldbecruising.com


L&F Cruise Wear in Action

L&F customers love L&F for their cruise holidays...

"Feeling very special tonight dressed for a celebration event sailing out of Split, Croatia, and I’m thrilled to be wearing the Chrissy Top in Antique Xanadu. Had so many compliments! L&F, evenings just got better!"

Share more of Susan's cruise adventure in Susan's European Safari.

"My upcoming cruise holiday wardrobe is sorted. 90% is L&F - an outfit for every occasion, no creases and easy-care!" Karen B.

Shop Cruise Wear

Travel wear for the holiday that has it all...

These travel pants are the ultimate in comfort and style for your next adventure. Featuring a vibrant paisley print, they offer a fun and chic design that stands out while still being versatile enough for travel. Made with a soft, cool-touch fabric, they keep you comfortable throughout long flights or sunny sightseeing days, providing breathability and ease. The pull-on style ensures a relaxed fit, making them effortless to wear—no zippers or buttons to fuss with. Plus, they come stocked in two heights.
 
New
Over 40 woman wears an empire line midi dress with flutter sleeves and twist front bodice. A good dress for wedding guest outfits, bold print makes it a pretty summer dress. Made in Australia by Australian and New Zealand women's clothes brand, Leina & Fleur, stocks sizes 8-24 in this event ready style.
 
New
Plus sized woman wears pull-on style culottes made of slinky jersey fabric that provides a soft, fluid drape that moves with you. Wrinkle-resistant, these culottes stay fresh and smooth all day, making them ideal for travel or busy days filled with events. With their vibrant floral print and effortless design, these culottes are a must-have for a chic, resort-ready look. Dany Culotte in Malibu are stocked in size 8-24.
 
New
Image of 40 year old woman wears a floral midi length dress with twist bodice, flutter sleeve and high-low hem. Perfect dress for beachside resorts, casual summer outings or easy resort style. Made in Australia by fashion brand Leina & Fleur. Milly Dress in Malibu is stocked in sizes 8-24.
 
New

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