15 Tips To Create The Perfect Cruise Aesthetic

What better time than to set sail on a cruise to create your own dreamscape photo-worthy aesthetic?

No matter if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, use these tips to curate a fashionably memorable cruise experience.

From getting your wardrobe right to styling up your mani, you’ll be ready to take your trip to the next level of Instagrammable perfection.

1. Opt for Nautical-Inspired Looks

The cruise aesthetic is timeless — and it needs to start with your wardrobe.

Think airy sundresses, tailored shorts, striped tops and nautical hues such as navy, white and red.

Bring lightweight fabrics, but they should be polished — you want to stay cool while looking chic.

Pair with statement sunglasses, a chic straw hat and espadrilles for daytime excursions.

For evening events, go with a flowy maxi dress or linen suit to mix elegance with casual vibes.

And be sure to bring a scarf or shawl for those brisk ocean breezes, which can be both stylish and practical.

2. Embrace Minimalist Packing

Disclaimer: Minimalism is your friend in a cruise cabin.

Wear a capsule wardrobe of mix-and-match items in neutral tones.

Choose Practical Clothing That Can Go from Day to Night – Think a Jumpsuit or a Wrap Dress

That way accessories can remain simple but striking—like a statement necklace, or eye-catching cuff.

This not only lightens your load, but also means you’re never caught off guard — you’re always camera-ready without needing to overthink what you’re wearing.

3. Creating a Coastal-Inspired Colour Palette

You can take your cruise aesthetic into your home.

Add accents to your cabin with small touches—such as throw pillows in various shades of blue, white and beige—to capture the essence of the ocean.

For warmth and comfort on the road, travel with a lightweight blanket in pastel or nautical patterns.

Such small details can give your cabin a calming oasis that reflects the elements of the seaside.

4. Coordinated Group Outfits Plan

If you’re going in a group, coordinate matching and complementary outfits for pictures.

Think a theme such as tropical prints, pastel tones, or old-school whites, so they look beautiful and cohesive in pictures.

Not only will this make your photos look professional, it adds an element of camaraderie and fun.

Think of themes for certain events, such as a formal dinner or a casual day at the pool, to keep planning going during the trip.

5. Style Your Balcony Space

If you have a balcony cabin, use it as an extra styling opportunity.

Pack fairy lights, a small pop-up tablecloth or portable lanterns for ambiance.

Enjoy morning coffee or evening cocktails against a breathtaking ocean backdrop while elevating your aesthetic.

These personal touches will make your own balcony feel more lived in those Instagram-ready декор.

6. A Signature Drink Moment

Take it up a notch and find a signature drink that vibes with your cruise aesthetic.

Whether it be a tropical mojito, a sophisticated martini or a mocktail with colorful garnishes, your drink can be a fashionable accouterment.

Even take along a reusable straw or personalized cup, just for that extra sustainable, personalized touch!

Photograph yourself sipping your drink on the deck — a classic cruise photo.

7. Capture Golden Hour Photos

The time just after sunrise or before sunset is the golden hour, the best time to catch unbelievable photos on cruise.

The soft, warm light complements each skin tone and brings out the natural beauty of the ocean background.

Plan your outfits and locations for these moments, whether it’s in the deck, at the bow of the ship or by a window.

So, add as few filters as possible to show the beauty in these magical hours.

8. Add layers of tropical accessories

The tropical accessories can make your look more playful, cruise-inspired.

Think flower crowns, shell jewelry or a straw tote bag peppered with colorful pom-poms.

Even little things work, like a hibiscus clip in your hair or colorful sandals.

These accessories are ideal for port days or poolside lounging.

9. Bring Luxe Travel Essentials

To elevate your aesthetic, pack stylish travel accessories, such as a designer weekender bag, a chic passport cover, or monogrammed luggage tags.

A chic travel journal is as much a functional accessory as it is a beautiful one.

Such touches indicate a care for the stylistic, while remaining useful for your journey.

10. Rock Neutral Makeup With a Bold Lip

Beauty: Keep it natural and fresh during the day with neutral eyeshadow and a dewy finish.

In the evening, you might feel a bold lip in red or coral gives you drama and sophistication.

This balance gives you the cruise look for any occasion, but still keeps you feeling cohesive.

For protection, don’t forget to pack SPF, and for touch-ups, a travel-size makeup kit.

11. Coordinate Poolside Looks

Your poolside look could make quite a splash. Slip on matching swimwear and cover-ups for a put-together outfit.

Complete your outfit with oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.

Wield a fashionable beach bag filled with essentials: sunscreen, a trendy water bottle and a novel.

All these details make for a perfect photo-op keeping you comfortable all day.

12. Customize Your Cabin Décor

To decorate your cabin so it feels like home, choose small decorative items that could travel.

A battery-operated candle, a small photo frame, or a travel-sized diffuser with ocean-inspired scents can help make your space feel more welcoming.

These touches will be in harmony with your aesthetic and lend an air of comfort to your stay.

13. Choose Green Travel Gear

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Be sure to include reusable water bottles, silicone travel containers and foldable tote bags.

These items not only have an upscale, modern appearance but also fit with eco-conscious travel trends.

Sustainability can be integrated into your aesthetic, a symbol of consideration of the Earth while you cruise.

14. Curate an Onboard Playlist

Soundtrack your cruise with a perfectly curated playlist.

Pick tunes that fit the at-sea vibe, mellow, tropical, or uptempo.

Extend your playlist to travel companions and have a mini dance party on deck.

Yours will be a signature soundtrack to make your travels feel more memorable and aesthetic.

15. Make Memories with a Polaroid Camera

Using a Polaroid camera to document your trip adds a retro-chic touch to your cruise aesthetic.

The instant prints are nice mementos and can be framed in your cabin or pasted into a travel journal.

They’re ideal for taking side shots of a friend or capturing that gorgeous vista of the ocean.