10 Royal Caribbean Cruise Outfits: Day-to-Night Outfit Ideas

Packing for a Royal Caribbean cruise was one of the most enjoyable challenges I’ve ever faced.

I enjoyed the combination of lazing on the pool deck, going ashore at interesting Caribbean ports and dressing elegantly for dinner.

But finding clothes I could wear through daytime activities to a nighttime event made all the difference.

To travel in style while remaining comfortable, packing smarter in a limited luggage space is a must.

This guide will also help you build your ideal cruise wardrobe, with outfits that will take you from casual daytime activities to glam evenings (and back) effortlessly.

1. Chic Maxi Dress

A flowy maxi dress is a cruise wardrobe must: It’s as comfy as can be for daytime adventures but transforms into something instantly chic for dinner.

During the day, matching it with flat sandals and a sun hat for wandering port cities.

Then in the p.m., switch the sandals for wedge heels and head-turner earrings.

I brought a printed one on my last cruise, and it worked for everything from sightseeing to formal night.

2. Lightweight Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are chic, packable, and great for day or night.

During the day, pair it with sneakers or espadrilles for onboard activities or walking tours.

In the evening, amp up the glam with a blazer or leather jacket and switch to heels.

I liked how versatile and easy mine felt — I didn’t wear mine once, and no one noticed!

3. Classic Shorts And Blouse Combo

For an easy daytime look, tailored shorts and a loose blouse.

This combination is perfect for warm-weather locations and is pleasantly stylish.

For an evening transition, tuck the blouse into a midi skirt and add a belt for an elegant twist.

It’s an easy way to get multiple outfits out of a few pieces.

4. Stylish Swimsuit Cover-Up

A swim cover-up that also works as a dress is ideal for beach or pool days.

I had one that was loose and flowy, so I could wear it to lunch without feeling underdressed.

Pair it with a wide-brim hat and sunglasses during the day, and in the evening, throw it over a slip dress for a casual yet chic vibe.

You’ll be cruise-ready from sunrise to sunset.

5. Versatile Midi Skirt

A midi skirt is a must-have wardrobe piece that works well for a cruise.

During the day, team with a tank top and sandals for a casual look.

Change out for a fitted top and heels for dinner, and accessorize with a statement necklace for a polished look.

I admired the way my midi skirt took such little effort to go with — it was comfortable to walk around in but nice enough to wear to fancy dinners.

6. Linen Pants and Crop Top

Linen pants are breathable, stylish, and perfect for tropical temps.

In the daytime, style them with a tank or crop top and flat sandals for an easygoing look.

In the evening, trade the top for an off-shoulder blouse and pop on some strappy sandals to elevate the outfit.

The look is the right mix of relaxed and refined.

7. Wrap Dress

Wrap dresses are a cruise wardrobe hero—they’re flattering, weightless, and packable.

Wear it with comfy sneakers while sightseeing or doing bus tours during the day.

Swap in heeled sandals and a clutch for the evening when it’s time for dinner.

I wore a wrap dress on my last trip, and it very quickly became one of my favorite outfits.

8. Waisted Jeans + Camisole

They may not be the first item that comes to mind for a cruise, but a lightweight pair of jeans can be surprisingly versatile.

For daytime, team high-waisted jeans with a basic camisole and sneakers for an easy outfit.

In the evening simply add a blazer and some heels for a chic dinner outfit.

The combo is suitable for cool evenings or indoor activities.

9. Flowy Palazzo Pants

Palazzo pants are comfy, chic, and great for walking around on the ship, hopping from one activity to another.

At the same time, pair them with a tank top and flat sandals for an easygoing vibe during the day.

For evening, dress them up with a silky blouse and block heels.

They felt the right balance between beachy and formal, and I loved how crisp and comfortable my palazzo pants were.

10. Little Black Dress

Every cruise wardrobe needs a little black dress—it keeps you alive for formal dinners and cocktail hours.

Accessorize with a denim jacket and sneakers during the day for a more casual feel.

In the evening, lose the jacket, add a pair of heels and jewelry to take the look up a notch.

The simplicity of an LBD makes it one of the most versatile items to pack.