Caribbean-Cruising Fashonista

[Iluvmypuggle]

How far in advance of a cruise do you get a hair cut/color?

 

AND - Do you go to a salon for a Mani/Pedi or do your own?

 

Haircut - I rarely get my haircut right before a cruise since I spend most of my cruise time in the sun and with my hair wet and in a ponytail all day long. And I usually get my hair cut a week or so after a cruise!

 

Mani/Pedi - I never go on vaca without one. I either go after work the evening before or the morning of my cruise (if I'm driving to the port). I think a mani/pedi while my bf is loading the car is the best way to start a vaca. :D Then we drink cocktails on the way to the ship (since we usually get a ride). This is part of the reason why I don't like flying to port.. I like the whole day of routine.

[two4me]

For my up and coming cruise, I hope I won't be over dressed.

The first dress i wore for first cruise was black cocktail length

with beading in a sideways motion down the dress. I am reusing that one but got 2 more for the other formals. Both are gown length.

One black with halter syle front with beading and to the waist with a slit down the side with light beading down the slit. The other a ocean teal blue with silver beading (maybe 4 inches worth) just under the bust line.

Funny alterations for those dresses cost me! Dang the price for being small.

[Cancun01]

We sail on April 4th - colour and cut appointment is scheduled for April 2

I stopped going for mani /pedi before vacations and do my own after an overly ambitious technicain caused an ingrown toenail.

[indiana71]

d'sdarling: I feel your excitement about buying new shoes that won't be worn for months. But think how happy you will be when the time comes to wear them!

All my life I've had new clothes for vacation (as a girl, probably because last year's summer things didn't fit anymore).

To have several new outfits takes shopping all year - unless your budget allows for 1 big splurge. Some of the things I packed for the next cruise were purchased at the end of last year's summer season. Tags were still on!

michellesv44: Welcome to the place where fashonistas can talk, suggest and give opinions. All the enthusiasm here gives me hope that there will ALWAYS be well-dressed women (and men, too.)!

I haven't tried Dior mascara, Lancome Definicils is my go-to brand. Mascara that lengthens hits my glasses. Lancome gives definition w/o lengthening.

Iluvmypuggle: Totally agree that the Whole Day Routine for getting to the ship is part of the fun:cool:. Vacation starts as soon as my feet hit the floor that morning!

two4me: A friend once told me "There's nothing wrong with being the best dressed." Your formal dresses sound gorgeous and you will NOT be overdressed!

I, too, spend $$ on alterations...the price we pay for being small;).

Cancun01: You're the only one who responded that you do your own mani/pedi and for the same reason I do my own - a bad experience. Even though the vast majority are done perfectly (and the time spent is relaxing), the results aren't always what was hoped for.

Since my nails are short and tend to peel, I take polish with me for touch-ups. Can't do that when the salon has colors I don't have.

[sssteele]

I've read bits and pieces of this thread, and believe I have come to the right place for help.

 

DH and I will be going to Italy (Rome, Tuscany and Venice) for 9 night land tour followed by 8 night Med on Royal Caribbean followed by 13 night transatlantic. This will be in October/November of this year.

 

We will fly into Rome and will be limited by weight regulations and the land tour will limit us also.

 

I'm thinking I have to go with the basics and limit my colors so I can mix it up. Maybe jeans, casual black slacks, dressy black slacks, black skirt, along with T-necks/tanks in my go-to colors of black, white, red, royal blue, and silver. Maybe 2 print cardigans and plain black knit blazer type jacket. Also crisp, no iron white blouse. Black trench coat, jean jacket and vest in red, black and white. The vest reverses to just black and white. I have several floaty tops (think Chico's) in great prints-mostly black and white with a pop of color. Black Merrills for walking, black Jambu shoes in black leather with black patent leather trim, black heels and something ultra comfy for on the ship. Will also take bathing suit and cover-up and 2 workout outfits.

 

Not sure about formal nights, not such a problem for me, but hauling what DH needs could be a bit of a struggle.

 

Any suggestions you have will be greatly appreciated. I have silver/white hair, blue eyes,and medium to light complexion. I am going to be 62 at the time of the trip and am about a size 8/10 and I'm just under 5'.

 

Thanks

Edited March 24, 2011 by sssteele
oops sorry

[indiana71]

sssteele: Dealing with weight restrictions isn't fun, but it IS reality and we must make the best of it.

I attended a jewelry party recently at a friend's home. The "jeweler" wore several lovely pieces. Early in her presentation, she took off all the jewelry and had on only black pants and a white shirt. She looked like a waitress! The jewelry made the outfit memorable and fun.

That's my suggestion to you. Your pieces are basic and will mix & match easily. The key to making it all stand out and look fresh and different is the jewelry you choose as an accent. I'm not talking about high-end gems, gold and silver - but costume jewelry. It would fit in a carry-on.

Suggestion for your DH for Formal Nights: Rent a tux in advance of sailing. Royal Caribbean does a great job of having the correct size and getting it to your stateroom on Day 1. I would guess other cruise lines do the same. It saves packing space for sure and eliminates sending a suit & shirt to be pressed.

I hope others who post here will offer their suggestions, too.

[sssteele]

sssteele: Dealing with weight restrictions isn't fun, but it IS reality and we must make the best of it.

 

I attended a jewelry party recently at a friend's home. The "jeweler" wore several lovely pieces. Early in her presentation, she took off all the jewelry and had on only black pants and a white shirt. She looked like a waitress! The jewelry made the outfit memorable and fun.

That's my suggestion to you. Your pieces are basic and will mix & match easily. The key to making it all stand out and look fresh and different is the jewelry you choose as an accent. I'm not talking about high-end gems, gold and silver - but costume jewelry. It would fit in a carry-on.

 

Suggestion for your DH for Formal Nights: Rent a tux in advance of sailing. Royal Caribbean does a great job of having the correct size and getting it to your stateroom on Day 1. I would guess other cruise lines do the same. It saves packing space for sure and eliminates sending a suit & shirt to be pressed.

 

I hope others who post here will offer their suggestions, too.

 

 

Thanks for your reply. I do have quite a few pieces of striking/bold costume jewelry, mostly earrings, since I normally have my hair short.

 

I also plan to have a scarf or pashmina with me most of the time. Love the color they add to a plain shirt and jacket.

 

I'm thinking it could be smart to have a lightweight pair of leather gloves and an umbrella.

 

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

[Cancun01]

The good news is that you seem to have your shoes under control :). That is always my greatest challenge because of flight weight restrictions.

I always find that for any trip if I make a list by day of what I am going to wear ensures that I have the appropriate clothes and it also ensures that I do not overpack - you can mix-them up when away but you know you have the right things -always prevents the packing of something and forgetting to pack pieces that match.

[jacksmom09]

Anyone have any sunscreen suggestions? That is on my packing list, but I have none!:confused:

[d'sdarling]

I have read where many woman carry clutches or hand bags in the evening for dinner. Is there a reason or is it an accessory to the outfit? I'm trying to figure out if I need/want to take one. Thanks!

[5326jan]

I have read where many woman carry clutches or hand bags in the evening for dinner. Is there a reason or is it an accessory to the outfit? I'm trying to figure out if I need/want to take one. Thanks!

 

The only reason I carry one is for my glasses! I can't see the menu without them. Also, in case DH and I get separated for some reason (cookie run to the buffet) I will have my key to get back in the cabin.

[indiana71]

d'sdarling - I have never taken a purse anywhere on a cruise, (that's one of the benefits of being on a ship) but this year some of the posts here have inspired me to dig out the vintage evening bags (sounds classier than "purse" don't you agree?). I'll keep my key, lipstick and comb in it. If it proves to be a nuisance (lay it on the dining table? stick it on the chair? what to do in the casino, etc.) I'll leave it and give DH my lipstick & comb.

jacksmom: The spray sunscreens aren't my favorite - on a windy ship, more goes in the air than on us although that seems to be the way most people go. Old-fashioned SPF 30 in a tube works fine and Banana Boat is good.

My moisturizer is SPF 20 and goes on every morning.

The Lancome rep suggested "Flash Bronzer" Tinted Self-Tanning Leg Gel and it's doing a good job - not smelly or sticky and dries without staining. At least my legs will have a bit of color:cool:.

[lilme74]

Anyone have any sunscreen suggestions? That is on my packing list, but I have none!:confused:

 

I do like Banana Boat also - nongreasy is the best for me

[Iluvmypuggle]

jacksmom: The spray sunscreens aren't my favorite - on a windy ship, more goes in the air than on us although that seems to be the way most people go. Old-fashioned SPF 30 in a tube works fine and Banana Boat is good.

 

See, I understand what you mean about them not working when its windy, but I always use my spray sunscreen on the balcony before I go to the pool.. And then I just reapply at the pool. I don't think I could go back to the lotion kind. I bring so many extras because that's the last thing I'm going to run out of on the ship. :)

[Cancun01]

I have 3 evening bags ready for our cruise next week - a black, a silver and a champagne coloured - good to carry cruise card, small camera, comb and lipstick/gloss - as to what to do with them around the dinnertable -last cruise I either put it on the table regardless of it being considered poor manners and just excused myself - too small to place anywhere else or a little larger one on the back of my chair - I recently bought a purse hook when I saw it in the Avon catalogue so I can hang it from the table

 

As for sunscreen - I either use a Canadian product called Umbrelle or Clairins - Clairins have a nice spray that glistens in the sun - very pretty especially if you already have a bit of a tan.

Edited March 25, 2011 by Cancun01

[indiana71]

A Purse Hook - What a Great Idea! Mine is Brighton and would be perfect for using on the white cloth covered table. Thanks for the suggestion:)!

With my recent Lancome purchase, a sample of Genifique was included. I've used it as directed for a week. The ads say "it will change your skin's appearance in 7 days." Well - maybe just a very little bit, but not enough to pay the $$ for it. Maybe because wrinkles aren't really an issue w/ me (except the "parantheses" around my mouth - smile lines, I think they're called.)

 

Does anyone else use a product that promises to "take 10 years off your age"?

[dressing dreams 95]

I have enjoyed reading this post so much. We leave in 8 days for a 4 night Bahamas cruise and I have barely started to think about packing.

 

My favorite type of summer clothing is dresses from

www.athleta.com

www.titlenine.com

www.patagonia.com

www.prana,com

I love Boston Proper as well but these dresses with built in bra are perfect for packing and go anywhere.

 

As far as skin care goes, I will be 40 in May and have recently become obsessed with not aging! Good Housekeeping put out a list of best anti aging products for 2010. Most are bought at the drug store or Target. I love them and will continue to use them. They can be found on line at Goodhousekeeping.com

[indiana71]

Dressing Dreams 95: Dresses w/ built-in bras are easy to pack and very convenient. Most of the ones I've seen are on Victoria's Secret website. They're perfect for a fun tropical vacation.

Thanks for posting your favorites - easy to check what is there:).

[cardamon]

Indiana, you are my inspiration! After reading your posts- I've developed my own spreadsheet. i've even matched my jewelry with my clothes- a first for me BEFORE a cruise. Bought a few more costume jewelry items to wear, will leave my really nice jewelry at home. What do you do- do you wear your best jewelry or costume?

 

I only use Estee Lauder products because my daughter is a planner for the company. I really like their sunscreen- very little smell, non-oily.My night cream is Time Zone- I think their products have really helped keep my skin looking smooth, and with foundation and blush, very few age spots show. Hope that helps- you can tell me if the products work when I see you this Saturday on the EOS. I'll tell you my age then! Can't wait to see you.

[sssteele]

sssteele: I attended a jewelry party recently at a friend's home. The "jeweler" wore several lovely pieces.

 

Just wondering what type of jewelry party. Can always use a new piece or two and what you saw might be available in my area.

 

I'm a bit slow I guess. Took a while for me to notice the "Indiana" is PA. Our son and daughter-in-law are IUP grads and our grandson is currently at their culinary school.

 

Thanks for reminding me about the tux rental for DH. I'll look into that, but not sure if he'll go for it since he is usually a dark suit, shirt and tie guy. Always looks really great :cool: and I co-ordinate colors with my cocktail dress.

[indiana71]

cardamon: So nice to see you here! Lucky you, having a connection to Estee Lauder so you get great info and the right products. Many times at the cosmetic counter, I think the saleslady is more interested in making a sale than what is best for a customer.

My jewelry is ALL costume! Styles change and my taste changes, too; so there's no guilt (well, hardly any guilt) when buying fun pieces instead of investments.

sssteele: The jewelry that I buy at parties is from Premiere. Their website isn't consumer friendly, they want orders to go through their "jewelers", but you could probably find a dealer in your area.

I was happy to hear your grandson is at the IUP culinary school. It's a good place to be! My other very favorite thing to do is cook and entertain and it's nice to know young people are interested in real cooking:).

[mom22tinks]

Hi! This is a great thread. Love thinking about what I'll wear ahead of time.

 

I carry a silver coach wallet on a strap for dinner. I find it goes with everythign and I can fit my lipgloss, daily funtimes, sail and sign card and camera in it. I do carry a straw bag by the pool which holds my book, a current magazine, ipod, camera and pen. (in case I want to do a crosswords in the recent In touch magazine!) I also take this when we go to the beach. It looks super cute with my coverup!

 

17 days and counting! Cannot wait for some fun and sun!!

[indiana71]

mom22tinks: Welcome to the Fashonista thread! Your silver Coach wallet on a strap sounds like the perfect solution to having what you need and not being cumbersome. Great idea!

My cruise is less than 100 hours away and the weather in Baltimore isn't going to be warm...high 40's most likely. My ankle pants, 3/4 sleeve top and loose-weave pullover might not be enough...oh dear. I'm taking a light-weight white jacket, too.

If it's cold and windy on deck for the SailAway, there are always good spots in the Viking Crown Lounge (top of the ship) with good views...

A little unsatisfactory weather won't dampen my excitement:cool::)!

What do you wear when leaving from a northern port for a warm-weather cruise?

[mom22tinks]

Thanks for that welcome! I am so jealous that you are leaving in less than 100 hours! Have a great cruise!

 

I have only sailed out of warm weather ports, although this past December when we left out of Miami, it was a bit cold. I wore a denim skirt with black tight/leggings with black knee high boots with a heel and a cute top and sweater. It was still a little chilly with just the sweater. I was able to wear the skirt again with a different outfit later during the cruise.

 

I would love to know how you like leaving out of the port of Baltimore.

[cardamon]

Hi all,

Indiana, I"m glad you asked about the "dress" for a cold weather sailing! I had planned on a tan knit capri pants/matching zippered jacket for Sat, but I hate being cold. I don't know how much time it will take us to get on the ship, and if the area is enlosed? Are you wearing sandals? My DH will be in jeans- no shorts!

 

Glad to hear cosume jewelry- the variety makes it more fun! Inspired by you, I matched my jewelry with my outfits, even left some unneeded pieces at home

 

I have a beautiful, loving daughter who gives me great advise on skin care. We have an Estee Lauder Company Store in the Rehoboth Beach outlets- with their prices and her discount, I can usually buy what she recommends!

 

We sail in 3 days!Think warm!