Caribbean-Cruising Fashonista

[JediMom]

After reading all day and being inspired by all the cute (and totally cruise worthy outfits), I thought I'd drag out my summer clothes and see what I had to work with. Sadly, not much that's (cruise) appropriate. :( I would in an office so there's a lot of great office appropriate clothes, but not in bright, fun, tropical colours.

 

I think I have the evenings figured out - formal I have 4 possibilities (a gown, bolero pants? and a sequined top, a red flowy cocktail dress and a black and white dress with some bling. I'll try them all on again and post some pictures and see what you all think as I'm only bringing one of them ;)

 

The other evenings I have 2 dresses for sure that I think would be fine and then possibly black (dressy) capri's with a couple of tops to mix and match.

 

My issue is during the day. We're on a 5 night cruise with 2 port days. One is Labadee, so that's easy as it's obviously a beach day. The other day is Jamaica. We're being "spontaneous" and deciding on an excursion when we're on the ship. That part is killing me, but I`m trying to go with it :rolleyes:

 

So my questions are:

1) How much casual clothes do you bring. I don`t think I want to be hanging out in a bathing suit all day until it`s time to get dressed for dinner but I have no idea what I should bring for hanging out on the ship all day. Can you guys give me examples of what you wear for sea days. (Sorry, I messed up the keyboard so no question marks).

 

2) 2 bathing suits and 1 cover up OK for a 5 day. Like others, I plan on losing weight (goal is another 35 pounds to go, hopefully by summer). My cover up is cute, it`s from Land`s End, it`s royal blue and like a shift dress.

 

3) Would I be completely out of place in black, beige or jean bottoms. Does a jean skirt work or should I just leave that at home.

 

4) Shoes. Being a Caribbean cruise, would I be completely out of place in closed toe heels for formal night, or should I try to find some strappy sandals that would work.

 

Because I have more than several years to go before I can enjoy retirement cruises, I need to focus more on my work and everday wardrobe for now. I don`t mind adding a couple of new pieces, especially if I can make them work for both cruising and regular summer wear here, I just need to know what to get to add the most bang for my buck ;)

[cruzinhuskers]

You fashionistas have inspired me! Snatched come cute pieces at Goodwill yesterday and now going Goodwillin' today. DH is not understanding because we took a carload to them a week ago. :) I'm 4 weeks away from Freedom of the Seas so I'm officially in packing mode. Thanks for all the pics and great advice!

 

Julie

[LifeIsButADream]

Hey Julie....we will be getting off of Freedom right before you get on!! We leave February 10 and can't wait!! Only three weeks away now! I just love browsing at Goodwill....the fun part is just going in with an open agenda and finding all the little "gems" that exist there!! I bought another pretty black and white blouse there the other day for $6 bucks that I will wear to church. Have fun shopping!!

[LifeIsButADream]

Hey JediMom....for at sea days, I usually wear capris to hang out....shorts would be fine too, with cute tops and comfy shoes. Your cover-up sounds cute...that's one thing I still need to get for my cruise. Black, beige or jean bottoms would be perfectly fine....I personally would not wear a jean skirt....but that's just my preference. Since you don't want to invest a lot in "just cruise" clothes...I would just wear the closed toe shoes that you have for formal night....I will confess that I bought a pair of super dressy black strappy sandals with a rhinestone adornment for a cruise many years back...and have only worn them like TWICE since then....so, unless you can find some strappy sandals that you can wear to your place of work, I wouldn't worry about it!! Have fun!!

[BellaLunatic]

I'm concerned I won't be able to walk in high heels, on a ship. This is throwing a wrench in my dressy-ware plan.

[geocruiser]

I'm concerned I won't be able to walk in high heels, on a ship. This is throwing a wrench in my dressy-ware plan.

 

I all ways wear flats. I just can't wear heels. I love them on others and wish I could wear them. They look so nice when dressed up. But for me it is safty first and comfort. Therefore, I wear flats.

[LifeIsButADream]

You will be able to wear high heels on the ship....the larger ships are so stable now that you can hardly feel them moving at all...no problem walking in the public areas in heels!

[JediMom]

I spent my morning at Goodwill (well, Value Village in these parts, but the same idea ;)) Found some really great things to work with what I already had!!

 

So here's another question - would polo shirts be too warm during the day around the ship??

[JediMom]

The pictures aren't the greatest, and I look terrible but you get the jist. I haven't figured out many accessories, but here are some of the evening outfits I'm thinking. Comments are welcome :)

 

Green dress with green wrap: Shoes are small gold heels (think flip flops but higher), rhinestones on the front.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190318_zpsb6df83cf.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

 

 

 

 

Green dress with black bolero: Same pictures as before.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190317_zpsa53a5e31.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

 

Formal dress #1 option: Shoes are red heels, closed toe.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190315_zps57a57571.jpg.html?sort=3&o=6&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

 

Black separates: Thinking either black or silver shoes.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190306_zpsd81ff577.jpg.html?sort=3&o=7&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

Pink and orange ... Personally I'm not loving this one - maybe it's the black shoes??

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190305_zps1df0bdda.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I'm going to see if these work and then I'll post some more :)

Edited January 19, 2013 by JediMom
Figuring out pictures ....

[cruzinhuskers]

Hey Julie....we will be getting off of Freedom right before you get on!! We leave February 10 and can't wait!! Only three weeks away now! I just love browsing at Goodwill....the fun part is just going in with an open agenda and finding all the little "gems" that exist there!! I bought another pretty black and white blouse there the other day for $6 bucks that I will wear to church. Have fun shopping!!

 

Success at the Goodwill! Saw lots of great brands - Michael Kors, White House/Black Market, etc. Spent $15 and got 3 tops, a skort and capris.

[murfturf]

The pictures aren't the greatest, and I look terrible but you get the jist. I haven't figured out many accessories, but here are some of the evening outfits I'm thinking. Comments are welcome :)

 

Green dress with green wrap: Shoes are small gold heels (think flip flops but higher), rhinestones on the front.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190318_zpsb6df83cf.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

 

 

 

 

Green dress with black bolero: Same pictures as before.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190317_zpsa53a5e31.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I like it with the black bolero personally!

 

Formal dress #1 option: Shoes are red heels, closed toe.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190315_zps57a57571.jpg.html?sort=3&o=6&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

Very pretty! Love the splash of red.

 

This photo isn't loading for some reason, but I was able to take the link from your post. It's also a very cute dress.

 

Black separates: Thinking either black or silver shoes.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190306_zpsd81ff577.jpg.html?sort=3&o=7&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

Pink and orange ... Personally I'm not loving this one - maybe it's the black shoes??

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190305_zps1df0bdda.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I like the dress- perfect for a cruise. Try the gold flip flop sandals?

 

I'm going to see if these work and then I'll post some more :)

 

My reply in GREEN!

Edited January 19, 2013 by murfturf

[JediMom]

Thanks Murf!! I'll try the pink with the other sandals and see if it makes a difference.

 

So here's some more casual things I was thinking during the day ... no shoes because I'm sure they'll either be my tried and true flip flops (black and white) or Columbia beige sandals.

 

Pink capri's: Not loving this outfit, but the pants are super comfortable, maybe just need to find something else?

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190305_zps1df0bdda.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Black plaid shorts & blue top: Again, it's OK. Not sure if I like the idea that it's a polo top??

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190323_zps30a60b65.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Brown sundress: http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Green dress: i'm wearing white wedge flip flops I bought for a wedding a couple of years ago, They're really comfortable but I haven't really worn them since :(

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190320_zps5dc37dd2.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

 

If someone can tell me how to insert the pictures (like Indiana has done, I can do that if it's easier). I put the pictures on photobucket.

[JediMom]

I all ways wear flats. I just can't wear heels. I love them on others and wish I could wear them. They look so nice when dressed up. But for me it is safty first and comfort. Therefore, I wear flats.

 

Maria - I bought some of my best flats from Payless at all places!! I typically don't wear heels as my DH is about 1/2 inch shorter then in in no shoes. Plus I'm the biggest clutz - if there's something to trip over, i will find it, so flats are usually my safest option as well. I'm hoping I can manage not to break an ankle or something in the couple of hours I'm wearing heels :p

[Armchairtravelwoman]

Success at the Goodwill! Saw lots of great brands - Michael Kors, White House/Black Market, etc. Spent $15 and got 3 tops, a skort and capris.

 

Your post inspired me to go to Savers (a Goodwill-type store) this afternoon and was pleased to find a really cute pair of criss-cross strap Crocs Trekkers for $3.99. And a pair of Naturalizer slides which look brand-new for $4.99. Also picked up several short sleeved tops by Karen Scott, a brand I like and have paid lots more for than $2.99 each at Macy's. Cheapest shopping trip ever. Thanks for the reminder as I hadn't been there in ages!:D

[murfturf]

Your post inspired me to go to Savers (a Goodwill-type store) this afternoon and was pleased to find a really cute pair of criss-cross strap Crocs Trekkers for $3.99. And a pair of Naturalizer slides which look brand-new for $4.99. Also picked up several short sleeved tops by Karen Scott, a brand I like and have paid lots more for than $2.99 each at Macy's. Cheapest shopping trip ever. Thanks for the reminder as I hadn't been there in ages!:D

 

Yup - had to run to Goodwill tonight too :) I was lucky for some of my other family members, and did find a few things for me too. I had found new with tags Lane Bryant black dressy capris, but they were way too wide leg and not flattering on me.

 

Got NWT Ralph Lauren navy chinos for my hubby! Then a Perry Ellis v-neck "dressy" tee as well as a nice golf polo. A gorgeous maxi dress with a peacock print for my DD, Aeropostale bermuda shorts and some Chico's Travelers wide leg capris, look almost like a skirt. Then Lane Bryant navy crops and a plaid Land's End shirt for myself. Over all a pretty successful trip.

[murfturf]

Thanks Murf!! I'll try the pink with the other sandals and see if it makes a difference.

 

So here's some more casual things I was thinking during the day ... no shoes because I'm sure they'll either be my tried and true flip flops (black and white) or Columbia beige sandals.

 

Pink capri's: Not loving this outfit, but the pants are super comfortable, maybe just need to find something else?

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190305_zps1df0bdda.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Black plaid shorts & blue top: Again, it's OK. Not sure if I like the idea that it's a polo top??

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190323_zps30a60b65.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Brown sundress: http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

Green dress: i'm wearing white wedge flip flops I bought for a wedding a couple of years ago, They're really comfortable but I haven't really worn them since :(

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190324_zps310455af.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190320_zps5dc37dd2.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=13586401232290003585405487441795

 

 

If someone can tell me how to insert the pictures (like Indiana has done, I can do that if it's easier). I put the pictures on photobucket.

 

Instead of using the Link tool - use the Image tool. (The yellow square with the mountain.) Use that URL for the image tool it will start wtih IMG instead of URL

 

Hmmm... except I can't get it to work either using your link. Not sure what's wrong. Try copying the share link in Photobucket and post that. Needs to be the BB code one.

Edited January 20, 2013 by murfturf

[Armchairtravelwoman]

Yup - had to run to Goodwill tonight too :) I was lucky for some of my other family members, and did find a few things for me too. I had found new with tags Lane Bryant black dressy capris, but they were way too wide leg and not flattering on me.

 

Got NWT Ralph Lauren navy chinos for my hubby! Then a Perry Ellis v-neck "dressy" tee as well as a nice golf polo. A gorgeous maxi dress with a peacock print for my DD, Aeropostale bermuda shorts and some Chico's Travelers wide leg capris, look almost like a skirt. Then Lane Bryant navy crops and a plaid Land's End shirt for myself. Over all a pretty successful trip.

 

I'd say we both scored today. Nice feeling!

[cruzinhuskers]

Your post inspired me to go to Savers (a Goodwill-type store) this afternoon and was pleased to find a really cute pair of criss-cross strap Crocs Trekkers for $3.99. And a pair of Naturalizer slides which look brand-new for $4.99. Also picked up several short sleeved tops by Karen Scott, a brand I like and have paid lots more for than $2.99 each at Macy's. Cheapest shopping trip ever. Thanks for the reminder as I hadn't been there in ages!:D

 

Wow, you found some great things! I'm jealous of your Croc find! Love my Crocs sandals for cruising.

[JediMom]

Thanks for the tips Murf, but all I'm getting is the red "x". Maybe I don't have enough posts yet to be able to post pictures properly??

 

Congrats to everyone who found great deals yesterday on their bargain hunting adventures :) I'm pretty pleased with mine, although not many brand names where I was looking. I'll just have to hunt harder next time ;)

 

I forgot to mention yesterday my SIL was over yesterday (who is my style guide because she's AMAZING putting looks together), and was so impressed with what I had put together so far and the deals I was getting. I'm trying to convince her to come on our next cruise as I think we'd all have a huge blast together!!

Edited January 20, 2013 by JediMom

[lovestx]

The pictures aren't the greatest, and I look terrible but you get the jist. I haven't figured out many accessories, but here are some of the evening outfits I'm thinking. Comments are welcome :)

 

Green dress with green wrap: Shoes are small gold heels (think flip flops but higher), rhinestones on the front.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190318_zpsb6df83cf.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

 

 

 

 

Green dress with black bolero: Same pictures as before.

 

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190317_zpsa53a5e31.jpg.html?sort=3&o=3&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I prefer the dress (which is terrific BTW) with the bolero

 

 

Formal dress #1 option: Shoes are red heels, closed toe.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190315_zps57a57571.jpg.html?sort=3&o=6&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I'm not crazy about the red shoes but then again I'm a bit matchy matchy.

 

 

Black separates: Thinking either black or silver shoes.

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190306_zpsd81ff577.jpg.html?sort=3&o=7&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

Pink and orange ... Personally I'm not loving this one - maybe it's the black shoes??

http://s1323.beta.photobucket.com/user/JediMom007/media/P1190321_zpsdc309abc.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2#/user/JediMom007/media/P1190305_zps1df0bdda.jpg.html?sort=3&o=8&_suid=135862949496209816566818714445

 

I like this dress! But I think I'd like it better with a black belt as I think the shoes are fine with it.

 

I'm going to see if these work and then I'll post some more :)

 

 

My replies in blue.

[laurspag]

I would like to mention that the print dress with the bolero jacket is great for you. That style is wonderful with your figure.

[indiana71]

So happy to see all the posts lately!!! Here's my input:

Jsim2011: Please post a photo of how you hang dresses in a garment bag! I'm liking the idea of putting my red dress (wraparound with a full skirt) on a hanger, folded over at the waist...My other thought is to just pack it in a suitcase with tissue to keep the wrinkles out... My 2nd formal night dress is straight and sleeveless - easy peasy in the garment bag.

BellaLunatic: If you can walk around a mall in heels, you'll be fine on a ship. It's not the stability as much as the tile floors that cause me to (potentially) slip. Walking on carpeted surfaces is much easier. And I buy Safe Step Sole Pads at Payless for on the bottom of all my shoes. They're peel and stick and have saved me from countless embarassing falls!

geocruiser: Love the suggestion of putting shoes in plastic bags and using the bags for dirty laundry!

JediMom: Welcome to CCF! You have gotten lots of good ideas and opinions so far. I can add my thoughts...

Our 1st cruise was in 2006 and I was a school secretary with a closet full of suits and sensible shoes. The "Cruise Room" evolved slowly after that. When summer attire went on sale, I was there. The Goodwill store became a great source of bargains along with consignment stores. That's not to say there haven't been splurges here and there;).

A very large percentage of items in the Cruise Room are worn only on cruises. It's my weird idea that cruising is so special, so completely different from my "real" life, that I want to wear outfits that are exclusive to the experience.

RE Your Photos: Pictures help so much! Thank you for taking time to post yours. BTW, all my photos are uploaded to Snapfish. I can right click on any picture to copy, and then right click and paste it in this Reply box.

The green print dress is totally appropriate!

IMHO: What's important for Formal Night (and probably any other occasion...): The first thing that gets noticed is Your Dress (or whatever it is that's covering your torso)

If you are wearing Your Dress to the dining room: keep in mind that what people see is everything above the table top - so shoes aren't all that important.

Only buy strappy neutral sandals if you would wear them other places and if they are comfortable.

The Pink and Orange Dress: 2 of my favorite tropical colors! Wear that dress! It looks great.

Polo Shirts: Wear what you have. The blue one is bright and the color of the Caribbean:cool:. Tops are one of the most prolific items in resale shops. Buy some and wear them with neutral colored shorts, Capris, pants or skirts.

Personally, I wouldn't wear any denim on a cruise - it's too much like "real life"! BUT, you will see lots of jeans; so definitely not a no-no.

Edited January 20, 2013 by indiana71

[JediMom]

Thank you everyone for all the opinions and advice. The green print dress was something I bought on a whim for my nephews baptism 2 years ago when I was having a meltdown that nothing in my closet fit :rolleyes:. It's gotten a lot of wear since as it's incredibly comfortable.

 

This morning I was washing some of DS's summer clothes and trying to figure out dinner outfits for him that would coordinate what I'm planning on wearing. DH is doing a lot of :rolleyes:, but he's paying attention as he's planning on coordinating quite a few outfits as well. Goes to show the influence this fashionista has in this house of boys ;)

[LifeIsButADream]

 

 

This is my first attempt to post a picture, so please let me know if this works or not! This is a bathing suit cover-up that I bought at Goodwill today for $5 bucks!! So excited....the sun is both silver/gold mixed and I just bought some sparkly silver flip flops to wear to the pool/beach...yay! :)

[LifeIsButADream]

Hmmmmm....I see that the image did post...but is so small....how do I make it bigger?? I downloaded the picture to Snapfish like Indiana said....