Cruise Outfits for Women: A Packing Guide from SPANX

Cruises are supposed to be fun. Packing for one? Less so. Between formal dress codes, limited luggage space, wildly different temperatures, figuring out what to wear can feel like a logistical puzzle.

The key to stress-free cruise outfits for women isn’t more options, it’s smarter ones. Pieces that work across multiple settings, feel comfortable all day, and still look polished enough for dinner, photos, and last-minute plans.

That’s where SPANX comes in. From shapewear that disappears under formal dresses to denim that holds its own in the main dining room, this guide breaks down exactly what to pack so you can spend less time planning outfits and more time enjoying the view.

The Cruise Packing Strategy

Cruise packing requires intention, not options. Unlike a typical vacation, you’re dressing for multiple environments (sometimes all in one day). The smartest approach is choosing pieces that can flex between settings while still respecting cruise dress codes.

Instead of packing for every possible scenario, aim for:

• One formal outfit
• One polished casual outfit
• One excursion outfit
• One pool look
• One layering system

Shapewear Under Formal Outfits

Formal nights are a cruise staple. Think structured dresses, clingy fabrics, dramatic lighting, and lots of photos. The goal isn’t to change your dress, it’s to feel comfortable and confident wearing it.

Shapewear provides subtle smoothing and support so your outfit looks intentional from every angle, without feeling restrictive or fussy.

SPANX Picks

• SPANXSupersmooth Essential Mid-Thigh Short: This mid-thigh short offers gentle, all-over compression with a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that moves with you. Free-cut leg openings prevent digging and thigh chafing, while the cotton gusset and second-skin feel make it comfortable enough to forget you’re wearing shapewear at all.
• SPANXsupersmooth Undie-tectable Supima Cotton Brief: Made with premium Supima® Cotton, this brief delivers built-in smoothing with bonded edges for no visible panty lines. It features a dig-free waistband and a soft cotton gusset—perfect under formal dresses when you want smoothing without extra layers.
• SPANXshape™ Invisible Mid-Thigh Short: Designed to smooth and shape without bulk or visible lines, these mid-thigh shorts help dresses and skirts lay flawlessly—whether you’re stepping off the ship for a sunset cocktail or gliding into a formal night in the main dining room.

Dressy Denim for Main Dining & Evenings

Cruise main dining rooms typically call for a polished look that’s dressy, but not black-tie. Comfort still matters, especially after a full day of excursions, shows, or lounging on deck.

That’s where premium, shaping denim earns its place.

SPANX Picks

• SPANXshape EveryWear Wide Leg Jeans: These pull-on jeans are crafted from lighter-weight premium denim with built-in TummyTamer Tech™ for targeted waist shaping. The high-rise wide leg silhouette elongates the leg, while faux buttons and premium hardware give you the look of classic denim—without bulk or discomfort.
• SPANXsculpt ReDefine Slim Straight Jeans: Featuring LYCRA FitSense® denim technology, these jeans provide targeted sculpting at the tummy, thighs, and booty while maintaining the look and feel of traditional denim. The high-rise waist and slim straight leg offer a tailored, streamlined look that works beautifully for dinner or evening events.
• SPANXshape EveryWear Flare Jeans: With the same built-in TummyTamer Tech™ you love, these high-rise flare jeans smooth the waist and elongate the leg. They deliver the polish of classic denim with the comfort of a pull-on design—ideal for evenings when you want to look put-together without trying too hard.

Activewear for Daytime Excursions & Port Days

Port days demand flexibility. You’re walking, climbing, sightseeing, and dealing with unpredictable weather. Your outfit needs to move with you and still look good in photos.

SPANX Picks

• SPANX Get Moving Square Neck Shelf Tank: This supportive tank offers a flattering square neckline with a built-in shelf bra for light support. It’s comfortable enough for all-day wear and polished enough to pass for a casual top when paired with the right bottoms.
• SPANXshape Booty Boost Full Length Leggings: Designed to smooth and lift with targeted shaping, these leggings offer stretch and support without feeling restrictive. They’re ideal for excursions that involve movement—and easy to dress up with a lightweight layer afterward.

Swimwear for Sea Days & Pool Deck Lounging

Cruise pool days are highly visible. Between the sun deck, spa, quick lunches, and casual strolls, confidence matters just as much as comfort.

SPANX Picks

• SPANXshape Convertible Pique Bandeau One-Piece: Crafted from premium textured pique fabric, this one-piece features built-in power mesh for 360-degree shaping and UPF 50+ sun protection. The double-lined, dig-free design offers all-day comfort, while removable straps let you adjust support depending on your plans.
• Pique Shaping High Rise Swim Skort: This swim skort combines a flirty outer skirt with a hidden high-rise bottom for smoothing support and feminine coverage. Flexible layers move with you, making it ideal for pool lounging, swimming, or casual deck walks.

Comfy Layering Pieces for Temperature Swings

Cruises are notorious for temperature shifts—hot decks, cold dining rooms, and breezy evenings. One good layer can solve all of it.

SPANX Picks

• SPANX SoftStretch Mockneck Long Sleeve Top: This mockneck top offers gentle smoothing with 4-way stretch in a soft, heathered fabric. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying, it works just as well for low-impact movement as it does for casual evenings onboard.
• SPANXsupersmooth Softstretch Full-Length Leggings: These peachy-soft leggings feature light core compression, a built-in waistband, and an adjustable drawstring for a custom fit. Strategically placed back V-seaming defines the booty while keeping the look relaxed and versatile.

Cruise Packing FAQs

Cruise wardrobes come with plenty of questions. Here are the answers travelers actually need.

What should women wear on a cruise at night?

Evenings typically call for polished casual or formal attire, depending on the night. Dresses, dressy denim, and elevated tops are all appropriate.

Do cruises require formal wear?

Most cruises include at least one formal night, though participation is optional. Packing one formal outfit ensures you’re prepared.

How many outfits should I pack for a 7-day cruise?

Plan for 6–8 core outfits that mix and match, plus swimwear and activewear.

Are jeans allowed in cruise dining rooms?

Yes—premium, well-fitted jeans are typically allowed in main dining rooms on non-formal nights.

Do I need shapewear for cruise formal nights?

Not required, but many women appreciate the smoothing and support under structured or clingy dresses.

How do you pack light for a cruise with dress codes?

Focus on versatile pieces that work across settings and avoid packing single-use outfits.

Pack Smarter, Enjoy More of the Cruise

The best cruise outfits for women aren’t about overplanning—they’re about choosing pieces that work together. When shapewear, dressy denim, activewear, swimwear, and layering pieces are all pulling their weight, packing becomes easier and outfits fall into place.

Build your cruise wardrobe with SPANX essentials designed for comfort, confidence, and versatility—so you can focus less on what you’re wearing and more on where you’re headed.