Wearing cute outfits is half the fun of any cruise vacation. You have so many opportunities to serve looks between lounging on the deck, exploring busy ports, and dressing up for sunset dinners. And every great outfit needs a great bag to match. Whether you’re team flowy maxi dresses or denim shorts and tank tops, you need the right handbag to pull it all together. These cruise outfit ideas are definitely ending up in a reel or carousel, so might as well make all of them conversation-worthy. Read on for seven trendy outfits and the best beach bags for cruises!
1. Boarding Looks That Slay
Woman in a beige dress with a black straw crossbody bag
Let’s start with the outfit that sets the tone for the entire trip: your boarding day ‘fit. You want something that shows off your fashion skills without being too try-hard. A light-colored spaghetti strap dress that is relaxed and flowy hits that sweet spot between comfy and chic. Top it off with a vegan crossbody purse in a dark or punchy color to brighten things up. Add gold hoops, dainty rings, and slip-on espadrilles to complete this cruise outfit idea.
2. Sunset Dinner Sorted
Woman in a all white chic outfit and a straw handbag
Cue the golden hour glow and that cool sea breeze. This is the moment for your flowiest blouse or maxi dress to make an entrance. Choose something in a monochromatic, clean or warm tone, like cream, marigold, or terracotta, with details like tiered layers, ruffles, or soft pleats. The goal is to look like you just threw something on without thought and nailed it in the first go. Spice up this cruise outfit idea with a vacation bag as elegant as the clothing. Something compact with a touch of glamour, like marbled beads, rhinestones, or sequins, that’ll catch and reflect the warm evening sunlight. Bonus points if it’s made from raffia or straw. Add strappy sandals or low heels, stacked bangles, and statement earrings, and you’ll be ready for some dreamy sunset moments.
3. Cocktail Hour Glow-Up
Woman in navy mini dress holding marbled clutch
Every cruise has that one night where you’ll want to go full glam. That’s why you need a cruise outfit idea that can steal the spotlight. Go for a mini dress or maxi dress, something fitted or ruched with a square or cowl neckline. This is also the perfect moment for an evening clutch that makes a statement. Think marbled finishes, bold hardware, sculpted shapes, or maybe all three! Seal the deal with pearl earrings (to match the ocean setting, of course) and low-heel sandals or platform heels.
4. Port Day, The Chic Way
Woman in a cream button-down dress and a straw handbag
For a day of portside excursions, you need a cruise outfit idea that’s chic and practical. A button-up linen dress paired with white sneakers is breathable, easy to move in, and still very on-trend. Accessorize with sunglasses, a sun hat, and hoop earrings. Tie it all together with a compact shoulder bag for portability or a spacious hobo bag, a.k.a. the best beach bag for cruises to carry snacks, water, and other essentials, and still have enough space for whatever souvenirs catch your eye. Don’t forget to stash a lightweight jacket in there or tie it around your waist in case the winds get chilly on your way back to the ship!
5. Casually Cute On Board
Woman in a white blouse and a straw woven handbag
For a lazy day of brunching and appreciating the vastness of the sea, you can’t go wrong with this cruise outfit idea: your trusty denim shorts paired with a flowy, knit, or crocheted top. It’s lightweight, comfy, and cute, which is exactly what you need when you don’t want to overthink your outfit but still look put together. Style it with a small top-handle purse or a vegan cell phone bag with enough compartments for your phone, wallet, keys, and maybe a lip balm, because what else would you really need on deck? Finish with comfy slides, layered necklaces, and your favorite sunnies.
6. Easy Jumpsuit Energy
Woman in casual denim jumpsuit and belt bag
What should you wear when you don’t really have any plans but still want to dress like you do? A jumpsuit is the answer. Something in a neutral tone would require zero thinking and allow you to accessorize it freely. Look for a jumpsuit with a cinched waist but wide-leg pants or shorts to keep things breezy and flattering. Go hands-free with a matching belt bag, or grab a vegan tote purse (naturally the best beach bag for cruises) in a contrasting color to make this cruise outfit idea more interesting. Complete the look with hoop earrings and sandals.
7. Athleisure, But Make It Vacation
Woman in a beige athleisure set with a pink belt bag
An athleisure set is a must-have, even if you’re not planning to workout on board. There is nothing comfier than a pair of leggings and a sports top, whether you’re sightseeing off-port or just vibing on deck with a smoothie in hand. If it’s the latter, you’ll want to style your matching set with a colorful vegan belt bag that adds to the sportiness of the look as well as functionality. Finish this look with sneakers and sunglasses.
Cruise fashion doesn’t have to mean packing your whole closet. With the right clothing and accessories, you can build a vacation wardrobe that’s fun and functional. Luxury purses that work with your cruise outfit ideas (and not just hold your stuff) make every look feel styled, intentional, and worthy of your social media feed. Explore Urban Expressions’ designer bag store for the best beach bags for cruises and shop now for fast shipping across the USA!
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