#PackingProblems: Formal Cruise Nights

Okay, let me be honest here. One of my absolute favorite parts of going on a cruise is having an excuse to get dressed up. My extremely boring life does not give me many opportunities to put on a cute cocktail dress and pumps and go out. The most dressed up I ever get is a LBD and my black blazer for work...not too exciting. I wasn't planning on doing this post, but after someone asked me on tumblr what I'm bringing. I decided, what the heck. 

If you read my #PackingProblems: Clothing List, you'll know I decided on two fancier dresses for the two formal dinner nights. But after a quick closet scan a few days ago I realized that I purchased a fairly pricey floor length black dress in hopes of attending a Christmas party in December and knew that it also had to make the trip. (This is why I have packing problems.) 

Typically the dress code for the elegant nights is a cocktail dress or nice skirt and blouse, basically not your everyday dining wear. No jeans, leggings, etc. Some cruises let you get away with that, but I just enjoy the whole aspect of getting all dolled up and fancified. I'd stick with blacks and solid colors because they absolutely make accessorizing that much easier. Dressing for the formal nights doesn't need to be an extravagant expense because usually you'll have something in your closet especially if you're in a sorority where date parties and socials are frequent. If you find yourself craving a new dress or two, head to Forever21 or H&M for an inexpensive option. These places can be hit or miss, but just scour the racks. I found that first dress by accident and it fits wonderfully and will be worn many more times for sure. 

I've broken each of my three dresses down into the dress, shoes, and added purse. Please excuse my super awkward mirror pictures and my messy bun. 

Outfit #1: Black & White BodyCon Dress

Dress- Forever21

Shoes- Steve Madden

Clutch- Charming Charlie

Outfit #2: Little Red Dress aka My Birthday Dress

Dress- Rachel Rachel Roy

Shoes- Steve Madden

Glitter Crossbody- Forever21

Outfit #3: Floor Length Black Dress

Dress- Express

Shoes- Enzo Angiolini

I hope this was super helpful if you're setting sail on a cruise soon and looking for formal night ideas. If you haven't checked out my previous #PackingProblems posts, check them out below!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan