Private dinner cruise event - dress code?

[rostov]

I'm throwing a dinner party on a small cruise ship this summer.

I'm thinking about dress code and what I should wear and expect people to wear.

I've thought of making it semi-formal and wearing a white dinner jacket with black pants (satin stripe) and balmorals -- or finding a pair of velvet slippers! There are only so many events in life where you can legitimately wear the white dinner jacket.

For the guests, I honestly don't expect anyone to show up in a tuxedo. For this reason, I'm not sure if "semi-formal" is the right way to go on the invitations. Likewise, it might feel too stiff if everyone shows up in black suits, considering it is a cruise. I'd prefer to convey casual.

Perhaps "dressy casual"? I'm paranoid that people will show up in jeans, but might also be pleased to see more "boating appropriate", casual-like attire.

 

[F. Corbera]



I'm throwing a dinner party on a small cruise ship this summer in the north-eastern USA.

[VIDEO][/VIDEO]

 

[rostov]

It *is* going to be a 3 hour tour. Uh oh...

Relatedly, I'm looking to find a source for a white dinner jacket that isn't 100% poly (seriously, they make jackets out of poly???). Looking for summer weight wool, preferably.

 

[F. Corbera]



I'm paranoid that people will show up in jeans, but might also be pleased to see more "boating appropriate" attire.

[VIDEO][/VIDEO]

 

[F. Corbera]



It *is* going to be a 3 hour tour.

That was my guess and I am relieved that I was right.

 

[E TF]



Perhaps "dressy casual"?  I'm paranoid that people will show up in jeans, but might also be pleased to see more "boating appropriate" attire.

How about just using the phrase "boating appropriate attire"?

 

[F. Corbera]



Most people dress casual for a cruise ship.

[VIDEO][/VIDEO]

 

[curzon]

Do you have a little poem you'll read in honor of the occasion?

[VIDEO][/VIDEO]

 

[rostov]

Most people dress casual for a cruise ship.

This does not seem to be entirely accurate, is the white dinner jacket not for cruises? It is less formal than proper black tie, but far above what is generally perceived as casual.

This is a 3 hour dinner cruise ship where upscale dinners, galas, and weddings are often held. Many of these events are presumably formal or semi-formal. (We shall not delve into the declining formality of American wedding customs)



Quote:
Unfortunately, I fear even if I asked people to come in white-tie, they'll dress like the rowers from Ben Hur. Asking people to come in "boating appropriate attire" would be like asking them to come in shorts, sandals, and sailor dixie cup hats.

It seems the bias of these forums is, "just say casual". My wife thinks we should call it Nautical Casual Wear, in which case we'll certainly attract a wide range of pirates and victorian-era captains. Actually, that might be an interesting theme at least...

 

[rostov]

Trolling myself now:

 

[plei89]

 

[Digmenow]

I'd hold out for Semi Formal.

Than again, I'm required to wear a black shirt to work everyday and I'm not even in the restaurant business. I SEEK opportunities to wear a suit, now.

 

[ethanm]

Yacht Club Casual

 

[F. Corbera]



This is a 3 hour dinner cruise ship

[VIDEO][VIDEO]

 

[joeman]

Party on a cruise ship? Forget dress codes and just have fun!