If you've ever observed fellow passengers sipping rum in head-to-toe pirate gear or doing the hustle in platform boots and glittery bellbottoms, you might have gotten the memo that cruise theme nights are a thing. Most major cruise lines throw scheduled themed parties, typically on longer sailings. (Check your final itinerary for details.) And yes, the at-sea cruise costume tradition is optional. But if you want to join in on the organized fun, it helps to be prepared by packing something appropriate for the planned theme, whether it's a fun accessory or two, or a costume so elaborate it verges on performance art. Here are some of our top picks for cruise theme night costumes.
1. Mullet Wig

2. Cruise Captain Costume Set

yacht captain accessory set
, which works for men or women and will help you get festive in a flash. It includes a hat, a pipe, sunglasses and a temporary anchor tattoo. This costume is perfectly packable, and it would definitely pair well with a white sailor's uniform or perhaps even a cute sailor dress.3. Toga

men
and women
-- and even kids. Why not dress the whole family like a clan of Greek gods and party like Poseidon? 4. Flapper Dress

flapper dress
will do the trick. Add a Gatsby-esque headband or a bobbed wig to look the part for a roaring 20s costume party like Royal Caribbean's Prohibition Party, or simply rock that timeless Coco Chanel look in the dining room during formal night. 5. Pirate Costume

ladies' pirate costume
because it has a bit of Victorian elegance. With its sweeping skirt and romantic sash, it'll help you achieve a refined Elizabeth Swan look. The four-piece costume set includes a sash, a dress, a bandana and a necklace.*Cruise Critic is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to
Amazon.com
.*Updated January 08, 2020
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