I’m a simple country bumpkin and come from a small town. I was in a cult for the first 30 years of my life, and due to the strict clothing restrictions I was never able to wear anything but long sleeve shirts and pants. Despite being out, I typically am still a t-shirt and jeans kind of guy, however I’m going on a tropical cruise here in about a month. I bought my first pair of basketball shorts for myself at age 30.
I’ve lost about 60 pounds and built a lot of muscle over the past year, and I’d like to welcome people to the gun show, however, I’m not really sure how to dress for a cruise. I’m not really sure I know how to dress for the summer in general. I’ve googled “cruise clothing.” and I’m not sure what to think. There’s a million options, and I’m not trying to look like an Abercrombie model.
What clothes do I need to not stand out like a sore thumb? Despite losing 60 pounds, I’m still a larger guy at 5’8 and 235. I typically wear an XL now, so no Borat speedo recommendations. I have swim trunks and formal dining wear. I just have no idea what to wear on the boat while walking around.
Style of experts of Reddit, what do you suggest?
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5 comments
I highly recommend adopting a minimalist style wardrobe. Google “men’s minimalist style look book” to get some ideas.
As a person Who lives year round right next to the beach.
You can’t go wrong with Sandals, Shorts( not cargo, never cargo) and either a short sleeve buttoned down shirt or a plain T shirt.
Never socks!!! just sandals and shorts.
Use a more watery sunscreen, bear in mind that this type is sunscreen needs to be reapplied more. And some good sunglasses, With UV protection, and You’re good to go.
If you wanna step it up a notch some loafers, again, without socks!!, with either shorts or pants and a white shirt or a pastel colored shirt.
Have a great trip
Just came back from a cruise myself and about to go on another one, I can tell you know that you got swim trunks down already is a good thing. Walking around the boat can be anything for your top… in fact, being topless is fine too esp when you’re heading towards the pool area. If you insist on wearing a top, a tank is a solid choice.
> What clothes do I need to not stand out like a sore thumb? Despite losing 60 pounds, I’m still a larger guy at 5’8 and 235.
I literally see a bunch of guys bigger than you walking topless so I think you’ll be fine since it’s all a matter of how you perceive yourself.
Check out capsule wardrobes. That will list your basics. I’ve done a capsule wardrobe for over 10 years and it’s helped me immensely.
Take your list of items to stores with friendly sales associates who will help you build your wardrobe. Most are happy to have something meaningful to do. This could work at Old Navy, Gap, J Crew/Banana Republic Factory outlet, Nordstrom Rack, or any department store (trying to hit different price points here).
Cruises are pretty laid back-shorts and a t shirt are good for most things – just check the website for formal dining attire. As a general rule of thumb for clothing (events, restaurants, etc) I go look at the venue or companies instagram and they’ll typically have shots of people and you can make some educated guesses from there.