Hello, and welcome to Dressed for My Day. My goal here is always to encourage and inspire women over 50 to get dressed for our unique days in a way that feels authentic, appropriate for the occasion and a little stylish…so we can show up and contribute to the world around us. I know that many of us women over 50 do a lot of traveling, so for the next few months I’ll be sharing updates on how I’m packing for an Alaskan cruise in May.
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I enjoy sharing my travel capsule wardrobes, and I think a lot of my readers enjoy those, too. Last year I shared how I packed for an early summer vacation to Maine HERE and for a late summer week in London, England, HERE, HERE and also HERE. You can check out all of my travel posts through the TRAVEL link under BLOG in the top menu.
In May of this year (2024) we’ll be boarding a Regent Cruise ship for a week along the coast of Alaska. Then we’ll rent a car and explore more of inland Alaska on our own. My husband James and I are so excited. This “trip of a lifetime” is one we have saved towards for a while now, and we’re taking it in celebration of our 60th birthdays.
In a recent subscriber email I asked for readers to share their recommended essentials and tips for my Alaska cruise, and so many responded. It was a wealth of information and I’ve leaned into it heavily as I’ve been making my packing list and beginning to shop. If you’d like, you can see most of those reader responses in the comments section of this recent blog post.
But a few of the main pointers I took away from those comments and other reviews I’ve read include:
- pack & wear lots of layers
- prepare for every day to be wet and cool to cold (Alaska gets about 250 days of rain each year)
- pack some waterproof shoes/boots and clothing
- take a warm hat and sun hat (baseball hat or hiking hat)
- your top layer coat needs to be waterproof and accommodate multiple layers underneath
- pack thermals or fleece tights, etc.
- take gloves
Of course, there’s more. But with those and other pointers in mind I have indeed begun to put together my packing list for an Alaskan cruise and land excursion. While I understand the dress code, so to speak, is very casual, I will still be true to my personal style. That’s very important to me because it helps me to feel confident, be more friendly and outgoing and look my best for the photos we’ll undoubtedly take.
Today I’m sharing with you just a few of the layers that I’ve already accumulated and will be packing for my Alaskan cruise. Obviously this is not a complete packing list. But I had so many readers who told me they were planning similar trips and that they’d love to hear what I’m putting on my list. So I decided to share a little bit here and there as the trip approaches as a resource.
I will be taking a pair or two of jeans, but I really enjoy wearing other casual pants, too, when I travel. So my updated Talbots chinos will almost certainly go with me. This outfit looks like something I might wear for our day of touring Vancouver, British Columbia, or for a day on the water. It’s comfortable and casual, but a little elevated and polished, too.
For excursions that involve any hiking or other outdoor activities, I’ll wear my L.L.Bean water-repellant comfort trail pants. (I also ordered these and these and they were way too lightweight and ran small.)
These water-repellant hiking pants are not heavy, but they are sturdy and thick enough. And they have so many great hidden features, including interior secret pockets, hidden bungee cords for tightening around the ankles and an adjustable waistband. They fit perfectly true to size. I’m wearing a 10 (which is what I usually wear in hiking pants) very comfortably.
My layers up top include this lightweight slub cotton cropped length tee (I’ve ordered this long sleeve tee in the same color), this L.L.Bean mid-blue pro stretch shirt, a L.L.Bean Katahdin full zip fleece jacket and my Athleta RainOut Sutro long trench. And yes! My beautiful Snowfall Blue jacket is finally on the website and fully stocked in regular, petite and tall sizes.
For right now I’m planning on taking my Oboz hiking shoes (similar). They are waterproof and I enjoy wearing them. I have good hiking boots with Goretex, but they’re so big. I hesitate to pack those. Let me know if you have any insight to share on that. But I think if I wear my wool hiking socks I’ll be fine with these hiking shoes (similar).
By the way that blue plaid pro stretch shirt is just lovely. It’s soft and silky and stretchy. But it also features at least three hidden zip pockets for storing things like reading glasses, ID, lip balm. I’m so tempted to buy the sunlit coral one, too, but I don’t want to overpack. I’ll hold off for now. And yes, I do plan to take my chambray shirt because it makes a nice, versatile second layer, especially for non-outdoor activity days.
Obviously I’ll be packing more than this. But I’ll be sharing things as I get them in just in case you’re planning a similar vacation. I’m looking for a simple but elegant black dress to consider for a few dressy evenings at dinner. I think I’ll limit myself to the one dress and just accessorize a little differently. And then I’ll probably take a pair of black pants and a couple of blouses or dressy tops for the other evenings. We have complimentary laundry service on the ship, so I really don’t want to overpack. Oh, and I definitely plan to pack a couple of versatile cotton sweaters and other tees as well.
Well, I could go on and on. We’re so excited for this trip. James was born in Alaska, so he’s anxious to go and see a little of his roots. And of course we’re anxious just to see the beauty of God’s creation. Stay with me as I prepare for my trip and I’ll share more. I’ve actually added a few other items to the shopping widget below that I have ordered but that haven’t come in yet.
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Thanks so much for dropping in today. Let me know in the comments if you have a fun trip planned. I’d love to hear about it.
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Blessed for My Day
This week we’re walking through Psalm 19. The beginning of this Psalm of David admires the way nature reflects the glory of God. It serves as a living picture of God’s character. But this next portion of the Psalm notes how the Word or Law of God also tells us about God’s nature, His ways. And here David confesses that God’s law, while seemingly difficult and maybe even cumbersome to some, is exponentially beneficial to those who look to it for direction and wisdom.
Indeed, I’m sure God’s commandments do seem unreasonable and harsh to those who don’t not know the love of God. But when we remember that God gave us His mandates to protect us, to guide us and even to give us great joy, we see them differently. I’ve found that God’s law is perfect and it keeps me safe. His Word brings me wisdom and makes my life more joyful. Be sure to read more of the Bible today. It truly does rejoice the heart.
The law of theLordis perfect,
reviving the soul;
the testimony of theLordissure,
making wisethe simple;
the precepts of theLordare right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of theLordispure,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lordis clean,
enduring forever;
the rulesof theLordaretrue,
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they thangold,
even muchfine gold;
sweeter also than honey
and drippings ofthe honeycomb.
Moreover, by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward. ~ Psalm 19:7-11
xoxo, Kay
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Based on the provided text, the concepts mentioned include:
- Alaskan cruise
- Packing for a cruise
- Travel capsule wardrobes
- Dress code for an Alaskan cruise
- Casual pants for travel
- Water-repellant hiking pants
- Layering for an Alaskan cruise
- Waterproof shoes/boots
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Waterproof top layer coat
- Thermals or fleece tights
- Gloves for cold weather
- Oboz hiking shoes
- Chambray shirt as a versatile layer
- Black dress for dressy evenings
- Black pants and dressy tops for evenings
- Complimentary laundry service on the ship
- Versatile cotton sweaters and tees for packing
- Shopping for travel clothing and accessories
I will now provide information related to each of these concepts based on search results.
Alaskan Cruise
An Alaskan cruise is a popular type of cruise that takes passengers along the coast of Alaska, allowing them to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Alaska cruises typically offer a variety of activities and excursions, such as whale watching, glacier viewing, and visits to coastal towns. These cruises often depart from ports in cities like Seattle, Vancouver, or Anchorage. The duration of an Alaskan cruise can vary, but it is common for them to last around 7 days. [[1]]
Packing for a Cruise
When packing for a cruise, it is important to consider the destination, weather conditions, and activities you will be participating in. Here are some general tips for packing for a cruise:
- Check the dress code: Different cruise lines and itineraries may have different dress codes, ranging from casual to formal. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for any formal nights or special events.
- Pack versatile clothing: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. This will help you pack lighter and make the most of your wardrobe.
- Consider the weather: Research the weather conditions at your cruise destination and pack accordingly. If you are going to a colder climate, pack layers and warm clothing. If you are going to a warmer climate, pack lightweight and breathable clothing.
- Don't forget essentials: Remember to pack essentials such as toiletries, medications, and any necessary travel documents.
- Consider the activities: If you plan to participate in specific activities, such as hiking or swimming, make sure to pack appropriate gear and clothing.
Travel Capsule Wardrobes
A travel capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits while traveling. The goal of a capsule wardrobe is to pack light and efficiently, while still having enough options for different occasions. When creating a travel capsule wardrobe, consider the following:
- Choose a color scheme: Select a few coordinating colors that can be easily mixed and matched.
- Stick to basics: Pack essential items such as tops, bottoms, and outerwear that can be worn in multiple outfits.
- Layering is key: Pack items that can be layered to accommodate different weather conditions.
- Consider the destination and activities: Pack clothing appropriate for the climate and activities you will be participating in during your trip.
Dress Code for an Alaskan Cruise
The dress code for an Alaskan cruise is generally casual during the day and can be more formal in the evenings. During the day, passengers typically wear comfortable and casual clothing suitable for activities and excursions. In the evenings, some cruise lines may have formal or semi-formal nights where passengers dress up for dinner and other events. It is recommended to check with the specific cruise line for their dress code guidelines.
Casual Pants for Travel
Casual pants are a versatile and comfortable option for travel. When choosing casual pants for travel, consider the following:
- Material: Look for pants made from breathable and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, such as cotton or synthetic blends.
- Comfort: Opt for pants with a relaxed fit and an elastic waistband for added comfort during long flights or car rides.
- Versatility: Choose pants that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Neutral colors like black, navy, or khaki are often good choices.
- Functionality: Consider pants with pockets for added convenience while traveling.
Water-Repellant Hiking Pants
Water-repellant hiking pants are designed to keep you dry and comfortable during outdoor activities in wet conditions. These pants are typically made from quick-drying and water-resistant materials. They often feature additional features such as hidden pockets, adjustable waistbands, and reinforced knees for durability. When choosing water-repellant hiking pants, consider the fit, comfort, and functionality for your specific needs.
Layering for an Alaskan Cruise
Layering is essential for an Alaskan cruise due to the fluctuating weather conditions. Here are some tips for effective layering:
- Base layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, such as thermal or fleece tights, to keep you warm and dry.
- Mid-layer: Add a lightweight fleece or sweater for insulation.
- Outer layer: Wear a waterproof and windproof jacket or coat as the top layer to protect against rain and cold winds.
- Accessories: Don't forget to layer accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves to keep your extremities warm.
Waterproof Shoes/Boots
When packing for an Alaskan cruise, it is important to have waterproof shoes or boots to protect your feet from rain and wet conditions. Look for shoes or boots that are specifically designed for outdoor activities and have waterproof features. Some popular options include hiking boots, waterproof sneakers, or rain boots. Choose footwear that is comfortable and suitable for the activities you plan to engage in during your cruise.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat
A warm hat and a sun hat are both essential accessories for an Alaskan cruise. The warm hat will help keep your head and ears protected from the cold temperatures, while the sun hat will provide shade and protection from the sun during outdoor activities. Look for hats made from materials that provide insulation and sun protection, such as wool or UPF-rated fabrics.
Waterproof Top Layer Coat
A waterproof top layer coat is crucial for staying dry and comfortable during an Alaskan cruise. Look for a coat that is specifically designed for wet weather conditions and has waterproof or water-resistant features. Consider the length, fit, and insulation of the coat based on your personal preferences and the expected weather conditions.
Thermals or Fleece Tights
Thermals or fleece tights are excellent options for layering and providing extra warmth during cold weather. These garments are typically made from insulating materials that trap body heat and keep you comfortable in low temperatures. Look for thermals or fleece tights that are moisture-wicking and breathable for optimal comfort.
Gloves for Cold Weather
Gloves are essential for protecting your hands from the cold weather during an Alaskan cruise. Look for gloves that are insulated, waterproof, and provide good dexterity for activities. Consider the level of warmth and functionality you need based on the expected weather conditions and the activities you plan to engage in.
Oboz Hiking Shoes
Oboz hiking shoes are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. These shoes are known for their durability, comfort, and traction on various terrains. Oboz offers a range of hiking shoe models, including waterproof options. When choosing hiking shoes, consider factors such as fit, support, and the specific needs of your activities.
Chambray Shirt as a Versatile Layer
A chambray shirt is a versatile clothing item that can be used as a layering piece during an Alaskan cruise. Chambray shirts are typically made from lightweight denim fabric and can be worn as a standalone top or layered over other shirts. They can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and provide a casual yet polished look.
Black Dress for Dressy Evenings
A black dress is a classic and versatile option for dressy evenings on a cruise. It can be accessorized in different ways to create various looks. When choosing a black dress, consider the style, length, and fabric that best suits your personal taste and the dress code of the cruise.
Complimentary Laundry Service on the Ship
Some cruise lines offer complimentary laundry service on the ship, allowing passengers to have their clothes cleaned and pressed during the voyage. This service can be convenient for those who want to pack lighter and have fresh clothing throughout the trip. It is recommended to check with the specific cruise line for details on their laundry services and any associated costs.
Versatile Cotton Sweaters and Tees for Packing
Versatile cotton sweaters and tees are great options for packing for an Alaskan cruise. Cotton is a breathable and comfortable fabric that can be layered or worn on its own. Look for sweaters and tees in neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched with other clothing items in your travel wardrobe.
Shopping for Travel Clothing and Accessories
When shopping for travel clothing and accessories, consider the following tips:
- Research and read reviews: Look for reputable brands and read reviews from other travelers to ensure the quality and functionality of the items.
- Choose versatile pieces: Opt for clothing items and accessories that can be worn in multiple outfits and serve different purposes.
- Consider the destination and activities: Select clothing and accessories suitable for the climate and activities you will be participating in during your trip.
- Pack light: Aim to pack efficiently and avoid overpacking by choosing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits.
Please note that the information provided above is based on search results and general knowledge. It is always recommended to do further research and consult official sources or experts for specific and up-to-date information related to your travel plans.
