What should you wear on Virgin Voyages? After cruising on both Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady, I’ve found their dress code to be one of the easiest to pack for. Here’s everything you need to know about what to wear and what to bring.
Virgin Voyages like to do things differently. You won’t find buffets or traditional main dining rooms onboard, and instead of the usual cruise entertainment there are immersive shows, pop-up performances and even an onboard tattoo parlour. It all feels a bit unexpected, which is exactly the point.
That same attitude applies to the dress code. Forget about packing ball gowns or tuxedos because Virgin take a much more relaxed approach to what you wear. They want you to feel like yourself, not squeezed into an outfit that doesn’t suit you.
Packing for Virgin is so much easier than for many other cruise lines. In this post I’ll share exactly what to wear on a Virgin cruise, from daytime and evenings to the iconic Scarlet Night, along with a few packing tips that will save you stress (and suitcase space).
At a glance: what to wear on Virgin Voyages
Not got time to read the whole post? Here’s a quick rundown on the Virgin Voyages dress code.
- Dress code: Relaxed and flexible. No formal nights.
- Daywear: Casual, comfortable clothes like shorts, T-shirts, sundresses and swimwear with a cover-up.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals and flip-flops. Trainers are fine in the evening.
- Evening wear: Smart casual is the general vibe, but anything goes.
- Scarlet Night: A fun themed evening where red is encouraged but optional.
- PJ Party: Usually happens on the first night. Pyjamas, onesies and loungewear are all welcome.
- Essentials to pack: Comfortable shoes, two sets of swimwear, light layers for breezy decks, something red and nightwear you don’t mind being seen in.
Navigating the Virgin Voyages dress code
One of the best things about Virgin is how relaxed they are when it comes to dress codes. On some cruise lines you can feel out of place if you don’t follow the rules, but on Virgin you really can just be yourself.
The only real request they make is that you don’t head into restaurants in swimwear and that you wear suitable footwear. That feels fair enough because nobody really wants to be eating in one of Virgin’s stylish restaurants while someone at the next table is still dripping from the pool.
Unlike many other cruise lines, Virgin also don’t have a traditional formal night. So there’s no need to pack ball gowns or tuxedos unless you actually want to. And if you would rather keep things casual, you will not feel judged for not dressing up because plenty of people do the same.
Whatever your style, you’ll be comfortable onboard.
Read more: Cabin space is always something to think about when packing. You can see what the storage is like in my Virgin Voyages Solo Insider cabin review
Daywear
During the day, whether it’s a sea day or a port day, comfort is key. You’ll want outfits that work both for relaxing on deck and exploring ashore. Virgin’s ships usually sail in warmer climates, so lightweight and breathable fabrics are your best friend.
Here’s what I’d suggest popping in your suitcase:
- Casual clothes – shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, playsuits or light trousers
- Swimwear – at least two sets so one can dry while you wear the other
- Cover-up – handy for wandering from your cabin to the pool or when the sun gets a bit much
- Comfortable shoes – trainers or sturdy sandals are a must for walking both on the ship and in port
- Flip-flops or sliders – ideal for around the pool or quick trips to the deck
- Sun protection – sunglasses, a hat and your favourite sunscreen.
A day bag also comes in handy as you can use it to carry sunscreen, a water bottle, your cruise card and maybe a good book for poolside lounging. On port days, it’s also useful for snacks, souvenirs and keeping valuables safe.
Tip: Don’t underestimate how much walking you’ll do on a cruise holiday. Even on sea days you’ll be clocking up the steps, so your feet really will thank you for comfy footwear.
Blending in a little too well at the Roundabout on Resilient Lady – even the artwork makes a statement onboard.
Workout gear
I know it’s meant to be a holiday, but Virgin has a strong focus on health and fitness. With so many included classes, you might surprise yourself by signing up for yoga, spinning or even their retro VHS workout.
Pack a small selection of activewear so you’re ready if the mood strikes:
- Gym kit – leggings, shorts, sports bras and tops in breathable fabrics.
- Trainers – essential for the gym, running track or high-energy classes.
- Neon extras – leg warmers or bright colours if you fancy joining the VHS class.
- Swimwear – doubles up for the spa or if you want to join in an aqua class.
Tip: The running track at the top of the ship is worth it for the views alone. Even if you’re walking laps, it’s a lovely way to see the ocean and balance out the cocktails. Take it from me the view definitely distracts from the legs when doing laps!
Me on the running track at the very top of the ship. Even if you just walk it, the sea views make it worth packing trainers.
Evening wear
Evenings on Virgin are really relaxed – there’s no dress code at all. You’ll see everything from people in their daytime outfits to others who’ve gone all out like it’s a Saturday night out. Most fall somewhere in the middle with a smart casual vibe
Here are some ideas of what works well:
- Smart casual pieces – jeans with a nice top, summer dresses, skirts, or jumpsuits
- Dressier options – shirts, tailored trousers, smart dresses
- Comfortable shoes – trainers, sandals, heels… all are fine, just pick what you’re comfortable in
- Accessories – a small crossbody bag or clutch is useful in the evenings
On my cruises, I found the general vibe was like a night out at home. Stylish but not over the top. If you imagine you’re heading to a nice restaurant or cocktail bar, you won’t go wrong.
Scarlet Night outfit number one – I kept it simple with a red bag. You definitely don’t need to go all out to join in the fun.
Read more: For more on where to eat and drink in the evenings, check out my Virgin Voyages restaurant and bar guide.
Scarlet Night
Virgin have ditched the idea of a traditional formal night and replaced it with something far more fun – Scarlet Night, a huge themed celebration that’s a nod to their unmistakable brand.
As you might expect, red is the colour of the night. How much you join in is completely up to you:
- All-out red – dresses, jumpsuits, shirts, suits or bold accessories
- Subtle nods – a red bag, lipstick, scarf or tie
- Alternative colours – no one will make you join in, so wear what you feel comfortable in
In my case, red really isn’t my colour (it does nothing for me with purple hair!) so I kept it simple. On my first Virgin cruise I accessorised with a red handbag, and on my second I wore a black shirt with red polka dots. I think I got away with it!
Scarlet Night outfit number two (on the right) – red really isn’t my colour, so this polka dot shirt was a good compromise.
Tip: The night usually ends with a pool party on the top deck. Even if you’re sailing in Northern Europe, don’t assume you’ll escape it. On my second cruise the party went ahead despite the drizzle. So bring something to throw on for the sea breeze, and be prepared that you might end up in the pool by the end of the night.
PJ Party
One of Virgin’s most popular events happens on the very first night – the PJ Party. It’s exactly what it sounds like: nightwear, loungewear and onesies everywhere.
Most people keep it fun but comfortable. Think along the lines of:
- Comfy slippers or trainers – not essential but they do add to the vibe
- Pyjamas you don’t mind being photographed in – from cute matching sets to stylish loungewear
- Onesies – always a hit and make for great photos
On both of my Virgin cruises I noticed a lot of people did what I did – wore their usual evening outfit for dinner and then switched into pyjamas just before the party. It’s a nice balance if you don’t fancy wandering around the ship in your PJs all evening.
Read more: If you’re wondering how drinks work onboard, my Virgin Voyages drinks package guide explains everything you need to know before you order your first cocktail.
The last word
Virgin Voyages is refreshingly relaxed about what you wear, so packing is far easier than for traditional cruise lines. The key things to remember are:
- Comfortable shoes for all that walking
- Light layers for breezy evenings on deck
- Swimwear (at least two sets) and a cover-up
- Something red for Scarlet Night
- Nightwear you don’t mind showing off at the PJ Party
If you bring those, the rest is up to your style. Virgin want you to feel like yourself, so whether that’s in jeans and trainers or sequins and heels, you’ll fit right in.