1poorlady is wanting a cruise, but I don't do tuxedos (except for VERY special circumstances...like my wedding). I also strongly resist ties (even the bola ties of the southwest, where I live). Ties are for interviews.

When I'm on vacation the LAST thing I want is to be forced to wear a suit or tuxedo. I could be convinced to wear a shirt with buttons for a really nice restaurant or venue, but that's about it.

That's just me, of course. Others may really enjoy such things. It's just not my style.

All the cruise companies' websites have FAQ's which address dress code and other onboard policies. Norwegian emphasizes their "Freestyle" cruising, which does away with dress codes except for a few minimal rules. If you can't comply with those (no shorts in the dining room at dinner, e.g.) and still have a good time you're a slob, not relaxed.

I love the look of the public rooms on formal nights when everyone's gussied up. I missed that on Norwegian. That's why they make chocolate and vanilla. But more to the point than your style or mine is 1poorlady's since she's the one wanting to cruise. If she'd really look forward to playing dressup in a more restricted environment a couple of nights, maybe she could go with a girlfriend.

Phil
Rule Your Retirement Home Fool