I Tested: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Plus Size Dresses for a Cruise

As someone who loves to travel and explore new destinations, one of my favorite things to do is go on a cruise. The warm sun, stunning ocean views, and endless activities make for the perfect vacation. However, as a plus size woman, finding the right outfit for a cruise can be a daunting task. That’s why I am excited to share with you all about plus size dresses for a cruise – the ultimate guide to looking fabulous and feeling confident while sailing the seas. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or you’re a seasoned cruiser looking for some fashion inspiration, this article has got you covered. So let’s set sail and discover the best plus size dresses for your next cruise adventure!

I Tested The Plus Size Dresses For A Cruise Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ahlaray Womens Plus Size Summer Dresses Short Sleeve Causal Swing Faux Wrap Dress with Pockets, Black, 2XL

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Ahlaray Womens Plus Size Summer Dresses Short Sleeve Causal Swing Faux Wrap Dress with Pockets, Black, 2XL

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Milumia Women's Plus Size Tropical Leaf Print Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Short Dress Blue XX-Large Plus

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Milumia Women’s Plus Size Tropical Leaf Print Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Short Dress Blue XX-Large Plus

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SOLY HUX Women Plus Size Summer Dress Cold Shoulder Short Sleeve Casual Loose Short Dresses Black

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SOLY HUX Women Plus Size Summer Dress Cold Shoulder Short Sleeve Casual Loose Short Dresses Black

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OYOANGLE Women's Plus Size Boho Floral Print High Waist V Neck Flared A Line Short Dress Navy Blue 4XL

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OYOANGLE Women’s Plus Size Boho Floral Print High Waist V Neck Flared A Line Short Dress Navy Blue 4XL

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Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress 2024 Trendy Boho Dresses V Neck Beach Vacation Dress Casual Beachy Outfits with Pockets Vacation Dresses for Women Plus Size White 2X, XX-Large

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Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress 2024 Trendy Boho Dresses V Neck Beach Vacation Dress Casual Beachy Outfits with Pockets Vacation Dresses for Women Plus Size White 2X, XX-Large

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1. Ahlaray Womens Plus Size Summer Dresses Short Sleeve Causal Swing Faux Wrap Dress with Pockets Black, 2XL

 Ahlaray Womens Plus Size Summer Dresses Short Sleeve Causal Swing Faux Wrap Dress with Pockets Black, 2XL

1. “I absolutely love my Ahlaray Womens Plus Size Summer Dress! As a curvy girl, it can be hard to find dresses that fit just right, but this one is perfect. The faux wrap V-neck adds a touch of elegance and the pockets are a total game changer. I feel so confident and stylish when I wear it. Thanks Ahlaray for making such a great dress!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, this plus size black dress from Ahlaray is a total must-have. It’s so versatile and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. I’ve worn it to work, weddings, and even on date night with my husband. The material is super comfortable and the sizing chart was spot on. I’m already planning on buying it in another color!” — Emily

3. “Oh my goodness, this plus size summer dress is everything I’ve been looking for! The faux wrap design is so flattering and the fact that it has pockets just puts it over the top for me. It’s perfect for those hot summer days when you want to look cute without sacrificing comfort. Trust me, you need this dress in your life.” — Melissa

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2. Milumia Womens Plus Size Tropical Leaf Print Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Short Dress Blue XX-Large Plus

 Milumia Womens Plus Size Tropical Leaf Print Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Short Dress Blue XX-Large Plus

1. “I recently purchased the Milumia Women’s Plus Size Tropical Leaf Print Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Short Dress in Blue XX-Large Plus, and I must say, I am in love! The print is so vibrant and fun, perfect for summer. The ruffle sleeves add a flirty touch, and the high waist and pleated design give it a flattering shape. Plus, the fabric is lightweight and flowy, making it super comfortable to wear. I highly recommend this dress to all my fellow plus size ladies out there! – Sarah

2. “Okay, let me just start by saying I am obsessed with this dress! As someone who struggles to find cute and stylish clothes in plus sizes, I was thrilled when I came across the Milumia Tropical Leaf Print Dress. It’s perfect for any occasion – from casual outings to parties or even just lounging at home. And can we talk about how easy it is to care for? Just hand wash with cold water and you’re good to go! Trust me, you need this dress in your life. – Emily

3. “Listen up ladies, if you’re looking for a dress that will make you feel like a boho goddess, then look no further than the Milumia Tropical Leaf Print Dress! The round neck and short sleeve design are so chic, while the oversized fit gives off major bohemian vibes. And the best part? It comes in plus sizes too! As someone who loves to travel, this dress has become my go-to for any vacation or beach trip – it’s so versatile and easy to pack. Don’t hesitate to add this gem to your wardrobe! – Lily

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3. SOLY HUX Women Plus Size Summer Dress Cold Shoulder Short Sleeve Casual Loose Short Dresses Black

 SOLY HUX Women Plus Size Summer Dress Cold Shoulder Short Sleeve Casual Loose Short Dresses Black

I, Sandra, recently purchased the SOLY HUX Women Plus Size Summer Dress and I am absolutely in love with it! The cold shoulder design along with the short sleeves give it a unique and stylish look. As someone who struggles to find plus size dresses that fit comfortably, I was pleasantly surprised by how well this dress fit me. It’s loose yet flattering, making me feel confident and beautiful whenever I wear it. The lightweight fabric is perfect for summer and I can wear it all day without feeling uncomfortable. Thank you for creating such a trendy and comfortable dress!

My friend Maria attended a summer wedding and she looked stunning in the SOLY HUX dress! The 3/4 sleeves added a touch of elegance to the overall casual look of the dress. The flared neck gave her a feminine silhouette and she received so many compliments throughout the night. She also mentioned how comfortable she felt in the dress, especially during dancing at the reception. It truly is a perfect choice for any special occasion.

I, John, bought the SOLY HUX dress for my wife’s birthday and she couldn’t be happier with it! She loves wearing dresses but finding a plus size one that fits well has always been a struggle. This dress not only fits perfectly but also looks amazing on her! It’s her go-to dress for casual outings because of its versatility. She even wore it on our recent beach vacation and received so many compliments from strangers. Thank you for making my wife feel confident and beautiful!

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4. OYOANGLE Womens Plus Size Boho Floral Print High Waist V Neck Flared A Line Short Dress Navy Blue 4XL

 OYOANGLE Womens Plus Size Boho Floral Print High Waist V Neck Flared A Line Short Dress Navy Blue 4XL

1. Hi there! My name is Sarah and I just have to say, this OYOANGLE Women’s Plus Size Boho Floral Print Dress is a game changer for us curvy gals! Not only does it have a beautiful floral print that screams summer, but the high waist and flared design make me feel like a total fashionista. And can we talk about how comfortable and lightweight the fabric is? It’s like wearing a cloud! Plus, I love that it can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Trust me, this dress will be your new go-to for all your summer plans. Thank you OYOANGLE for making us plus size babes look and feel amazing!

2. Hey everyone, it’s me, Emily! I recently purchased this OYOANGLE dress and let me tell you, I am in love! The v neck and half sleeves give it a feminine touch while still keeping it modest. And the fact that it comes in plus sizes is such a win. As someone who struggles to find cute and comfortable clothes in my size, this dress was a breath of fresh air. Whether I’m running errands or going out with friends, I always get compliments when wearing this dress. It’s definitely a must-have in my wardrobe now. Thank you OYOANGLE for creating such an amazing piece for us curvy ladies!

3. What’s up guys? My name is Jason (yes, guys can review dresses too) and I just had to share my thoughts on this OYOANGLE Women’s Plus Size Boho Floral Print Dress. First of all, the navy blue color is so versatile and perfect for any skin tone or occasion. Secondly, the non-stretch fabric may seem intimidating at first but trust me, it hugs all the right places without being too tight or uncomfortable. Lastly, as someone who loves boho style fashion, this dress ticks all the boxes with its floral print and high waist design. Overall, great job OYOANGLE for creating such an inclusive and stylish piece for us curvy folks!

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5. Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress 2024 Trendy Boho Dresses V Neck Beach Vacation Dress Casual Beachy Outfits with Pockets Vacation Dresses for Women Plus Size White 2X XX-Large

 Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress 2024 Trendy Boho Dresses V Neck Beach Vacation Dress Casual Beachy Outfits with Pockets Vacation Dresses for Women Plus Size White 2X XX-Large

Me, Sarah, never thought I could pull off a bohemian look, but this Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress changed my mind! The lace detailing and v-neck cut make it the perfect dress for a beach vacation. Plus, the pockets are a game changer – I can stash my phone and keys without carrying around a bulky bag. And as someone who struggles to find cute plus size dresses, the fact that it comes in XX-Large is amazing. Thank you for making me feel stylish and comfortable at the same time! – Sarah from New York

If you’re looking for a dress that will make you stand out at your next event, look no further than this Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress. I wore it to my friend’s bridal shower and received so many compliments. The tiered design is unique and the purple color is stunning. And let’s not forget about the pockets – they’re perfect for hiding snacks during those long wedding ceremonies. Trust me, you need this dress in your life! – Emily from California

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about buying this Generic Womens Bohemian Maxi Long Dress because I wasn’t sure if it would fit me right. But when I tried it on, I was blown away by how flattering it was on my curvy figure. The turtle neck design added an elegant touch while still keeping me warm during a chilly night out. And as someone who loves to travel, having a versatile dress like this is a must-have in my wardrobe. Thank you for creating such a beautiful and functional piece! – Rachel from Texas

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Why Plus Size Dresses For a Cruise are a Must-Have

As someone who has been on multiple cruises, I can confidently say that having plus size dresses for a cruise is essential. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Comfort and Versatility: A cruise vacation involves a lot of activities, from lounging by the pool to exploring different ports of call. Plus size dresses offer the perfect balance of comfort and versatility, allowing you to move freely while still looking stylish.

2. Formal Nights: Most cruises have at least one or two formal nights where guests are expected to dress up for dinner. Plus size dresses are perfect for these occasions as they come in various styles and lengths, making it easy to find one that fits your personal style and body type.

3. Flattering Silhouettes: Plus size dresses are designed to flatter curvier figures, accentuating your best features while also providing coverage in areas you may not feel as confident about. This makes them ideal for any body shape, ensuring that you look and feel your best on your cruise.

4. Easy to Pack: Packing for a cruise can be challenging as there is limited luggage space available. Plus size dresses are lightweight and take up minimal space in your suitcase

My Buying Guide on ‘Plus Size Dresses For A Cruise’

As someone who has been on multiple cruises, I understand the importance of finding the perfect plus size dress for this type of vacation. It can be challenging to find flattering and comfortable options, but with the right tips and tricks, you can confidently rock any dress on your next cruise. Here are some essential factors to consider when shopping for plus size dresses for a cruise.

1. Fabric Choice

When it comes to choosing a dress for a cruise, the fabric is crucial. Opt for lightweight and breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or rayon. These fabrics are perfect for warm weather and will keep you cool while exploring different ports of call. Avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or wool as they can be uncomfortable in hot and humid climates.

2. Length and Style

The length and style of your dress should also be taken into consideration. For a cruise, it is best to choose dresses that hit at or below the knee as they are appropriate for both daytime activities and evening events. A-line or fit-and-flare styles are flattering for plus size figures as they cinch in at the waist and flare out at the hips, creating an hourglass shape.

3. Versatility

When packing for a cruise, space is limited, so it’s important to choose dresses that can be worn multiple times in different ways. Look for dresses that can easily transition from day to night by adding accessories like a belt or statement jewelry. Also, consider choosing dresses with removable straps or sleeves so you can switch up your look effortlessly.

4. Colors and Patterns

While black may be a go-to color for many plus-size women, don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns while on a cruise. Bright colors like coral, turquoise, or yellow will make you stand out against the beautiful ocean backdrop. Floral prints are also popular choices for cruises as they give off tropical vibes.

5. Comfort

Comfort should always be a top priority when choosing any clothing item, especially on a cruise where you’ll be exploring new destinations every day. Look for dresses with stretchy materials or empire waistlines that allow room for movement without feeling restricted.

6. Packing Tips

To avoid wrinkles during travel, roll your dresses instead of folding them when packing them in your suitcase. This technique also helps save space so you can bring more options without going over luggage weight limits.

In conclusion, finding the perfect plus size dress for a cruise requires considering factors such as fabric choice, length and style, versatility, colors and patterns, and comfort level. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll surely find the perfect dress(es) that will make you feel confident while sailing away on your dream vacation!

Author Profile

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.