Romantic Cruise

Sleek Cruise Fashion 2001!

Ready for a shipboard romance?

   "A cruise is all about playing out your fantasies," says Pia Rinaldi, a fashionable friend who's been everywhere and done everything. "Which means you have to bring the right clothes. Pack well!"

   Classic films suggest that cruising is for the very rich, but today it is an affordable splurge for nearly everyone! Yet after saving to go on the cruise, who has the kind of money to lay out for a new cruise wardrobe?

   Though "cruise wear" sounds expensive, it really needn't be if you plan it out in advance. The key element is looking over the ship's itinerary, taking stock of what you already own and adding signature accessories that will make you look First Class!

   Daywear should form the cornerstone of your cruising wardrobe. But instead of buying an entire outfit, think "separates," "accessories," and "signature details." Women, if you were savvy enough to build up a wardrobe of pants, skirts, and shorts in the "basics" of black, beige, and white you're almost there. Select the most casual, lightweight pieces and team them up with nicely tailored cotton T-shirts in contrasting solid colors.

   Now visit a department store and find a matching sweater that looks as good on as it does elegantly draped around your shoulders, a subtle "accessory" that adds sophistication to your look and color to your face. Belts and shoes are key for day and really polish off a look. A thin, elegant belt and shoes in excellent condition (preferably reptile) will make you a fashion plate.

   Consider topping off this look with a scarf (ideally a leopard print!) and a pair of designer sunglasses for a perfectly polished look.

    Men really only need to have their favorite salesperson find them knee-length Bermuda shorts in various colors, paired with sleek golf shirts by Bobby Jones. Loafers in excellent condition, preferably by Gucci or Prada, are essentials. Of course, a Rolex watch never hurts.

   For evening, men can just put on a tuxedo (don't forget proper tuxedo shoes!) to look smashing. Most cruise lines feature at least a few black tie events each week, but most will allow a dark suit if you don't want to make this (valuable) investment.

   On a cruise, it's not necessary that a woman's evening gown be "new" but she must feel beautiful in it! When wearing a favorite gown, in evening, illuminated by candlelight, every woman looks dazzling! But the key piece that's needed to bring it all together is a tiny evening purse, a miniaudiere. Judith Leiber has cornered the market on this and makes beautiful, expensive bags, but knockoffs can be found.

   If you love to dress up, a cruise is the perfect occasion to indulge your fantasies! Pack classic separates you already own, punch them up with this season's accessories, and you'll be the envy of all on board.

-0-    Marisa D'Vari, author of the newly released book, "Script Magic: Subconscious Techniques to Conquer Writer's Block," is host of the TV series "A Taste of Luxury," which explores the world of luxury resorts and cruises, celebrity-chef restaurants, fashion, and fun. She invites your comments at Marisa@deg.com and invites you to visit her www.deg.com Web site for luxury tips.