indiana71

our turn: The last couple days before a cruise is when the butterflies in the belly begin, you find yourself doing a mental countdown of hours until leaving, or think "What am I forgetting??!"

But come Thursday, when you are ready to go, all will be well and you will be ready for a wonderful cruise full of happy memories:cool::).

Enjoy every minute and check in after you return home to let us know all about it!

DH is beginning to gather clothes - he tried on several pairs of shorts (something he's never done before!) and laid out 7 to take. I think talking about this thread has influenced him in a positive way;).

One of the cosmetics the Lancome consultant suggested was a moisturizer costing $130:eek:. Does anyone use products that cost that much?

Being a fashonista implies that we take care of ourselves. While I'm the last one to say don't spend $$$ on something that makes you look and/or feel great - IMHO there are other options that work just as well. An SPF level of more than 15, and being in a pump container are things to consider, too. (Neither of which was present in the Lancome product.)

There is talk on other fashion & beauty threads about age appropriate dressing, i.e., should women over a certain age wear spaghetti strap dresses, shorts, or even Capris. What's that about:confused:!! Most of the responses are in favor of wearing what makes you feel good. My little Hungarian grandmother was 54 when she died. As a little girl, I remember her in a housedress and apron, white hair in a bun and pleasantly plump. Middle-aged women today are at the most beautiful age and can dress in anything that, to them, reflects a positive image in the mirror.:)

I like to believe we can be pleased with our look and also pleasing to the eye of others.

This photo was taken last year on Enchantment of the Seas. My dress is strapless (under the Bolero) and at age 63, I was having a great time! (jiggly arms and all)...

Comments and opinions are welcome!

Makeup Consultation: Very interesting...there was no mirror so I couldn't see what was being done. Since I had no makeup on, the consultant didn't know my preferences.

I did buy a foundation brush. She believes it does a better job that using fingers.

Reveal Time (Looking in the Mirror When the MakeUp Was Done) - Oh My!! WAY too much eyeliner...and sparkly eye shadow. I use eyeliner but not as dramatically and a "smoky eye" is my favorite look BUT this was over the top.:eek:

I went to the Ladies Room and removed half of it. (Remember - I was going to a funeral home and then a church dinner!)

Moral of This Story: Pick up hints from the professionals (she's been a Lancome consultant for 20 years). It was fun to have her use new products or familiar ones in a different way - but incorporate what you like and stay with what you know looks good:).

er345: I don't take a "robe" but have a Juicy Couture knee-length black terry hoodie w/ long sleeves that goes over a swim suit if it's a little cool by the pool.

Too Many New Dresses: Now, there's a problem we love to have! I buy sale items all year and if some of them don't make the packing list this time, there's always the next cruise;)! Just think, you will have something new that you might have forgotten about.

jacksmom09: Streamlined Packing - I have a friend who uses one color palate for all her packing. That way she can mix and match and pack less. I.E. - black basics and colorful tops; 2 pairs of dress shoes - black + 1 color, neutral sandals.

er345: You Nailed It! Cruising is all about relaxing. :cool: No other vacation offers the amenities we enjoy onboard. Once the unpacking is done (about an hour), we can forget about the real world. The first Big Decision: Do I have a foo-foo drink now or wait till SailAway???

Choosing An Outfit: This afternoon I have an hour appt w/ a Lancome consultant, then a stop at a funeral home and finally a church fish dinner. What to wear that is appropriate for all of that?? It took me an hour of try ons before a decision was made:eek:!

RE Lacome Makeover: The request was "Please don't wear makeup." I've NEVER left home for ANY reason w/o at least the basics :eek:(moisturizer, concealer, foundation, blush, eyeliner)...

but I am looking forward to picking up some tips. I'll report later.

Isn't the over-the-door shoe holder one of the best ideas!!

All my shoes used to go on the closet floor - poor DH had to pile his under the tiny coffee table:eek:! But now - all the shoes (except beach flip-flops) are up & out of the way...and DH gets 2 pockets, too:).

We fashonistas who spend so much time packing have lots more fun once onboard. No pulling out a bunch of clothes, shoes & accessories to try to put an outfit together - we know what to wear and don't waste time agonizing. ;) Don't EVER be embarrassed that you take time to look your best!

PS - The silver belt is from Talbot's.

searabbit: Try zappos.com for silver shoes. So easy to navigate and if they don't fit, zappos pays for their return. All price ranges are available, colors, heel height, etc.

Your dress sounds lovely - perfect for formal night:).

er345: Unfortunately, Marshall's & TJ Maxx rarely have a selection of petite sizes so I haven't had much luck in either store. Chico's has fun cruise clothes but same limited selection. I do like their jewelry.

I LOVE that you took the time to pack your jewelry. Costume jewelry is what I like, too. And I also use Baggies - putting a Post-It note in each one w/ the day & outfit it goes with. Not anal at all:).

How I Pack Earrings: You know those 7-day clear pill boxes? I have 2 - one for daytime, one for evening; and since the Day is already on each lid, it's easy to drop in the earrings. That way every pair is easily accessible and don't get lost.

Since the prediction is 3-6 inches of snow by tomorrow, I'm thinking about Nassau and how beautiful the weather is there. This is what I'll wear that day - Talbot's "seahorse" top, Ralph Lauren shorts and Naot sandals...

I see at the bottom of lilme74's post, there is a Perfect Packer Quiz box. It was a quick and easy quiz to take. All of us Fashionista's will probably get a Perfect Packer score:). Since we take the time to put together fun outfits, dressy outfits and make lists; we're also sticklers for packing carefully.

Take the quiz and post your score!

cruisin'tex & d'sdarling: Thanks for checking out the Caribbean Cruising Fashonista thread:cool:!

When I wrote that 1st post, I had no idea if anyone would respond. It looks like others are interested in clothes, fashion and other girly delights! Keep posting - that way we can talk about our favorite subject without other people being bored and/or rolling their eyes:).

Favorite Stores: Nordstrom is by far my favorite but I rarely get to one. Talbot's is good but some of their clothes are more appropriate for a work environment rather than cruising. And there's always Macy's. Victoria's Secret has the BEST under garments. Zappos.com is where I can find the best selection in my shoe size (5.5) & you can't beat their return policy.

I rarely order clothes online. It's so much more fun to try things on in a store!

We have an independent clothing store in our small downtown and I'm happy to find something there.

How about the rest of you? Where do you like to shop?

our turn: I'm happy to hear that you have a son who cares about how he looks! My boys did, too; but generally, they liked what I chose (at least until they were in their early teens):rolleyes:

The upgrade was a great deal! Worth it just for the amenities and pampering. Please come back here to give a report & post photos.

I've never used the spa but friends love the massages and mani/pedis. (I would rather spend the $$ on clothes & wine;)).

Speaking of clothes, here's another outfit - one for a casual dinner. I bought the cami & Bolero at Nordstrom's before The First Cruise and have worn it w/ several different bottoms. I like sleeves in the dining room where the temp is usually too cool for me. But if we dance later, it's nice to take the Bolero off.

our turn: Good for you! Using the spa and salon is the best way to be pampered - and it sounds like you WILL have lots of pampering! A Sky suite & butler - WaHoo!!

Packing for your son should be easy. Boys don't need all the extra stuff females do:)!

ourturn: I love your list! Just by reading "4 swimsuits" and a dress for renewing vows, it's going to be a great cruise with lots of happy memories AND you will look good every minute:).

Your silver shoes inspired me to post another photo. I looked for silver heels for 2 years and found them, finally, in our local mall for under $30!

This is the outfit I'll wear to the specialty restaurant - not formal, but also not casual. Again - no smile...hmmmm...must be because the timer was only 20 seconds & I was thinking more about the timing than smiling. Trust me, I had lots of fun trying on all these outfits! The top is from Black Market White House.

How I did the upload: It was easy! I went to snapfish (where our photos are processed), clicked on the photo to enlarge it. (That's what I missed earlier). Clicked on the enlargement to Copy and then pasted it here. Nothin' to it;)!

YAY! I did it - not sure how:confused:. Sorry about dominating this thread for the last 3 posts...

Anyway, this is the same outfit as the sidewise shot above, but with a light loose-weave sweater for an anticipated cool Baltimore SailAway...that must be why I'm not looking very happy here...

Now that packing is underway - here's another question:

Do you take more cosmetics, lotions, hair products, etc., than you will use??

That's the one area where I overdo. With all good intentions, of course. Sure there will be time for a 15-minute hair conditioning treatment, or an extra minute to use a lipstick brush every time the color fades; maybe even a cleansing mask before preparing for Formal Night. BUT IT NEVER HAPPENS! Hair gets washed & conditioned in the shower because there's only 20 minutes before the next activity; lipstick goes from tube to lips since DH is waiting patiently outside the Ladies Room. And the cleansing mask? Usually we are enjoying a beverage by the pool in the late afternoon & with early dinner seating, I would rather bask in the ship's atmosphere than lay on the bed in my stateroom waiting for a mask to dry!

The upside is - cosmetics don't take up much room in the luggage. Airport security isn't an issue when we don't fly. I don't feel guilty about taking extra "pretty-fying" stuff. You never know, I might use it this time;).

BTW - Taking the suction-cupped wire toiletries holder from the shower is a good idea. Ship showers don't have any shelf space so I stick it on the wall and keep shampoo, razors, whatever within easy reach (not on the floor of the shower where they used to end up).

I found directions on how to Upload a Photo to Cruise Critic. I'll give it a try...

Oh boy...I figured out how to copy & paste...but not how to turn it:confused:.

All my "modeling" pix are like this. I don't want anyone to get a sore neck so probably no more pictures (at least for now...)

ourturn: You have come through some heart wrenching, very sad times. Don't feel guilty about losing weight - you did it and now know how much better you feel. Enjoy every moment of your cruise!

I'm not very techno inclined...but really want to post some photos of my Cruise Outfits. Yesterday and today I tried on every outfit and set up my camera to take photos that I am happy to share, if you want to see them.

I have copied photos from my photo processing website. Those pix are small and details aren't easy to see...but when I copy from my computer, I can't paste here.?? Details aren't as noticeable but the 1st photo is my Travel to the Ship/SailAway/First Night Dinner outfit.

Next is the same outfit but w/ a lightweight pullover. Since we're cruising from Baltimore, it's likely to be cool.

If these pix are okay, I will post more. Let me know what you think. And if there's something you don't like or would change in an outfit (or part of an outfit), I would love to hear that too!

Everyone is welcome to post photos.

our turn: You Go Girl!! Losing 30 pounds is an awesome feat and you deserve a new wardrobe for sure!:)

20 years ago I lost 35 pounds and know exactly how you feel - like a new person knowing you look good and actually enjoying shopping.

I loved that you said you have "started staging for packing"! What a great description:cool:. I do that, too; but with the luxury of having a spare bedroom. Every potential cruise item gets hauled there and I can pick & choose, put outfits together and try them on without disturbing the rest of the house.

Tell DH to be patient, the wait will be worth it when he sees you in all those gorgeous clothes:cool:!

Boston Proper: What a great site for cruise clothes, especially with the "Get Away" dropdown menu featuring cruisewear. I've never ordered from them but since you are petite and say the Capris fit well, Boston Proper could be my next web stop! Capris are my favorite summer leisure attire.

Everyone on this thread can give inspiration and share ideas and posting photos of outfits is a good way to do that.

I asked my DDL about posting photos. She's an artist, photography was her minor. She told me to use my tripod and delay feature - having the outfit on gives a better idea of how it looks. I can set it up w/o assistance...but DH might take a couple pix, too. I'll be doing the final Try-On Before Packing next week and will post some pictures.

Bholling: Nice swimsuit:cool: - which color did you order?

I'm always looking for a swimsuit with a matching cover-up - haven't found one that I love yet.

I just returned from Minneapolis - didn't get to Mall of America...but that's just as well because I don't need anything else for the next cruise. I did, however, buy a light-weight white jacket at Rodeo Road at the airport:). It will be an alternative to the sweater that gets worn on deck when the wind kicks up (which is every night at sea!)

At the airport in Minneapolis I went through the body scan and then had a pat down. Seems that "something" showed up around my waist. I didn't even have a belt on! No big deal - I was done almost as fast as DH who went through the regular screening.

Bholling: I AM hooked:eek: and couldn't wait to post!! Thank you Bholling for letting us know about the Boston Proper website - I clicked on "Getaways" then "Cruise". Oh my! Each item I looked at appears on the left side as "Recently Viewed". An entire cruise wardrobe can be selected & you don't have to remember what every item was - it's right there!

The dresses (though not sized as Petite) looked short so they would probably be the right length for me - a couple inches either way of my knees.

I just might be tempted to order a thing or 2...

I will definitely go to the BP website to check out "Getaways". Who knew??

The one fashion trend that isn't appealing to me right now - gladiator and/or high platform shoes/heels. I'm 5'1" and big shoes mess up proportion, making my legs look even shorter. BUT I did find a fun pair or Laura Ashley wedges w/ a small platform. They're "lizard" w/ a couple "gems" on the front. I'm planning to wear them when we sail from Baltimore.

Sally Hanson Leg Tanning Spray - Thanks for the info! I will buy it now and experiment. If the color doesn't work - it's still long-pants season so no one will notice;)!

Does anyone else have trouble with strapless bras not staying in place? Even though I've had fittings at Nordstrom & Victoria's Secret, inevitably the darn thing would start to slide down (not a very attractive look:eek:). From Victoria's Secret website I recently ordered a bustier (a strapless bra with a fitted bodice that goes to my waist). Hesitantly I tried it on - would it be uncomfortable? Too hot? Be noticeable under clothing? I wore it under a cami for several hours and it worked beautifully:)! Bonus: that little roll above my waist disappeared!

LakeGoddess: I'm with you all the way RE wearing an outfit once! No laundry chores while cruising! Surprisingly, everything I pack fits in 1 large + 1 carry-on + 1 big purse. Summer clothes don't take up much room and being a petite size helps, too. Next cruise is 9 nights.

SHOES: Even the 12 PAIRS OF (my size 5.5) SHOES fit:)...that includes 1 pair of beach flip-flops.

Here's an example of how I like to dress on cruising days:

Under the white top is a pink cami. If it's warm the top can come off.

Swimsuits: We, too, have a boat so swimsuits get a lot of wear. 3 swimsuits will go with me + 3 cover-ups.

Victoria's Secret: has the VERY best undergarments IMHO. Matching sets in colors to go with outfits are always a must for cruising. Surprising how good it makes one feel to know your underwear is just as nice as your outerwear;).

Here's a favorite formal night outfit - animal print strapless dress, black silk wrap (I'm on the left):

spabsie: Welcome to The Cruising Fashionistas! Or should I say "Anchors Aweigh"! Your new necklace is very appropriate:). Thanks for sharing the photo.

We're having fun, sharing ideas and asking questions. The more the merrier:cool:!

Boston Proper catalog: great cruising clothes! No petite sizes BUT under Little Black Dresses, there is a one-shoulder dress that would probably only need hemmed...Thanks 5326jan, for sharing:)!

Even though I might not order something, it's fun to look at how a company puts outfits together - always something to learn or give me an idea.

Question: How do you feel about self-tanners? Having never used one, I'd like to hear opinions. My first concern is: how do they wear off? Some articles say they look blotchy. Do they stain your clothes?

No question that warm-weather outfits look better against tanned skin, but I haven't sunbathed in years and a tanning salon isn't for me. With 42 days to go, should I consider a "fake" tan? If so, what brand?

Those of you who are very close to Cruise Time: I'M SOOOO Jealous!!! 43 days for me....

Looking forward to seeing photos.

I love that some shopping is bringing positive results. I went to our downtown boutique today but came out empty-handed, even though I tried on a skirt, top and strapless dress.:(

kelbre: Aren't sarongs the best cover-up!? Especially when cruising. There are always females who pull on an oversized Tshirt but the ones who have cute cover-ups are true Cruising Fashionistas!

QUESTION: When you go shopping, approximately how many pieces of clothing do you try and how many of those do you purchase?

Sometimes (like today) a dress looked perfect...but on - not so perfect. I often try on 6 things and if luck is with me, 2 or 3 make the cut.

Jsim2011: Your dresses are perfect for cruising. I'm partial to the purple one, but the other 2 are very nice, too.

Since the weather forecast was nice today (sunny this morning & 50 degrees) I took a road trip to the nearest decent-sized mall. In an hour I was in Talbot's Outlet where a pair of raspberry shorts called my name...and a pale green short-sleeved knit top. Both were on sale and set me back only $11.00:) TOTAL. My packing list will be adjusted to include the new purchases.

Also went to Ulta - had read about Orly's Bonder. It's a "rubberized" base coat that's supposed to help nail polish adhere better and keep from chipping. If it works, I will be very happy. Also read about & bought CND Solar Oil Nail & Cuticle Conditioner. At this time of year the area around my nails is pathetic - catching on clothing, very dry and not at all Cruise Worthy! We'll see how both products perform.

Next stop Macy's. Very little spring and summer clothes are out, mostly what's on sale was winter...but there was a purple (again, a favorite color) knit Ralph Lauren top. Had been $59...got it for $15.

Looks like I'll be making more changes to my Outfits List.

Photos will be posted in a couple weeks when serious packing begins.

er345: No matter where they come from vintage evening bags are a treasure to be used. I have 2 vintage clutches, both inherited from DH's aunt. She was a world traveler and gave me a handmade straw clutch with pink, yellow & blue flowers. The other one is Oriental - green silk print. They don't get used often enough:o.

Reading this thread is the highlight of my day:).

er345: Welcome to the Fashionista Club! We are, indeed, soul sisters - and proud of it!

Shopping seems to be getting more intense as winter clothes leave the racks and summer items appear. I'll be going to Mall of America, Nordstrom for sure, in a couple weeks. If there's time, I'll linger at the make-up counters and learn as many new tricks as possible.

Evening Purses: They are such a great addition to a dinner outfit...but what do you DO with it? There's never room on the table and if it's a clutch, no way to keep it on my chair...

Mascara: Lancome is my favorite. And their Bi Facil eye make-up remover works great for me, too.

Shoes in the Stateroom: Up until our last cruise, I lined up my shoes in the closet and DH (poor DH) had to pile his under the tiny table. Now I have an over-the-door fabric shoe holder for 12 pairs. DH gets 2 pockets, I use the rest. Flat sandals fit easily on the closet floor. That was a tip picked up on a thread!

Anyone have any good hints for unpacking and storing in the stateroom?