MSC Dress Code: Formal and Casual Get Equal Billing Casual wear is the way to go on MSC Cruises. That's the case almost all of the time, except for the formal evening gala dinners. On those nights, the main dining room requires men to wear suits or jackets and ties, and cocktail dresses for women.

MSC Cruises is generally considered a "Smart Casual" cruise line, leaning more toward an informal atmosphere than traditional luxury lines, but they still maintain a strong respect for tradition. During the day, attire is completely informal—shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear (with a cover-up) are the norm. In the evenings, the dress code shifts to "polished casual," where collared shirts, tailored pants, and dresses are recommended for the main dining rooms. The highlight of the cruise is the Gala Night (or "Elegant Night"), which is the most formal occasion. While many guests take this opportunity to wear tuxedos and evening gowns, MSC's 2026 policy is inclusive: they encourage you to "dress to your own level of elegance," so a nice suit or a dressy top with slacks is perfectly acceptable. Certain themed evenings, like the "White Party" or "Flower Glory" 70s night, are also popular. The only strict rules involve the main dining rooms, where flip-flops, swimwear, and tank tops are strictly prohibited during dinner service.