Regent relaxes evening dress code, will permit “refined denim” & “dress sneakers”

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has updated its evening dress code, shifting its “elegant casual” standard toward a more relaxed approach, effective August 1, 2025.

Under the revised guidelines, guests will now be permitted to wear “refined denim” and “dress sneakers”—items that were previously excluded.

While the move reflects evolving preferences in luxury travel, some loyal patrons – in online forums, especially – have expressed concern that loosening sartorial standards may detract from the refined ambiance that defines a Regent voyage.

But in an email sent to customers Wednesday (July 30), the luxury cruise line said the change comes after “listening to feedback” from its valued guests.

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“We have decided to expand our Elegant Casual evening dress code to reflect today’s wider interpretation of sophisticated fashion,” the cruise line writes.

The company goes on to clarify. Refined denim, it says, means “sophisticated and stylish jeans with no rips, tears or distressing.” Dress sneakers, meanwhile, “should be in good condition, in neutral or classic colours.”

Regent says its expanded dress code “ensures we maintain the sophisticated ambiance of our restaurants, bars and lounges in the evening, while reflecting the stylish, modern desires of today’s luxury travellers.”

Of course, those who prefer to dress in formal attire are still welcome to do so on any night of their cruise.

“No matter if you are in slacks and a collared shirt, a cocktail dress, gown or even a three-piece suit, you will never look out of place aboard The World's Most Luxurious Fleet,” Regent says.

Regent prides itself on offering the most luxurious experiences at sea.

To preserve its elevated ambiance, the cruise line has traditionally maintained clear expectations for guest conduct and presentation while on board.

This has included a firm adherence to an “elegant casual” dress code in all public spaces—particularly in the main dining venues—beginning at 6 p.m. each evening.

Though the core principles of the dress code remain unchanged, it appears Regent is embracing a contemporary perspective on what constitutes modern-day elegance.

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