What to Wear to a Yacht Party in Dubai

A yacht party in Dubai is part sun, part sea breeze and part evening glamour, and the deck is the one place where the usual rules of party dressing do not apply. Dress for wind, for walking on a boat and for the temperature after sunset, and the rest takes care of itself.

Start with the wind

It is always breezier on the water than on shore. A very full, light skirt can lift and tangle on deck. Choose a dress that moves but stays put: a fitted waist, a wrap shape, a mini or a co-ord set. A longer skirt works well if it has some weight or if you are happy to hold it. Tie your hair back or bring a clip.

Shoes: flat or barefoot

Most boats ask guests to go barefoot or wear soft, flat soles on deck, so leave stilettos at home. Bring flat sandals or clean white trainers, and check with the host or the charter company about their shoe rules. If you want heels for the dinner or the venue afterwards, carry them in a bag and change on shore.

Fabrics and sun

• Light and breathable. Linen-style fabrics and airy weaves stay comfortable in the sun.
• Easy to crease. Linen creases, which is fine on a boat. Very delicate fabrics can catch on rails and seats.
• Sun cover. Bring sunglasses, a hat if you like one, and sunscreen. Choose a style with straps or a cover-up if you burn easily.
• Water and spray. Pale, thin fabrics can show water. Lined pieces or a darker base layer are safer if you will be near the edge.

Daytime yacht

A day on the water calls for something relaxed and bright: a breezy mini, a co-ord set or a short playsuit. Co-ords are practical because you can move, sit and climb in them with no worry about the hem.

Looks that work: Airy Charm Dress, Sunny Delight, Riviera Linen Set. More in sets and co-ords.

Sunset and evening

As the light goes the dress code lifts. A sleeker midi, a maxi with a defined waist or a smart set suits a sunset cruise or a dinner on board. Keep jewellery simple, since sea air and wind are not kind to anything delicate.

Looks that work: Gentle Whirl, Elegant Maxi, Pearl Set. More in maxi dresses.

White, ivory and colour

White and ivory are the classic yacht colours: they look fresh against the sea, reflect the sun and photograph well. Pair them with a bright accessory. Bold colours, turquoise, coral and yellow, also suit the water. Very dark colours absorb heat in the daytime, so save black for the evening.

Looks that work: Minimalist White Chic Set, Blanc Elite Dress, Waves Ruffle Dress. More in white and ivory.

November to March: bring a layer

In the cooler months the sun is gentle but the breeze over the sea is much colder after dark. A knit set, a light jacket or a wrap is worth carrying even when the afternoon feels warm. In summer the same layer helps against strong air-conditioning in the cabin.

Looks that work: Minimalist Ivory Knit Set, Luxe Knit Set. More in knitwear.

A simple packing list

• Outfit. One look for the day and, if the party runs into the evening, one for later.
• Shoes. Flat sandals for the boat, and a pair for after if needed.
• Layer. A knit, wrap or jacket.
• Extras. Sunglasses, sunscreen, hair tie and a small bag you can hold.

Quick answers

Can I wear heels on a yacht?

Usually not. Most boats ask for bare feet or flat soles on deck.

What should I wear to a yacht party in winter in Dubai?

The same light outfit, plus a knit, jacket or wrap for the evening breeze.

Is a long dress a good idea?

It can be, if it has a fitted waist or some weight. Very full light skirts catch the wind.

About DOUBLE's home try-on

DOUBLE is an online-only boutique with no shop. Instead, a female fitting assistant brings the pieces you choose to your home, hotel or office anywhere in Dubai and waits while you try them on. Read how it works on our try-on at home page, or send the pieces and sizes you like on WhatsApp.