There was once a time when luxury cruises were solely occupied by the elite, the super wealthy or the retired.
Ladies with billowing hats and skirts accompanied by trunks full of finery from all over the globe would board magnificent cruise ship after cruise ship, stopping only to wave a lacy gloved hand to all who watched her chosen vessel depart.
No doubt her personal butler or man-servant would help do all the lifting, before she retired to her cabin to dress appropriately for the evening: ball gown and cigarette holder (a la Audrey Hepburn) at the ready - and this time Tiffany would hang luxuriantly around her neck, not merely in the shop window.
You can't deny that cruising isn't glamorous.
Any of the hundreds of brochures will tell you that.
Models posing, champagne glass in hand, sunglasses on and bikini body intact, there is a certain air of needing to impress.
But if you're new to cruising this could still be more than a little daunting.
These days the attention to attire when cruising has perhaps been broken down into something more manageable.
Wardrobes choc-full of designer kit, gold and jewels to bedazzle fellow cruisers need not be the order of the day, but a little elegance can still work wonders.
Most cruise companies will advise you of a dress code, and for the vast majority, there is no need for white tie, or even black.
Gone are the days when Captains would host dinners for all guests on board under the crystal cut chandeliers.
The modern manner is more 'savvy chic' than showy.
On board though, you'll likely have at least one formal dinner, requiring a smart outfit.
This usually translates to dinner jackets and cocktail dresses, but be rest assured the tiara and tails can be left at home (let's face it, they've been so over-used they'll be beginning to fall apart, and smart but not shabby is the de rigeur here).
Informal dinners will most likely mean jacket minus the tie for men and a dress or trouser with heels for women.
During the day of course this changes to a casual air of elegance.
But if you're going to be rock climbing or water-skiing you might want to rethink the Prada.
Despite recent political developments, cruising down the Nile on a luxury Egypt holiday is still one of life's most sought after experiences and the ultimate in cruise travel.
This too is possibly one of the fewer destinations where cruising still sits in the 'Old-school' bracket rather than 'Newskool.
' But that still doesn't have to mean stuffy or tight-lipped.
Some cruise ships will encourage participation in colourful Egyptian themed evenings, giving guests the chance to dress in traditional Egyptian clothing, feeling as magnificent as Queen Nefertari, or Tutankhamen himself.
And it's on cruises like these that are often the most interesting - the ship's decoration itself will likely be a blend of inspiration taken from the Pharaonic influences drawn from Egypt's cultural heritage over thousands of years.
Modern boats reflect their clientele - elegant yet cozy, sophisticated yet homely, replete with friendliness and splendour.
Say goodbye to the 'blue rinse' cruisers and hello to a newer more dynamic generation of cruise travellers.
Action and activity are now the order of the day, over and above the outfit.