CRUISE CHALLENGE, DAY 2: DID "MIMI PACKLIGHT" OVERPACK?

I based my Cruise Challenge on the premise of three outfits a day, 35 outfits in all. Yet some days only two outfits are needed. Today, in the case of this particular ship (Royal Caribbean's Jewel of the Seas) and the mild weather, perhaps only one might have been enough. 

But today I will wear two outfits, just like yesterday (embarkation day). During the day, I wore white bermuda shorts and a red print tee with white flats. My day outfit was perfect for light exercise as I strolled the decks, yet also suitable for the more formal restaurants and public areas. In the evening, I'll be in an orange knit top, multicolored paisley print skirt, complemented by black Lindsay Phillips sandals ("SwitchFlops") with a gold decorative strap.

I didn't fully assess the casual nature of travel attire these days. At my present rate -- 2 outfits per day -- I'll only need  24 outfits (12 days on board). Yet that might be going to the extreme. Minimalist Mimi doesn't advocate austerity. A gal needs to step out in style. Still, despite my already very efficient light packing, perhaps even Ms. Mimi Packlight OVERPACKED!

CRUISE CHALLENGE, DAY 1: WHAT ABOUT SHOES?

Waiting in line to check in, I heard several women bemoaning shoes. I have found that shoes really are a top concern for female travelers. On this transatlantic Cruise Challenge trip, I packed three pairs: a black low-heel Lindsay Phillips, with five interchangable velcro tops/straps (above); white flats; and black sandals. I wore my sneakers to board the ship as they are my heaviest and would have taken up the most space.

I'M OFF! THE CRUISE CHALLENGE BEGINS (FRIDAY, MAY 6)

Yes, today (Friday), finally, I begin the Mimi Packs Light Cruise Challenge! I depart aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship (Jewel of the Seas) from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, arriving in Harwich, England, in 12 days. I have challenged myself to travel with but one small bag (a TravelPro under-the-seater, 15''x14''x10'', above) that, as a result of selecting a light-weight, compact and versatile wardrobe, will contain no less than 35 outfit changes! I'll be reporting on these outfits during my trip, as well as commenting on events onboard the Jewel of the Seas, and later in London. So, tootle-oo for now. Bon voyage.

Update: Here is a photo of my cabin. Small -- but, of course, I don't need much room, do I?