DCL's official policy is no shorts in the MDR's (main dining rooms) for dinner but yes, people do anyway.
MJ
Formal nights really need to officially go the way of the dinosaur. A vast majority of people have no interest in getting dressed up (yes, i know there are still some of you out there, but your numbers are constantly dwindling). I do believe everyone should always look neat and presentable in the MDRs and that swimwear and flip-flops should definitely not be allowed. However, for men (because let's face it, it's all a lot more "ambiguous" for women) nice khaki shorts, a polo or "hawaiian"-type shirt is fine for dinner IMO.
Okay, we'll agree to disagree
I think it is a culture thing though. I think Europeans are more likely to dress for dinner. I admit we never do in WDW unless we are dining at V and A's, Citrico's etc, but I admit I love a good excuse to dress up!!!
DH hates to get "dressed" for dinner so he'll wear jeans / khakis. We skip formal / semi-formal nights in the dining rooms and just go to Topsiders (on Magic) those nights. And sometimes other nights. And we can wear shorts there!
It's all good. I don't get upset over all this like some do.
To me, at least, a big part of it has to do with the fact that these days most cruises take place in tropical locations. When your days are mostly centered around beaches and activites like snorkeling and dolphin encounters, etc., I don't believe it lends itself well to switch to a formal atmosphere at night. Now, if you're talking about a transatlantic cruise where it is all sea days, I think that does lend itself to a much more formal atmosphere and I think formal nights are a lot more appropriate.
I am probably in the minority, but I wish DCL would 'encourage' the rules more forcefully, especially on formal night. I love to see the ladies in formal gowns and the men in their dinner suits and bow ties. Makes for a real sense of occasion!!!
I guess it is the Brit in me!!!!
Can men wear khaki shorts to dinner? If not, do they anyway?
DCL still requests that shorts not be worn to the casual restaurant for dinner.
But as we can all read it's a request and is not required.
Dress Code
The dress code for dinner is cruise casual. However, you are requested to not wear tank tops, swim wear or shorts for dinner.
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships-activities/ships/magic/dining/topsider-buffet/