5 Must-Haves For Your Vacation Beach Dress Up
If you’re traveling to a high-end resort for vacation, swap your flip-flops and denim shorts for a pair of summer dresses. These pieces are great for creating a functional and minimalist capsule wardrobe and easily fit into your carry-on.
A simple solid dress paired with a stack heel shoe and Vacation Beach Dress color block bag is perfect for a casual daytime look. To elevate this outfit, add a feminine touch with cateye sunglasses.
Maxi Dresses
Cute maxi dresses are a no-brainer vacation essential. They pack light, are easy to dress up or down, and can work for day or night. Maxi dresses are perfect for a casual beach hangout, dinner with a group of friends, or an elegant resort party. Look for a dress that works with the shoes you plan to wear during your trip. Heels will create a dressier look while flats are more casual. A strappy sandal will complement a flowy Boho floral maxi and add a pop of color to your outfit.
For a summery look, try this cotton-viscose dress from 28 Palms. It has a deep v-neckline and adjustable straps, so you can choose how much to show off your shoulders. It’s a mid-calf length so it won’t hit your legs in the heat, but will still cover your ankles for modesty at a poolside bar or restaurant. It’s also machine washable so it will stay fresh and clean for the duration of your trip.
Maxi dresses can be worn with a wide belt or scarf to dress up the look, and you can wear it with a sun hat or shawl for added warmth. If you don’t like floral prints, you can still find a cute tropical dress by focusing on bright colors and unique patterns. You can also try a striped dress or a tie dye look that will stand out from the crowd and keep you feeling fresh and tropical all vacation long.
Shirt Dresses
Shirt dresses are a simple option to dress up or down for a casual beach vacation outfit. A shirt dress is a long-sleeved tee-style garment with a collar and pockets. You can wear a belt to emphasize your waistline or leave it loose for a relaxed look. They are typically made of lightweight materials that feel cool in hot weather. Some dressy versions feature lace and embroidery for an elegant look that is appropriate for dinner or brunch with friends, a romantic beach evening, or a poolside party at your hotel.
The off-shoulder ruffles on this ECOWISH dress add a touch of femininity. This midi dress has buttons running down the front and has an A-line shape. The smocked fabric looks pretty and is easy to care for, so you can wear it as a casual summer vacation dress. Some reviewers said it doesn’t have much support for the bust, but you can try wearing a bralette or a strapless cami underneath.
You can pack a few short dressy tops and slips in your carry-on, then change into one when you arrive at your destination. Pair them with sandals and a lightweight denim jacket for a cute summer vacation outfit for a girls’ lunch, date night, or a romantic meal by the sea. You can also dress it up with heels and a sparkly clutch bag for an evening out.
Mini Dresses
Mini dresses are a perfect way to add an element of fun to your beach look. Pair them with a hat and flat sandals to complete your outfit for a day of lounging on the sand or a night out after dark. Alternatively, you can use your mini dress as a cover-up over a bikini for additional sun protection and comfort.
This smocked mini dress has adjustable straps and a cute floral print, making it a great pick for a tropical vacation. The polyester fabric is lightweight and soft, with some stretch for added comfort. The back is open, and the hemline hits mid-thigh. It’s available in multiple colors and prints, so you can find the perfect style to suit your aesthetic.
Another option is this black dress from PRETTYGARDEN, Vacation Beach Dress which can be worn during any vacation but would work especially well at the beach. The halter neck and backless silhouette are flattering for most body types, and the elastic waist is comfortable and stylish. The dress can be hand washed or machine washed and is lined. Some reviewers have noticed that the dress does tend to shrink, so you should wash it in cold water.
For a casual summer look, this sleeveless maxi dress is a great choice. The ruffles and bell sleeves add interest to your look, and the material is lightweight and soft. The smocked design of this dress offers some flexibility, and the side pockets are a bonus. Pair it with a wide-brimmed hat and distressed denim for an effortless beach-to-dinner outfit.
Shorts
A pair of shorts is a must-have in every beach wardrobe because it comes in handy when pants are too hot or you need more coverage than a dress. Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that dry quickly when worn over your bathing suit. Look for styles with a wide waistband that can be folded up or down as you move from one activity to the next.
The right pair of shorts is also great for pairing with a beachy maxi dress when you are headed out for casual drinks at a bar or to dinner in a seaside restaurant. Look for shorts in neutral colors that will complement your favorite maxi dress and add a touch of elegance to your look. If you are looking for something more playful, go for a pair of shorts in a fun print that will draw attention from your fellow vacationers.
When packing for your beach trip, don’t forget a cool bucket hat to block out the sun and keep you looking fashionable. According to fashion stylist Mickey Freeman, this accessory is perfect for men and women of all ages and walks of life. The brim of this hat can be tilted up or down depending on how much sun you want to shield from your eyes.
Another must-have item in any beach closet is a sarong. This versatile beachy outfit piece can be worn as a coverup at the beach or paired with a cami top for a simple one-and-done dinner ensemble. Choose a sarong in a breathable fabric such as this linen-cotton tiered midi dress from Splendid. Team it with a woven tote bag from 3.1 Phillip Lim and sandals from Bottega Veneta for an on-point look.
