How to Pick the Perfect Vacation Beach Dress
Vacation beach dresses are the key to packing light and looking polished all day (and night) long. Whether you’re jetting off to your dream destination or taking a road trip closer to home, these versatile styles will help you get ready for everything your getaway has in store.
For a vacation look that leans romantic and sweet, this eyelet lace dress is ideal. Pair it with sandals and a raffia bag for a date-night-worthy outfit.
Jacquard Wrap Dress
If you’re packing for a warm-weather getaway, the ideal vacation dress should fit the following criteria: It should be comfortable enough to wear during long days of sightseeing (think of Vacation Beach Dress it as an alternative to pants and a tee) but chic enough to wear to dinner and post-beach drinks. And, of course, it should be wrinkle-resistant and easy to care for in case you need to wash it en route or at your destination.
A simple yet super flattering wrap dress is one such option. Featuring a ruched bodice, a plunging neckline and floral jacquard detail that adds to the vacation vibe, this style is an easy-to-wear wardrobe staple. Pair it with a pair of sandals and a leather crossbody bag for a look that’s perfect for exploring a new city or lounging poolside.
Whether you’re jetting off on a romantic beach getaway or heading out for a bachelorette party that might include a few nighttime club trips, a sexy mini dress is another great choice. This crochet number from Susan Graver is made of a comfortable poplin material and boasts an adjustable keyhole back that makes it the perfect fit for any body type. Its flowing length and sexy scalloped edges will leave you feeling like a total stunner.
Channel a sense of quiet luxury on your next vacation by pairing this button-up shirtdress with a pair of ankle strap sandals and a raffia purse. The sweetheart neckline and eyelet lace design will lend your OOTD a feminine touch, while the mini length will showcase your tan legs.
Ruched Bodice Dress
When it comes to packing for vacations, finding a dress that will go the distance requires a few key criteria: It must be comfortable enough to spend a day sight-seeing in and versatile enough to work at those coveted beach weddings and red carpet events. This ruched bodice midi dress has both in spades. Made from a lightweight recycled polyester that’s both soft and durable, this classic silhouette features flutter sleeves (aka comfy arm coverage) and a tiered skirt that flatters your figure. It’s also wrinkle-resistant, so it’ll pack up easily and come out looking like new every time.
Linen is prone to wrinkling, but this strappy white maxi dress hides any unwanted ripples with its ruched bodice and adjustable ribbon straps. The linen is “roomy” and “so flattering,” one shopper raved, while the asymmetrical hemline will ensure you show off those tan legs. Plus, it comes in sizes XXS through XXL to fit any body type.
Hillhouse is known for its Nap Dresses (a frock comfortable enough to sleep in), and this Simone silhouette doesn’t disappoint. Featuring a romantic ruffle detail, a leg-splitting side slit, and puffy sleeves that make for dramatic without sacrificing comfort, this midi dress will take your vacation style to the next level. Add a pair of heeled sandals and a straw bag, and you’re ready for a night out with your S.O.
Puff-Sleeve Dress
The puffed sleeves and cross-wrap silhouette of this pretty white dress make it a standout choice for a beach vacation. It’s made from soft cotton with 5% spandex for a comfortable fit and added elasticity, so you can wear it over your bathing suit or as a cover-up during the hottest part of the day. The crew neck also protects your chest from the sun’s harmful rays, and you can dress it up with sandals for a casual dinner or down with sneakers and a jacket for a day of sightseeing.
If you’re going with a significant other, a cute pair of wedges and a crossbody bag are the perfect accessories for a vacation date night look. The smocked waist and lantern sleeves of this Exlura dress add a romantic touch to an otherwise simple dress. Pair it with a leather crossbody bag and metallic sandals for a glam outfit that’s sure to turn heads on your trip.
A tropical vacation isn’t complete without a few tropical prints in your wardrobe, and this Lillusory dress is the perfect choice for your next getaway. The sleeveless mini dress is perfect for wearing over your swimsuit or as a cute top for walking along the beach, and it comes in a variety of floral and palm print options. The open back and adjustable self-tie knot of this dress offer a fun twist on a classic silhouette, and the go-with-everything fabric is easy to wash and care for.
Crochet Dress
Crochet dresses are one of the season’s hottest trends, and it’s no wonder they feel so perfect for vacation. The breathable fabric is great for beach days, but also looks glam paired with wedges and a statement bag for a sunset cocktail party. You’ll find a wide range of styles, from relaxed, breezy crochet wrap dresses like this floral one from Reformation Vacation Beach Dress to dressier crochet maxi dresses with a cheeky see-through aesthetic. For a sophisticated take on the trend, Karen Millen has crafted this stunning open stitch dress in shimmering black. It’ll look just as pretty with a tan as it does in the white finish, and it can be worn either over a swimwear set or a bodysuit for extra comfort.
If you want to add a touch of feminine elegance to your vacation style, try this slinky striped crochet midi dress from River Island. Its close bodycon fit and sultry halter neckline effortlessly accent your figure, while the striped design lends this frock a chic aesthetic that’s just right for a day by the water or at a chic resort bar for post-beach drinks. Complete the look with a pair of heels and a raffia bag for a truly unforgettable vacation ensemble.
