5 Vacation Dresses That Can Double As Casual and Dressy

Whether you’re jetting off to far-flung destinations or exploring closer to home, your travel wardrobe needs some vacation-worthy pieces. To get the most out of your trip-ready outfits, look for pieces that can double as casual and dressy options.

Young recommends looking for dresses made from lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics like linen and cotton. Plus, they should be easy to slip on and off as needed during the day and for those coveted vacation dinners.

1. Ruched Bodice Dress

The ruched bodice on this dress accentuates your curves and gives you a flattering silhouette. It’s perfect for homecoming or any other formal event.

A directionally ruched effect cinches this glitter tulle A-line dress, finished with a multi-tiered ruffle skirt.

Made-to-Order This style is custom-crafted just for you from the highest quality materials. Your order will be produced and vacation dresses shipped after we receive your payment and measurements. This ensures a flawless fit and helps reduce waste. Please allow 1 – 2 business days for production. Thank you!

2. Puff Sleeve Dress

Puff sleeves are a huge trend this season and the right dress can instantly flatter your figure. Look for a maxi dress with dainty pink puff sleeves or try a midi style like this one from River Island.

White dresses work well with puff sleeves as they elongate the body, while a classic pink style is ideal for warmer weather. Style with a pair of sandals and a simple bag for a summery daytime outfit.

This dress is a staple for parties, dinners out, and bottomless brunches, says Thomas’ client Tamara Mena. Just add heels and a chic mini bag to elevate it for evening wear.

3. Crochet Dress

Whether you’re planning on saying “I do” in the sand or just want to add some ethereal texture to your summer wardrobe, there are plenty of elevated crochet styles. Try a breezy mini in the prettiest pink, like this halter dress from Mango, or go full-body with intricate lace that creates an allover see-through effect, as seen on these dresses from Cult Gaia and Staud.

This black crochet bodycon mini gives me all the Italian beach vibes and comes with a flattering tassel belt detail. Pair it with gold strappy heels for date night after your getaway.

4. One Shoulder Dress

A one shoulder dress is a flattering choice for all body shapes. The neckline frames your face and looks gorgeous when pulled back. Choose earrings, a clutch bag and strappy heels to complete your look.

Avoid wearing a necklace with this type of dress as it can interfere with the beautiful neckline. Instead, wear a dainty bracelet or a choker that sits close to the neck.

Also, make sure your bra straps don’t show through the dress! It’s a major fashion faux pas. Wear a strapless bra for a clean and elegant look.

5. Botanical Dress

Originally table cloths in Danish restaurants, this upcycled textile was destined to become textile waste before being transformed into this sustainable floral dress. Each botanical print is handmade making this a one-of-a-kind piece.

The Tifton midi dress features a bold botanical print with puff sleeves for an eye-catching look. The halter neckline and figure flattering elastic waist make it the perfect summer dress for garden vacation dresses parties, summer strolls or any warm-weather event. This dress can be hand or machine washed.

6. Ruffle Halter Dress

No one will be able to take their eyes off you in this showstopping floral ruffled halter mini dress. With a ruched design and self-tie bowknot, the woven style will make you feel chic and feminine. Perfect for parties, dates and more, this dress will have you feeling Amalfi Coast ready in no time. Pair this halter mini dress with heels and a chic bag for an effortless yet sophisticated look. Allover clip dot print, V-neckline with ruffle trim, self-tie halter straps and caged back design with side cutouts and elasticized back waist.

7. Puffed Sleeve Dress

The puffed sleeve has been an iconic style since Princess Anne’s first royal blue dress, and reached its apex with the Gigot sleeve (named for the way it was designed to resemble the hind leg of an animal). For the perfect holiday look, go for a simple jersey puff sleeve mini dress with fine jewellery and a minimal bag.

Or, elevate your eveningwear with a ribbed balloon sleeve dress in white or blush pink. Add a pair of chunky lace-up boots and a shoulder bag for an elegant finish.

8. Button-Up Shirtdress

A shirt dress is a must-have for any travel wardrobe because it’s a breezy and comfy alternative to jeans or shorts. The classic design plays on menswear tailoring and features a collar, buttons and long sleeves. This Cctoo green polka dot dress is the perfect vacation staple because of its lightweight fabric and it’s currently on sale for $25. Plus, it’s made by a sustainable and ethical women-owned company. Pair it with espadrilles or slides for a casual style.

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10. One Shoulder Dress

One shoulder dresses bare just the right amount of skin to make you look chic and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking for a party dress for a Friday night out or a date night ensemble, a one-shoulder dress is the perfect choice for you.

If you want to wear a necklace, avoid anything with straps as it can detract from the elegant neckline of your one-shoulder dress. Opt for a choker instead that won’t interfere with your beautiful neckline. Complete the look with a dainty pendant and hoop earrings.