How to Pick the Best Vacation Dresses

How to Pick the Best Vacation Dresses

The best vacation dresses are easy to pack and look great at dinner or the beach. Whether you love bright colors or super soft neutrals, there are plenty of options here.

Wrap dresses and vacations go hand-in-hand, and this simple maxi from Hillhouse is so much more than meets the eye. A jacquard pattern and knot tie accentuate the flattering silhouette of this dress, which is also comfortable enough to sleep in.

1. Ruched Bodice Dress

Make a statement with this Joseph Ribkoff black open sweetheart neckline ruched bodice midi dress. Made from a LENZING(tm) ECOVERO(tm) viscose that omits 50% less greenhouse gas emissions and uses up to 30% less water than conventional viscose, this eco-friendly dress has an elegant satin finish. From cocktail parties to birthday celebrations, you’ll draw all eyes with this flattering and chic piece. With a self-tie back, this midi dress is as functional as it is fabulous.

2. Puff-Sleeve Dress

For spring and summer there’s nothing better than a dress with dramatic puff sleeves. They’re romantic and chic, look really feminine and are very flattering, especially if the sleeves are done in a bright summery color.

If you’re looking for a more casual style, tuck a billowy puff sleeve dress into skinny ankle or midi jeans and pair with strappy sandals and fun jewelry. You can also wear the dress as is if you’re heading out to an evening event.

In the TV and film adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, Marilla Cuthbert’s reserved and goodhearted brother Matthew, vacation dresses brings Anne a brown dress with big puff sleeves to make her happy because he knows she dreams about them.

3. One-Shoulder Dress

Until recently, the one-shoulder dress was all but dead on the fashion scene—but as spring/summer collections come flooding into stores, this summer staple is back with a vengeance. According to Tanija Gobin, senior designer for womenswear at Banana Republic, this dress is “perfect for every party, wedding or Thursday date night.”

Whether it’s a short dress or maxi version—or even a midi version—there are tons of one-shoulder options out there, from floral prints to polka dots. The important thing to remember when wearing this style is to balance the asymmetry of the neckline with your accessories. For instance, avoid large hoop earrings because they can drown the look; instead opt for a pair of studs or a simple chain necklace.

A good rule of thumb is to stick with neutral colors for the base of your outfit and let the dress shine. If you want to add some color, consider a pair of bright shoes and/or a clutch that matches the dress’s hue.

4. Floral Dress

Whether you’re a bold vacation fashion kind of girl or prefer a more neutral look, a floral dress is the perfect go-to. Young says to look for dresses made out of breathable materials that are low-maintenance and easy to pack in a suitcase or duffel bag.

This midi floral print dress is great for spring vacations when you’re going to want to show off your sun-kissed skin. The ruched bodice adds dimension and helps to accentuate your curves, while the tie-straps lend a romantic feel. Play into the soft-girl vibes with pearl accessories and your favorite sunglasses for a dreamy outfit that’ll go well with the backdrops you’ll find on your trip.

If a floral dress is too feminine for you, this botanical option from Reformation might be just what you need. It’s the perfect length for brunches and outdoor weddings and looks beautiful with a pair of heels and a gauzy shawl when you’re heading out for cocktails with your S.O.

5. Botanical Dress

A stunning maxi dress to wear for a romantic night out, our Botanical Dress is crafted in silky white, blue and green satin fabric. Featuring an in-built bustier, long sleeves and flattering v-neckline with tie. Style this beauty with a pair of heels to complete the look.

Made from upcycled textile waste and decorated with handmade botanical monoprints, this sustainable dress illustrates how we can rethink textile waste. The dresses are made locally in Odense and the flora used were originally table cloths from Vraa Dampvaskeri that were meant to be discarded as textile waste.

Add a bold impression in the Estrella midi dress with our exclusive Boho Botanical print, vacation dresses a display of desert foliage and abstract shapes. This modern warm-weather staple has a keyhole halter neckline, cinched elastic waist and straps with adjustable ties so you can choose your ideal fit.

6. Crochet Dress

Embrace a laidback, feminine look with a crochet dress. Pair it with a straw hat, a lace shawl, a basket of fruit and a pair of strappy sandals for a vacation-ready outfit that can also withstand the heat.

Depending on the pattern and yarn, you may need additional tools to complete your crochet dress, such as scissors for cutting yarn and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. You’ll also need a hook that’s the recommended size for your chosen yarn, which can be found at most craft stores.

This fit and flare crochet dress uses the granny stitch for a gorgeous lace effect. The top-down pattern is beginner-friendly, and it includes instructions for sizes extra small, small, medium, large and extra-large.