LSPACE
Resort Style Dresses Are the Easiest Way to Look Luxe on Vacation—These Are the Ones I’m Styling
Resort style dresses are the easiest shortcut to looking instantly put-together while on vacation — trust me, I learned this the hard way. For years, I’d pack overcomplicated outfits in the hopes of channeling that effortless holiday aesthetic, only to end up feeling fussy, overdressed, or just plain uncomfortable.
The thing is, when you’re chasing golden hour across cobbled streets or making impromptu dinner plans after a beach day, you don’t want to be thinking about outfit formulas. You want to feel like your most relaxed, radiant self — and a resort dress does exactly that.
My turning point came during a summer trip to the Amalfi Coast. In a last-minute packing decision, I threw in a gauzy, citrus-toned slip dress that I had never worn before. It was light, uncomplicated, and took up barely any space in my carry-on. On the first night, after a shower and a swipe of lip balm, I slipped it on, paired it with flat sandals and a scarf in my hair — and something clicked. I looked in the mirror and felt that elusive this-is-it energy. It was the most effortless I’d ever felt in a vacation look, and ironically, the one I’d planned the least.
That’s what makes resort style dresses so powerful: they don’t ask much of you. No complex layering, no elaborate styling. Just one beautiful piece, easy to throw on, and suddenly you’re the main character in a travel film. The way they flow, catch the light, and hint at the mood of the destination — they’re both a style statement and a travel companion.
And it’s not just about aesthetics. Resort dresses are quite practical, especially in climates where heat and humidity make denim feel like a punishment. Think soft cottons, breezy linens, lightweight silks — fabrics that breathe, move, and keep you cool without sacrificing style. You can wear one to breakfast with flip-flops and again that evening with a pair of statement earrings and a spritz of perfume. They are, quite literally, the definition of versatile.
In recent years, I’ve also started seeing resort style dresses as a quiet antidote to the overconsumption narrative that dominates the fashion space. Instead of buying five different outfits for five different dinners, one thoughtfully chosen dress can carry you through the week. Add a scarf, swap shoes, layer on a belt — it’s a mini wardrobe in a single garment. That kind of functionality feels luxurious in its own right.
Now, before every trip, I start my packing list with the same question: What’s my resort dress this time? Not which shoes or how many swimsuits — just one piece that can set the tone for the rest of the week. Because when you find the right one, it becomes more than just a dress. It’s a feeling — of ease, of beauty, of presence. And that’s exactly how I want to feel when I’m away.
DELPHINE
L'IDEE
These Resort Style Dresses Make You Look Luxe With Zero Effort
Resort style dresses should be your first choice when going on a vacation — and I say that as someone who’s packed (and overpacked) for more trips than I’d like to admit. But somewhere between the chaos of airport security and my third travel-sized moisturizer leaking in my toiletry bag, I learned the power of one good dress. You know the one — easy to throw on, makes you feel instantly polished, and somehow takes you from beach to dinner without missing a beat. Resort dresses are that kind of magic. And right now, they’re having a serious fashion moment.
Vacation style used to be all about the cover-up or the kaftan. But now, the resort dress landscape has expanded — from crisp shirts to playful cutouts to minimalist slips that feel almost too good to be that easy. These dresses are no longer just what you pack for vacation — they’re the reason you look forward to packing at all.
Here are 10 resort style dresses worth obsessing over this season, and exactly why they belong in your suitcase.
The Cutout Midi
Equal parts sexy and sophisticated, the cutout midi is your not-so-basic resort upgrade. Think peekaboo sides, open backs, or front slashes that still feel chic (never clubby).
Pack it because: It’s the easiest way to serve main-character energy without doing too much. Perfect for golden hour cocktails.
The Oversized Shirt Dress
This one has “effortless rich aunt” energy. The shirt dress is structured but soft, dramatic but wearable. Bonus points for exaggerated cuffs or an asymmetric hem.
Pack it because: You can wear it as a dress, as a swim cover-up, or unbuttoned over biker shorts. It’s that versatile.
The Strapless Column
Strapless is making a quiet comeback, and I am here for it. These straight, minimal silhouettes feel timeless but fresh — a little 90s, a little Greek goddess.
Pack it because: It’s sleek, minimal, and ideal for dinner dates or rooftop nights with zero extra styling needed.
The Crochet Maxi
The ultimate cool-girl beach dress. These are longer, looser, and less precious than they used to be — now with modern cuts and earthy colors.
Pack it because: It works over swimwear or with nude slip lining for dinner. Also: texture in photos = instant luxury.
The Printed Slip
A forever classic. Whether it’s tropical florals or abstract swirls, printed slips are breezy, packable, and easy to wear again and again.
Pack it because: It folds down to nothing and always looks chic — even with flip-flops and beach hair.
The Smocked Sundress
Smocking is back in a big way, especially in strapless or puff-sleeved styles. It’s feminine, stretchy, and ultra flattering.
Pack it because: It’s comfortable enough for sightseeing and cute enough for sunset selfies. Plus: no bra needed.
The One-Shoulder Moment
Asymmetric silhouettes are having a major run this season, and the one-shoulder dress is quietly leading the pack. Simple, modern, and unexpected.
Pack it because: It adds just the right amount of edge, especially in lightweight jersey or silk. Easy to dress up, easy to rewear.
The Tiered Maxi
This one’s all about volume — billowy tiers, romantic ruffles, and just enough movement to catch the breeze as you walk.
Pack it because: It’s the statement-maker that still feels comfortable. Bonus: it hides any post-beach bloating.
The Halter Neck Dress
Retro-inspired but somehow always current, halters are big this season. Think keyhole fronts, backless details, or rope-style ties.
Pack it because: It draws attention to the shoulders (hello, sun-kissed glow) and pairs perfectly with chunky bangles or gold cuffs.
The Caftan 2.0
We’re not talking about your grandmother’s dress. The new caftans are architectural, with sharp tailoring or elevated fabrics like silk crepe or metallic cotton.
Pack it because: It’s drama with zero discomfort — ideal for days when you want to look incredible with minimal effort.
What I’ve realized after years of “panic packing” is this: a small handful of the right dresses beats a giant suitcase full of mismatched outfits. With resort style dresses, you really don’t need much. Pick two or three that hit different moods — one romantic, one sleek, one bold — and you’ll have a full vacation wardrobe.
These dresses also work hard. One can take you from breakfast by the beach to a boat ride to a candlelit dinner, all with a few accessory swaps. Add sandals, layer with a scarf, throw on bold earrings — and suddenly you’ve created a whole new look.
More than that, they allow you to be present. You’re not fussing with your outfit or checking for creases. You’re living. And feeling like your best, sun-drenched self while doing it.
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SELKIE The Poet Printed Slip Dress
$398 -
FARM RIO Sleeveless V-Neck Cutout A-Line Maxi Dress
$280 -
RO'S GARDEN Cotton Flutter-Sleeve Midi Dress
$265 -
KISS THE SKY Off-The-Shoulder Bell Sleeve Maxi Dress
$89 -
LEO LIN Bianca Short Sleeve Midi Dress
$595 -
DRESS THE POPULATION Janis Flutter-Sleeve Lace Maxi Dress
$698 -
BEC & BRIDGE Riva Maxi Dress
$280 -
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Asymmetric Ruffled Printed Silk-satin Maxi Dress
$3,600 -
SIR. Roisin Halter Midi Dress
$420 -
CINQ À SEPT Midsummer Bloom Magy Gown
$695 -
LA DOUBLEJ Marlene Floral-print Silk-crepe Maxi Dress
$1,290 -
GIAMBATTISTA VALLI Floral-print Cotton-poplin Peplum Maxi Dress
$4,550
How to Style Resort Dresses (and Still Look Like a Luxe Getaway Muse)
Resort style dresses are the quiet heroes of any vacation wardrobe. They’re easy, breezy, and endlessly reliable — the kind of pieces you can reach for without overthinking, knowing you’ll look put-together no matter where your itinerary takes you. Over the years, I’ve learned that while trends may come and go, there are a few classic resort dresses that always make it into my suitcase. And with just a little styling intention, they can go from casual to effortlessly elevated in seconds.
The flowy maxi dress is a no-brainer. It’s the one that makes you feel like you’re gliding through your vacation, even if you’re just heading down to breakfast. I tend to gravitate toward breathable fabrics like cotton or viscose, often in muted prints or sun-faded tones. For daytime, I’ll throw it on with leather sandals and a slouchy tote. But come evening, I slick my hair back, add some bold earrings, and switch to barely-there heels — suddenly, it feels like a whole new look.
Wrap dresses are another staple that I’ll never stop packing. They’re flattering on every body, endlessly adjustable, and just structured enough to feel polished. If it’s breezy or I’m in and out of air-conditioned shops, I’ll layer a lightweight linen blazer over the top and tie a silk scarf around my ponytail. A pair of espadrilles and a woven clutch instantly make it feel like I belong in a café in Italy.
Of course, no vacation is complete without a good slip dress. Lightweight, sultry, and surprisingly adaptable, it’s my go-to for hot nights when I want to feel cool and chic without piling on the accessories. I’ll style it with a sheer wrap, simple sandals, and one statement cuff or a pair of sculptural earrings. It’s barely a look — in the best way.
Lastly, there’s the tiered sundress — breezy, playful, and full of movement. This one is made for long lunches, market strolls, and those in-between moments when you want to feel a little romantic. I usually keep the styling simple: hair up, no-fuss sandals, and a raffia bag slung over one shoulder. It’s the kind of look that says “I’m on holiday” without even trying.
What I love most about these resort style dresses is how little they demand from you. They travel well, they photograph beautifully, and they give you the freedom to enjoy your time away instead of stressing over outfits. With a few smart accessories and some thoughtful layering, even the most common silhouettes can feel endlessly fresh. And at the end of the day, isn’t that the point of vacation dressing — to feel like your best, most effortless self?
Shop The Best Resort Style Dresses
MISA LOS ANGELES
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