One of the best parts of every vacation is creating a packing list and shopping for the occasion. It makes the planning process more fun and gives you a boost of confidence when you step out of your resort suite in an outfit that feels on-theme with the ambiance. If you’re visiting a beach destination, then you’ll want to add a handful of dresses to your cart.
Look for flowy silhouettes and lightweight fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable in a variety of environments. As for design, a beach vacation gives you an opportunity to play with bold colors and patterns. Consider cool blue, bright green, light pink, and orange hues in nautical and floral patterns. If you lean toward understated styles, sandy shades or simple white options are perfectly suitable for a bohemian beach aesthetic.
Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise, a Mediterranean escape, or a quaint seaside town, finding a selection of beach-ready dresses will get you extra excited to turn on that “out of office” email.
Here are a few of our favorite dresses to pack for any beach destination.
FARM RIO BEACH FOREST PRINT MAXI DRESS
Bold and beautiful, this Farm Rio dress has “beach vacation” written all over it. Made of high-quality, 100% viscose, this maxi features a plunging neckline and back, structured cap sleeves, and a unique cut-out in front. We’re especially drawn to the tropical print and vibrant color combo.
To Buy: nordstrom.com, $285
RAMY BROOK MAXINE METALLIC MINI BEACH DRESS
Metallic gold accents make this elevated cover-up feel fancy and fresh. The tassel-tie waist creates a flattering cinch, while the long sleeves will keep your arms covered from the sun. The best part? This boho cover-up is machine washable.
To Buy: bergdorfgoodman.com, $295
LA VIE STYLE HOUSE 3D FLORAL LACE MAXI COVER-UP CAFTAN
This isn’t your average swimsuit cover-up. Featuring crisp white 3D floral lace, bell sleeves, and a caftan silhouette, this should be packed in your suitcase for every beach location on your calendar this spring and summer.
To Buy: nordstrom.com, $850
BROCHU WALKER THE HAVANA DRESS
Comfortable, versatile, and easy to throw on over your swimwear, Brochu Walker’s Havana Dress is a must in your travel wardrobe. It comes in 18 neutral and bold colors — from beige and black to hot pink and tangerine — so you can find the one (or two) that best suits your style.
To Buy: brochuwalker.com, $348
FARM RIO TROPICAL FOREST OFF-WHITE T-SHIRT DRESS
Have you seen a more fitting print for any beach destination? We love the playful tropical pattern and the tassel waistline detail, not to mention that the shorter hemline, flowy fit, and 100% cotton fabric will keep you cool in the heat.
To Buy: farmrio.com, $135
LELEM ALEM COTTON COVER-UP A-LINE DRESS
The nautical vibe of this dress would look right at home on a yacht or under a beach cabana. The color-block print is elegant and modern, while the loose fit adds movement and makes it easy to pull on and off. Plus, it’s hand-spun and woven from pure cotton.
To Buy: nordstrom.com, $375
A.L.C. BLAIR DRESS
The halter neckline and open back on this maxi are sexy yet sophisticated. The dip-dyed baby blue and brown pattern, airy skirt, and cotton fabric make it perfect for any seaside locale. Pair it with strappy sandals and silver accessories to elevate the final look.
To Buy: revolve.com, $595
LILLY PULITZER BECCALYN HALTER MAXI DRESS
Lilly Pulitzer is best known for its adventurous and colorful aesthetic, and this pretty pink number is sure to give you a boost of confidence on your next vacation. We especially love the tiered silhouette and halter neckline. The best part? It has pockets!
To Buy: lillypulitzer.com, $398
FRANK & EILEEN RORY MAXI SHIRTDRESS
Linen is the ultimate fabric for warm-weather destinations, as it’s lightweight and reflects heat. If you’re looking for a casual and versatile linen ensemble, this button-up shirt-dress from Frank & Eileen is it. Whether you’re grabbing lunch by the pool, exploring the town, or relaxing by the water, toss this on with your favorite sunnies and you’re ready to go.
To Buy: frankandeileen.com, $308
RAMY BROOK AYA HALTER MIDI DRESS
This body-skimming blue dress reminds us of the ocean waves. The eye-catching pattern and medallion knit fabric combined with the thin strap halter neckline and keyhole in the bodice make this a no-fail option for your next beach getaway.
To Buy: ramybrook.com, $465
FARM RIO YELLOW FLORAL YARD MINI DRESS
Vibrant and fun, this sunny yellow frock covered in colorful florals will be your new favorite vacation outfit. The quarter-length puff sleeves are feminine yet modern, while the mini length adds a playful touch.
To Buy: farmrio.com, $200
MATTEAU + NET SUSTAIN HALTERNECK MIDI DRESS
If you’re more drawn to neutral tones, look no further than this black midi from MATTEAU, which is made with a comfortable organic cotton and silk-blend. The ruched bodice offers an eye-catching touch, while the spaghetti straps and lace-up back add subtle sexiness.
To Buy: net-a-porter.com, $580
ISABEL MARANT ERIKA EMBROIDERED RAMIE MIDI DRESS
When in doubt, an all-white day dress is perfect for any beach setting. We can’t resist this Isabel Marant fit-and-flare option, complete with a button-up bodice, effortlessly flowy skirt, and intricate yet delicate paisley embroidery.
To Buy: net-a-porter.com, $1, 470
JALINE RESORT KATHERINE LEAF PRINT MAXI DRESS
This resort-ready maxi dress is sure to stand out, thanks to its kimono sleeves, flattering wrap skirt, and eye-catching leaf pattern. We also love that it’s easy to slip on over your swimsuit so that you can go straight from the beach to a seaside dinner.
To Buy: jalineresort.com, $695
CHARO RUIZ NISSY SMOCKED SCALLOPED BRODERIE ANGLAISE MINI DRESS
From the intricate embroidery to the ruffled hemline and airy cotton blend, there is nothing not to love about this dress. Style it with an oversized sunhat and a rattan bag, and you’re ready to hit the sand. We especially love this blue and white beauty for a summer vacation in Greece.
To Buy: net-a-porter.com, $825
Featured Image Courtesy of GERARDO MR via Unsplash
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