13 Vacation Dresses That Deserve to be in Your Summer Travel Wardrobe Rotation
Whether you're on a boat ride in Venice or tanning in Miami, these chic vacation dresses are summer travel must-haves.
We can all agree that vacation dresses are crucial for any summer getaway packing list. Due to the endless list of versatile styles, vacation dresses have long since become a travel staple, a go-to in the suitcase for day-to-night statement looks. Slip dresses, tiered dresses, halter-necklines, mini hemlines, sheer dresses, crochet numbers, throw these pieces over a bikini and you're good to for the day whilst serving model off-duty realness. Not only is there a silhouette for everyone, but each dress type boasts numerous styling possibilities. From minimal jewelry to maximal accessories, anyone can create an attention-grabbing look regardless of the vacation dresses they packed.
More importantly, these summer dresses have perfected the sought-after ease essential to any travel ensemble, proving to be a chic yet comfortable outfit choice. Whether you're living your Tomato Girl summer on a Grecian island, basking under the summer sun with the girls in Miami, or visiting museums during your dream European vacation, vacation dresses are the one reliable outfit suited for any travel spots around the world.
Thanks to the brands that have gotten the memo that vacation dresses deserve a spot in the carry-on, there are plenty of options to choose from ahead of the next summer getaway. To help find the best one regardless of your travel destination, L'OFFICIEL has found the best vacation dresses for every type of personal style.
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With its floral pattern, puff sleeves, and romantic allure, this dreamy mini dress is fitting for tea with the Bridgerton's. It can be styled down with a pair of ballet flats for a day of vintage shopping and then effortlessly transitioned into a formal dinner look with kitten heels and gold jewelry.
Charo Ruiz Ibiza Floral Mini Dress, $517, Farfetch
For the boho traveler, vacation dresses with flowy silhouettes are a must. Thanks to its voluminous sleeves, peekaboo front cutout, and lightweight texture, this midi dress is the perfect merge between timeless and trendy.
Boteh Mar floral-print organic-cotton dress, $397, Matches
Perfect to wear while spending the night dancing, this charming dress has subtle odes to the '60s with its metallic effect and short hemline. Its dark pink colorway is a low-key way to hop on summer's biggest color trend (vibrant pink) without being too bold.
Oséree Metallic-Fffect V-Neck Dress, $335, Farfetch
Don't let the knit fool you, this halter-neck dress makes the cut for best vacation dresses for a reason. It's nothing less than a total eye-catcher. The contrasting stripes add a bit of edge, while the accentuating silhouette encapsulates a level of sensuality. It's great for a post-tan dinner look and can be minimally styled with thong sandals and a chic clutch.
Halter Neck Sweater Dress, $120, Current Air
It's like the sheer dress trend, but make it vacation-worthy. This crochet midi dress by Nia Thomas is the epitome of versatility, easily utilized as a crochet coverup or a casual day dress worn over a bodysuit or a matching bra and panty set. Try styling with flat sandals and a chic straw beach bag.
Nia Thomas High Priestess Dress, $725, Shopbop
The color-blocked stripes, keyhole neckline, and bow tied in the back all add to this dress's fashion-forward allure. Its adjustable shoulder straps and loose silhouette make it fitting for all body types and will be sure to turn heads no matter where you're vacationing this summer.
A Potts Tiered Maxi Dress, $1,095, Shopbop
The best vacation dresses are the ones you can wear from day to night. This vibrant crochet knit number is a summer getaway standout, that has an effortless ease to wear comfortably under the summer breeze. The throw-on style makes it an easy go-to when looking for something quick but cute, and the patchwork pattern and subtle scallop finishes add a contemporary flair to the outfit.
Alice + Olivia Veronique Mini Dress, $440, Shopbop
Not a fan of vacation dresses? This strapless number looks like a mini dress at first glance but is actually a sporty romper. It has all the makings of a traditional travel dress thanks to its backless cutout, ruched bodice, and lightweight texture, but is a fun alternative to the expected night-out mini dress.
Susana Monaco Tube Cut Out Gathered Romper, $168, Shopbop
According to TikTok, fashion inspired by fruit is all the rage. Interpret the rising trend literally with this fruit appliquéd crochet piece. It's a fun and vibrant take on vacation dresses for the contemporary wearer.
Staud Mini Maracuya Knit Dress, $295, Shopbop
Who doesn't love a little white dress? This babydoll-inspired silhouette is for the ultimate romantic, a must-have pick when packing vacation dresses for a European summer getaway.
Channel your inner Tomato Girl with this bright red summer look. As you enjoy your vacation off the grid on the Amalfi Coast, this effortless silhouette with cross-tie detailing and a smocked waist is a charming number to wear as you take a stroll through the local garden.
Red Sleeveless Midi Dress, $210, Farm Rio
When in doubt, a slip dress will never lead you astray. An elevated take on a classic silhouette, this azure bias cut number is a closet staple that can be worn for all-day use and easily styled.
There Was One Satin Slip Dress, $286, Farfetch
If you're in search of the perfect beach dress, look no further. This tiered style has a vibrant floral pattern that feels fresh while the haltered neckline adds a touch of romanticism. The styling options are endless as you can wear it on its own for a day-to-day look or throw it on top of your bikini for a beach day 'fit.
Textured Botanical Tiered Tank Dress, $48, Sophie & Hailee
