Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
These Vacation Dresses Will Be the Heroes of Your Spring Wardrobe
Discover our favorite effortless styles for your next escape.
One of the best things about going on vacation is the exciting process of selecting outfits and accessories. Imagine wearing a flowy silk dress, frozen cocktail in hand, and watching the palms sway as the sun dips low over the horizon. I love to observe what everyone is wearing when I go on vacation, and recently, I’ve been drawn to vibrant prints and gauzy halter dresses that perfectly capture the allure of a tropical getaway.
The relaxed vacation-goer might be found lounging poolside, grabbing a spicy margarita at the bar, or window-shopping in the nearest fashion district. In this case, a suitcase packed with dresses of all lengths, slip-on shoes, and plenty of swimwear is essential!
If hot climates are your preferred choice, cotton and linen dresses are optimal due to their breathability and lightweight nature. A knit gown is perfect for an evening dinner, while a breezy white dress works well for a casual stroll on the beach. Slip-on midi and maxi styles are an easy choice because they can double as beach cover-ups. Just throw them on with flip-flops and jewelry, and you’re ready to go. Plenty of other options are always good to have on hand in case of an impromptu boat day or lunch in town!
If you’re resort-bound, stumped on what to pack, or simply looking for a new summer dress, read on as we’ve rounded up our 15 favorite vacation dresses for every occasion, from lounging on the beach to casual exploration.
This crochet-knit dress is the ultimate cover-up due to its super-stretch fabric and breezy keyhole cutout. The dress, adorned with a small gold-tone palm tree charm, and the blue and white wavy striped pattern celebrate the rising nautical trend. Consider wearing this with an oversized beach hat and oval sunglasses for an effortlessly cool beach lounging outfit.
Sizes: S/M, M/L
Materials: Cotton, acrylic
It doesn’t get more comfortable than this! Not only is this dress made out of cotton, it has a drawstring at the waist, and the shoulder straps have plenty of stretch! The sweetheart neckline gives it a romantic feel and makes it ideally suited to any laid-back vacation activity.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Cotton
This dress embodies the carefree spirit of a tropical getaway. It has a non-slip silicone neckline and plenty of bold character. Thanks to the lively print, you can keep accessories to a minimum and keep it simple with dainty earrings and coordinating sandals.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Materials: Viscose, spandex
This eye-catching shirt dress embraces the vibrant spirit of Brazil and has a mix of intricate prints in oranges, blues, and pinks. The top half has a waist-defining belt and pockets with delicate buttons. This dress can be worn with strappy heels for a cafe date or sneakers to maximize comfort while exploring.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Materials: Linen
Customer Review: “Love this Farm Rio dress. Unique and eye-catching print without being overwhelming. Very flattering fit. Will be a great spring wardrobe addition!”
This pure cotton dress is ideal for a relaxed day in the sun. Its silhouette has a flattering cinched waist and is understated and simple, so you can have fun accessorizing!
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: 5 options
Materials: Cotton
Customer Review: “It is beautifully flattering, and the material is lightweight, making it very comfortable and flattering. Just buy it, you won’t regret it!”
In color fittingly named Cascade blue, this dress has a stunning starburst pleated pattern and reminds us of crashing ocean waves breaking on the shore. Pair this with chunky gold earrings and a delicate sandal for a dinner on the beach.
Sizes: 00-14
Materials: Polyester
Made from shimmering stretch-knit fabric, this ready-to-party dress pays homage to Oséree’s swimwear roots. The shimmering frock is suspended from slinky chain straps, and the cups are padded so you can forgo a bra. Pair this with your favorite sandals and a cuff bracelet to pull everything together.
Sizes: S-XL
Materials: Polyamide, Metallic Fibers, Elastane
This dress is the optimal choice for chilly evening walks. The stretch knit fabrication is comfortable and breathable, while the long bell sleeves provide extra warmth. Wear it with a chunky slide to dress it down or a neutral pair of heels for a night-time look.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Polyester, viscose
Here’s a style made from crochet knit. It can be dressed up and down for any vacation outing. It features a fun asymmetrical fringe that will dance alongside you!
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Materials: Cotton, slub cotton
This dress is made for movement. If you like exploring or hiking, the material is comfortably stretchy and supportive. The dress features a built-in bra and shorts for extra coverage. The water-resistant fabric makes this an excellent choice for any activities where you might break a sweat.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Polyester, Elastane
This vibrant option features a fun, flowy silhouette and showcases artwork created in collaboration with Nadia Hernandez. The crisscross straps are adjustable to ensure the perfect fit.
Sizes: 0-12
Materials: Cotton
This bright berry-toned mini has flattering shirring and a comfortably stretchy bodice. It has a keyhole button back and slipover style, making it an easy, effortless option well-suited for long walks and lunch dates.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Cotton
Yes, you can find the perfect vacation dress on Amazon! This style is universally flattering, comes in 29 different colors, and is under $50. The long breezy style means you can also wear it as a cover-up on the beach or by the pool, and the stretchy bodice makes it a comfortable option for long walks and sightseeing.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Materials: Rayon
Colors: 29 options
Customer Review: “This is a great dress! I love the elastic-fitted top section. It hugs all the right spots, is not too tight, and does not sag or move around to where you are concerned about accidentally showing too much skin. It stays in place perfectly, and it looks great! It is breezy, a nice light material for the summer, but thick enough that it is not see-through.”
The Sirena dress from Rat & Boa features a draped shoulder detail, flower motif and draped back, making this a flattering design for an elegant vacation dinner. It also comes with adjustable straps and a lightweight fabric lining. Accessorize with a mini clutch and a gold hair clip to finish the look.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Materials: Viscose
This waist-cinching romantic dress has a bateau neckline, adjustable shoulder ties, and a center back slit for ease of movement. Pair it with low sling-back heels for a comfortable wine-tasting outfit or sneakers for a day of exploration.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Silk-viscose twill
Why Trust ELLE
Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
The 15 New Balance Sneakers We’re Loving This Year
Chic Virgo Gifts Every Earth Sign Will Adore
7 Chic Outfits to Wear to the U.S. Open
Fall’s Best Boots Are Surprisingly Hiding on Amazon
