It’s the most wonderful time of the year…not only for the holidays, but also for enjoying a relaxing winter getaway! With the break in kids’ school schedules, the end of December and the start of January are two popular weeks for traveling. And if you’re not jet setting this winter, then maybe you have an upcoming trip planned during Spring break. Either way, today I’m excited to dive into one of my favorite topics, resort wear, specifically casual resort wear!
Oftentimes it can get a bit confusing to understand the different types of dress codes at resorts. As someone who loves to travel, I always enjoy putting together casual resort wear looks. Today I’m going to share a few outfit tips as well as some favorite pieces this season. Whether you’re heading to a tropical island, visiting a resort in the south eastern US, or making a trip to my home state of Florida, these outfit ideas will be great for every resort! Just be sure to pack your other travel essentials before departing as well!
Types of Resort Wear
Depending upon the accommodation, there are a few standard types of resort wear. The most popular are casual resort wear, evening or “elegant” resort wear, and formal resort wear. Before you start packing, I highly recommend looking up your accommodation’s dress code. If there is anything specifically required or not allowed, they always have it laid out, so you can be prepared. This is super important because some restaurants, bars, etc. won’t let you inside if you’re not dressed appropriately.
WHAT IS CASUAL RESORT WEAR
Today I’m going to focus specifically on casual resort wear, as it is one of the most common dress codes that I encounter. Not only have I come across this requirement at hotels and resorts, but also when traveling on cruise ships.
I like to think of casual resort wear as being a step up from everyday casual, but a step down from formal attire. These are pieces that you can wear for everything from a a day of shopping or exploring a new city to a beachside lunch or dinner on resort. This might include loose, flowy dresses, linen pants and lightweight tops, cute matching sets or rompers, and casual shorts outfits. I always like to bring a lightweight cardigan as well, in case I get chilly.
I think sometimes it’s helpful to also know what a dress code does not include. Typically you will want to avoid wearing head-to-toe activewear, ripped jean shorts, offensive graphic shirts, or casual t-shirts. As for shoes, some guidelines will allow for flip flops, while others will not. However, you should be safe to wear a strappy “dressier” pair of sandal, heels, or flats.
Casual Resort Wear for Men & Kids
If you’re traveling with your significant other, you’ll want to make sure they’re aware of the dress code as well. For men, casual resort wear typically includes collared shirts or polos paired with lightweight shorts or pants. As for their shoes, they should be able to wear most sandals (except for flip flops) or loafers. Again, I would avoid dressing in full activewear outfits, graphic tees, or casual t-shirts. If you’re traveling with kids, they can follow these same adult guidelines.
Should I Pack Any Other Styles?
Personally, I always add a few dressier styles into my suitcase – ones that would be appropriate for more formal attire. I like to have a variety of options on hand, just in case. Even if the resort’s dress code is casual, I enjoy getting dressed up, especially for a special dinner while on vacation! This might include a more formal dress with heels for myself and blazers to layer over a button-down and pants for JB and the boys.
What About Swimwear?
You absolutely don’t want to forget to pack swimwear for a resort vacation! There usually aren’t any restrictions when it comes to swimwear styles. However, you probably won’t want to walk around in or dine in just a swimsuit. Even at a casual beachside lunch, most locations will require some type of coverup. So you’ll want to pack a sarong, cover up dress, or a caftan to throw on daily. And be sure to pack accessories to complete each outfit as well – statement earrings, stylish sun hats, and cute beach bags!
Casual Resort Wear Favorites
Okay, now that I’ve covered all of the dos and don’ts of casual resort wear, let’s get to the fun part…my favorites! As a warm-weather loving Florida girl, it’s no surprise that I get giddy each winter as the new resort collections roll out. The pops of color and fun cuts always make me so excited for upcoming travel adventures! I have already seen so many cute new styles launch this season – Here are some of my favorites.
Resort Dresses
I’m kicking it off with one of my favorite casual resort wear categories…dresses! Not only do I tend to favor dresses while on vacation because they’re cute and fun to wear, but also because they’re comfortable and keep me cool in warm climates. Many of these styles can be dressed up for a formal look as well.
Green Crochet Maxi
From the different shades of green and fun print to the crochet fabric and one shoulder details, I love everything about this dress! Pair it with sandals for a beachside dinner or dress it up with heels for a more formal look.
Blue Toile Midi
This Staud dress is one that I reach for over and over again…I own it in multiple colors and fabrics, it’s that good! I love this blue toile print. Pair it with sandals for a casual resort wear look.
Yellow Embroidered Shift
Admittedly, this yellow embroidered shift dress is more on the formal side, but I just had to include it! The details and vivid colors are beautiful.
One Shoulder Maxi
The black and white tropical print on this one shoulder dress is timeless, but also fun! And I love the pops of blue. This piece would look great paired with gold jewelry.
Casual Resort Wear Outfits
In addition to packing lots of dresses, I also like to pack some mix-and-match tops and bottoms. It’s always nice to have a variety of options. Sometimes you just don’t know what you’ll feel like wearing until you’re there!
Crochet Detail Blouse
A classic white blouse is always a great option, especially when vacationing. The crochet trim details and flowy billow sleeves on this one take it to the next level!
Floral Crop Flare Pants
Say hello to the most beautiful pair of pants you’ve ever seen! I mean, how fun are these!? I can’t get over the gorgeous floral print, scallop details, and classic flare shape.
White Wide-Leg Pants
A great pair of white pants is a casual resort wear “must”. They allow for endless outfit options! I love the trendy, yet timeless, wide leg and high waist on these.
Swimwear
No vacation wardrobe is complete without swimwear! Not only am I loving all of the new swimsuits that have recently launched, but the cover-ups are equally as cute!
FLORAL ONE PIECE
I always love this brand’s swimwear and clothing, and this one piece suit is no exception. The print is beautiful, and the pearl shoulder straps are so sweet! Bonus…there’s a matching sarong!
CHOCOLATE BROWN BIKINI
If you’re a bikini girl, I love the timeless style of this swimsuit. And the chocolate brown color is very “in” right now!
FLORAL Tunic Dress
This floral tunic dress can be worn as a casual resort wear outfit paired with sandals or layered over a swimsuit as a cover up. The colors and fabric are beautiful, and it has pockets!
Casual Resort Wear Accessories
One of my favorite parts of packing for an upcoming vacation is laying out all of the fun accessories for each outfit! From sandals and jewelry to bags and sunglasses, there are so many great pieces to add personality to your looks.
Lorna Murray Hat
These are my go-to hats anytime I’m visiting a tropical resort. They look just as great paired with dresses as they do with swimsuits.
Raffia Platform Sandals
I always like to pack at least one pair of heels for any vacation. This raffia platform pair is perfect because it matches everything!
Green Sunnies
If you’re looking for a new pair of sunglasses that are as chic as they are cool, look no further. The green color and gold details on these are so good!
Casual Resort Wear 2024
Since it’s only the first week of December, this is just the start of resort collection launches. I’m eager to see what new styles roll out in the coming weeks. And I’m especially excited for my upcoming Sail to Sable resort collection with my sister Molly! The collection is now available for pre-order (the launch date is 12/12). It features special pieces that are near and dear to our hearts (including some additional casual resort wear pieces!) Stay tuned, friends!
And if you’re ready to plan a vacation after seeing all of these new arrivals, be sure to check out my favorite tropical islands, the best resorts in the south eastern US, and my recommendations on where to stay in Florida.
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