"One day I’ll be the travel girlie who plans all her clothes for vacation ahead of time and has a designated outfit for each day. Though I’m not quite there yet, I know a surefire way to get me there: vacation dresses. Wearing a dress on vacation is the perfect solution to all travel outfit woes and stressors. They’re one-and-done outfits that pack a major punch and save room in your suitcase—what more could you ask for?
Plus, you can pick them up at your local CVS right now!
A dress that makes the cut into your precious luggage space has to fit a few criteria. It should be comfortable enough to spend a full day in (especially if your upcoming trip will include a lot of walking), but versatile enough to be able to dress up for those coveted vacation dinners, too. Whether you’re a bold vacation fashion kinda girl and gravitate toward bright colors and loud patterns or prefer to keep it neutral, we found a trip-worthy dress that’ll make your heart sing.
Heading out of town soon? Simplify your packing experience and feel extra proud of your OOTDs with these 15 killer dresses.
The 15 Best Vacation Dresses of Summer 2023
The short vacation dresses
This versatile dress is one you can throw on and wear wherever the adventures of your day take you. Made out of a comfortable poplin material, the ruched bodice offers a super flattering cut that can be dressed up or down depending on the shoes you choose. Plus, the square neckline offers an opportunity to flaunt your sunkissed décolletage.
5 colors available
If you want your vacation dress to have a flair for the dramatics, a puff-sleeve number is for you. Play into the soft girl vibes that are trending this summer by pairing it with pearl accessories that’ll enhance the flowing femininity of the dress even more.
2 colors available
Black is trending this summer, and we couldn’t be happier about it—and this dress proves why. Its cut-out details, bell sleeves, and dark hue will bring some elevation to your vacation outfit. Plus, having a long-sleeve number ready to go is always a good idea should the weather turn a little chilly or windy at night.
2 colors available
The vacation maxi dresses
When I picture myself on my fantasy beach vacation, I’m always wearing a floral maxi dress with a halter neckline exactly like this one. IMO, nothing screams ‘vacation dress’ more than a halter neckline. It’s beachy, a little tropical, and special enough to make the cut for any big night out your vacation might entail.
The plus-size vacation dresses
Channel quiet luxury on your upcoming trip in this button-up shirtdress. Throw it on over your bathing suit for a pool day, or lean into its innately sophisticated vibe by pairing it with oval sunnies and a rafia bag. Post-beach drinks, anyone?
2 colors available
Want your vacation vibes to lean a little romantic? This eyelet lace dress is for you. Its sweetheart neckline and tie-front detail plays into the femininity and sweet vibe it gives. Pair it with your favorite sandals and gold jewelry for a date night vacation look or night out on the town.
4 colors available
The crochet vacation dress
A vacation isn’t complete without bringing out a little crochet OOTD, and this dress absolutely fits the bill. It comes with a removable satin slip, so you can wear it as an outfit at night or as a cover-up over your bathing suit during the day. The flowing length and adjustable keyhole closure in the back combine to make a sexy number you’ll want to wear more than once on your trip.
2 colors available
The colorful vacation dresses
This classic smocked dress provides prime breathability for days that you fear the weather will leave you feeling ultra sweaty. You can throw it on with sandals for a night out or a jacket and sneakers for a day of sight-seeing. Either way, it’ll take you to your day’s destinations in style.
3 colors available
If you’re taking a trip with your S.O., this corset dress has all the makings of a flawless vacation date night look. It’ll accentuate your chest in the most flattering way possible, and highlight your waist without being restricting. While it comes in five stunning colors, we’re partial to the green, which will look extra cute with a tan.
5 colors available
Whether you’re jetting off to a romantic beachside getaway or heading on a bachelorette party that might include a club trip or two, this dress is a sexy option that could work for both. The one-shoulder detail brings a touch of sophistication, while the form-fitting cut will leave you feeling like an absolute 10. For optimal wear, we'd recommend throwing your hair up to let the one-shoulder detail get the spotlight it deserves.
The floral vacation dresses
A floral dress is a vacation must-have, but if in-your-face florals aren’t quite your vibe, this botanical one was made for you. With more subtle foliage and gorgeous tie-straps, it’s a statement-maker all on its own.
3 colors available
Farm Rio’s iconic patterns are made for a tropical getaway, and this halter number is no exception. With a mini length that’ll let your tan legs be on display all day and a romantic ruffle detail, it’s vacation perfection.
Reformation is known for hitting it out of the park when it comes to dresses, and this one shows why. From the sweetheart neckline to the leg slit to the puffed sleeves, the magic is all in the details. Pair it with heeled sandals and a raffia bag and you’ll be ready to go.
2 colors available
The tropical vacation dress
Wrap dresses and vacations are a match made in heaven. This simple tank dress is more than meets the eye. Fitted with jacquard detailing throughout and a knot tie at the side, it’s ideal for sightseeing and providing comfort on your trip. When it comes to accessories, opt for something with metallic or shiny details. It’ll bring out the shimmering components of the jacquard leaves sewn throughout the dress.
2 colors available