A vacation dress has two jobs. It has to survive a suitcase, and it has to work for more than one plan. We pack for three situations: daytime exploring, dinner, and one dressed-up night. Every dress below comes in a full size run, and most are under $170.
For daytime
- Lottie Dress ($68.99, sizes XXS to 6X). A coral midi with a lace-trimmed sweetheart neckline, a corset-style bodice, and pockets. The lace-up back lets you adjust the fit, which helps on a hot day.
- Bali Dress ($108.99, sizes XXS to 6X). A cream and coffee polka dot halter maxi with an empire waist and pockets.
- Daze Dress ($108.99, sizes XXS to 6X). A red gingham midi you can wear all day.
For dinner
- Tahiti Dress ($98.99, sizes XXS to 6X). An orange ruched maxi with an asymmetrical sleeve and a slit.
- Sanica Dress ($118.99, sizes XXS to 6X). A strapless fuchsia maxi in stretch fabric, with a detachable neck scarf. Wear the scarf one night and skip it the next.
For the dressed-up night or destination wedding
- Santorini Dress ($118.99, sizes 00 to 34). A strapless satin maxi that fades from orange into pink, with a built-in bra and a stretch bodice. Made for golden hour.
- Kimberly Dress ($228, sizes 00 to 34). A strapless blue babydoll gown with a floor-length skirt.
Packing tips
- Roll satin and ruched dresses instead of folding them. Hang them in a steamy bathroom when you arrive.
- Strapless styles with a built-in bra or stretch bodice save you from packing a strapless bra.
- Pockets matter more on vacation than anywhere else.
Common questions
What should I wear to a beach destination wedding?
A floor-length dress in a light fabric and a bright color. Skip trains, which drag in sand, and skip white.
Are strapless dresses supportive in larger sizes?
Look for a built-in bra, boning, or a stretch bodice. The Santorini Dress has a built-in bra and a stretch bodice. The Sanica Dress uses sculpted stretch fabric.
How do I choose between two sizes?
Size up for fitted bodices, and use the fit note on each product page. See the size guide.