Ready for your next exotic getaway but unsure of what to pack? While you may be spending most of your time near the water or exploring nearby hiking trails or cultural landmarks, it’s smart to pack more than sexy designer swimwear and your favorite athletic wear for the journey. Even if you want to keep the packing as light as possible, there’s always room for a few outfits when the occasion calls for elegant attire.

But what is elegant resort attire, and what kind of clothing is appropriate for this dress code? Don’t let the term “elegant” throw you off from what’s expected when staying at a resort. It doesn’t necessarily mean formal resort attire where you'd have to dress to the nines in a gown with perfectly styled hair and a full face of makeup. However, the expectation does mean wearing more than a swimsuit cover up and flip-flops when you’re out dining or attending different events. Luckily, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about resort dress codes, offering practical tips, stylish suggestions, and cultural considerations to help you look and feel your best throughout your stay!

When preparing for your resort vacation, understanding the dress code is more than just following rules — it's about enhancing your entire experience! How you dress can highly influence your comfort, confidence, and overall vibe of the setting. Knowing when to go for casual wear versus formal resort attire allows you to blend seamlessly into the environment while still standing out. Whether you're lounging by the pool in resort casual attire or dining at an elegant restaurant in resort evening wear, the right outfit can also make you feel effortlessly chic and truly part of this luxurious environment.

Resort Casual Attire

Compared to resort elegant attire, resort casual attire is significantly pared down. Shorts, cover-ups, and sandals are all welcome to wear. It’s all about relaxed elegance, perfect for daytime activities and casual dining. This dress code typically includes comfortable yet stylish pieces like linen pants, casual dresses, and strappy sandals.

However, if you’re staying at a resort, think about the style of shorts or cover-ups you want to wear. You can stay comfortable and classy at the same time with printed shorts over cutoffs, long elegant cover ups rather than ratty tees, and sandals that are easy to wear but still convey a polished look. Ideal for wandering around the resort, grabbing a bite at a beachfront café, or exploring local shops, resort casual wear should be both functional and fashionable.

Key Pieces for Resort Casual Attire

• Casual Dresses - Go for breezy, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. A casual dress in a light color or floral print is perfect for staying cool and looking chic.
• Linen Pants and Skirts - Linen is the fabric of choice for resort casual wear, offering both comfort and style. Pair your linen pants with a light blouse or a tank top for a casual yet polished look.
• Strappy Sandals - Whether you're walking on the beach or exploring the resort grounds, strappy sandals are the perfect footwear choice. They add a touch of elegance to your casual outfit while keeping you comfortable.

 Resort Elegant Attire

Resort elegant attire is typically reserved for evening wear. After you’ve spent the day adventuring and are ready for a relaxing night filled with delicious food, cocktails, and entertainment, it’s time to change your look from day to night. This dress code is perfect for evening dining venues or cocktail hours, where a touch of sophistication is required.

Popular resort elegant attire includes maxi dresses, beach skirts (with thicker fabrics and fuller coverage), and jumpsuits. Adding designer sleeveless tops to your ensemble can also elevate your look, especially when paired with elegant beach sandals or low heels to create an elegant resort dress code.

In certain situations, a beach mini dress and a pair of stilettos may be called for, but rarely is an evening gown and excess jewelry necessary for where you’re at. During the day, beach dresses are a wardrobe staple for resort elegant attire. They’re comfortable, flattering, and fashionable all in one outfit. Plus, they don’t take up much space in the suitcase. Roll up your favorite styles to conserve packing room and have an assortment of options available when traveling. One of the keys to resort wear fashion is to dress it up or down with beach accessories.

Resort Evening Wear

Now, resort evening wear is your chance to truly shine. This dress code is more formal than resort elegant attire, often seen at upscale dining venues or special events at the resort. Evening wear includes more structured pieces like cocktail dresses, suits, and formal resort attire, designed to make you feel glamorous as you enjoy the night.

Key Pieces for Resort Evening Wear

• Cocktail Dresses - A cocktail dress in a luxurious fabric like silk or chiffon is perfect for resort evening attire. Choose one with elegant details like lace or beading to add a touch of glamor.
• Evening Accessories - Elevate your evening wear with accessories like statement jewelry, a sleek clutch, and refined footwear. These finishing touches can transform your outfit and ensure you’re ready for any formal event.

Packing for a resort vacation can be daunting, but understanding the dress codes can simplify the process. Here are some practical packing tips so you can be prepared for every occasion:

• Bring Versatile Pieces - Pack clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. A maxi skirt, for example, can be paired with different tops to transition from resort casual to resort elegant attire.
• Choose Breathable Fabrics - Choose breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk that keep you comfortable in warm climates. These materials not only look luxurious but also ensure you stay cool throughout the day.
• Bring Shoes for Every Occasion - Pack a variety of footwear, including strappy sandals for casual wear, dress shoes for evening attire, and comfortable flats for daytime activities. This way, you'll be ready for everything from a beach walk to a formal dinner.

Resort dress codes can vary depending on the location, and it's important to consider cultural norms when choosing your outfits. A resort elegant dress code, for example, is typically established at five-star resorts and onboard premium cruise lines and is always culturally appropriate for various regions of the world. It’s essential to be aware that in some places, one should be more covered up when going out for the evening or even when sightseeing around the town, especially in religious or formal settings. When traveling to destinations with specific cultural expectations, like certain areas of the Middle East or Southeast Asia, be mindful of covering your shoulders and knees, even in resort settings.

Packing a light shawl or wrap can be a practical solution. It allows you to adapt your outfit to different environments without compromising on style. By being aware of regional dress codes, you ensure that your resort vacation is both respectful and enjoyable.

Pack for Your Personality

After you know the basics of what to pack, it all comes down to your own personal style. Add flair to any outfit based on your personality and what you like to wear the most. If your wardrobe consists of all-black clothing, stay in your comfort zone with an LBD and a few, neutral pieces. Or, if color is the name of your fashion game, go bold with unique prints and designs.

On the other hand, vacation is a time to switch things up if you want to get out of your normal routine. Think of it as a way to take chances with your fashion, as resort elegant attire still has an element of playfulness to it, so being buttoned up and fully covered isn’t a requirement. Feel free to bare your shoulders, show off your shape, and have fun with your clothing. It’s all about finding the right balance of sexy sophistication that you feel comfortable wearing as you travel around the globe.

Dressing appropriately for different resort settings isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about enhancing your entire vacation experience. By understanding resort dress codes and packing versatile, stylish pieces, you can enjoy every moment with confidence and ease. Whether you're lounging in resort casual wear, dining in resort elegant attire, or attending a special event in resort evening wear, your clothing choices reflect both your personal style and the luxurious ambiance of your destination.

As you prepare for your next getaway, explore ViX’\'s collection of elegant resort wear designed to make you feel confident, stylish, and perfectly dressed for any occasion.