Resort Attire: The Basics of Resort Dressing
Are you going on an exciting vacation to a luxury resort but don’t know what to put on? Well, you are not alone.
Deciding on the right clothes to take on vacation can make or break your resort holiday. First off, you can check the current weather at your vacation destination. Then you also need to think about a few other things when you’re packing. In fact, it’s where you’re staying that has the most impact on your travel wardrobe.
For example, when you stay at a resort, you may see references to the resort dress code.
But you may not understand what they mean, and vague terms like “elegant casual” or “resort casual” can make it incredibly confusing and challenging to decide what to pack for your trip.
To prevent any confusion on your part, this article will help you feel sure about what to pack and prepare for your vacation, with a clear idea of the kind of clothing that you should wear at a resort.
Throughout the article, you’ll learn all about what casual dressing is, and the ABCs of the resort dress code, so you look your best on your resort holiday.
What is resort wear?
Resort clothing is apparel worn when on vacation and traveling. You wear these types of clothes in warm weather climates. Also known as “cruise wear,” these started as a fashion trend for socialites and the elite and summer collection dresses are considered part of this.
High-end boutiques market cruise wear as easy to put on and comfortable to wear during tropical vacations. For women, these are usually linen pieces, light dresses, or even swimwear.
You can combine resort wear with swimsuits, large hats, flip-flops, and other casual attire.
Being made with breathable fabrics that generally require less ironing and effort, resort daywear naturally evokes travel ideas to exotic and seaside locations.
Types of resort dress codes
On vacation, everyone wants to wear clothes that are clutter-free and classy. However, with the range of dress options in resorts, it isn’t easy to understand the norm in terms of dress codes.
The following is a list of common expectations for clothing at resorts, so you know what you should wear.
1. Resort casual
These styles are the same as what you will wear in a casual or informal atmosphere. Think of it as the typical type of clothing you will wear in breakfast areas.
Resort casual wear includes but is not limited to swimsuits, jeans, or even shorts with a t-shirt or polo shirt. Tennis shoes, sneakers, and sandals are also acceptable.
You can wear shorts, skirts, or culottes during the day, but make sure they don’t look too revealing when you’re far from the beach or pool.
The latest trend in casual beachwear is to use pretty shawls or capes made of light fabric when you get out of the water and go out to lunch nearby.
You can easily put on a shawl or cape, or use one to wrap around part of your swimsuit, to achieve a more modest look.
As for the casual dress code, you can wear many combinations of clothes to show your unique sense of style. Just take advantage of that to showcase your fashion sense.
2. Elegant casual
An elegant and casual outfit can be imagined as a dressy version of your usual city outfit. It is also known as “casual elegance,” which is usually the kind of outfit you would wear to a country club or upscale restaurant.
You are expected to wear skirts or pants with a nice top or dress with this dress code outside of resort parties.
Although it is easy to confuse this type of clothing with business casual, elegant and casual outfits allow for more personalization and style.
You should also opt for dressy shoes, but dressed sandals may still be appropriate. If you are not a fan of wedges or heels, you can opt for a pair of dress sandals or pointed-toe flat shoes that still meet this dress code’s criteria.
Above all, feel free to experiment with bright colors or appropriate ladies’ accessories.
3. Resort evening wear
You may dress less casually in some resorts in the evening when you go out for dinner or recreation. A simple way to approach evening dress at a resort is to think of the dress code as similar to dining wear.
What exactly does this mean?
Evening dress in the resorts is more elevated than casual, which means you have to give up t-shirts, shorts, and tank tops. Consider a romper, a robe, or blouse with stylish pants or a skirt instead.
For shoes, you can choose between elegant sandals or closed-toe shoes and avoid wearing flip-flops.
4. Formal resort attire
Determining what is considered “formal” can always be difficult, especially in a resort atmosphere.
Resort attire and formal wear seem to be at odds, as when you think of a resort, you are more likely to think of tropical beach activities and swimwear.
Often worn for weddings and other special events, formal resort dress codes are laxer and somewhat akin to what you would wear to a cocktail party.
To look formal, you can choose between dresses and long blouses. You can also alternate between a nice pantsuit or a skirt with an elegant blouse. All outfits should be matched with a nice pair of shoes. For shoes, we recommend wearing a heel or fashionable flat shoes to complete your outfit.
The basic rule here is to avoid linen pants, shoes, tank tops, and casual shorts.
Now that you know the basics of the resort dress code, you can have fun trying on attire for different occasions.
But remember that you are on vacation. Don’t get so caught up on the dress codes that you forget to have fun, explore, and enjoy.
Just pack a suitcase full of clothes that you feel fun, attractive, and confident in to wear for various occasions. In this case, you’ll be ready for a great vacation at a fantastic resort and make memories you’ll cherish long after.
AUTHOR BIO
Andrea Bertinetti is the Marketing Manager at Scarlett Poppies, a vivacious Dubai-based resort and beachwear brand that offers edgy, easy-breezy, and effortlessly cool pieces designed by a cultural melting pot of designers. Influenced by tribal trends with a touch of Scandinavian flair, the brand’s beachwear styles are always ethereal and minimalistic.
