Imagine stepping into your vacation with the confidence that you're perfectly dressed for every moment, from lounging by the pool to dining at a chic seaside restaurant. In this guide, we’ll explore the nuances of resort casual attire, offering practical tips and stylish outfit ideas tailored to various activities and events. With our advice, you'll be able to pack your suitcase with ease and enjoy your vacation in comfort and style. So, let's dive into the world of resort fashion!

Resort casual is a dress code often adopted at upscale resorts, beachside restaurants and on cruise ships. It is a mix between the comfort of casual beachwear and the sophistication of evening wear. Think breathable fabrics, elegant yet comfortable cuts, and a mix of laid-back and sophisticated pieces.

The essence of resort casual is to feel relaxed while looking chic, making it ideal for vacations where both comfort and style are a priority. Whether you’re having lunch at a beachside café, attending a resort-hosted cocktail hour, or taking a leisurely stroll through a local market, resort casual attire ensures you’re appropriately dressed without being overly formal.

Do's and Dont's of Resort Casual

• When it comes to fabric, go for natural and lightweight fibres like cotton, linen, and silk. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable while looking effortlessly stylish. Versatile items that can be dressed up or down are key, such as a classic sundress or a pair of tailored linen pants with a breezy blouse. Fun colours and prints are also perfect for resort casual. You’re on vacation – it can’t all be beige!

  On the flip side, steer clear of overly casual items like gym wear, graphic tees, or anything too revealing. Heavy, non-breathable fabrics are also a no-go, as they can be uncomfortable in warm climates. Avoid distressed details, favoring tailored or bedazzled embellishments instead.

Daytime Activities

For poolside relaxation and beach walks, resort casual is all about stylish functionality. Picture yourself in a chic one-piece swimsuit paired with a vibrant sarong or a breezy kaftan. The right cover-up can make you feel like a movie star as you move from the pool to a casual lunch at the resort café.  

Elevating your poolside look for resort casual calls for smart accessorizing. Instead of rubber flip-flops, slip on some elevated sandals for easy transitions from beach to boardwalk. Rather than a baseball cap, top it all off with a glamorous wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun at bay. It's all about blending practicality with that resort-ready flair.

When it comes to exploring the resort and local attractions, swap out the basic cover-ups for lightweight, flowy dresses that move with you. Otherwise, pair breezy tops with shorts or capris for a look that's both relaxed and chic. Imagine yourself in an airy cotton dress, meandering through the local streets, or sporting a stylish top with breathable shorts while sightseeing—effortless elegance at its best. If you’ll be doing a lot of walking, choose an elevated lifestyle sneaker over one you’d wear to the gym. Resort elegance is all in the details!

Casual Evenings

For casual dining, you want outfits that can transition seamlessly from day to night. Maxi dresses are a fantastic choice for evening resort wear—easy to wear yet effortlessly elegant. Pair them with espadrilles or wedge sandals for a touch of sophistication that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Linen pants with a lightweight blazer can also be a perfect match, giving you a polished look that feels breezy and light. Think about how you can mix and match these pieces to create different looks, so you're always ready for that impromptu sunset stroll or a spontaneous dinner under the stars.

Special Occasions

If you’re planning on attending fine dining or gala dinners, it's time to step up the formality a bit more. Sophisticated dresses, tailored trousers with elegant blouses, and heeled sandals or dress shoes are perfect choices. The key to nailing the 'resort' part of resort formal is steering clear of overly structured or tight-fitting garments (no ball gowns, please!). Breathable fabrics and drapey silhouettes are your friends, ensuring you feel as good as you look while enjoying a delicious evening meal.

If you’ve been lucky enough to be invited to a resort wedding, you want to strike a balance between formality and beach-ready casual. Think flowy dresses in pastel or floral prints that move beautifully with the breeze. Pair these with dressy sandals or low heels to keep you comfortable through all the festivities. Statement accessories, like a bold necklace or sparkling earrings, can elevate your look without making it too formal. Imagine yourself in a light, airy dress that makes you feel like a guest at a garden party, perfectly blending in with the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere of a resort wedding.

Fit right in at your resort by finding the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. So, as you pack your suitcase, keep these ideas in mind, and get ready to enjoy your resort getaway with effortless style and ease!
BB xx