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Summer is just around the corner, and it’s easy to think of island waters, feet in the sand, and sunkissed skin. Everyone loves a good vacation under the sun, and what better way to kick off the warmer weather than to visit the beach? Whether or not you have a beach vacation on the calendar, it’s still nice to think about all of the cute summer outfits and dresses to wear. When you start to pack, it’s often difficult to decide on just what to wear from swimsuits to comfortable beach outfits. 

Either way, dresses could be one of your go-to wardrobe items when packing for your next island vacation or visit to the tropics. Dresses are ideal, whether you’re lounging in the warm sun or headed to a romantic dinner, complete with a sherbet-colored sunset. Whether it’s Hawaii, exotic Bali, or a nearby beach, there is a dress here for all types of tastes and styles!

Price Reference (average price):

$ | Under $50
$$ | Between $50-$100
$$$ | More than $100

These Dresses Are Perfect for a Beach Vacation

Image: Reformation

Jesse Linen Dress

Reformation

Price: $$$

Reformation is a brand known for its sustainably made clothing, especially dresses. The minimalist and simple silhouette makes this dress perfect for a beach vacation! This mini dress is easy to style, and doesn’t it look super comfortable? It pairs nicely with relaxed sandals and a pair of gold hoops for a quick, ready-to-go outfit while you soak up the sun. The navy blue is a versatile dress for other seasons, but we also love the other colors with fun island prints.

Image: Amazon

Plunge Neck Dress

Amazon

Price: $

This dress is just…fun! The bright colors and print make you feel like you’re already on vacation, even if you’re not at the beach. The length and plunging neckline make it a great option for a warmer day, especially when you’re ready to show off more of your sun-kissed skin! This dress comes in over 10 colors, but the pastel and colorful design keeps the sunny vibes going.

Image: Amazon

Summer Cut Midi Dress

Pink Queen

Price: $

This color-blocked midi dress is perfect to wear on your next vacation! There are so many color combinations to choose from, but this orange and pink combination is a best-seller. 

Image: Mango

Knit Fringe Dress

Mango

Price: $$

This elevated knit dress has an eye-catching fringe that can take you from lounging by the pool to a fancy evening out. For a more casual look, wear it with platform slides and retro-style sunglasses! 

Image: Amazon

Side Drawstring Tank Dress

BTFBM

Price: $

We love a great neutral, even if you’re heading to the beach! This ruched dress is easy to wear and pack for your next tropical vacation. The breathable cotton makes it easy to put directly over your bikini (and it comes in more than 25 colors!). Wear this on one of the most casual afternoons of your vacation!

Image: Amazon

Casual Halter Dress

BTFBM

Price: $

This halter summer dress is the perfect shade of green to wear. There are endless styling options–try a pair of white chunky sneakers for an everyday look or colored block heels and a mini bag for a dressy brunch look with friends!

Image: Lulus

Patsy Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

Of course, a tropical print dress would make it on this list! But the bold, coral-like color and blue florals make this dress from the online boutique, Lulus, a little different. It will make you feel and look completely ready for a beach vacation under the sun. The off-the-shoulder style gives the dress a step of elegance when paired with open-toed heels. You’ll be ready for a more formal day or evening event!

Image: Red Dress

Acts of Kindness Gingham Dress

Red Dress

Price: $$

Gingham continues to be a trendy print this year, and this puff sleeve style in bright yellow makes it worthy for your closet! 

Image: Girlfriend Collective

Bianca One Shoulder Dress

Girlfriend Collective

Price: $$

Whether you wear this mini dress athleisurely or not, this solid one-shoulder design is a versatile dress for any occasion–vacation or not! It comes in a full range of sizes and colors, so there is a style option for anyone. Wear it to the beach, on a sunny hike, or any outdoor activities that you have lined up this season!

Image: Abercrombie & Fitch

High Slit Midi Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Price: $$$

This cute summer dress is simple, yet romantic, and can be worn in so many different ways! Dressed up or down, the high slit makes you feel even more ready for the hot days ahead. Or, style it with heels and simple jewelry for a spring or summer wedding guest dress. 

Image: & Other Stories

Puff Sleeve Linen Midi Dress

& Other Stories

Price: $$$

An elegant and feminine linen dress for the warmest days of your vacation. When it gets a little breezy, wear it with your favorite denim jacket for some layered warmth. 

Image: Mango

Button-Up Linen Dress

Mango

Price: $$

Linen is an ideal fabric for the summer months, which is why you’re seeing a few linen dresses on this list! This khaki maxi dress is elevated and a perfect addition to your island resort wardrobe!

Image: Quince

Silk Slip Midi Dress

Quince

Price: $$

We think a slip dress is a wardrobe essential, so if you don’t have one for the summer–this is the one for you! Quince is known for their affordable, sustainably-made silk, and while we suggest the orange shade, you can’t go wrong with any of the colors they offer!

Image: Amazon

Colorful Crochet Dress

KMBANGI

Price: $

Colorful, cute, and crochet. A fun mini dress to put in your vacation luggage!

Image: Amazon

Criss Cross Sundress

Anrabess

Price: $

Why not feel like a summer goddess in this versatile halter dress? You can easily create multiple island-style outfits–this maxi dress is perfect for a romantic dinner by the ocean when paired with gold heels or style it with brown sandals for a day date sipping Mai Tais with your best girls! The warm green is a color that is wearable all year long, too!

Image: Nordstrom

Cheri Maternity Midi Dress

Nom Maternity

Price: $$$

A flowing maternity floral dress! The colorful flowers and loose fit makes you (and your baby bump) feel pretty for summer!

Image: & Other Stories

Linen Diagonal Wrap Dress

& Other Stories

Price: $$$

A classy light blue linen midi dress that you can wear during summer and into the fall season. Wear it with leather thong sandals and a designer crossbody while you explore your sunny destinations. Also, consider it a perfect dress to complete your spring or fall capsule wardrobe! 

Image: Show Me Your Mumu

Claire Mini Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

Price: $$$

While there are so many floral mini dresses to choose from, the color of this ‘70s style print makes it a little more fun than others. The backless and bow design is a great way to show off your sun-kissed skin, too!

Image: Quince

Washable Silk Skirt

Quince

Price: $$

Okay, so maybe this isn’t a summer dress, but nevertheless, it’s a great skirt to wear when you’re at the beach. Create a monochrome beach look with a matching color bikini top or mix and match with neon for a bold summer outfit! Don’t forget your oversized shades and platform sandals!

Image: Abercrombie & Fitch

Traveler Mini Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Price: $$

This easy and simple black dress can be used to create a cute athleisure look during your next visit to the beach. The dress comes in many different colors such as blue, red, and even a light blue tie-dye, for those looking to brighten up their wardrobe. Plus, this style is ideal for all figures and can be worn on repeat even after your trip is over. 

Image: Amazon

Tie Neck Maxi Dress

Kirundo

Price: $$

With its simple silhouette, this loose maxi dress will make dressing up on your lazy days so much easier–whether you’re on vacation or not! Just slip the dress on and wear your favorite Birkenstocks for a relaxed summer outfit. 

Image: Quince

Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress

Quince

Price: $$

Yes, another cute linen dress, but shorter and sustainably-made! It is light, airy, and perfect to wear over your cute swimwear!

Image: Urban Outfitters

Embroidered Hanky Hem Dress

Urban Outfitters

Price: $$

This super trendy midi dress is ready for fun summer evenings! It is semi-sheer and comes in a selection of colors so pair this dress with some cowboy boots for a stand out music festival look!

Image: Nordstrom

Leopard Print Dress

ASOS

Price: $

Leopard print is a pattern that doesn’t go out of style. This dress is fierce and eye-catching, which describes a summer sun dress perfectly! 

Image: Amazon

Beach Crochet Cover Up

Make ME Chic

Price: $

Another cute crochet cover-up that will match any bikinis or one-pieces!

Image: Mango

Pearl Mini Dress

Mango

Price: $$$

A very dressy style for an evening event or even a summer wedding! The fringe and textured pearl design simply makes us swoon. 

Image: Abercrombie & Fitch

Triple Keyhole Knit Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Price: $

This is a classic and retro style dress that’s best paired with your favorite sneakers. The bright yellow or striped options are colors you’ll want to wear this summer.

Image: Amazon

Denim Tunic Dress

ZILCREMO

Price: $

A casual summer vacation dress that will match anything and everything that you already have in your closet! (Plus, a denim dress is a welcome change from wearing jeans throughout the year.) For a date night, try it with heeled sandals or, for a casual day out, wear comfortable, flat sandals while exploring your tropical destination!

Image: Pink Lily

Off Shoulder Polka Dot Dress

Pink Lily

Price: $

Polka dots are yet another print that simply does not go out of style. The light cotton material and print are an ideal combination to wear in the cooler summer months (and into the fall!)!

Image: Amazon

Backless Cutout Maxi Dress

Amazon

Price: $

Trendy, sexy, and fits the Y2K style perfectly. The backless design and detached sleeves will make you feel ultra-cool and ready for any fun summer vacation nights!