Resort Dress Code: What is Resort Wear?

Booking a stay at a resort is one of the best ways to vacation and relax. In most cases, it’s an all-inclusive experience that allows you to unwind and forget about the stressors of everyday life. Similarly for those that winter in Florida or other warm locales, the months spent in the sunshine can be a welcome and revitalizing change from your life up north.  

Getting excited for the trip is simple, but packing isn’t always the easiest task. What is resort wear attire? What do you need to avoid wearing on your trip? These are both valid questions to ask and get acquainted with before filling a suitcase with clothing that doesn’t match the vibe or follow resort dress code. 

So what does resort wear for ladies look like? Below, we cover everything you need to know before packing for your vacation or curating your winter snowbird wardrobe.

What is Resort Attire?

In its most literal sense, resort wear is the clothing you would wear while on vacation at a resort. Many resorts have a specific dress code required during your stay; from casual wear on the beach to formal dresses for dinner, there are certain guidelines to follow when dressing yourself on a resort vacation. 

Resort wear doesn’t necessarily only exist at a resort, however. Resort attire is also considered a style of clothing in general. It can be worn any time of year if you are in a place with a warm climate, but in some cases, people save resort attire for the spring and summertime. Resort clothing can include everything from a polo shirt and bermuda shorts to a breezy sundress.

Dress Code: Resort Wear for Women

Remember: Each resort will have its own specific rules for resort attire. Whether you’re spending time at your winter home, visiting a casual resort, or going somewhere fancier, make sure to do your research before you start packing.  

In general, here are some of our suggestions for women’s resort wear: 

Resort Casual Wear

Your suitcase will most likely be filled with resort casual attire. This is the clothing you’ll wear during the day as you explore the scenery, do errands, go on excursions, and relax on the beach. Here are some suggestions based on what you’ll do during your stay:

• On the beach: Swimwear can consist of one piece swimsuits or bikinis, as well as cover-ups for when you’re lounging between dips in the water. A pair of comfortable sandals that are easy to put on are also essential here.
• On excursions: Whether you’re snorkeling or taking a tour of the natural areas outside of the resort, breathable and casual resort wear is essential. Cotton tees and shorts or capri pants can be useful here, as well as a lightweight jacket or cardigan for when the sun sets.
• Around the resort/house: If the only thing you have planned is lounging and relaxation, just think cool, calm, and collected. Sundresses are our go-to suggestion, since they’re cute, versatile, and comfortable, but a pair of pull-on linen pants and a solid tank top can also work wonders. 

Azzurra Geo Shirred Bandeau Swimsuit - Anne Cole

Resort Evening Wear

Depending on where you’re vacationing, you may be required to follow a specific dress code for evenings. In other instances, you may only have to follow a dress code based on the bar or restaurant you visit for your dinner and night cap. Here are some of our suggestions based on where you’re headed during your evenings:

• The “local” bar: Every resort and beach town has that one bar that everyone loves to flock to after a long day in the sun. Even if this spot is more casual during the daytime, it’s not a bad idea to dress in a maxi dress or skirt and blouse ensemble when you mingle with other patrons.
• The “fancy” bar: If you want to end your resort evening with a glass of wine or champagne with your special someone, a cocktail dress is highly recommended.
• The pool: Spending your nights hanging by the pool and hot tub? Save your best bathing suit and cover-up to wear while you sip cocktails and splash around with newly acquired friends. 

Resort Formal Attire

Some resorts may host a formal event, which means you should come prepared to dress in your best attire. Pack a nice cocktail dress and a shawl, plus a pair of heels or wedges, and you’ll look perfect for the occasion.  

Tuxedo Front Collared Shirt and Ammonite Abstract Pull-On Capri Pant - Zac and Rachel • 100% Cotton Classic Pullover Sweater - Avalin

What Isn't Considered Resort Wear

The last thing you want to do is show up to your destination with a suitcase full of unnecessary and out-of-place clothing. Here are some of the items we suggest leaving at home during your resort stay: 

• Workwear and tailored pantsuits
• Boots
• Robes and towels (these items are bulky to pack and they will be provided for you if you are staying at a resort)

Which Clothing from Anthony's is Considered Resort Wear?

At Anthony’s Ladies Apparel, our entire collection is considered resort wear! From brightly-colored sun protection clothing to relaxed cruise wear and elegant casual attire for the country club, we have everything you need to be comfortable and stylish on your resort vacation.  

No matter your resort wear needs, we’ve got you covered. Browse our Resort Dress Code collection today to get your wardrobe ready for your next vacation!