If your idea of vacation style is more “elevated aperitif” than “tourist in a tee,” you’re in the right place. While denim cutoffs and flip-flops have their place, sometimes you want a more elegant look–think chic outfits that strike the perfect balance between laid-back ease and understated glamour. If your vacation agenda includes everything from beachside lounging to sunset spritzes, consider this your guide to chic vacation clothing that feels as effortless as it looks—cool, comfortable, and curated to take you from café to cocktails with ease.
The chic vacation vibe is all about ease and elevation working together; linen trousers instead of cutoff shorts, silky camisoles instead of tanks, and accessories that feel effortless but complete the look. It’s a style that travels well, photographs beautifully, and keeps you feeling and looking amazing.
Daywear
Chic vacation style starts with daytime looks that feel effortless–but never basic. Start with breathable fabrics (hello, cotton and linen) and mix in refined details like ruching or tailoring. A strapless crochet top paired with wide-leg smocked pants is the epitome of relaxed polish. Just add strappy slides or flats and classic sunnies.
Matching sets are your best friend on vacation. They’re unfussy, coordinated, and give you maximum impact with minimal effort. Whether you’re choosing a crisp cotton set with a structured top and matching shorts or a softer, colorful crochet look, your outfit has instant polish. Bonus: they mix and match easily with other pieces in your travel wardrobe.
Casual dresses are another go-to for daytime. Look for clean shapes, like A-line minis or column midis, in breathable fabrics with subtle cutout details or button-front accents, and colors like airy neutrals, soft blues, or classic red. It’s the kind of chic vacation clothing that feels easy but intentional–Perfect for lunch in a cafe or a stroll through the boutiques.
Dresses for Dinner and Dancing
Evenings on vacation call for something that turns heads without trying too hard. The ideal dinner dress is body-skimming but never uncomfortably tight, offering clean lines and subtle allure. (Plus, who wants to wear a dress that’s uncomfy, especially when you’re on vacay?) A silky jersey midi with a drop waist or cutout detail feels sultry without being overdone. Bonus points if it’s packable and wrinkle-resistant!
As far as colors go, there are no rules. White and black look stunning against sun-kissed skin, but bright vibrant shades of pink, blue, green, or any other color will fit in on a tropical getaway. Opt for clean lines, bold colors, or subtle prints: Whether you love midi lengths or maxis, the key to chic vacation outfits is simplicity and sophistication.
Swimwear
By the beach, the pool, or lounging on a resort lawn, your swimsuit should feel as stylish as the rest of your wardrobe. A black ribbed bikini feels timeless and sleek, especially with high-cut legs or retro-inspired underwire tops. Think less “beach basic” and more “European coast.”
Don’t be afraid of white swimsuits, either. They look beautiful in tropical settings and bring a certain quiet luxury vibe. Textures like ribbing, jacquard, or matte finish fabrics add visual interest without overpowering. Subtle details, like ties, knots, or keyhole cutouts, can add a hint of allure while keeping things tasteful. Layer with a gauzy cover-up or sarong in complementary tones to keep your look beach-to-bar ready.
Cover-ups are an opportunity to extend the chic aesthetic. Whether it’s a button-down linen dress, sheer maxi, or textured crochet piece, this layer should work overtime—on the sand, at lunch, or lounging poolside. Stick to natural fabrics and hues that blend seamlessly with your swim staples.
