Unpacking the resort casual attire dress code

Resort casual is a dress code that’s used across the globe and is all about dressing appropriately for a relaxed yet chic environment, often influenced by the tropical aesthetic of vacation destinations. Country clubs, upscale resorts, and cruise ships often adopt this dress code to make sure guests are both comfortable and stylishly dressed. However, the definition of resort casual varies among establishments, and the more upscale the property, the more formal the dress code usually leans.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the elements of resort casual, goes into the dos and don’ts, and gives fashion tips from the pros. Let’s deconstruct the resort casual dress code so you can pack outfits and dress with confidence. 

Key elements of resort casual

The term “resort casual” might seem like an oxymoron, but it’s the intersection of stylish and comfortable. This effortlessly chic approach strikes a balance between personal expression, fluidity, and practicality, while preserving the essence of being relaxed, stylish, and occasion-appropriate. That could mean either dressing up a more casual look, like pairing a summer dress with eye-catching accessories, or integrating a more formal piece into a laid-back outfit, like khakis and a button-down with rolled-up sleeves. 

Clothing: Relaxed yet sophisticated 

In resort casual attire, comfort and sophistication go hand in hand. For tops, think polo shirts, Hawaiian shirts, breezy blouses, or a light cardigan. Men might lean toward a button-down or collared shirt, while women can opt for a flowy dress or tasteful tank top.

For bottoms, men should consider chinos or bright linen pants like khakis. At the same time, women can go for a classy romper, breezy skirt, or lightweight cotton pants. The key here is breathable fabrics and casual clothing that exude style — not athletic clothing or athleisure wear.

Footwear: Casual, but not sloppy 

Footwear can make or break your resort casual look. While flip-flops might be perfect for the beach, they won’t cut it for dinner at an upscale restaurant. Instead, men should wear loafers, boat shoes, or dress shoes, while women would opt for sandals, flats, or low heels. Comfort is paramount, but so is being fashionable.

Accessories: Elevate the overall look 

Accessories are the cherry on top of your resort casual outfit. They can pull the outfit together or make it look disjointed. Consider sunglasses, a hat, a belt, jewelry, and a clutch or small bag to complete your look. 

One of the advantages of resort casual attire is its versatility, letting you lounge by the pool in a bathing suit and cover-up, attend a cocktail party in a romper, and dine in linen pants and a button-down shirt. If you don’t have time to change between activities, the functional outfits of the resort casual dress code let you transition smoothly from daytime to evening events.

Building your resort casual wardrobe

Creating a versatile resort casual wardrobe is akin to art — it’s about blending comfort and sophistication while staying true to your personal style. Embrace the freedom to mix and match, ensuring each piece complements the other.

Resort casual for men 

Men aiming to ace the resort casual style can consider these fashion options:

• Linen or lightweight cotton trousers or shorts in neutral shades 

• Polo shirts or short-sleeved button-downs with fun prints or solid colors

• Light sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings

• Classy swimwear for poolside or beach activities

• Loafers, boat shoes, or elegant sandals for footwear

Resort casual for women 

For women looking to embrace resort casual, the following are excellent choices:

• Sundresses, wrap dresses, or maxi dresses in bright colors or tropical prints

• Rompers or classy shorts paired with fashionable tops

• Stylish swimwear paired with kaftans or cover-ups

• Sandals or ballet flats, avoiding overly formal heels

• Elegant accessories, like wide-brim hats, tote bags, and oversized sunglasses

Unisex resort casual options 

Unisex resort casual attire promotes versatility and comfort for everyone:

• Linen pants in a range of colors and patterns

• Breathable cotton shirts in solid colors or nautical themes

• Stylish sneakers or canvas shoes

• Oversized straw hats or baseball caps for sun protection

• Classic sunglasses in neutral colors

For long-haul travelers, take note: your resort casual attire can be subject to climate and cultural variations. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult the resort director or cruise line for suggestions. 

Dos and don’ts of the resort casual dress code

Bear these tips in mind, and you’re bound to hit the perfect resort casual note throughout your getaway.

Dos:

• Embrace vibrant colors and playful prints. Let your clothing reflect the lively ambiance of the resort.

• Opt for breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. These materials will keep you cool and chic under the sun.

• Don polo shirts, sundresses, and linen pants. These are perfect for maintaining comfort without compromising on style.

• Favor stylish footwear like loafers, boat shoes, and elegant sandals.

Don’ts:

• Wear overly formal attire, like suits and cocktail dresses, unless specified for a particular event.

• Sport athletic wear such as tennis shoes, yoga pants, and sporty t-shirts. 

• Slip on flip-flops and beachy tank tops. Those are for the pool or beach only.

• Wear offensive or controversial prints or slogans.

• Don clothing with holes or tears, even if they’re meant to be fashionable distressed elements. It’s about keeping the look polished yet relaxed.

Fashion tips from the pros 

Resort casual can seem like an elusive concept to master, but with insights from fashion mavens, designers, and influencers like Sandhya Garg, you’ll find it’s a style that embraces both comfort and chic.

• Go vibrant or go home. Creating an eye-catching resort casual outfit involves playing with colors and prints. Garg suggests pairing brightly hued or patterned bottoms with more understated tops or, inversely, allowing your outfit to shine without being overwhelming. Your beach getaway or evening dinner date can be an opportunity to experiment with this fashion juxtaposition, making you effortlessly fashionable.

• Don’t forget about accessories. Accessories are not just an afterthought but integral to achieving the resort casual look. Garg advises incorporating a holiday hat, a quirky tote bag, or large sunglasses into your resort outfits, adding an extra layer of style to your overall appearance.

• Dress for the locale. Remember that resort casual doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all rule. The expected dress code can vary greatly depending on the type of resort. For example, family resorts typically promote a more relaxed atmosphere, while boutique or design hotels lean towards a more dressed-up vibe. City hotels in tropical locales tend to uphold a more formal dress code than, say, golf resorts in the same area.

Final thoughts: Resort casual dress code

Whether you’re dining at a sea-view restaurant, attending a beach wedding, or lounging by the pool, resort casual attire ensures you’re dressed to impress without compromising on comfort. From its inception as vacation wear for the affluent to its current, more inclusive style, resort casual proves fashion and comfort do go hand in hand.