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It’s the season for easy breezy vacation style! We’ve got a round-up of beautiful summer maxi dresses – get ready to update your travel wardrobe with these versatile, pretty styles for your vacation summer dresses!
Vacation Maxi Dresses for Summer
Table Of Contents
When summer calls, you know what that means? It’s time for cute maxi dresses! While it may seem like they would be heavy in warm weather, as long as you’re choosing lightweight fabrics such as cotton, rayon, or linen then this type of dress is a versatile choice for a summer capsule wardrobe.
The best maxi dress can be worn day or night, and depending on the style, can even be used as a beach cover up (but we also feature some actual coverups here!).
The fun thing about a maxi dress summer pick is the numerous accessory possibilities, from flip-flops, strappy sandals, or wedges, to necklaces, earrings, and a sun hat—you always have wardrobe options and look great!
Where Do I Find Maxi Summer Dresses for Vacation?
You can certainly buy Amazon summer maxi dresses as economical options, but a number of other online retailers are starting to add their warm weather stock too. Overall, it’s recommended to stick to quality and more breathable fabrics, as they’ll hold up in the heat better and feel the most comfy!
What’s the Most Popular Maxi Dress According to Readers?
Shop Sizes SP-XLP and XS-XL: Nordstrom
Loveappella Jersey Flowy Maxi Dress
The readers’ top pick is this stylish Loveappella dress that has soft gathering at the hem, a flattering waistband, wide straps for extra comfort, and a V-neck that’s sexy yet still subtle! They rayon and spandex material is super soft as well.
This dress can take you anywhere during the hot season—vacation, a wedding, or summer fun! Pair with a lightweight denim jacket, sandals, or wedges.
This pretty piece comes in other lovely colors and in regular sizes (XS-XL) and petite sizes (SP-XLP), available right here!
For even more elegant summer maxi dresses to maxi casual summer dresses, check out the rest of these highly recommended picks below!
Best Summer Floral Maxi Dresses
A roster of long summer dresses wouldn’t be complete without some flirty and fun patterns. These ladies floral maxi dresses are perfect for sun worshipping in style and comfort!
Shop Sizes XS-3XL Plus: Amazon
Floerns Floral Maxi Dress With Sleeves – up To Sizes 3XL
This breezy maxi dress from Floerns is made of rayon; one of the best fabrics for hot weather vacations because it’s lightweight and breathable. It’s also versatile and would look lovely with sandals or dressier wedges.
Users have this to say, “It hits right at above my ankle and is very lightweight and looks beautiful.” These breezy summer dresses come in multiple colors and in sizes XS-3XL Plus.
Shop Sizes S-XXL: Amazon
ZESICA Cotton Floral Maxi Dress
A gorgeous floral maxi with sleeves like this can go from beachside to an evening dinner by just changing accessories such as sunglasses and a sun hat, to a clutch and wedge heels. And it’s available in sizes S-XXL.
The boho feel of this trendy long dress evokes sun, fun, and laughter. And others agree, with one review saying, “The fabric is so lightweight and soft. And I can adjust coverage because it’s a wrap style. An amazing dress!”
And guess what?! Our very own editor-in-chief owns the long version but also the short version of this dress too!
Short style of ZESICA Floral Dress with Vionic Clarisa Wedges
Alex says of this version, “The knee-length red print wrap dress is my absolute favorite! It’s hard for me to find a print I feel comfortable in, but I love everything about this! It has a flattering fit, the rayon-cotton fabric is perfect for the heat, and I can wear it casually and comfortably yet still feel polished.” If you want to know more about this dress, you can check it out, along with her full 2021 spring/summer haul in this article!
You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly!
Shop Sizes S-XXL: Amazon
VintageClothing Short Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress
Seemingly like it floats on clouds, this floral print maxi dress with sleeves is described as “versatile and romantic,” And we’re apt to agree! The lightweight rayon fabric is best by a smocked bodice and a flowy tiered skirt, which is flattering on a variety of women.
The flowers are whimsical and the versatility of this makes it a frontrunner for frequent rotation in your summer wardrobe. It can be dressed down with flip-flops or a more heel sandal, like wedges. This feminine floral piece comes in other exquisite colors and in sizes S-XXL.
Looking for the ultimate vacation packing list? Download our fee checklist here!
Best Sleeveless Maxi Dresses
The biggest plus about cute long dresses for summer is the variety. A sleeveless maxi dress can be casual, all the way to dressier for a more formal occasion. Maybe one of these will catch your eye!
Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J. Crew
J. Crew Long Sleeveless Maxi Dresses
Summer high low dresses like this pretty one by J. Crew adds a bit of interest at the hem to an otherwise classic dress. This relaxed style can take you around the town, or exploring an entirely new place.
One wearer aptly says it’s the “perfect summer dress for city, beach, or country,” while another explains that although the cotton material seems heavy upon appearance, it actually feels super lightweight on. Comes in stripes and other colors, and in a range of sizes, from XXS-3X.
Just pair it with slide sandals or comfortable wedges to complete your look!
Shop Sizes S-XXL: Amazon
WOOSEA Long Wrap Maxi Dress
A highly versatile pick! A sleeveless wrap maxi dress like this subtly wraps at the torso and has a flattering waist and pretty pleating that trails into a flowy skirt. Comes in an incredible amount of colors/patterns and sizes S-XXL.
Users say this dress is perfect for casual days or a special occasion. One says, “I am in love with this dress!! I have a fancy event coming up, but didn’t have a large budget. This dress to the rescue! The fabric is soft and flowy but not slinky. The pleating in the front and back is very flattering.”
We have rounded up our favorite convertible travel dresses that will help you pack light and stylishly!
Shop Nordstrom: Sizes XXS-XXL | Sizes 1X-3X
Caslon Tank Top Maxi Dress (Regular and Plus Sizes)
For long summer dresses cheap options that still hold up in feel and quality, this tank dress is simple yet versatile. The racerback style almost feels like you’re literally wearing underwear!
One reviewer says, “I love the material of this long sleeveless maxi dress, it’s soft and light on the skin. I feel like I’m wearing a giant t-shirt and some kind of slinky evening dress at the same time!” You can grab this in plus 1X-3X as well!
Here are comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!
Best Beach Maxi Dress for Swim Cover Ups
Part of summer is hitting coastal areas, so you’ll likely need a maxi dress for beach vacation, which could double as a swim cover up or be worn for exploring a seaside town. Comfort is key!
Shop One Size: Amazon
Bsubseach Kaftan Summer Beach Maxi Dresses
Kaftans are wildly popular as swimsuit cover ups and this Bsubseach floral maxi beach dress is lightweight due to the rayon fabric and pretty enough to double as a regular dress after your trip to the beach!
But don’t think this is the only pattern you can get, as this retailer has 20+ designs to suit your taste and the construction will accommodate a variety of women!
One beachgoer says, “Love this! I want to wear it for more than the beach! It’s so beautiful and the price was awesome. If you want it to be really flowy, go up a size. It’s not too long and won’t drag on the ground.”
Here are the best swimsuit coverups of the season!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom
Elan Maxi Dresses Beach Cover Ups
Effortless ease comes to mind upon viewing this lovely piece! This vacation maxi dress is technically a swim cover but it can easily double for a normal dress. The straps are adjustable and the pockets are great to store small things.
A review raves about this, “Very cute! Can be used as a cover up or a more relaxed dress. Super comfortable, and I imagine it will be a summer beach staple!” The rayon is airy so you’ll feel comfortable and look wonderful at the beach!
Some wearers warn this can run big, so consider sizing down and be aware it’s a more billowy fit. It comes in sizes XS-XL and you can grab this in other colors than the light gray pictured above, but note that the alternate is a lower v-neck.
Pair it with stylish dress sandals!
Shop Sizes S-XL: Amazon
Back From Bali Beach Maxi Dress With Sleeves
Talk about cute! This summer beach maxi dress will keep you covered at the beach but you could wear it as a walking-around dress. The cape sleeves and ornate V-neck make it stylish and boho-looking, which we love! The 100% rayon fabric is lightweight, perfect for being in the sun.
Back to Bali is highly recommended by TFG readers and this happy purchaser agrees, “I absolutely love the material. It’s cool and silky feeling; I want to sleep in the dress I bought. Plan to bring it with me on my future travels, and plan to purchase more.”
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon
GRECERELLE Summer Beach Maxi Dress
Cute summer maxi dresses like the one above can do double-duty as a cover up and a normal piece of clothing. The material is spandex and rayon so it’s airy and stretchy, so it’s totally ideal for beach travel or at home. It’s available in sizes XS-XXL and multiple, gorgeous colors too!
The pockets are wonderful for travel, being able to store small items like lipstick. One user gushes about this piece and its uses, “I love the colors of this dress! The length is perfect, especially for wearing sandals and necklaces. Also, the pockets are a nice surprise. This bohemian dress is so beautiful, cool, and comfortable, in a flowy fabric and flattering cut.”
Pair them with one of these lace-up sandals!
Best Maxi Dresses With Sleeves
From short to long sleeve summer dresses, there are occasions you may want extra coverage for the shoulders and forearm areas, whether you’re attending a work conference, or visiting a country where it’s vital to respect cultural practices such as covering up when visiting temples. Beautiful long dresses with sleeves are another option available to female travelers!
Shop Sizes 1X-4X: Amazon
Gxlu Maxi Dress Short Sleeved
The plus size summer maxi dresses from Gxlu are highly recommended and apparently “fit perfectly and are flattering in all the right places,” according to one wearer.
Made of soft rayon and spandex, it comes in sizes 1X-4X and has a flowing swing hem with a flattering side split. Looks fab with sandals—casual or dressy. Also, the various colors you can get in this dress make it versatile with your accessories.
Another reviewer says, “It flows gorgeously. It’s cool on the skin. It’s attractive on my frame. Love it!”
Here are some of the best sandals for travel in summer!
Shop Sizes S-XXL: Amazon
VintageClothing Long Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress
For a more boho-feel, these long sleeve maxi dresses by VintageClothing are an option to cover arms but still feel fun and fancy-free!
The flowy skirt, soft, rayon feel, and elastic waist make this piece flirty and comfy, all at the same time.
This contented user says, “A feminine dress! I was hoping this dress is going to be a nice dress and I was absolutely surprised to see this dress is exactly how it shows on the model. Super light fabric. Great dress for summer vacation to be a little more formal.”
Shop Anthropologie: Sizes XXS-XL | Petite XXSP-XLP | Plus 1X-3X
Anthropologie Linen Short Sleeve Maxi Dresses (Regular, Petite, and Plus Sizes)
This stylish and lightweight linen-rayon dress is a must-get summer addition! It’s offered in standard (XXS-XL), petite (XXSP-XLP), and plus sizing (1X-3X)—along with other lovely colors!
This short sleeve maxi dress has a cinched waist and an a-line tiered skirt that’s relaxed but not overwhelming on the figure. It has no buttons to contend with either, just pull it on! Users say “the linen is soft and lays very well. It’s very flattering and feminine!” Take it for a trip or flit around in it during leisure time at home.
Shop Sizes S-XXL: Amazon
12 Ami Semi Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
You can’t go wrong with long sleeve flowy maxi dresses like this one from 12 Ami. It’s a rayon-spandex combination with a flattering asymmetrical hem and literally feels like a t-shirt! It’s a piece that’s light, packable, and you can dress it up or down.
Just check out the heap of compliments by this satisfied wearer, “This A-line dress is simply beautiful! It’s comfortable and feels great to the touch. The length is great too. It flows graciously with the way your body moves. Love! Love! Love!”
Best Maxi Dresses for Special Trips
Maybe you’re attending a destination wedding or embarking on a cruise and need something that can work for evening events, the key is to seek out light fabrics that are easier to pack but are versatile, so you can wear the item again and again. An elegant vacation maxi dress like these picks are tasteful and will look fab wherever you take them!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom
BB Dakota Ella Maxi Dress for Beach Wedding
If you’re looking for maxi dresses for summer wedding ideas if you’re a guest, this 100% cotton flowy piece by BB Dakota has delicate flutter sleeves and tiered skirt that’s airy and lightweight, and the straps are adjustable! Iit’s available in sizes XS-XL and numerous colors.
This dress is feminine, soft, and doesn’t break the bank! One review says, “Great dress. Fabric is very light and flowy.”
Shop Plus Sizes XXS-L: Nordstrom
City Chic Tiered Jersey Maxi Dress
If you’re hitting a resort and want something airy but covers the legs, this classy sleeveless jersey maxi dress is gorgeous enough for such a trip, but also versatile enough to be used for other purposes too!
It’s all in the accessories, as you can pair with dangle crystal earrings, a sequined clutch, and low heels, and then dress it down with sandals. The crochet yoke and flowy tiered skirt give off an air of easy elegance and others agree! “This fits beautifully, is comfortable, and chic in a relaxed way. It’s perfect summer wear, easy to dress up or dress down. I love it.”
It’s available in plus sizes XXS-L.
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon
Owlfay Convertible Maxi Dress
This Grecian-inspired long wrap maxi dress is multi-way and can be worn in 24 different styles! Ideal for a cruise where you may want to pack a bit less and have several looks at your fingertips. Users describe the material as “stretchy,” and that it has a “good, solid feel.”
Another user says, “This dress is amazing and the options are endless of how you want to wear it! Perfect sizing and great quality. Fabulous purchase!”
Maxi Dresses Summer Product Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick overview of each of the vacation maxi dresses for summer featured above:
| BRAND / MODEL | FEATURE | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Floerns Floral Maxi Dress With Sleeves |
READER'S FAVORITE | Check Price | |
|
Floerns Floral Maxi Dress With Sleeves |
“It hits right at above my ankle and is very lightweight and looks beautiful.” | Check Price | |
|
ZESICA Cotton Floral Maxi Dress |
The fabric is so lightweight and soft. And I can adjust coverage because it’s a wrap style. An amazing dress!” | Check Price | |
|
VintageClothing Short Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress |
“versatile and romantic,” | Check Price | |
|
J. Crew Long Sleeveless Maxi Dresses |
“perfect summer dress for city, beach, or country,” | Check Price | |
|
WOOSEA Long Wrap Maxi Dress |
“I am in love with this dress!! I have a fancy event coming up, but didn't have a large budget. This dress to the rescue! The fabric is soft and flowy but not slinky. The pleating in the front and back is very flattering.” | Check Price | |
|
Caslon Tank Top Maxi Dress |
“I love the material of this long sleeveless maxi dress, it’s soft and light on the skin. I feel like I’m wearing a giant t-shirt and some kind of slinky evening dress at the same time!” | Check Price | |
|
Bsubseach Kaftan Summer Beach Maxi Dresses |
“Love this! I want to wear it for more than the beach! It's so beautiful and the price was awesome. If you want it to be really flowy, go up a size. It's not too long and won't drag on the ground.” | Check Price | |
|
Elan Maxi Dresses Beach Cover Ups |
“Very cute! Can be used as a cover up or a more relaxed dress. Super comfortable, and I imagine it will be a summer beach staple!” | Check Price | |
|
Back From Bali Beach Maxi Dress With Sleeves |
“I absolutely love the material. It's cool and silky feeling; I want to sleep in the dress I bought. Plan to bring it with me on my future travels, and plan to purchase more.” | Check Price | |
|
GRECERELLE Summer Beach Maxi Dress |
“I love the colors of this dress! The length is perfect, especially for wearing sandals and necklaces. Also, the pockets are a nice surprise. This bohemian dress is so beautiful, cool, and comfortable, in a flowy fabric and flattering cut.” | Check Price | |
|
Gxlu Maxi Dress Short Sleeved |
“It flows gorgeously. It's cool on the skin. It's attractive on my frame. Love it!” | Check Price | |
|
VintageClothing Long Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress |
“A feminine dress! I was hoping this dress is going to be a nice dress and I was absolutely surprised to see this dress is exactly how it shows on the model. Super light fabric. Great dress for summer vacation to be a little more formal.” | Check Price | |
|
Anthropologie Linen Short Sleeve Maxi Dresses |
“the linen is soft and lays very well. It’s very flattering and feminine!” | Check Price | |
|
12 Ami Semi Long Sleeve Maxi Dress |
“This A-line dress is simply beautiful! It’s comfortable and feels great to the touch. The length is great too. It flows graciously with the way your body moves. Love! Love! Love!” | Check Price | |
|
BB Dakota Ella Maxi Dress for Beach Wedding |
“Great dress. Fabric is very light and flowy.” | Check Price | |
|
City Chic Tiered Jersey Maxi Dress |
“This fits beautifully, is comfortable, and chic in a relaxed way. It’s perfect summer wear, easy to dress up or dress down. I love it.” | Check Price | |
|
Owlfay Convertible Maxi Dress |
“This dress is amazing and the options are endless of how you want to wear it! Perfect sizing and great quality. I will be wearing this to my mom’s wedding as the maid of honor and we both just love it. Fabulous purchase!” | Check Price |
TFG’s Editor’s Favorite Travel Maxi Dress
This functional yet feminine dress from Toad&Co is perfect for travel! It’s lightweight, easy to wear, comfortable, and pretty, too. Read her review on this brand to find out more of the dresses she recommends!
Every clothing line has something special that makes them unique and for Vacay Style– it’s definitely their 2 piece dress sets. Read this post to find out why she loves them and how they’re going to help you pack better than ever!
How to Make Any Dress Versatile For Travel
Dresses are multi-purpose making them the perfect staple in your travel wardrobe. Not only are they a one-piece outfit, but if layered and accessorized strategically, they can take you in between seasons and accommodate changes in weather.
Read this post or watch this video to find out how to turn any one of your dresses into versatile dresses!
How to Pack Summer Dresses
Packing dresses are the perfect way to create a fresh outfit every day. If you’re going on a seven-day trip, pack seven dresses. It’s as easy as that!
Then, use slim packing cubes to save space in your suitcase and travel carry-on only.
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
Buy Compass Rose Packing Cubes here!
What’s your favorite from our list of summer maxi dresses for vacation? Share and comment below!
For more ideas on travel dresses, please read:
- The Best Convertible Travel Dresses
- How to Wear One Dress, Many Ways
- Top Summer Dresses for Traveling Abroad
- 18 Cute Summer Dresses for Women
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Can you show looks for women in their 60s?
Hi Katy, thanks for reaching out! All of our product roundups are based on our readers tried and tested recommendations with a few of our top picks featured too! We try to feature a range of reader recommended products to reflect different price points, sizes and different audiences. Sorry we could not have been of more help in your search.
Great article with a lot of interesting maxi styles. I love an Australian brand called Leina and Fleur that have sizes from an Australian 8 to 24, which really suit curvy women. https://leinaandfleur.com.au (They ship overseas, but maybe not now due to covid.)
Hi Cynthia, thank you for sharing your recommendation with us! We always love seeing our readers favorite brands and products. ?
I love maxi dresses! Thanks, Alex, these are BEAUTIFUL!
You’re welcome Linda 🙂 Glad you like them!