Evening Resort Wear for a Beach Vacation Dinner

Dear Deborah,

We are going to a fairly swanky beach resort for our vacation this summer. Can you suggest something appropriate for when we go out with friends to a nice dinner? Dressy, but also something with a beach vibe? Thanks, Jan.

Hi Jan,

Lucky you! It sounds like you are going to have a fabulous time. Getting all dressed up for a beautiful dinner after a long day at the beach is one of the most enjoyable parts of any vacation, which is why it’s so important to feel confident that you’ve packed just the right thing.

I’ve put together a few gorgeous outfits that fit that beachy vibe. Have a look at them below, and check out these tips for choosing the perfect evening resort wear for your Summer Beach Vacation.

1. Think Elegant, Feminine and Flowy

Imagine that you are sitting down to dinner on the patio under a giant palm tree, watching the sun slowly set and listening to the ocean waves crashing in. This is not the time or place to be wearing a stiff, complicated dress. Choose something simple, soft, elegant and pretty, and if it moves when you move, all the better. This flowy orange dress ( similar) will look beautiful blowing in the ocean breeze!

2. Have Fun with Color

Tropical temperatures = hot colors. Don’t be afraid to get festive in happy island colors like orange, yellow, hot pink, lime green or bright parrot blue. You’ll fit right in.

3. Tropical Prints  Always Look Right

Palm leaves, tropical flowers, exotic birds, and jungle prints are a natural choice. Keep things classy by having one print as your focal point and leaving everything else neutral.

4. Choose Playful, Flirty Jewelry and Accessories

Leave your stud earrings at home and go for dangly, fun, colorful earrings. Bracelets and necklaces with fringe, beading rattan, hammered metals, and unique stones tell a story. Unusual bags and sexy sandals also elevate evening dinner resort wear.

5.  Let loose in a Comfy Jumpsuit

Dresses aren’t the only choice for a dressy dinner at a beach resort. Loungewear style pants like palazzo pants, or this breezy ruffled jumpsuit look relaxed, classy and comfy. Ruffles and a tassel neckline add a beachy, boho vibe.