How to Follow a Resort Elegant Dress Code

You’ve booked the resort, scheduled the spa treatments, and picked the perfect ocean-view suit,  but now comes the tricky part: what on earth do you pack?

If the words “resort elegant dress code” have you staring blankly at your closet or Googling last-minute outfit inspo, you’re not alone. Striking the right balance between comfortable, classy, and resort-ready can feel more complicated than it should, especially when every event calls for a different look.

But don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Consider this your go-to guide for how to dress in resort elegance, from picking fabrics to easy-to-style pieces. And yes, with a little help from Gooseberry Intimates’ dreamy collection of timeless essentials.

Resort elegant attire is where chic meets chill. Think of it as your wardrobe’s way of saying, “I’m here to sip rosé, make an entrance, and feel amazing while doing it.” It’s perfect for those upscale dinner reservations, poolside cocktail parties, or beach weddings where a simple cover-up just won’t cut it.

Here’s what defines the resort elegant vibe:

• Fabrics that breathe - Stick to high-quality, lightweight materials like cotton, linen, and silk. They’re ideal for summer temperatures and add that effortless luxury touch.

• Polished, never stiff - The goal is to look refined without feeling overdressed. You're going for "I just threw this on and I still look amazing."

• Versatility is key - This attire works beautifully for both daytime lounging and night events under the stars.

You'll typically see women in flowing dresses, men in tailored trousers or shirts, and everyone glowing with confidence.

Resort elegant attire is ideal for both daytime and night events. Whether you’re watching the sun dip into the horizon or twirling under string lights, your outfit should feel as natural as the breeze and just as beautiful.

You’ve probably seen other resort dress codes pop up—resort casual, resort evening, and resort formal—but how do they compare? Let’s decode it.

Resort casual is your chill-day-at-the-beach dress code. It’s what you wear when you’re hopping between a spa appointment and a poolside lunch.

Casual pieces like shorts, breezy cotton dresses, cover-ups, and flip-flops totally belong here. The vibe? Relaxed, fresh, and easygoing. It's like saying, "I just threw this on and still look fabulous."

This one turns up the dial. Resort evening attire steps away from the casual and into the sleek and sultry. You’ll see women slipping into polished dresses or skirts, and men in collared shirts paired with tailored pants or upscale shorts. It’s perfect for dining al fresco at a five-star restaurant, or attending a chic beachside party on your European summer vacay.

Ah, the crème de la crème of resort wear. Reserved for once-in-a-lifetime moments, like weddings, gala nights, or high-end soirées. Resort formal means bringing your A-game. Women should go for evening gowns, tailored pants with embellished tops, or statement pieces with a touch of sparkle. Men typically wear suits or jackets with a refined silhouette. Formal? Yes. Fabulous? Absolutely.

Now that we've set the scene, it’s time to curate your wardrobe with the ultimate resort attire essentials. These pieces are equal parts elevated and easy to wear, designed to make you feel empowered and look breathtaking from sunrise to moonlight.

An elegant dress is the heart of any resort wear collection. It should flow, breathe, and twirl beautifully under the summer sky. 

When choosing a dress for evening events, consider:

• Fabrics - Go for lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen, or silk that are both comfortable and refined.

• Style - Slip dresses, midi cuts, and wrap styles are perfect for a range of occasions — from sunset dinner to tropical dining on the beach.

• Colors - Stick to soft neutrals, jewel tones, or tropical prints. These colors elevate your look while keeping it vacation-ready.

• Fit - Aim for styles that drape naturally and highlight your favorite features without clinging.

For women, a dress that moves with the breeze and transitions from day to night with just a change of accessories is a must-have in any resort wardrobe.

One standout option for an elevated resort look? A silky slip dress that captures both sophistication and comfort. Take Gooseberry Intimates' Manhattan Slip Dress in black, for example — it channels vintage glamor with its fluid, high-shine silk and softly structured silhouette.

Whether you style it solo for an evening affair or layer it under a tailored blazer, it brings bold confidence to your wardrobe. And if black isn't your vibe, this stunner also comes in timeless colors like ivory and red.

Not into dresses every day? You're not alone—and luckily, resort elegant attire makes room for pants and jumpsuits that are both chic and comfortable.

What to look for:

• Jumpsuits - Choose structured styles with flattering necklines and adjustable waistlines. These one-piece wonders can easily go from casual beach stroll to dinner date with a quick switch of shoes.

• Pants - Wide-leg or silk pants bring softness and elegance to your outfit. Flowy linen trousers also offer breathable style with a touch of structure.

• Pair these - A fitted tank, soft blouse, or bodysuit in a neutral tone, and add a lightweight jacket or shawl for breezy nights.

This kind of clothing not only offers multiple style options but also keeps your travel wardrobe functional and fashion-forward.

Cover-ups aren’t just for walking to the pool—they can be central to your resort look. With the right material and style, they easily shift from beach casual to polished elegance.

Consider:

• Kaftans and tunics in sheer or woven fabrics

• Wrap skirts or sarongs in coordinating colors

• Button-down shirts worn open over a swimsuit, tied at the waist for a cinched silhouette

Layer your cover-up over a well-fitted swimsuit, add sandals and oversized sunglasses, and you're ready for a poolside lunch or breezy shopping stroll.

Are you looking to elevate your poolside look with something more polished than your typical sarong? The So Chic Mini Skirt in Rum is a gorgeous alternative. With its flirty hemline, soft sheer fabric, and flattering wrap design, it adds just the right amount of coverage without hiding your swimwear’s style.

You might be tempted to save your swimwear for lounging only, but with the right fit and design, your swimsuit can be part of your entire outfit.

When selecting swimwear for resort elegance, keep in mind:

• Designs with structure - Look for one-pieces or bikinis with defined cups, underwire, or built-in shaping.

• Elegant detailing - Bikini styles with high-cut legs, minimalist lines, or hardware accents give off upscale energy.

• Pair with these - A flowing skirt, wrap, or palazzo pants to create a look that works for brunch or walking through the resort.

For those moments when you want to command the room or the pool with quiet confidence, the So Chic One Piece in Red is a showstopping essential. With its daring neckline, high-cut legs, and sleek, sculpting silhouette, this suit is designed to flatter and empower. Wear it solo for a poolside moment or layer it under a sheer cover-up for instant resort wear glam.

No one wants to be hobbling through the resort in stilettos—yet that doesn’t mean flipping to the other extreme and living in rubber flip-flops. Your footwear should match your outfit's tone while supporting your feet from day to night.

Your best bets: 

• Sandals with minimal straps and cushioned soles

• Wedges or espadrilles that lift without sacrificing stability

• Polished flats or embellished slides for elevated casual events

• Sleek block heels for dinner or formal occasions

Choose shoes in neutral tones or metallics to maximize pairing potential and pack fewer pairs. Also, consider climate—some venues may require closed-toe shoes, while others embrace barefoot luxury.

Accessories are where the magic happens. They’re the final flourish — the delicate whisper of gold at your wrist, the wide-brimmed hat that says “main character energy,” and the sunglasses that let you channel your inner resort royalty.

To elevate your resort elegant attire, opt for:

• Wide-brimmed hats - Practical for shade, perfect for style. Choose straw or linen to stay light and luxe.

• Delicate jewelry - Think gold hoops, dainty necklaces, or a single statement ring. Subtle, but unforgettable.

• Chic sunglasses - Oversized frames, tortoiseshell tones, or minimalist black lenses all add effortless glamour.

• Woven or clutch bags - Small, structured bags made from raffia, silk, or leather lend polish without overpowering your look.

• Silk scarves - Wear them in your hair, around your neck, or tied to your bag for an extra dash of playful elegance.

Let the best beach accessories complement your outfit rather than steal the spotlight. When in doubt, go for simplicity and quality pieces that whisper, not shout.

It’s not just about what you wear—it’s how you prepare. These tips will help you stay stylish, comfortable, and confident through every island breeze and sunset dinner.

A well-curated capsule wardrobe is your secret weapon for packing light while dressing right. Invest in versatile, timeless pieces you can mix, match, and layer effortlessly.

Here’s what to include:

• 2–3 neutral-tone dresses (think cream, beige, blush)

• 1 tailored jumpsuit or silk pants

• A matching bodysuit that doubles as day-to-night wear

• 1–2 stylish cover-ups and swimsuits

• Elegant sandals and one pair of block heels

• A lightweight jacket or shawl for cooler evenings

Keep your colors cohesive so everything works together. This approach saves space, simplifies decisions, and guarantees you always have the perfect outfit for every occasion.

Fashion is fabulous—but so is being thoughtful. Always research the local customs and climate of your resort destination to ensure your attire is respectful and appropriate.

Here’s how to adapt:

• Modesty matters in certain regions - bring longer skirts or sleeves for religious or cultural sites.

• Climate counts - humid places call for breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, while breezy climes might need a light jacket at night.

• If dining at upscale restaurants, call ahead to check if a specific dress code is required, some venues expect more formal resort wear.

Being aware of your surroundings not only shows respect — it shows confidence and grace, too.

Resort elegance isn’t about following rules—it’s about finding the style that makes you feel radiant, relaxed, and ready to take on every glamorous vacation moment. It’s knowing when to float into a room in a slip dress, when to lounge confidently in a silk bodysuit, and when to let your cover-up do all the talking.

Gooseberry Intimates offers a curated collection of sophisticated resort wear: from swimsuit cover-ups that double as dining attire to sexy bikinis, floaty swim skirts, and ethereal women’s dresses that feel like poetry on your skin.

So go ahead, pack your bags, slip into something fabulous, and let your next resort getaway be a celebration of everything you are: elegant, empowered, and utterly unforgettable.

1. Fabriclore. (2025). Choosing The Right Fabric For Resortwear: A Smart Sourcing Guide For Fashion Brands. https://fabriclore.com/blogs/fashion-business-lifestyle-trends/right-fabric-for-resortwear-fashion-brands-guide