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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!

 

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Vacation Maxi Dresses for Summer

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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!

 

 

TFG’s Editor’s Favorite Travel Maxi Dress

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Columbia

 

Columbia Freezer Maxi Dress

 

Everyone’s been talking about the Columbia Freezer dresses, so in the last Prime Day Sale, I ordered the ​Columbia Freezer III Maxi Dress and also the regular style to try out!

Its Omni-Freeze fabric disperses body heat to keep you cool, and the UPF 50+ protection keeps you sun safe! And let me tell you, it’s not every day that you get a compliment wearing a travel dress! I even had strangers come up to me asking where I got the dress!

They’re so featherlight, making them perfect for the heat. You could easily pack 7 of these dresses in 1 slim packing cube, and you would be set for a 1-week vacation!

 

 

If I’m going somewhere hot, I discovered the Columbia Maxi Freezer Dress for its UPF and moisture-wicking properties–adore it!

 

The A-line silhouette is flattering, versatile, and offers great mobility, too. Readers have worn this dress hiking, sightseeing, and out to dinner, proving it to be a very nice versatile staple for your summer travels! A TFG says, “Great dress for heat and travel. UPF 50, wicking fabric, somewhat flowy, weighs nothing, and has no wrinkles! Very flattering, too!” This dress comes in sizes XS-3X.

The mini version of this Freezer dress is also really popular with readers, made of the same cooling fabric but in an elegant short style!

 

 

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! The 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) and also in plus sizes 1X-3X!

 

 

Wearing the Loveappella maxi dress in purple, with my Wallaroo Sun Hat

 

I ordered the Loveappella maxi dress petite small size and was shocked that it actually fit my 5’2” height without dragging on the floor. I bought the rich purple color, which is beautiful for the seaside.

I also wore this dress while I was pregnant and it worked well as maternity wear, due to the stretchy fabric and cut, another pleasant surprise! it’s clear why this dress is so popular with readers.

 

Find out why the Loveappella maxi dress is a must-pack for warm-weather travels in this review!

 

 

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 XXS-3XL Plus: Pact

 

Pact Sleeveless Floral Maxi Dress – Up to Sizes 3XL

 

This breezy maxi dress from Pact is made of cotton; 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, “I love this dress! The fabric is buttery soft and I love the bright colored print! The back is so pretty too! Please make more bright summer dresses!!” These breezy summer dresses come in multiple colors and in sizes XXS-3XL Plus.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-3XL Plus: Anthropologie

 

Anthropologie Cotton Floral Maxi Dress (Plus Size Available)

 

A gorgeous floral maxi with sleeves from Anthropologie 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 XXS-3X.

The boho feel of this trendy long dress evokes sun, fun, and laughter. And others agree, with one review saying, “This is the perfect dress for all body types. It is very flattering and can be dressed down with sneakers or dressed up with heals and a jacket. I have it in 3 different prints.”

 

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly!

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-22: Boden

 

Boden 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 viscose fabric is best by a flowy fit and flare dress, 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 0-22.

 

Looking for the ultimate vacation packing list? Download our free 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 XS-XL: Nordstrom

 

DKNY Linen Long Sleeveless Maxi Dresses

 

Summer high low dresses like this pretty one by DKNY 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 “Looking for a dress to pack for a trip. Nice quality linen. Fits true to size.” while another explains “Great dress for either a tropical vacation or for summer evening casual wear. Can be dressed up or dressed down. Nice fit and well made.” Comes in many other colors, and in a range of sizes, from XS-XL!

 

Just pair it with slide sandals or comfortable wedges to complete your look!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Faherty

 

Faherty Sleeveless V Neck Maxi Dress

 

Feminine and free-spirited, the sleeveless jersey maxi dress from Faherty is a wardrobe dream for sunny days and special outings. Made from soft, lightweight fabric, this floral dress features a flattering fit that skims the body without being overly fitted. The relaxed, breezy design makes it perfect for casual sightseeing or dressing up for a special occasion. Its breathable fabric ensures comfort even on the hottest days, makes it an ideal travel piece.

The dress is designed with a flattering V-neck at both the front and back, accented with delicate drawcord ties and playful tassels for a charming touch. The tiered skirt adds graceful movement with subtle shirring, giving the dress a flowy, feminine silhouette. For the best fit, it’s recommended to size down. Available in sizes XXS-XXL, this dress combines effortless style and comfort for all your adventures.

 

We have rounded up our favorite convertible travel dresses that will help you pack light and stylishly!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

 

Quince Tank Top Maxi Dress

 

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 this jersey maxi dress. I will use it for travel. Easy to dress up with sandals and scarf, easy to make casual with flip flops! It’s VERY flattering.” You can grab this in sizes XS-XL!

 

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 Sizes XS-XL: Quince

 

Quince 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 100% cotton, it’s airy and lightweight, so it’s totally ideal for beach travel or at home. It features a v-neck in the front and back and flowy tiered bodice and it’s available in sizes XS-XL in this gorgeous toasted coconut color!

One user gushes about this piece and its uses, “I have been looking for a lightweight summer dress like this for quite a while. It fits me perfectly (tallish, with a straighter figure) and doesn’t look too frilly. ” Another one adds, “I love it, it’s nice and light. The cotton gauze material is light weight and breezy. Perfect for the weather here in Florida. It’s a beautiful got and shape too!”

 

Pair them with one of these lace-up sandals!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew

 

J.Crew Summer Beach Maxi Dresses

 

This lightweight, airy maxi dress is a perfect pick for your summer beach getaway. Designed in a flowy tiered style feels breezy and comfortable, making it an ideal option as both a chic swimsuit cover-up and a stylish beach-to-bar dress.

This breezy style is made from 100% cotton gauze, offering a lightweight feel and a naturally crinkled finish—perfect for tossing into your beach bag. The smocked panels add texture and a flattering fit, making it both comfortable and stylish.

 

Here are the best swimsuit coverups of the season!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Anthropologie

 

Anthropologie 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. This shirtdress cover-up is made of a luxurious cotton, with its incredible ability to stay cool and fresh, even in heat and humidity, make it stylish and boho-looking, which we love! The cotton fabric is lightweight, perfect for being in the sun.

This plus size summer maxi dresses is available in many beautiful colors and sizes XXS-3X too!

 

 

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.

 

Pair it with stylish dress 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 XS-XL: Quince

 

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Maxi Dress

 

This flowy and elegant dress from Quince is a top-seller with readers for good reason — it’s not only gorgeous but incredibly easygoing and practical for spring travel! The silk fabric is washable, durable, and a bit stretchy, so you can dress it down with sneakers for sightseeing or dress it up for a nice out. It’s also lightweight, airy, and naturally thermoregulating, so it’s great in the heat.

The smocked waist is comfy and gives it a really flattering shape, too. Choose from a range of colors and sizes XS-XL. Taka look at even more maxi dresses here!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Land’s End

 

Land’s End Maxi Dress Short Sleeved

 

This summer maxi dresses from Land’s End is a perfect choice for summer, offering both style and comfort. Made from soft, breathable cotton poplin with eyelet detailing, this dress features a flattering tiered design that provides graceful movement. The dress fits beautifully, with a flowing swing hem that adds to its relaxed, feminine silhouette. Available in sizes XS-3X, it provides a comfortable, modest fit for all body types.

Whether paired with casual sandals or dressed up with a more formal shoe, this versatile dress works with a variety of accessories and occasions.

 

Here are some of the best sandals for travel in summer!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Banana Republic

 

Banana Republic Long Sleeve Maxi Shirtdress

 

For a more boho-feel, these long sleeve maxi dresses by Banana Republic 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. Crafted in a lightweight fabric that’s ideal for summer, style it with sandals as a dress or throw it on over your bathing suit to head to the beach.

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom

 

Treasure & Bond Boho Semi Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

 

You can’t go wrong with long sleeve flowy maxi dresses like this one from Treasure and Bond. It’s a 100% viscose combination with a dolman sleeves and vibrant color floral print. 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, “I found this for the spring purchase for the first time wearing the smocked dresses for Spring.” Also available in 1X-4X sizes here.

 

These ultra-versatile styles will keep you cool and comfortable on the go due to their moisture wicking fabrics!

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Banana Republic

 

Banana Republic Linen Short Sleeve Maxi Dresses

 

Short sleeves and a warm-weather ready fabric give an effortlessly feminine feel to this linen scoop neck maxi dress. Perfect for spring and summer, cut from beautiful and breathable European flax linen with kaftan-like details the better to emphasize its wide sleeves, an easy fit construction, high slits at the sides and features a maxi length that pairs well with heels, sneakers, or lace-up sandals.

This stylish and lightweight linen dress is a must-get summer addition! It’s offered in sizes XXS-XXL!

 

 

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: Toad&Co

 

Toad&Co Maxi Dress for Beach Wedding

 

If you’re looking for maxi dresses for summer wedding ideas if you’re a guest, the Sunkissed is equipped with 50+ UPF protection that makes it an ideal companion for those beach-bound adventures. This functional yet feminine dress from Toad&Co is perfect for travel! It’s lightweight, easy to wear, comfortable, and pretty, too.

It offers an effortless look thanks to its tulip-inspired front detailing, while the stretch woven fabric lends a technical hand to ensure that the fabric wicks away moisture and dries quickly. Bra-friendly straps ensure adaptive wearability, and the peak-a-boo cutout in the back provides a subtly flirty feel.

 

 Read her review on this brand to find out more of the dresses she recommends!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom

 

Loveappella 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 flowy tiered maxi dress fashioned with a high halter neckline and tie-belted waist give off an air of easy elegance and others agree! “This dress was everything I wanted. Soft vibrant color and fit perfect. Got lots of compliments”

It’s available in sizes XS-XL.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Old Navy

 

Old Navy Fit & Flare Crinkle Gauze Maxi Dress

 

This fit and flare maxi dress is perfect for those looking for a flattering and versatile style. It features a fitted top with a defined waist and a full skirt that flows effortlessly, offering an elegant silhouette. The light, rippled fabric gives it a breezy, beachside feel, making it perfect for warm weather getaways or occasions such as wedding.

The dress is designed with a high tie-front neck, sleeveless cut, and shirred seams, adding to its feminine charm. The elasticized waist ensures a comfortable and flattering fit, while the 100% double-weave cotton fabric is breathable and substantial with a “good, solid feel.”

A reviewer shares, “I love this dress and can’t wait to wear it all the time in summer! I got both the green and maroon versions. I was concerned that the detailing at the chest wouldn’t sit as intended as I’ve had that issue before with Old Navy dresses. Not this beauty though! Love the material and the length.”

 

 

Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts | Sizes XS-6X

 

Best Shorts to Wear Under Dresses

 

If you’re looking for shorts to wear under your dresses, Thigh Society’s The Cooling Anti-Chafe Shorts are a reader favorite. These shorts pull heat and moisture away from the body, keeping things cool, fresh and chafe-free on even the hottest of days due to their silky hi-tech performance fabric.

They’re tagless, don’t roll or bunch, and are ultra-thin and lightweight yet stretchy and durable as can be. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors, lengths and sizes from XS-6X!

 

 

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

 

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!

 

 

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What’s your favorite from our list of summer maxi dresses for vacation? Share and comment below!

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For more ideas on travel dresses, please read:

• Best White Dresses
• How to Wear One Dress, Many Ways
• Top Summer Dresses for Traveling Abroad
• Cute Summer Dresses for Women

 

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