What is Resort Elegant Attire? (2024)

Ready for your next exotic getaway but unsure of what to pack? While you may be spending most of your time near the water or exploring nearby hiking trails or cultural landmarks, it’s smart to pack more than sexy designer swimwear and your favorite athletic wear for the journey. Even if you want to keep the packing as light as possible, there’s always room for a few outfits when the occasion calls for elegant attire.

What is elegant resort attire and what kind of clothing is appropriate? Don’t let the term “elegant” throw you off from what’s expected when staying at a resort. It doesn’t necessarily mean formal resort attire where you'd have to dress to the nines in a gown with perfectly styled hair and a full face of makeup. However, the expectation does mean wearing more than a swimsuit cover up and flip flops when you’re out dining or attending different events.

During the day, beach dresses are a wardrobe staple for resort elegant attire. They’re comfortable, flattering, and fashionable all in one outfit. Plus, they don’t take up much space in the suitcase. Roll up your favorite styles to conserve packing room and have an assortment of options available when traveling. One of the keys to resort wear fashion is to dress it up or down with beach accessories.

Jewelry, shoes, scarves, and jackets all change the look of any dress, jumpsuit, or skirt you pack. This makes mix-and-matching resort outfits easier to adapt to the occasion. From beachside co*cktails to multi-course dinners at gourmet restaurants and daytime weddings to evening gatherings, you’ll have all you need with only a few key pieces. Knowing the difference between resort elegant and resort casual attire, when to wear each, and how to pack for both will set you up nicely for your next vacation.

Resort Elegant Attire vs. Resort Casual Attire

Resort elegant attire is typically reserved for evening wear. After you’ve spent the day adventuring and are ready for a relaxing night filled with delicious food, co*cktails, and entertainment, it’s time to change your look from day to night. Popular resort elegant attire includes maxi dresses,beach skirts(with thicker fabrics and fuller coverage), and jumpsuits. Elegant beach sandals and low heels also are best suited for a resort elegant dress code.

In certain situations, a beach mini dress and a pair of stilettos may be called for, but rarely is an evening gown and excess jewelry necessary for where you’re at. A resort elegant dress code is typically instituted at five-star resorts and onboard premium cruise lines and is always culturally appropriate for various regions of the world. It’s important to be aware that in some places, it’s important to be more covered up when going out for the evening or even when sightseeing around the town.

Compared to resort elegant attire, resort casual attire is significantly pared down. Shorts, cover ups, and sandals are all welcome to wear. However, if you’re staying at a resort, think about the style of shorts or cover ups you want to wear. You can stay comfortable and classy at the same time with printed shorts over cutoffs, long elegant cover ups rather than ratty tees, and sandals that are easy to wear but still convey a polished look.

What is Resort Elegant Attire? (2)

One of the best things about being on vacation is playing with fashion and wearing clothes you wouldn’t normally wear in your day-to-day work and home life. Feel free to dress things up the next time you have a trip planned. Evening resort wear doesn’t have to be a high-maintenance look. It feels good to plan an outfit from head to toe and feel extra confident when you walk out the door. When it doubt, it’s always best to go dressier than casual.

Resort Elegant Dress Code: What to Wear

To inspire your packing list of resort elegant attire, we have a few of our favorite recommendations to wear on your next weekend resort getaway.

For a pop of color with a unique print, the Emily Long Dressrises to the occasion in terms of dressy resort attire. The modestneckline andgold hardware has a sexy appeal without being too risque. Aracerback provides a comfortable look that’s easy to dress up or down as needed. Add a pair of flat, neutral sandals and minimal jewelry during the day and swap out the sandals for wedges and a loose-fitting jacket or cardigan to transition to the evening.

Additionally, the Black Luana Dressis a staple that can be transformed for a special occasion or a more laid-back one. By starting with such a classic staple, it’s easy to meet any resort elegant dress code. The sexycutout look and leg slit keeps the look resort-ready and ideal for warmer temps. Pair with metallic sandals and statement earrings for a purely sophisticated look or try with a colorful pair of espadrilles and dangly earrings for a festive take. Either way, this dress can be worn in many different ways, day or night, and is a must-have for any tropical destination.

What is Resort Elegant Attire? (3)

If you want another option in addition to dresses or skirts, a designer jumpsuit is a classy way to meet a resort wear elegant dress code. The Serena Jumpsuit, in particular, allows the shape and color of your outfit to make a statement. The billowing detail and tapered leg make the look feel fresh and modern, without the need for too many extra accessories. Just pull your hair back and show off a pair of statement earrings or leave your hair loose and add a fresh flower tucked behind your ear. Put your own personal spin on this one-piece outfit to create your resort elegant look.

For a fourth versatile piece to pack, the Ananda Pantsis an elegant choice that works for a casual or elegant resort look. Thebelt and side pockets are comfortable for all-day wear and the streamlined silhouette it creates on the bottom is the perfect pairing for a bodysuit or flowy top. Remember, dresses aren’t the only option when it comes to resort elegant attire - you can stay stylish in a great pair of vacation pants as well.Plus, black never goes out of style and serves as a go-to base for any occasion.

When it comes to dressy resort attire, consider what’s most flattering to your figure and what you feel the most confident wearing. Beach dresses with longer lengths give you movement, but have enough style to be polished for a fancy dinner or night of dancing. Alternatively, a jumpsuit worn in the evening is an unexpected choice that leaves a fashionable statement, especially if you play up the look with jewelry and stunning shoes. Adding a few of these items to your wardrobe allows you to be prepared wherever you plan to go to next.

How to Determine the Resort Dress Code

Most resorts have more relaxed rules about what to wear, but many offer recommendations of what attire is appropriate on their website. If you’re unsure of what to wear, you can always call the concierge to ask, especially if you have special events planned, such as a birthday celebration or beachside wedding. Also, what’s allowed on the resort may not be the case when dining in town. You want to make sure to honor where you are in the world and what is deemed suitable for various occasions.

What is Resort Elegant Attire? (4)

When traveling internationally, do some research on what’s usually expected in terms of dress to have guidelines to follow. This will help you determine how dressy you need to be and will keep you informed of potential changes in weather from day to night. Certain regions require covered knees and shoulders when exploring historical buildings or temples. In addition, some areas cool off significantly when the sun goes down, so you don’t want to be left shivering in a sleeveless dress without a light jacket to cover your shoulders.

It will help you feel more confident in what you’ve packed if you know what kind of conditions to expect. Having the right resort wear options make a difference. Every plan needs room for spontaneity, especially when away from your regular routine. It’s nice to have flexibility in what you wear depending on the weather, occasion, and mood.

Pack for Your Personality

After you know the basics of what to pack, it all comes down to your own personal style. Add flair to any outfit based on your personality and what you like to wear the most. If your wardrobe consists of all-black clothing, stay in your comfort zone with an LBD and a few, neutral pieces. Or, if color is the name of your fashion game, go bold with unique prints and designs.

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On the other hand, vacation is a time to switch things up if you want to get out of your normal routine. Think of it as a way to take chances with your fashion, as resort elegant attire still has an element of playfulness to it so being buttoned up and fully covered isn’t a requirement. Feel free to bare your shoulders, show off your shape, and have fun with your clothing. It’s all about finding the right balance of sexy sophistication that you feel comfortable wearing as you travel around the globe.

What is Resort Elegant Attire? (2024)

FAQs

What is elegant resort attire? ›

Popular resort elegant attire includes maxi dresses, beach skirts (with thicker fabrics and fuller coverage), and jumpsuits. Elegant beach sandals and low heels also are best suited for a resort elegant dress code.

What is elegant resort wear for men? ›

Formal Resort Attire

While a suit is a good idea for men, a nice button-up shirt with a dinner jacket and slacks can be acceptable. Dress shoes are recommended over tennis shoes or dress sandals.

What does elegant attire mean? ›

(elɪgənt ) adjective. If you describe a person or thing as elegant, you mean that they are pleasing and graceful in appearance or style.

What does resort attire mean? ›

Many resorts have a “resort casual” dress code, which means collared shirts and dress shoes for men, and co*cktail dresses or dressy separates for women.

What do you wear to an elegant evening? ›

If you have received an invite which states 'formal wear' or 'evening wear' under the dress code, think elegance and sophistication with a touch of glamour. Evening wear generally entails white or black tie and suits for men, and formal dresses, co*cktail dresses or gowns for women.

What is evening elegant dress code for men? ›

For men, a combination of a collared shirt,which can range from a tenis/Polo shirt or a button down, and dress pants or trousers, such as khakis, all tucked away and made neat with a belt or blazer, is idyllic. The shoes should be in the neighborhood of loafers or tie-ups—sneakers should be excommunicated.

Can you wear jeans for casual elegant? ›

The Casual Elegant dress code, is NOT “casual sport” which could include jeans and sandals, the word “elegant” should be taken as it is, because although this kind of elegance requires being natural and comfortable -casual-, the combination of fabrics and shapes will be the key at the time of achieving an accurate ...

What not to wear to look elegant? ›

Keep it classy.

Don't wear clothes that reveal too much skin, are too tight, or use materials which look low-class (leopard print, fuzzy materials, lamé, etc). Dressing this way can make you look cheap or like an escort. It will also make you look like you're trying too hard.

What is the difference between elegant and formal attire? ›

Elegant attire is usually reserved for the host/hostess while guests are in formal attire. Are skirts considered formal attire? No skirts are not generally considered formal attire. However skirts can be accessorized appropriately and be worn as formal attire.

What is the meaning of elegant appearance? ›

adjective. tasteful in dress, style, or design. dignified and graceful in appearance, behaviour, etc.

What to wear to dinner at all inclusive resorts men? ›

If you want to make the most of an all-inclusive resort's exemplary dining, male-identifying guests should prepare to pack:
  • A collared shirt or two. Dress or polo is up to you.
  • Long pants like slacks or khakis. Shorts are often not allowed, even golf shorts.
  • Closed-toe dressier shoes.
Jun 23, 2022

What is resort attire in Hawaii for men? ›

The typical resort wear outfit for men is the same type of outfit worn at numerous country clubs. Slacks and polo shirts are preferred by many guys. You'll never go wrong with a nice pair of khakis, a polo shirt and a pair of spiffy loafers or boat shoes. Sandals and clog-like shoes are no nos.

What colors to wear for elegant? ›

Neutral colors are often the epitome of elegance in fashion. Black, white, creme, grey, beige, as well as muted tones of green and brown, are some of the best shade choices to complement an elegant outfit.

What makes a woman elegant? ›

A woman who is elegant knows how to hold her head high with poise and confidence. This is especially important when walking around people who are strangers. By maintaining good posture and making eye contact, you show others that you are confident in yourself and your abilities.

How can I look elegant and classy at 50? ›

5 Rules of Dressing in Your 50s
  1. Embrace color. While shades of grey can come across as matronly, bright and bold color will rev up your look and perk up your skin tone. ...
  2. Free your neckline. Swap the deep plunge in favor of a universally flattering boatneck. ...
  3. Upgrade your knits. ...
  4. Play up your waistline. ...
  5. Find your fit.

What is classic elegant dress code men? ›

When attending an event with formal attire (or black tie optional) set as the dress code, men should wear a dark tuxedo with a dark bow tie, along with a white shirt and black patent leather shoes. A dark suit is an acceptable substitute if you don't have a tuxedo lying around.

What is a classy dress code for a woman? ›

Dressing classy requires a bit of modesty — no midriff-baring tops, revealing low décolletage, or mini skirts. Necklines are typically collared, boatneck, crew neck or V-neck. For some variety, you can also try square, cowl, and scoop necks.

What are the stages of the dress code? ›

Classifications are divided into formal wear (full dress), semi-formal wear (half dress), and informal wear (undress). Anything below this level is referred to as casual wear, although sometimes in combinations such as "smart casual" or "business casual" in order to indicate higher expectation than none at all.

What makes a man elegant? ›

A classy man is by default a bold, confident and fearless man. He believes that nothing is impossible to achieve and therefore he goes about taking risks, having positive expectations and achieving success. He knows how to carry himself very well and he is very comfortable in his own skin.

How can a man look elegant and classy? ›

The Devil Is In The Details: Style Advice For Men On How To Look More Sophisticated
  1. Make it mature stylish.
  2. Keep it simple.
  3. Tailors are a man's best friend.
  4. Good shoes, good glasses, good haircut; embrace the right accessories.
  5. Looking after your clothes.
  6. Invest in quality.
Feb 8, 2019

What does casually elegant look like? ›

If you're thinking of wearing a dress, the best lengths are right above or below the knee for a classy, yet more casual look. Lastly, shoes are definitely something to consider when dressing casually elegant. Ballet flats, heels, and nice sandals can all be considered casually elegant.

What to wear to look expensive? ›

How to make your outfit look more expensive
  1. Get it tailored. Raymond Hall//Getty Images. ...
  2. Wear a belt for polish. Daniel Zuchnik//Getty Images. ...
  3. Add gold accessories. ...
  4. Dress in tonal colours, like all white or all black. ...
  5. Keep handbags shiny and clean. ...
  6. Layer up. ...
  7. Dress up your denim. ...
  8. Buy timeless outerwear.
Jan 18, 2023

What is the 3 color rule in fashion? ›

The premise of the 3-color rule is not combine more than three colors in your outfit at any one time. The exceptions are black and white — they don't count, as they aren't technically colors, so they can be intermixed without actually adding a color to your outfit.

What is considered elegant? ›

Elegance is beauty that shows unusual effectiveness and simplicity.

What is an elegant co*cktail dress? ›

But what's a co*cktail dress? The dictionary definition is “an elegant dress suitable for semi-formal social occasions, falling to just below or just above the knee.” Most of us probably think of the classic little black dress (LBD) when we're choosing co*cktail or semi-formal attire. And there's nothing wrong with that.

Does formal attire mean co*cktail dress or evening gown? ›

Traditionally formal or black-tie events require the wearing of a long gown; for a co*cktail event, shorter frocks or pant or jumpsuit outfits are the go.

What does elegant mean for woman? ›

graceful and attractive in appearance or behaviour: an elegant woman.

Does elegant mean luxurious? ›

While all these words mean "having qualities that appeal to a cultivated taste," elegant applies to what is rich and luxurious but restrained by good taste. a sumptuous but elegant dining room.

What is an example of elegant? ›

He looked so elegant — so sophisticated. He looked elegant in a light gray suit that accentuated his dark tan. He was so elegant in a suit and so masculine in western attire. They were a handsome couple, the elegant woman's hair so fine and blonde it resembled white silk.

Is it rude not to tip at all-inclusive resorts? ›

While tipping may not be required at some all-inclusive resorts, many guests prefer to do so. In the event that you would like to tip staff during your all-inclusive vacation, it is important to find out in advance whether staff would even be allowed to accept those tips.

Are you supposed to tip for dinner and at all-inclusive? ›

Do I Need to Tip at an All-Inclusive Resort? While tipping is a discretionary and optional gesture, at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and others, it is certainly encouraged.

What do men wear to all-inclusive resorts? ›

Many require men to wear long pants, collared shirts and/or close-toed shoes. Without the proper attire you may be stuck eating at the buffet every night. You can usually find the resort's dress code on their website, so be sure to check that before you pack!

What do you wear to a 5 star resort? ›

5-star hotels convey luxury and prestige, and the guests are expected to reflect those as well. In fact, restaurants in a 5-star establishment can refuse you entry unless you're in at least semi-formal attire. A good rule of thumb to observe is to dress in smart casual business attire.

Do you tip on top of resort fee? ›

While resort fees may include certain hotel services, amenities, and access to different areas, they do not include tips or gratuity for hotel staff. Some travelers assume that tips for housekeeping, concierge service, or luggage delivery are included in the resort fee, but the fee is paid directly to the hotel.

What should you look for in an all inclusive resort? ›

8 Top Features to Look For in an All-Inclusive Resort
  • Swim-Up Bar. ...
  • Adults-Only Pools and Other Areas. ...
  • Multi-generational Family Time. ...
  • The Beach. ...
  • Multiple Included Restaurants. ...
  • Spa and Wellness. ...
  • Work-from-anywhere Services. ...
  • Treating Yourself to Upgrades.

How do you dress in Hawaii and not look like a tourist? ›

Dress for Success
  1. Hawaiian/Aloha shirts.
  2. Board shorts.
  3. Loose-fitting pants or shorts.
  4. Comfortable shoes like sandals or flip flops.
  5. Colorful sundresses.
  6. Muumuu dresses.
  7. Tank tops.
  8. Pa'u hula skirts.

Does anyone wear jeans in Hawaii? ›

Can you wear jeans in Hawaii? Sure, you can wear jeans in Hawaii. But unless you're going up to the summit of Haleakala you'll probably be more comfortable in almost anything else due to the balmy temperatures and humidity.

What is the best men's attire for Hawaii? ›

Gentlemen: Slacks, Dress shorts, polo/knit/dress shirt, or Aloha attire. Jackets are not required, but you may wear one if you choose. Ties are seldom seen in Hawaii, but again, you may wear one if you choose. Hanauma Bay - Wear bathing suit underneath casual clothing or bring bathing suit and change at location.

What do men wear at all inclusive resorts? ›

Many require men to wear long pants, collared shirts and/or close-toed shoes. Without the proper attire you may be stuck eating at the buffet every night. You can usually find the resort's dress code on their website, so be sure to check that before you pack!

How do you get an inclusive dress code? ›

How do you write an inclusive dress code policy? An inclusive dress code policy accounts for and promotes diversity. You should consider qualities like religion, gender identity and expression, cultural identity and disabilities. Make sure that your policy doesn't discriminate against individuals for any reason.

What does resort mean in high fashion? ›

Resort, Cruise, Pre-Spring, “Holiday,” whatever you wanna call it: they're monikers for the same thing. It's just interchangeable fashion jargon to describe the same pre-collection that comes after Fall/Winter clothes have gone on sale but before Spring/Summer clothes have been delivered to stores.

What do you wear to a high end beach resort? ›

Think stylish beach cover-ups, denim shorts or jeans, a cute top or shirt, a romper, or a free-flowing dress. In terms of footwear, keep it flat—with flats, sneakers, thongs, or trendy sandals.

What do men wear to Cancun? ›

Cancun Outfits Men. Essential clothes for men to wear in Cancun: Swimming trunks, flip-flops, canvas shoes, linen shirt and linen pants, and a light regular shirt. Sunglasses and a sun hat complete the Cancun men outfit.

How should I dress for an all-inclusive resort in Mexico? ›

At a minimum, you'll want to pack these vacation clothes for Mexico:
  1. Swimsuit.
  2. Swimsuit coverup.
  3. Shorts.
  4. Tank tops and blouses.
  5. Dressier attire like dresses, skirts, or rompers.
  6. Sandals and flip flops.
  7. Comfortable walking shoes.
  8. Crossbody purse.
Jan 22, 2023

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