Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Resort Wear: What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation in 2025

Dreaming of sandy beaches, sunset cocktails, and a vacation wardrobe that makes getting dressed feel like a breeze? Whether you’re heading to a luxury resort or a quiet beach town, 2025’s tropical vacation trends are all about striking the perfect balance between statement-making and effortlessly chic. Think bold florals, soft pastels, and silhouettes that move with ease. Ready to pack (and not overpack!) your bags? Let’s dive in!


Trending Vacation Looks: What’s Hot in 2025

If your vacation style inspiration board looks like scenes from The White Lotus, you’re on the right track. Resort wear this year is all about: 

  • Statement prints – Oversized florals, lush botanicals, and dreamy watercolor patterns.
  • Breezy fabrics – Linen, cotton, and bamboo blends keep you cool and polished.
  • Chic matching sets – A two-piece set that can be styled multiple ways = instant outfit success. 
  • Elevated swimsuits – One-pieces with sculptural details, cutouts, or luxe textures are must-haves. 

Raffia & beaded accessories – From handbags to statement earrings, natural textures are everywhere.

Ready to shop? We’ve curated some of our favorite finds inspired by these trends on Like to Know It.


Tropical Travel Essentials: What to Pack?

Packing smart means choosing pieces that take you from beach to bar seamlessly. Here’s what to bring: 

Lightweight beach dresses & skirts – Perfect over a swimsuit or dressed up for dinner.

Two-piece sets – Wear them together or mix and match for endless outfit options.

Kimonos & kaftans – An easy way to add polish while staying cool.

Packable beach bag – Spacious for daytime adventures, but folds easily into your luggage.

Evening clutch – A small but stylish option for nights out.

And if you need an extra layer for cool, breezy nights by the water try a lightweight jean jacket, linen button up, or cozy cardigan!


Our Non-Negotiable Packing Hacks

Raise your hand if you are a victim of your own overpacking? It’s us… we’re raising our hands. Let’s start our vacations off on the right foot and avoid lugging around an unbelievably heavy suitcase – especially if you’re already traveling with your kiddos! Here are some of our favorite tips and tricks for packing (somewhat) lightly:

  • Less is more – If you can, try on your outfits before you go to avoid the stress of picking out outfits for all of your plans. This will keep you from overpacking and save you some time in the long run!
  • Stick to a color palette – This will allow you to mix and match your pieces with ease!
  • Roll your clothes to save on space – This hack has changed truly changed lives everywhere!
  • Invest in packing cubes and toiletry organization – Save space and stay organized… you’ll thank us later!
  • Leave a little room in your suitcase – If you’re anything like us, you’ll want a little extra room for two reasons: 1) you’ll have space for any souvenirs or shopping you do during your travels and 2) if we’re being honest, we never pack as neatly and organized on the way back that we do on the way there.
  • Don’t forget about comfort – In the midst of packing all your cute new vacation outfits, don’t forget to opt for some comfy items, too! There’s nothing worse than pulling on a tight, uncomfortable outfit when you’re sunburnt.

Additionally, for your flight, opt for a comfy-chic outfit like a matching set with a denim jacket or a flowy jumpsuit with a cardigan. We love a cute airport outfit, but let’s be honest… comfort is key here!

Packing essentials for spring and summer trips; great travel items for moms

Do Tropical Resorts Have Dress Codes?

Yes! Many upscale resorts and restaurants have dress codes that vary by location. “Resort casual” typically means breezy yet polished (think a chic maxi dress and flat sandals), while “elegant evening” calls for a more elevated look (strappy heels and a sophisticated dress). 

Not sure what to pack? We offer personalized vacation styling to take the guesswork out of it.

vacation essentials

The Only 3 Shoes You Need for a Tropical Getaway

Keep things stylish yet functional with these versatile footwear essentials:

  1. A comfortable fashion sneaker – Perfect for travel days and sightseeing.
    • Try a sleek New Balance or Adidas pair — our favorites!
  2. An elevated leather slide – Ideal for slipping on with swimwear or dressing up for dinner.
  3. A strappy heeled sandal or statement wedge – Perfect for nights out.
    • We love a classic platform style or a bold wedge from brands like Evereve, Anthropologie, and Tuckernuck.
shoes for spring and summer

Effortlessly Chic Outfits for a Tropical Trip

Look 1: The Elevated Two-Piece Set – Wear it together for a sleek dinner look or mix it up by pairing the top with crisp white jeans and the skirt with a tucked-in tee for a relaxed daytime vibe. 

Look 2: The Breezy Stripe Dress – A go-to piece that works as a swimsuit cover-up by day and a chic outfit with statement earrings by night.


Hands Down Our Favorite Mom-Approved Swimwear

We’ve been obsessing over these finds! They offer great support and beautiful styles and good booty coverage, because despite what so many brands seem to think …. Not all of us feel like showing off, well… all of us.

mom-approved swimwear options

Want help curating your perfect vacation wardrobe? We can take the stress out of packing so you can focus on soaking up the sun! Contact us today!


About BeStyled Co.

At BeStyled Co., we’re passionate about helping you create a closet that makes you feel confident and effortlessly stylish. From expert closet edits to personalized virtual or in-person styling, we provide the tools and guidance you need to elevate your wardrobe and streamline your fashion style. Explore our resources and start your fashion transformation today!

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We do in-person styling sessions in Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, and Middle Tennessee. Not located in TN, but want in-person help? Let us know and we’ll travel to you! We also offer a wide range of virtual styling services so we can meet you where you are in a convenient way that fits your busy schedule.

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Written by Jackie Meck (Marketing)