If you’re traveling into a zone prone to hot weather and heat waves, I have very simple packing advice for women: Load up on dresses in a fabric that suits you.
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Dresses are airier than other articles of clothing. Dresses are easy to pack. Dresses are also easy to clean and dry, especially if you buy materials suited for heat. (They dry quickly.) Dresses are easy to accessorize. Dresses look more effortlessly fashionable than other outfits.
I could keep going, but know this: I rely on dresses to survive living in the middle of Barcelona. Temperatures have soared into the 90s over the last few weeks. And while my office has great air conditioning, that’s not the case at home or most other places I visit during the day.
Here’s my point: I like to think I’m good at being presentable even when I’m sweating and chaffing. And it’s made it easy for me to pack like a pro for similar areas, like Sicily and the south of France—even when temperatures are at their highest.
If you want to see the difference a few strategic pieces can make in your luggage for your next summer vacation, go with these travel dresses that are great in hot weather. I’ve vetted each based on the fit and the fabric. Before I list out my favorite pieces, let’s cover why fabric selection is so important.
In hot weather, fabric is very important
Dresses are light and airy while making you look presentable. But not all dresses are created equally when it comes to fabric. You need fabrics that hold up against sweat and stinky armpits—think: breathability and moisture evaporation.
The best fabrics for dresses worn in hot temperatures are all-natural fibers. These include cotton, linen, bamboo, and hemp. However, all-natural fibers are pretty pricey, so don’t be afraid of blends that have synthetics like rayon and polyester. Try to look for blends that are more natural than synthetic; they’re naturally moisture-wicking.
Lastly, avoid tight-fitting dresses and short dresses—especially in the color black. You want long, loose dresses for hot weather because they create space between your skin and your dress. The air in those gaps is cooler than the air outside. It also lets your sweat evaporate. Think: maxi dresses, kaftans, muumuus, etc.
6 travel dresses perfect for hot weather
Chouyatou Long Sleeve Button-Down Cotton Shirt-Dress
- Blend: 100% cotton
- Colors: Choose from nine colors and designs
- Wear it for: Going out at night, from dinner dates to tours
This is a 100% cotton button-down shirt-style dress. The sleeve hems can be rolled or left down for a more formal look. There’s also a guide that will help you choose the right size, since it can be a little difficult to find the right fit for an oversized style like this.
Senllen Women’s Summer Linen Dress
- Blend: Linen
- Colors: Choose from eighteen colors
- Wear it for: Great for the beach, day trips, and nights out
This is a light linen dress that drapes well over all body types. Plus, there are tons of colors to choose from, whether you prefer a simple beige color or a brighter cerulean option. The shoulder straps and back are also adjustable, letting you nail the right fit.
Amazhiyou High-Low Linen Dress
- Blend: Linen blend
- Colors: Choose from eight colors
- Wear it for: Great for beating the heat, whether on tours or at the beach
This is a lightweight linen blend that’s shorter than others, giving you a breathable solution that will hold up to hot, humid weather. It’s casual enough that you can wear the dress anywhere—but you can also zhuzh it up with accessories, if you want to wear it out for a formal occasion.
Chartou Women Summer Sleeveless Dress
- Blend: 90% cotton + 10% linen with polyester lining
- Colors: Choose from five striped designs
- Wear it for: Formal occasions where hot weather is a guarantee
This cotton-linen blend dress looks effortlessly chic thanks to its striped design. The length is ideal for Europe, where style tends to be a little more conservative. But the look will do well anywhere in the world you travel, whether you’re city-slicking in summer or exploring tropical beaches during the off-season.
MAKABO Women’s Bamboo Viscose Kaftan
- Blend: 100% viscose from bamboo
- Colors: Single design
- Wear it for: Anytime you’re feeling high-fashion, whether a beach day or a night out on the town
If you like colors and prints, this beautiful kaftan will make you stand out from the crowd. The plunging V-neck makes it great for pairing with accessories, while the long, wide sleeves add extra heat-busting power. If the print isn’t for you, the maker, MAKABO, has plenty of other designs in similar styles to explore.
Livtany Scooped Neck Ruched Maxi Dress
- Blend: Cotton fabric
- Colors: Choose from eighteen colors and patterns
- Wear it for: Looking elegant even when the temperatures start climbing
The structured collar makes this cotton maxi dress seriously elegant, especially if you pair it with louder jewelry. If you want a more playful look, go for the polka dot pattern. The dresses also have side pockets, making it a little more practical for travel.
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