Imagine strolling barefoot across warm sand, the sound of the waves in your ears, and the sun on your skin. These are the moments that make a beach vacation unforgettable in 2025. But it's the right dresses for your beach vacation that truly transform every day into a stylish experience. In this guide, you'll discover the 9 must-have beach dresses for the new season, from sustainable maxi dresses to versatile boho looks. Look forward to inspiration, trends, and valuable tips to perfect your summer look. Get inspired and find your dream dress for the perfect vacation!
The most important trends for beach dresses in 2025
The trends for beach vacation dresses in 2025 show how fashion combines innovation and sustainability. Colors, patterns, materials, fits, and functionality are the focus, while environmental awareness is becoming increasingly important. Whether pastels or bold prints, the right choice ensures that your beach outfit is not only stylish but also future-oriented.
Colors, patterns and materials
In 2025, dresses for beach vacations will be dominated by soft pastels, vibrant tropical colors, and natural earth tones. Floral patterns, batik designs, and animal prints will be particularly popular. Brands are increasingly focusing on sustainable materials such as linen, organic cotton, and recycled fabrics. According to Vogue 2024, 60% of new collections already consist of such fabrics.
A prime example is the maxi dress "Chasing the Sun Dress," made from recycled materials and available in several trendy colors. Innovative fabrics offer UV protection and are breathable. Transparency and layering add fashionable touches without sacrificing comfort. Timeless designs are complemented by new fabric technologies, elevating dresses for beach vacations to a new level.
Cuts and fits
For beach vacation dresses in 2025, versatile cuts take center stage. Maxi, midi, and mini lengths offer the perfect solution for every figure and occasion. Wrap dresses, kaftans, and shirt dresses, which combine flexibility and style, are especially popular.
Oversized silhouettes meet tailored styles, ensuring every woman can find her perfect look. Wrap dresses are among the bestsellers at major online retailers, scoring points for their flattering fit. The cuts provide freedom of movement, essential at the beach. This makes each dress a versatile companion – from a relaxed day out to an elegant evening event.
Functionality and versatility
Functionality is a key theme for dresses for beach vacations. Modern beach dresses can be easily slipped on over swimwear and will accompany you from the beach bar to dinner. Easy-care and wrinkle-resistant fabrics make travel easier.
Hidden pockets and practical details offer added comfort. The ability to combine the garment with accessories and shoes allows for endless new looks. According to travel trends for 2024, 85% of beachgoers prefer multifunctional outfits that can be flexibly adapted. This makes every dress a versatile all-rounder for the perfect day on vacation.
Sustainability and environmental awareness
Sustainability awareness is a major factor shaping dresses for beach vacations in 2025. More and more shoppers are paying attention to fairly produced dresses, ecological certifications, and transparency in the supply chain. Brands are focusing on recycling and upcycling to conserve resources.
Furthermore, awareness of microplastics and their impact on the oceans is growing. According to Statista, by 2025, one in three female consumers will be actively seeking sustainable fashion. Those interested in learning more about the background can find fascinating insights into innovative and responsible production methods at MAIN Design's sustainability section . Sustainability is thus becoming an integral part of all the latest trends in beach vacation fashion.
9 Must-Have Dresses for Your 2025 Beach Vacation
Choosing the perfect dress for a beach vacation often determines how comfortable you feel during your summer holiday. In 2025, must-have beach dresses are more diverse than ever. From sustainable materials to sophisticated designs – there's a suitable style for every taste and requirement. Whether for relaxed days on the beach, city trips, or a romantic dinner by the sea, this selection offers inspiration and style for every travel occasion.
Maxi dress “Chasing the Sun Dress” by MAIN Design
The "Chasing the Sun Dress" maxi dress by MAIN Design is the perfect example of a sustainable beach vacation dress. Made from recycled materials and available in several colors, it impresses with its minimalist, timeless design. Its sustainable production supports ocean conservation, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free vacation.
Ideal as a breezy cover-up at the beach or as an elegant dinner outfit, this dress is suitable for various occasions. The lightweight, breathable fabric ensures comfort on hot days. The easy-care material makes this maxi dress the perfect companion for longer trips.
Advantages:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Easy to care for and quick-drying
- Sustainable production
- Versatile combination options
Disadvantages:
- Limited quantities
- Available exclusively online
Ideal for: Eco-conscious fashionistas, family vacations, longer trips. Anyone looking for dresses for a beach vacation that combine style and sustainability will find the perfect model here.
"Lea" wrap dress by & Other Stories
The "Lea" wrap dress from & Other Stories creates an effortlessly trendy look, perfect for a beach vacation. The airy viscose fabric and floral pattern are typical of summer 2025. The adjustable waist ensures a flattering fit that suits every figure.
This dress is ideal for the beach, a stroll through town, or dinner at a restaurant. Its figure-hugging silhouette gives it a feminine yet modern look. The machine-washable fabric makes it easy to care for when traveling.
Advantages:
- Easy-care
- Figure-hugging and flexible
- Versatile
Disadvantages:
- No sustainable materials
Target group: Young women, fashion-conscious women, city vacationers. The wrap dress is a bestseller at dresses for beach vacation and impresses with its comfort and style.
Kaftan "Ibiza Breeze" by H&M
The "Ibiza Breeze" kaftan from H&M is, for many, the epitome of beach vacation attire. Loosely cut and made from lightweight cotton, it offers maximum freedom of movement, making it perfect for spontaneous beach days or backpacking trips.
Ethnic prints and fringed details give the kaftan a relaxed boho charm. The material dries quickly and can be easily slipped over swimwear. Standard sizes make choosing easy, but the kaftan is less exclusive.
Advantages:
- Affordable and versatile
- Quick-drying
- Trendy prints
Disadvantages:
- Less exclusive
- Standard sizes
Perfect for: Spontaneous beach days, backpackers, families. Anyone looking for uncomplicated dresses for a beach vacation will find what they're looking for here.
Linen dress "Sienna" by ARKET
The "Sienna" linen dress from ARKET embodies timeless elegance, perfect for beach vacations. Made from 100% linen, it is breathable, eco-friendly, and therefore a sustainable choice for hot summer days.
The midi length and straight cut with side slits create a minimalist, modern look. The dress is suitable for both the beach and city trips. However, linen is naturally somewhat prone to wrinkling.
Advantages:
- Sustainable and long-lasting
- Elegant, minimalist design
- Pleasant on the skin
Disadvantages:
- prone to wrinkling
Target audience: Minimalists, sustainable fashion enthusiasts, city travelers. This model is ideal for dresses for beach vacations that combine comfort and class.
Boho dress "Sunset Dream" by Free People
The "Sunset Dream" boho dress from Free People brings a touch of creative lightness to your beach vacation wardrobe. With its eye-catching embroidery, ruffles, and flowing viscose, it's perfect for festivals, beach parties, or photoshoots.
The romantic look adds a touch of style and sets it apart from classic beach dresses. The fit is relaxed and comfortable, however, the dress requires a bit more care and is not suitable for every occasion.
Advantages:
- Striking and unique
- Comfortable and airy
- Creative design
Disadvantages:
- High maintenance
- Not for every occasion
Target audience: Creatives, individualists, boho lovers. This dress is a highlight for beach vacation dresses that express individuality and style.
Shirt dress "Tulum" by Mango
The "Tulum" shirt dress from Mango combines everyday practicality with summery lightness and is a practical solution for beach vacation dresses. The cotton blend and relaxed fit ensure comfort, while the button placket, chest pockets, and tie belt add fashionable touches.
This dress is versatile and can be styled over a bikini, with sneakers or sandals. It's easy to care for and machine washable, but less elegant for evening events.
Advantages:
- Suitable for everyday use and easy to care for
- Versatile combination options
- Fashionable cut
Disadvantages:
- Less elegant for the evening
Target audience: Young women, frequent travelers, city vacationers. If you're looking for dresses for a beach vacation that are uncomplicated and modern, this model is perfect.
Beach dress "Livia" by Seafolly
The "Livia" beach dress from Seafolly is the perfect choice for sun worshippers who appreciate dresses for beach vacations that are quick and easy to put on and take off. The semi-transparent, lightweight material ensures a breezy feel and dries in no time.
The relaxed fit and sophisticated details make this dress a real eye-catcher at the beach and pool. It's less opaque, so it's not suitable for every body type.
Advantages:
- Quick to put on and take off
- Easy to care for and quick-drying
- Refined details
Disadvantages:
- Not very opaque
- Not suitable for all body types
Target audience: Sun worshippers, swimmers, pool lovers. Anyone looking for dresses for a beach vacation with maximum comfort will find the right model here.
"Palma" shirt dress by COS
The "Palma" shirt dress from COS offers an elegant and sustainable alternative for beach vacation dresses. Made from organic cotton, it impresses with its timeless design and practical side pockets.
The dress can be worn classically with a belt or open and is suitable for the beach as well as for a stroll through town or a business lunch. The oversized cut can appear bulky on petite figures.
Advantages:
- Sustainable and versatile
- Elegant, timeless design
- Practical bags
Disadvantages:
- Can appear bulky even at a small size.
Target audience: Style-conscious women, minimalists, business travelers. This dress is ideal for beach vacations that demand both flexibility and style. Those unsure about the fit will find helpful guidance in the women's dress fit guide .
Maxi dress "Tropical Nights" from Zalando Essentials
The "Tropical Nights" maxi dress from Zalando Essentials is an affordable and comfortable all-rounder for beach vacations. The stretchy jersey fabric and tropical print make it the perfect companion for long days at the beach and sundowners.
The elastic waistband ensures a flattering fit that adapts to many body shapes. The machine-washable fabric makes the dress particularly easy to care for, although the quality is less exclusive.
Advantages:
- Affordable and convenient
- Figure-flattering
- Machine washable
Disadvantages:
- Less exclusive
- Standard quality
Target audience: Price-conscious consumers, frequent travelers, families. Anyone looking for uncomplicated dresses for a beach vacation that are fun and easy to wear will find what they're looking for here.
Styling tips: How to combine beach dresses in 2025
The perfect beach look starts with the perfect styling. Whether you're enjoying a relaxing day out in beach dresses or going out for a chic dinner, accessories and clever combinations will take your outfits to the next level. Discover here how to style beach dresses in 2025 in a versatile and individual way.
Accessories and shoes
Accessories are key to stylish outfits for a beach vacation. Straw hats not only protect against the sun but also add a fashionable touch. Straw bags and large sunglasses are practical companions and real eye-catchers.
- Straw hat: XXL models are a trend in 2025, as 70% of Instagram influencers show.
- Straw bag: room for beach towel, sunscreen and books.
- Sunglasses: Protection and style in one.
- Shoes: Espadrilles, sandals or flip-flops go with any dress.
- Jewelry: Statement earrings and layered necklaces make the look suitable for evening wear.
When choosing colors, pay attention to harmonious combinations. Pastel shades and vibrant colors mix particularly well with neutral accessories. This way, every maxi dress becomes a versatile highlight on the beach.
From day to night: Dress-up & dress-down
With dresses for beach vacations, you're flexible. Switch from sandals during the day to elegant wedges in the evening. A maxi dress, like the "Chasing the Sun Dress" from MAIN Design , is perfect as a light and airy cover-up during the day and can be dressed up with a belt and jewelry for an elegant evening look.
A light kimono is ideal for cool nights. Discover the "Sakura" kimono as a beach cover-up that can be perfectly slipped over any dress. A shirt dress with a statement belt is a real eye-catcher for dinner. With just a few simple steps, you can transform your outfit from beach look to city chic.
Care and transport while traveling
To keep your beach vacation dresses looking fresh and well-maintained, choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and fold them compactly in your suitcase. Lightweight materials like viscose or linen are easy to wash and dry quickly while traveling.
Tips for your journey:
- Use travel-size detergents.
- Remove stains immediately with a damp cloth.
- Hang clothes in the bathroom so they can be smoothed by the steam.
- Follow the care label instructions to preserve colors and shapes.
With good preparation, your outfit will remain flawless even when traveling, no matter how many adventures the day brings.
Sustainable styling: Environmentally conscious combinations
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important at dresses for beach vacation. Second-hand accessories and upcycling ideas add creative touches without harming the environment. Choose shoes and bags made from eco-friendly materials and opt for plastic-free alternatives.
A capsule wardrobe with a few, easily combinable pieces saves space and promotes conscious consumption. You can find inspiration for sustainable trends in the Sustainable Fashion Trends 2025 .
Less is often more: With targeted combinations and sustainable basics, you can travel in style and with a sense of responsibility.
Who are the must-have beach dresses of 2025 suitable for?
Choosing the perfect dress for a beach vacation depends on individual needs, style, and budget. Modern beach dresses for 2025 offer the right solution for every woman, whether for relaxed days at the beach, elegant evenings, or active vacation plans.
Different body types and sizes
Dresses for beach vacations are designed for maximum inclusivity these days. Whether curvy, petite, tall, or short – there's a perfect cut for every figure. Wrap dresses, in particular, are considered all-rounders, as their flexible waist creates a flattering silhouette.
Many brands offer size charts and fit advice to reduce uncertainty when shopping online. Current collections emphasize variety so that every woman can find the perfect beach dress. The selection ranges from maxi dresses to kaftans, catering to a wide variety of body types.
Age groups and styles
Beach dresses for 2025 appeal to all generations. Young trendsetters often prefer short, playful dresses, while mothers opt for practical yet fashionable styles. Mature women appreciate timeless designs like the kaftan, which stands for comfort and elegance.
Dresses for beach vacations allow for the combination of various styles. A contrasting look, such as pairing sporty sneakers with a feminine dress, adds individuality. Fashionable adjustments, like subtle prints or statement accessories, create a look that suits every age group. According to the State of Fashion 2025 Report, brands are increasingly focusing on cross-generational designs and inclusivity.
Activities and occasions during the holiday
Whether for a stroll along the beach, a city walk, or a romantic dinner – dresses for beach vacations are incredibly versatile. The maxi dress "Chasing the Sun Dress" is a prime example: it's perfect as a breezy cover-up on the beach or as an elegant outfit for the evening.
Many dresses are designed to be easily styled from day to night. Practical features like wrinkle-resistant fabrics or adjustable waists make it easy to adapt to different activities. This versatility makes them the ideal choice for any vacation situation.
Budget and shopping tips
Dresses for beach vacations are available in every price range. Those who value sustainability can now find many affordable alternatives to designer dresses. Value for money plays a major role, especially during sales, which, according to Statista, were used by 40 percent of shoppers in 2024.
Sustainable shopping is trending: The Sustainable Clothing Market Forecast shows that more and more consumers are paying attention to environmentally conscious materials. Tip: Look for certifications and fair production – this way you can combine fashion enjoyment with a clear conscience.
Now you have a comprehensive overview of the most beautiful dresses for your 2025 beach vacation – from sustainable materials to versatile styling tips. If you value quality, minimalist style, and environmental awareness, MAIN Design is the perfect place for you. Here you'll not only find trendy beachwear, but also actively support ocean conservation – for a good feeling while shopping and wearing. Be inspired by more sustainable favorites and discover the collections that will make your next vacation even more special.
